Location: Merced
Top Things to do in Merced
What to do and see in Merced, California (CA): The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
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. Playhouse Merced
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 34 reviews
Reviewed By Gymlikestoeat - Merced, United States
Very high quality live entertainment takes place at this wonderful little Playhouse on Main St. in Merced. Their seasons have a wide range of shows from musicals to more serious "straight" plays and you just can't beat the ticket prices. Tickets are available online, by calling their box office or in person. Beer, wine and snacks are available in their recently renovated lobby. Please support live theater and see a show at Playhouse Merced. Discount prices are available for students and seniors.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Vista Ranch
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
Vista Ranch includes farm plots, vineyard, tasting room, outdoor picnic area, and event center. We strive to provide you with a taste of what our beloved area has to offer. From our history, to our deep rooted agriculture that sustains our community.
Reviewed By 91brandil - Turlock, United States
We enjoyed dinner and music at the vista after a day of farm tours. Then we came back the next day for our business meeting and used the indoor facility. It was perfect and the meals were delicious
5. 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.
6. 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!!!
7. 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!
