• Where is Merced located?
    • Merced is a city in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, surrounded by spectacular natural landscapes, lakes, reservoirs, and wildlife wetlands.
  • How did Merced get its name?
    • The city is named after the Merced River, which flows through the region.
  • What recreational activities are available in Merced?
    • Merced offers a variety of recreational activities, including visits to the historic Castle Air Museum, exploring the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, and enjoying the Applegate Park Zoo.

   Get the Details:


1. Explore Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Explore Merced National Wildlife Refuge
© Courtesy of mightypix - Fotolia.com

2. Learn about local history at Merced County Courthouse Museum

Learn about local history at Merced County Courthouse Museum
© Courtesy of diegograndi - Fotolia.com

3. Go boating on Lake Yosemite

Go boating on Lake Yosemite
© Courtesy of Yuval Helfman - Fotolia.com

4. See a performance at Playhouse Merced

See a performance at Playhouse Merced
© Courtesy of shocky - Fotolia.com

5. Visit the tasting room at Vista Ranch and Cellars

Visit the tasting room at Vista Ranch and Cellars
© Vista Ranch and Cellars

6. Take the kids to Applegate Park Zoo

Take the kids to Applegate Park Zoo
© Courtesy of erika8213 - Fotolia.com

7. Have a picnic at Merced Fruit Barn

Have a picnic at Merced Fruit Barn
© Merced Fruit Barn

8. See an exhibition at The Merced Multicultural Arts Center

See an exhibition at The Merced Multicultural Arts Center
© The Merced Multicultural Arts Center

9. Have a snack at Jantz Cafe & Bakery

Have a snack at Jantz Cafe & Bakery
© Jenifoto/stock.adobe.com

10. Have lunch at Toni's Courtyard Cafe

Have lunch at Toni's Courtyard Cafe
© Toni's Courtyard Café


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers. El Capitan Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel with modern amenities. Visit the Merced National Wildlife Refuge – Spot migratory birds and enjoy peaceful nature trails.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and great for day trips to Yosemite. Hampton Inn & Suites Merced – A comfortable stay with easy highway access. Explore Lake Yosemite – Enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking by the water.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn scenery. Courtyard by Marriott Merced – A modern hotel with great amenities. Take a scenic drive through the Central Valley – Experience orchards, vineyards, and stunning fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Mild weather and fewer tourists. Best Western Inn Merced – A budget-friendly stay with comfortable accommodations. Day trip to Yosemite National Park – Experience snow-covered landscapes and breathtaking winter scenery.

Map:


Plan Your Trip