For You & Your Family

About Merced

Merced, home to the newest University of California campus, resides in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. Our tree lined streets and the scenic creek that flows through the center of our city bring that small hometown feeling to our community.

Merced offers a special, diverse blend of rural and suburbon environments. You will find Merced friendly and enjoyable. As the "Gateway to Yosemite," Merced offers an abundance of recreational facilities and a short drive or bus ride into Yosemite National Park.

Merced is an ideal place to raise a family. Our community offers a variety of parks in which children can play, along with numerous recreational activities, including the historic Castle Air Museum, the world famous McLane Pacific Bike Race, the Annual Antique Fly-In, and the National Blues Festival as well as lakes, reservoirs and wildlife wetlands to enjoy.  If you enjoy unique artwork, then a visit to our Multi Cultural Arts Center is a must. In addition, theatre acts and symphony concerts are performed throughout the year.
 
Whether you are just beginning to learn the game of golf, or an avid golfer, Merced County has a variety of golfing choices for you. One course, Stevinson Ranch, has served as host to both the 1995 and 1996 U.S. Open qualifying rounds.

Exciting attractions and entertainment are centrally located within a short drive to locations such as the beautiful historic Gold Country, colorful vineyards and Napa wineries, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Six Flags Great America and Bay Area professional sports and shopping. Or, for those who prefer outdoor activities, Yosemite National Park and its many hiking trails are nearby for short and long adventures.