12 Fun Things To Do In Merced

Merced, California, is an exciting and vibrant city with plenty of fun activities to enjoy! From outdoor recreation to unique shopping and dining experiences, there is something for everyone in Merced. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family or just a few hours of relaxation, these 12 Fun Things to Do in Merced will ensure you have a great time. From exploring the tranquil Lake Yosemite to visiting the spectacular Castle Air Museum, you'll find plenty of activities to enjoy. So come explore the many attractions that Merced has to offer!

Explore the Applegate Park Zoo

The Applegate Park Zoo of Things To Do in Merced is a wonderful destination for the whole family. Located in the heart of downtown Merced, the zoo offers a unique, interactive experience for all ages.

The zoo is home to over 200 animals and includes an array of exhibits, such as the African Safari Exhibit, Reptiles Exhibit, and the Rainforest Exhibit. Visitors can get up close and personal with the animals, while learning more about them through the informative displays. The zoo also offers educational programs and activities throughout the year, such as the Zoo Keeper Experience and Animal Encounters.

When visiting the Applegate Park Zoo, visitors should plan to spend the entire day. There is so much to see and do, including a petting zoo, a playground, and a carousel. Visitors can also explore the Zoo's many exhibits, such as the Reptiles Exhibit, which features some of the most fascinating creatures from all over the world.

Visitors can also take part in the Zoo's hands-on educational programs, such as the Zoo Keeper Experience. During this program, visitors can learn about animal care and nutrition, animal enrichment, and even how to train animals. Additionally, visitors can take part in the Animal Encounters, where they can meet and interact with some of the zoo's most beloved animals.

The Applegate Park Zoo of Things To Do in Merced is a great place to spend the day with family and friends. It's a unique and interactive experience that allows visitors to learn more about animals, while also having a fun time. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and activities, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.

If you're looking for a fun, educational day out, the Applegate Park Zoo of Things To Do in Merced is the perfect destination. From educational programs to interactive exhibits, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. With its beautiful grounds, amazing animals, and exciting activities, the Applegate Park Zoo is sure to be a memorable experience.

Enjoy the Views at Lake Yosemite

Lake Yosemite, located in Merced, California, is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the views, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll. Situated on a small lake, the area provides a breathtaking backdrop for visitors to enjoy.

The lake is surrounded by lush trees and rolling hills, making it the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. On a clear day, visitors can see the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance, adding an extra touch of beauty to the already stunning landscape.

If you’re looking for something a bit more active, Lake Yosemite offers plenty of activities to keep you busy. Fishing, boating, and swimming are all popular activities that visitors can enjoy on the lake. Birdwatching is also a popular pastime, as the lake is home to a variety of different bird species.

If you’re looking to take a break from all the sightseeing, there are plenty of picnic spots around the lake to rest and relax. Visitors can also stop at one of the nearby restaurants or cafes to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

No matter what your reason for visiting Lake Yosemite, it’s sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the views, take part in outdoor activities, or just take a leisurely stroll, Lake Yosemite has something for everyone.

For those looking to explore the area a bit further, there are several hiking trails around the lake. Visitors can take an easy stroll along the lake or explore one of the more challenging trails for a more adventurous experience.

When visiting Lake Yosemite, don’t forget to bring your camera. The lake is home to some of the most stunning views in the area, and you’ll want to make sure you capture the beauty of the lake in a photograph.

Overall, Lake Yosemite is an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the views, take part in outdoor activities, or just escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its picturesque surroundings, it’s easy to see why Lake Yosemite is one of Merced’s top attractions.

Take a Stroll Along the Merced River Walk

Take a Stroll Along the Merced River Walk

Merced, California is a great place to visit for a relaxing vacation or weekend getaway. One of the best things to do in Merced is to take a stroll along the Merced River walk. This scenic and tranquil walkway offers spectacular views of the river and its surrounding landscape.

The Merced River Walk is a 1.5 mile trail that follows the Merced River. It begins at the city’s downtown area and winds its way through the city and its surrounding parks, providing a beautiful and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The path is lined with benches, picnic tables, and plenty of shady spots to enjoy the view. Along the way, visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the river, including the occasional glimpse of a beaver or other wildlife.

For those looking for a more active experience, the Merced River Walk also offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the river, or they can take a guided tour on a pontoon boat. Fishing is also available along the river, and there is a boat launch at the beginning of the trail.

For those looking for a more educational experience, the Merced River Walk also offers a variety of activities and programs. The Merced River Interpretive Center offers educational programs and activities for all ages, including bird watching, nature hikes, and educational lectures. Additionally, the Merced River Walk is home to several historic sites, including the Merced Mission and the historic Castro Adobe.

