Location: Merced
Top Things to do in Merced
The 6 Best Things to do Good for Kids in Merced, California (CA)
Merced /mɜːrˈsɛd/ (Spanish for "Mercy") is a city in, and the county seat of, Merced County, California, United States, in the San Joaquin Valley. As of 2014, the city had a population of 81,743. Incorporated on April 1, 1889, Merced is a charter city that operates under a council-manager government. It is named after the Merced River, which flows nearby.
Restaurants in Merced
1. Merced County Courthouse Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By thomaskR4475BD - Honolulu, United States
Growing up in Merced, I recall watching my father, an attorney, try cases in this very courthouse. It has been amazingly preserved and is a treasure to visit.
2. Merced National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By Cali4niahiker - Merced, United States
Merced Wildlife Refuge added a 1.5 mile loop trail to their complex. This new area is not connected to the main bird refuge. It’s located about a mile SE of the refuge, on the right side of Sandy Mush Rd when driving from Merced. This area is rather plain, dotted with cottonwood trees, but there’s no water. A viewing platform at Deadman’s Creek along the trail hints at the fact you might see birds sometimes, but the creek is bone dry at this time. Still, it’s a pleasant walk, and we’re grateful for the opportunity. On the plus side, there are plenty of benches for resting, picnic tables, so it’s a great spot to meet and enjoy a meal especially during the pandemic. The trail is flat, wide, graded gravel, and would be appropriate for a wheelchair. Bathrooms are a mile further along Sandy Mush Rd, at the main refuge. (Which will be on your left). Since walking opportunities are limited at the main refuge, this would be a nice place to start out. Take a walk here and then take the auto tour at the bird refuge. From November to March this is a wonderful place to visit. We saw thousands of birds today at the main refuge. As you can see from my photos there are not a lot of photo opps near the Cottonwood Trail. You will find those opps when taking the auto tour.
3. Merced Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 31 reviews
Reviewed By Nanajwp - Merced, United States
The performance was great, the facility was great! Too bad there wasn't a larger audience. People are missing out! Building is a beautiful renovated theater and is used for various activities. We saw a great performance by Golden Bough, a celtic musical group, and have been here for other performances. There is not a bad seat in the house. Just wish more people would attend performances here.
4. Merced Fruit Barn
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 41 reviews
We offer local produce, honey, dried fruit and nuts, ice cream, Gourmet Mariposa coffee and fresh deli sandwiches. We have cute country home decor, picnic tables and friendly Barnyard Animals to visit with!
5. Applegate Park Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By lorieg972 - Wheatland, United States
The Park was clean and very nice my first time going there. The kids enjoyed the play ground and the bathrooms where ok clean, we will be going there again!!!
6. Lake Yosemite
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By Yakman2u2
Lake Yosemite in Merced, California is only two minutes away from UC Merced. With the UC right next-door, you would think that the lake would have things to do but alas, nothing, until now. “The Padyak Shack” has opened up on the grounds and they rent both kayaks and paddleboards. The staff is both knowledgeable and friendly and willing to make every experience and positive experience. I would definitely recommend a trip to this lake!
