If you're looking for another way to discover the valley, here's a point-to-point hike from the east for a different perspective: Clouds Rest, Half Dome, and the upper falls.
davereddick
Yosemite National Park
The most affordable lodging in the upper valley for a shower and a comfy bed 💤
The Ahwahnee is more of a splurge, but it is the jewel property of the valley, With loads of history and an iconic national park atmosphere, it's well worth it.