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Stay near popular Merced attractions

Learn more about Merced

Gateway to Yosemite National Park, this Central Valley city offers easy access to Sierra Nevada adventures and stunning wilderness hikes. Explore the Merced River's gentle kayaking routes and visit the historic courthouse museum to understand the region's agricultural heritage.

Yosemite valley and merced river

Top Merced Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Merced

Find out more about Merced

Top reasons to visit Merced

  • Outdoor Adventures: Merced is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic beauty and a variety of recreational activities.
  • Charming Downtown: Explore a vibrant downtown filled with family-friendly attractions and rich historical character.
  • Educational Experiences: Engage with local colleges and educational centres for a unique learning opportunity.
  • Welcoming Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from cosy motels to LGBTQIA-friendly hotels.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Experience the warm hospitality of locals, making your visit truly memorable.

Find great hotels in Merced

Merced offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from cosy motels to welcoming hotels, catering to various preferences. Whether you seek a pet-friendly stay, business amenities, or an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, you'll find plenty of choices. Explore the best hotels in Merced for a comfortable and enjoyable experience during your visit to this charming Californian city.

  • El Capitan Hotel: Embracing a blend of historic charm and modern convenience, El Capitan Hotel is a 3.5-star gem located in the heart of Merced. This hotel caters to business travellers seeking a pet-friendly environment, offering a host of amenities designed for productivity, including a 24-hour business centre and well-equipped meeting rooms. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, complete with thoughtful touches like food and water bowls for pets. Whether you’re in town for work or leisure, El Capitan provides a comfortable and accommodating stay.
  • Motel 6 Merced, CA - North: For budget-conscious travellers, Motel 6 Merced, CA - North offers a straightforward lodging experience with a focus on comfort and convenience. This pet-friendly motel allows pets at no additional charge, making it an ideal choice for those travelling with furry companions. Guests will find clean, simple rooms equipped with essential amenities. The property’s relaxed atmosphere and commitment to affordability ensure a pleasant stay without compromising on comfort.
  • Best Western Inn: Best Western Inn stands out as a welcoming retreat for pet lovers, offering a variety of amenities to enhance your stay in Merced. This hotel features a range of rooms designed for relaxation, while also accommodating pets with certain restrictions. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and access to essential facilities, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Best Western Inn provides a comfortable base to explore the local area.

Where to stay in and around Merced

Merced, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty for every type of traveller. Explore the vibrant downtown, where family-friendly attractions meet historical charm. Nearby regions provide a warm atmosphere filled with friendly locals and unique experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure or a relaxing getaway, Merced is an iconic destination that promises to make your vacation truly memorable.

  • Atwater: Located a mere 5.0km from Merced, Atwater is a charming city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. With a steady flow of visitors year-round, the peak times are from April to May and July, when the weather is ideal for exploring its expansive recreational areas. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to national state parks and stunning valleys, providing ample opportunities for hiking and nature photography. Atwater’s golf courses also attract sports aficionados looking to unwind in a picturesque setting.
  • Fergus: Nestled within the Merced area, Fergus is a quaint village that shines during the summer months, particularly from May through August. It’s a family-friendly destination, perfect for those seeking entertainment and sports activities. The village is home to an arena entertainment facility, where visitors can catch thrilling events and shows. Fergus is also conveniently located near a local stadium, making it an excellent spot for sports enthusiasts to enjoy live games and community events, ensuring a vibrant and engaging travel experience.
  • Buhach: Just 3.7km from Merced, Buhach is a picturesque village that attracts visitors looking for outdoor sports and recreational activities. The peak travel months are during May and the summer, making it an ideal destination for those keen on skiing and golf. Buhach boasts a ski resort that caters to winter sports lovers, while its urban parks and serene lakes offer a perfect backdrop for relaxation and leisure activities. The town hall, a local landmark, adds to the village's charm, making Buhach a pleasant stop on your journey.

Things to do in and around Merced

Merced, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities amidst stunning scenery. Visitors can explore recreational areas, engage in educational experiences, and enjoy the local fairground. A highlight is the opportunity to discover the charm of La Merced, where adventure and exploration await. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, Merced provides a delightful mix for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

In Merced, visit the Merced Mall for a range of retail options, including popular brands and local shops. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Vintage Fair Mall, located 9.3km away in Modesto, offers an extensive selection of stores and dining choices to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

The Youth Sports Complex offers a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and recreational activities, perfect for unwinding in nature. Rancho del Rey Golf Course, situated 3.7km from Merced, presents a vibrant outdoor sports experience. Meanwhile, Atwater Memorial Ballpark, located 4.3km away, provides a serene space for wellness and leisure.

