Trip Ideas
Itinerary Inspiration
Not sure where to start? These curated itinerary ideas will help you plan the perfect Merced experience.
The Yosemite Basecamp Stay
Use Merced as your home base for exploring Yosemite National Park. Enjoy affordable lodging, easy YARTS access to the valley floor, and come home to great dining and nightlife each evening. A 3-day itinerary that maximizes your park time without the park prices.
The UC Merced Family Weekend
Visiting your student at UC Merced? Make a weekend of it. Campus tours, nearby dining gems, local shopping, and a sunset drive through the valley. Perfect for parents and families looking to experience Merced beyond the university.
The Central Valley Foodie Getaway
From authentic Mexican street food to farm-to-table dining, Merced's culinary scene is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This 2-day itinerary takes you through the best bites in town and into the surrounding agricultural heartland.