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Visit Merced
Two tall palms framing the Tioga building's white facade and orange awnings

Welcome to Merced, California

Rooted in Community,Open to Possibility

Explore a city full of character, culture, and Central Valley charm, with something new around every corner.

Explore Places to Stay in MercedThings to Do
Aerial view of the Merced County Courthouse Museum's white cupola among autumn trees at sunsetDowntown Merced streetscape on a sunny afternoonVisitors enjoying an outdoor gathering in MercedLocal Merced business storefront with warm evening lightAerial view of Merced and the surrounding Central Valley farmlandPeople walking through downtown MercedHistoric downtown Merced architecture

Discover Merced

More Than a Stop on the Way

Merced is a vibrant cultural hub at the doorstep of Yosemite. Home to one of Californias 24 designated Cultural Districts, the city blends arts, culture, locally owned restaurants, and the energy of UC Merced into a destination that invites you to stay a while. The true spirit of Merced is found in its community. Stay for a few days, and you will discover that some of the best memories come from the people you meet, the local traditions you experience, and the unexpected moments that simply cant be planned.

Outdoor patio seating at a storefront on W. Main St. with customers socializing on a sunny day.

The Gateway to Yosemite & Beyond

Centrally located in California's heartland, Merced connects you to the state's most iconic destinations. Just 2 hours to Yosemite, 3 hours to San Francisco, and perfectly positioned along Highway 99.

  • ~1 hrFresno from Merced
  • ~2 hrsSacramento from Merced
  • ~2 hrsYosemite National Park from Merced
  • ~3 hrsSan Francisco from Merced
How to Get Here

Explore Merced

Find Your Adventure

Whether you're here for the culture, the food, or the great outdoors — Merced has something that will surprise and delight you.

Water sports and annual community dragon boat racing events on Lake Yosemite in Merced, California.
September 2026

Lao Boat Racing

The Lao Boat Racing Festival in Merced brings the Central Valley's Laotian community together at Lake Yosemite to celebrate their culture with thrilling longboat races, traditional music, and authentic Southeast Asian street food. This years festival is scheduled for Sat, Sep 12, 2026

Plan Your Trip Around This
  • Yosemite deserves more than a day trip. 🌲 Here’s a travel tip that can make your visit a little easier: @rideyarts from Merced straight into Yosemite National Park. With three convenient boarding locations in Merced, multiple daily departures, and stops throughout Yosemite Valley, getting to the park is easy. Instead of focusing on the drive, sit back and enjoy the journey with: 🚌 Air-conditioned coaches 🔌 Charging outlets 🚻 Onboard restroom Then, after a full day exploring Yosemite, head back to Merced to enjoy locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and a comfortable place to relax before your next adventure. The best trips aren’t rushed and some of the best Yosemite adventures start and end in Merced. Save this for your next Yosemite getaway. ✨ #VisitMerced #Yosemite #YARTS #YosemiteNationalPark #Merced GatewayToYosemite CaliforniaTravel TravelTips
  • Checking into Merced? 🧳✨ From comfortable stays near local attractions to convenient options for campus visits, family trips, and weekend getaways, Merced has a hotel for every kind of visit. Find your stay and start planning your trip! 🏨
  • A Merced landmark with a story all its own. 🏙️✨ The Tioga adds historic character to the heart of Downtown Merced and offers another picture-perfect stop while exploring the city
  • Get creative in Downtown Merced at @earthworksclayspace ! 🎨🏺 Whether you are shaping clay, trying the pottery wheel, or discovering a new artistic outlet, this local studio offers a hands-on way to create something uniquely yours. Who would you bring for a pottery day? ✨
  • Let’s explore Merced! 📍✨ From local landmarks and outdoor spaces to places filled with history, art, and community, there is more to discover around every corner. Which Merced spot are you exploring first?
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