Gateway To Yosemite

Spend a day, spend the night, spend the weekend! Merced is a unique city, filled with warm, friendly people that will instantly make visitors feel welcome. Our city offers a wide variety of attractions, historical sites, accommodations and dining opportunities that are sure to please.

Unsure of where to start? Try the Merced Conference and Visitors Bureau and California Welcome Center, 710 W. 16th Street. Inside, our friendly staff will help you find information on all the exciting things to see and do in our vibrant community. Maps of the area, brochures, YARTS Bus tickets, and information on local hotel accommodations are all available. If it's souvenirs you are looking for, The California Welcome Center has them. T-shirts, books, hats, locally grown products and UC Merced merchandise are just a few of the great items you can pick up here.

Arts and Culture are thriving in this proud community. From the galleries at our Multicultural Center to the live performances at Playhouse Merced, there is sure to be something for everyone!

Try planning your trip around one the areas great events. The McLane Pacific Cycling Classic brings world class riders from around the globe to Merced each March. Rev up those engines for the Springtime Reunion Car Show. Car buffs will enjoy the selection on vintage and custom during this May event. Experience aviation history as vintage planes descend on the Merced Airport each June during the Merced Antique Fly-In. Bring the kids to The Big Valley Arts & Culture Festival. Special Project Stations" give families the opportunity create works of art together. Vendors and regional artists demonstrate and display their wares during this September event. Want to sing the blues? Come for the Central Valley Blues Festival, the largest of its kind in the valley.

While you're exploring Merced, venture out into its County. Go see the world's largest cheese factory, visit the best military air museum in the country or take your family to a space & science learning center.

And who can for forget, Merced is the Gateway to Yosemite. Whether summer, fall, winter or spring, Yosemite is a picture perfect destination for couples, families, or personal time.

You are invited! Come play, stay, and experience Merced!