Merced is a vibrant city located in the heart of California’s Central Valley. With a population of over 80,000, Merced is home to a diverse community and a wide variety of attractions. Whether you’re looking for things to do indoors or outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Merced.
Top Things to Do in Merced
Visit the Merced County Courthouse Museum
The Merced County Courthouse Museum is housed in the historic Merced County Courthouse, which was built in 1875. The museum features exhibits on the history of Merced County, including its Native American heritage, agricultural development, and role in the Gold Rush.
Explore the Applegate Park Zoo
The Applegate Park Zoo is a small zoo located in Applegate Park. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, lions, tigers, and bears. There is also a petting zoo where children can interact with farm animals.
Go for a Hike in the Merced National Wildlife Refuge
The Merced National Wildlife Refuge is a 10,000-acre refuge located just south of Merced. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. There are several hiking trails in the refuge, ranging from easy to difficult.
Visit the UC Merced Campus
The UC Merced campus is a beautiful campus located on the outskirts of Merced. The campus is home to a variety of academic buildings, research facilities, and student housing. There are also several museums and art galleries on campus.
Attend a Performance at the Merced Theatre
The Merced Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Merced. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts.
Other Things to Do in Merced
Visit the Merced County Fair
The Merced County Fair is an annual event that takes place in September. The fair features a variety of attractions, including livestock shows, carnival rides, and live music.
Go for a Bike Ride on the San Joaquin River Trail
The San Joaquin River Trail is a 30-mile trail that follows the San Joaquin River. The trail is popular with bikers, hikers, and runners.
Visit the Castle Air Museum
The Castle Air Museum is a museum located at the former Castle Air Force Base. The museum features a collection of over 70 aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and transports.
Go Shopping at the Merced Mall
The Merced Mall is a large shopping mall located in north Merced. The mall features over 100 stores, including department stores, clothing stores, and restaurants.
Where to Eat in Merced
Merced has a variety of restaurants to choose from, including American, Mexican, Chinese, and Italian. Here are a few of the most popular restaurants in Merced:
Tioga’s Burgers & Brew
Tioga’s Burgers & Brew is a popular burger joint located in downtown Merced. The restaurant is known for its delicious burgers, fries, and onion rings.
La Morenita Taqueria
La Morenita Taqueria is a family-owned taqueria located in south Merced. The taqueria is known for its authentic Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, and tamales.
China House
China House is a popular Chinese restaurant located in north Merced. The restaurant is known for its delicious dim sum, as well as its other Chinese dishes.
Olive Garden
Olive Garden is a national chain restaurant located in north Merced. The restaurant is known for its Italian food, including pasta dishes, pizzas, and salads.
Red Lobster
Red Lobster is a national chain restaurant located in south Merced. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, including shrimp, lobster, and fish.
Where to Stay in Merced
There are a variety of hotels to choose from in Merced, including budget-friendly options and luxury hotels. Here are a few of the most popular hotels in Merced:
Best Western Plus Merced Inn & Suites
The Best Western Plus Merced Inn & Suites is a mid-range hotel located in north Merced. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
Hampton Inn & Suites Merced
The Hampton Inn & Suites Merced is a mid-range hotel located in south Merced. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Merced
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Merced is a mid-range hotel located in north Merced. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
Merced Marriott
The Merced Marriott is a luxury hotel located in downtown Merced. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
Getting to Merced
Merced is located in the heart of California’s Central Valley. The city is accessible by car, train, and plane.
By Car
Merced is located at the intersection of Highway 99 and Highway 59. The city is about a 2-hour drive from San Francisco and a 3-hour drive from Los Angeles.
By Train
Amtrak trains stop in Merced on the San Joaquin line. The San Joaquin line runs from Bakersfield to Sacramento.
By Plane
Merced is served by the Merced Regional Airport (MCE). The airport is located about 5 miles from the city center. There are several airlines that offer flights to MCE, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
Conclusion
Merced is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions and activities to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for things to do indoors or outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Merced.