The Merced River Walk is a great place to enjoy nature and take in the beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or an active tour of the river, the Merced River Walk is the perfect place to explore. So come and take a leisurely stroll along the Merced River Walk and enjoy the beauty of Merced.

Visit the Merced County Courthouse Museum

The Merced County Courthouse Museum is an interesting and unique experience for visitors to Merced, California. Located in the heart of downtown Merced, the museum offers a variety of displays, exhibits, and interactive activities that provide insight into the history, culture, and everyday life of Merced County.

The museum is housed in the historic Merced County Courthouse, which was built in 1898. Visitors to the museum can explore the many displays of artifacts, photos, and documents that tell the story of Merced County's past. There are also interactive exhibits, such as a replica of a historic courtroom and a display of vintage automobiles.

One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the Merced County Jailhouse. This former jailhouse was built in the early 1900s and is now a museum dedicated to the history of the justice system in Merced County. Visitors can tour the jail, learn about the prisoners who were held there, and see photographs and artifacts from the time of the jail's operation.

The museum also offers guided tours that explore the history of Merced County and the courthouse itself. Visitors can learn about the history of the courthouse and the people who have worked in it. They can also explore the different rooms in the courthouse, including the courtroom, the judge's chambers, and the jail.

The Merced County Courthouse Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Merced County. It is also the perfect place to spend the day exploring the many unique exhibits and displays. Whether you are looking for a unique travel experience or just want to learn more about the history of Merced County, the Merced County Courthouse Museum is the perfect place to visit.

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, and the museum also offers free parking for visitors.

Visiting the Merced County Courthouse Museum is an educational and enjoyable experience. From interactive displays to guided tours, the museum offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the history of Merced County. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Merced, the Merced County Courthouse Museum is a great way to spend a day learning about the history and culture of the area.

Catch a Show at the Merced Theatre

Merced Theatre is one of the premier entertainment venues in Merced, California. Located in the heart of downtown Merced, the Merced Theatre has been a staple of the local entertainment scene since its opening in 1928. With a seating capacity of 1,400 and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, the Merced Theatre provides an intimate and exciting experience for all types of live shows.

The Merced Theatre hosts a wide variety of shows, from concerts to theater performances to comedy shows. On any given night, you can find a show to suit your tastes, whether you’re a fan of rock and roll, country music, comedy, or something else entirely. The theatre’s lineup of acts is constantly changing, so it’s sure to keep you coming back for more.

For those planning to attend a show at the Merced Theatre, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance, as many shows tend to sell out quickly. The theatre is located in the heart of downtown Merced, so parking can be difficult to find. Consider taking public transportation or arranging for a ride-share to avoid the headache of parking. The theatre is also located near many great restaurants and bars, so consider grabbing a bite or drink before or after the show.

The Merced Theatre is a great place to catch a show and experience the best of what Merced has to offer. From the classic architecture of the building to the high-quality sound and lighting, the theatre provides a unique and memorable experience for all. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a romantic evening for two, the Merced Theatre is sure to provide a night you won’t soon forget.

If you’re looking for a night of entertainment that’s truly unique, look no further than the Merced Theatre. With its wide variety of acts, great atmosphere, and top-notch sound and lighting, it’s easy to see why the Merced Theatre is one of the top entertainment venues in Merced. So come on down and catch a show at the Merced Theatre – you won’t be disappointed.

Spend the Day Shopping at Merced Mall

Merced Mall is a great place to spend the day shopping. Located in the heart of Merced, California, this indoor mall is full of stores, restaurants, and entertainment for the entire family. Whether you're looking for a new outfit, a special gift, or a unique dining experience, you can find it all at Merced Mall.

If you're looking for a place to shop, Merced Mall has a great selection of stores. Department stores like Macy's and JCPenney are great places to browse for clothing, accessories, and home goods. If you're looking for something special or unique, specialty stores like Victoria's Secret and Sephora offer a wide range of products. There are also many small, independent stores that offer everything from books to electronics.

When you're done shopping, there are plenty of places to eat at Merced Mall. Fast food chains like McDonald's and Dairy Queen offer quick and convenient meals. There are also several full-service restaurants, like Applebee's and Olive Garden, that serve up delicious entrees. For something a little different, try one of the mall's many ethnic restaurants, like Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese.

If you're looking for entertainment, Merced Mall has you covered. The mall has an AMC Theatres movie theater, a Dave & Buster's arcade, and a bowling alley. For the kids, the mall also has a play area and a carousel.

