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17 Fun & Best Things to Do in Merced, California

Merced National Wildlife Refuge

If you’ve been to Merced, California, I’m sure you can attest to the beauty of this city. Here are the most incredible things to do in Merced, California, that anyone should check out.

Merced, California, has been around since its establishment in 1889. This gorgeous city, located in the San Joaquin Valley, has continued to shine since its founding and attracts visitors from far and wide.

With so many great sites, charming indoor and outdoor activities, and friendly people, Merced is undoubtedly a place you want to spend some time. For instance, the Merced River, from which the city gets its name, passes nearby, and it’s a great source of outdoor activities.

In addition, if you’ve wanted to visit Yosemite National Park and are up for a day trip (or more), Merced is an excellent place to start. Here are the top fun and best things to do in Merced, California:

TLDR

  • Most significant landmark – Merced National Wildlife Refuge
  • Best park – Applegate Park Zoo
  • Best free activity – Merced National Wildlife Refuge
  • Best activity for kids – Playhouse Merced
  • Best activity for adults – Fish at Lake Yosemite
  • Best food – Toni’s Courtyard Café
  • Best nightlife – The Partisan
  • Best all-around accommodationEl Capitan Hotel

Fun & Best Things to Do in Merced, California

1. Experience Nature at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Address: 7430 W Sandy Mush Rd, Merced, CA 95341

Are you coming up with a list of what to do in Merced, California? Number one on your list should be a tour of Merced National Wildlife Refuge. Imagine 10,000 acres of pure and beautiful nature with so much amazing flora and fauna.

The Merced National Wildlife Refuge has been a source of countless visitors since its incorporation in 1959. The expansive space covers grasslands to wetlands teaming with all manner of beauty. And there are even spots with riparian land and vernal pools.

Bring the family along for this adventure and enjoy creating amazing memories. The landscape does create the perfect background for exceptional pictures.

One thing to note, though, is that while there is wildlife at this refuge, the land also serves as grazing land for local farmers. Therefore, encountering domestic animals grazing here is a common occurrence.

See Related: Best Day Trips from San Francisco, California

2. Fish at Lake Yosemite

Address: 5714 Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95340

A visit to Lake Yosemite is…

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