Originally Posted by rpcowan

Having grown up in Colorado, visited most states and seen a lot of the world, I can tell you Yosemite is probably the most beautiful place I've ever seen. Between semesters of college I lived in the park for about four months and worked in the back forty setting up seasonal "high camps". You two are making a great choice to spend a week there.

The biggest mistake most folks make is staying just in the valley; the park is nearly 1200 sq. mi. and most never leave that 7 sq. mi. If you want to camp, Currey Village is great place to pitch a tent. It's within walking distance of 30 amazing hikes and offers views of Yosemite's best known features. If you're more of the adventurous hiking type, I would recommend staying at one or more of Yosemite's seven High Sierra Camps. The cost of staying at one of these can be considerable ($40-$160/night) but offer lodging, meals and a packed lunch sent with you when you hike out.

Don't miss the usualls- Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Half-Dome, Bridal Veil Falls, etc. but do some research and get out of the valley at least a day or two. There aren't many "places to drive" except old fire roads here and there as the land is Federal and they don't have much patience with people going off-highway in their Honda Element and requiring rescue. There is some amazing off-highway stuff outside of Yosemite near Mariposa, CA.

Start here for trail heads, accommodations, prices, maps etc:
Yosemite National Park Vacation - Yosemite Vacation : Yosemite Park

Have fun and post pics when you return!