Merced Mall is open seven days a week, so it's easy to fit shopping into your schedule. The mall also hosts special events throughout the year, from fashion shows to holiday celebrations. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family, or just need to get some shopping done, Merced Mall is a great place to visit.

Merced Mall is a great place to spend the day. With its wide selection of stores, restaurants, and entertainment, you can shop, dine, and play all under one roof. Whether you're looking for the perfect outfit, a special gift, or just a fun day out, Merced Mall has something for everyone.

Grab a Bite at the Merced Farmers Market

Merced, California, is a vibrant city with plenty to see, do, and eat. One of the highlights of the city is the Merced Farmers Market, which happens every Thursday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Merced College, located at 3600 M Street. This bustling market is the perfect place to grab a bite, explore the local culture, and enjoy the fresh produce that is harvested in the area.

If you're looking to get a delicious snack, the Merced Farmers Market has you covered. You'll find vendors selling everything from sweet and savory crepes, to tacos, tamales, and much more. There's even a juice bar that serves up freshly blended smoothies and juices, made from the freshest fruits and vegetables.

Aside from the food, the market also offers a vibrant array of other options. You can shop for fresh flowers, handmade jewelry, and artisanal crafts. There's even an area dedicated to selling local honey, jams, and jellies. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a cooking class and learn how to prepare some of the local dishes.

The Merced Farmers Market is a great place to meet new people and explore the culture of the city. You'll find vendors from all walks of life, and you're sure to leave with some interesting stories to tell. Plus, the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and friendly, so it's a great place to spend an afternoon.

If you're looking for something a bit more structured, you can also take part in one of the many tours that are offered throughout the year. These tours cover everything from the history of the city, to the local farming techniques, and even the local cuisine.

The Merced Farmers Market is a great way to experience the best that Merced has to offer. Whether you're looking for a delicious snack or a fun activity, you'll find it here. So why not grab a bite, explore the culture, and experience the wonderful sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant city?

Visit the Merced Multicultural Arts Center

The Merced Multicultural Arts Center (MMAC) is a hidden gem that offers a range of cultural and educational experiences for all ages. Located in the heart of downtown Merced, the MMAC is a vibrant hub of creativity and learning. With a mission to promote and support the arts and cultural heritage of the Merced area, the MMAC offers a wide variety of activities and events for everyone to enjoy.

From theater performances to art classes, the MMAC has something for everyone. The center offers classes for adults, children and families, providing an opportunity for all to learn and explore. Visitors to the MMAC can also enjoy a variety of exhibitions, showcasing the work of local, regional and national artists. In addition, the center hosts a variety of special events that often feature live music, dance and theater performances.

The MMAC also offers a variety of educational programs, such as storytelling and lectures. Through these programs, visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Merced area. The center also offers workshops and classes in the areas of music, visual arts, dance and theater. Visitors can also take part in the many workshops and classes offered to members of the community.

When visiting the MMAC, travelers can expect to find a welcoming atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and are always willing to help visitors find what they're looking for. With its convenient location and diverse offerings, the MMAC is a great place for travelers to explore and experience the culture of Merced.

For those looking for a fun day out, the MMAC is the perfect destination. With its wide range of activities, it's easy to find something for everyone to enjoy. From the theater performances and art classes to the exhibitions and educational programs, visitors are sure to have a memorable time at the center.

The MMAC is a great place to experience the culture and history of Merced. With its welcoming atmosphere and variety of activities, visitors are sure to have a fantastic time at the center. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly day out or a unique experience, the MMAC is the perfect destination.

Visit the Castle Air Museum

The Castle Air Museum is a must-see attraction for those visiting Merced, California. Located on the grounds of the former Castle Air Force Base, the museum is home to more than 70 aircraft, most of which are on display in their original condition.

Visitors can explore the history of aviation and the United States military with a variety of interactive displays and exhibits. The museum also features aircraft from the Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, and other conflicts.

The museum's collection of aircraft includes the iconic B-52 bomber, the F-14 Tomcat fighter jet, and the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane. There are also two Boeing 727s, a vintage F-104 Starfighter, and a U-2 spy plane. The museum's most famous aircraft is the famous and rarely seen B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.

Visitors can walk through the museum, or take a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. During the tour, visitors learn about the history of the base and the aircraft on display. Guests can also get up close and personal with the planes, taking pictures and even sitting in the cockpits.

The museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as air shows and a World War II Battle Reenactment. There is also an annual Summer Air Fest, which includes vintage aircraft fly-bys and aerial demonstrations.

The Castle Air Museum is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free for all. Visitors can also purchase a membership, which provides discounted admission and other benefits.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something to do in Merced, the Castle Air Museum is sure to be a memorable experience. With its unique collection of aircraft and interactive displays, the museum is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. As former president Harry Truman once said, “The only thing new in the world is the history you don't know.” So come explore the Castle Air Museum and learn something new!

Go Hiking at Merced Grove of Giant Sequoia Trees

Merced Grove of Giant Sequoia Trees is located within Yosemite National Park and is one of the most majestic and awe inspiring places to go hiking in the United States. Featuring some of the oldest living organisms on the planet, these giant trees are a sight to behold.

If you’re considering a hiking trip to Merced Grove, here are some tips for making the most of your experience.

First and foremost, plan your route. With over 8 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. If you’re looking for a leisurely day, the Redwood Loop is a great option. You’ll get to meander through the grove, taking in the beauty of the trees and perhaps even spot some wildlife. For a more challenging adventure, the South Fork Merced Trail offers a variety of terrain, including a steep climb to the top of a ridge with sweeping views of the valley below.

Once you’ve decided on your route, it’s time to prepare for your hike. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you going. The trails can be quite strenuous, so be sure to wear the proper clothing and shoes. And don’t forget your camera, so you can capture the grandeur of the giant sequoias.

When you’re on the trail, be sure to take your time and savor the experience. The grove is home to some of the oldest living organisms on the planet, so it’s important to be mindful of these ancient trees. Stay on the trail and be respectful of their environment.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, a hike at Merced Grove of Giant Sequoia Trees is the perfect choice. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and the chance to marvel at these ancient giants.

Take a Tour of the UC Merced Campus

Merced, California is home to one of the most vibrant college campuses in the nation—the University of California, Merced. With its pristine campus, diverse student population, and plethora of activities, UC Merced is a great place to explore. Whether you're a student, a visitor, or just someone looking to explore the area, there are plenty of things to do in Merced, and the UC Merced campus is no exception.

For starters, the UC Merced Arboretum is a great way to get acquainted with the campus. The Arboretum is full of beautiful plants and trees, and is a great place to relax and take in the sights. The Arboretum is open from sunrise to sunset, so it's a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

If you're looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of activities to choose from. The campus features a fitness center, swimming pool, and courts for basketball, volleyball, and tennis. The campus also offers classes in a variety of subjects, as well as workshops and special events.

If you're looking for a great way to explore the University, then you can take one of the many tours offered on campus. The tours take you around the campus, highlighting its history, architecture, and culture. You'll also get to learn about the campus's sustainability initiatives, and see the university's commitment to environmental stewardship.

If you're looking to experience the best of Merced, then you should consider spending a day in the city. Merced has a vibrant downtown area, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. From a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to a night out on the town, there's something for everyone in Merced.

No matter what your plans are, a visit to the UC Merced campus is sure to leave you with a lasting impression. From the Arboretum to the many activities and tours, there are plenty of things to do in Merced. So, come and explore this amazing campus, and create some unforgettable memories.

Go Boating on McClure Reservoir

McClure Reservoir is a great destination for those looking to get out on the water and experience some of the best boating in the area. Located in Merced County, California, the reservoir is a beautiful and tranquil place to spend time with family and friends. With plenty of activities to do and plenty of scenery to take in, there's no shortage of things to do when you visit McClure Reservoir.

If you're looking for a great place to go boating, then look no further than McClure Reservoir. This popular spot offers a variety of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and waterskiing. The reservoir is large, so you'll have plenty of room to explore without feeling crowded. Plus, the nearby town of Merced offers plenty of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a great place to stop for a bite to eat or a day of shopping.

When you're ready to hit the water, there are plenty of boat launches available, so you can easily get your boat in and out of the water. You can also rent boats, jet skis, and other watercraft from local businesses, so you don't have to worry about transporting your own. There are even guided tours available, so you can learn more about the reservoir and the area.

If you're looking for something a little more relaxing, you can also take a leisurely cruise around the reservoir. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the nearby wildlife. With plenty of places to stop and explore, you can take your time and make the most of your experience.

McClure Reservoir is also home to a variety of wildlife, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to observe and photograph the local birds and animals. You may even spot some of the local fish, including the popular largemouth bass and catfish. With so much to do and see, you can easily spend a day or two exploring the reservoir.

No matter what type of boating experience you're looking for, you're sure to find it at McClure Reservoir. Whether you're looking for a relaxed day of fishing or an exciting day of waterskiing, you can find it at this popular spot. So make sure to plan your trip soon and get ready to have an unforgettable time out on the water!

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