Adventure

Explore Yosemite National Park, a scenic drive of around an hour from Merced, where you can hike stunning trails, witness majestic waterfalls, and marvel at granite cliffs. For a thrill, try white-water rafting on the Merced River, offering an exhilarating adventure amid beautiful surroundings.

Nightlife

In Merced, Regal Hollywood offers a delightful cinema experience with a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or entertaining night out. For a nearby option, Regal Turlock, just 15.5km away, provides similar vibes, making it an excellent choice for a cinematic adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Merced

Merced, California, offers numerous ways to save on your visit. Enjoy free entry to attractions such as the University of California Merced and Merced College. For affordable transport, consider using buses or bicycles. Plan your trip between November and January for lower accommodation prices, and aim for a Sunday stay for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare hotel deals and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for promotions to secure great rates on your stay in Merced.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Merced are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Merced is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Merced is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could enjoy some savings by combining your hotel stay in Merced with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Merced

Merced, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a blend of scenic beauty and urban charm. Visitors can explore local attractions such as colleges, fairgrounds, and urban parks, making it perfect for family outings and city experiences. With various points of interest near the Merced Inn, there’s plenty to discover in this vibrant area, ensuring an enjoyable stay for all types of travellers.

  • University of California Merced: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, located 3.1km from Merced. The campus features contemporary architecture and a focus on sustainability, making it a unique place to explore educational advancements and enjoy city vibes.
  • Merced County Fairgrounds: Situated within Merced, this lively fairground offers a family-friendly environment with a variety of events throughout the year, including fairs, concerts, and festivals. It's the perfect spot for enjoying outdoor activities and creating lasting memories.
  • Merced County Courthouse Museum: Discover the rich cultural heritage of the area at this local history museum, located in the heart of Merced. The museum showcases fascinating exhibits and offers insights into the region's past, all within a charming historical building.

Best time to go to Merced

The best time to visit Merced can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Merced falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature in Merced falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May69.3°F (20.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
June78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July83.8°F (28.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August82.2°F (27.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
September77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
October67.1°F (19.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November55.6°F (13.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December48.7°F (9.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Merced

When planning your visit to Merced, California, you have several airport options for your arrival. Merced Municipal Airport (MCE) is conveniently located 1.2km from the city centre, with nearby accommodations like the El Capitan Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Merced. Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is 34.8km away, offering hotels such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center and Wyndham Garden Fresno Yosemite Airport, both within close proximity. For those considering Mariposa-Yosemite Airport (RMY), it lies 17.4km from Merced, with options like AutoCamp Yosemite and Quality Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway nearby. Each airport provides good access to local hotels and transport services.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Merced?
The best area to stay in Merced is near the University of California, Merced campus, particularly along the R Street corridor, or in the city centre.

The R Street corridor, or "University Parkway" area, is a modern and rapidly developing part of Merced. It's characterised by newer infrastructure, including contemporary hotels and a selection of dining options. This area offers easy access to the university campus and is a good base for exploring the northern parts of the city. For those visiting the university or looking for newer amenities, this area is a convenient choice.

The city centre offers a more established feel with a mix of historic buildings and local businesses. It's home to the Merced Theatre and a variety of independent shops and eateries. For visitors who appreciate being in the heart of the city with easy access to local culture and services, the city centre provides a good base.
What are the best hotels in Merced that travellers recommend?
Two of the best hotels in Merced that travellers recommend are the El Capitan Hotel and the FairBridge Inn & Suites Merced/Gateway to Yosemite.

The 4-star El Capitan Hotel, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is highly praised for its central location and beautiful, clean rooms. Guests frequently comment on the friendly staff and excellent service. This hotel offers premium bedding, bathrobes, designer toiletries, and air conditioning for a comfortable stay. For dining, there is dedicated couples dining, and valet parking is available, including covered valet parking. It is conveniently located near Regal Hollywood - Merced and McNamara Park.

Another highly recommended option is the FairBridge Inn & Suites Merced/Gateway to Yosemite, which has an 8.4 rating. This hotel offers modern, clean suites with premium bedding and air conditioning. It is located in a historical district and features a traditional property design. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, particularly the front desk team.
What are the best family hotels in Merced?
When looking for the best family hotels in Merced, consider the Courtyard by Marriott Merced, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Merced by IHG, and TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Merced, with a rating of 8.6, is popular by guests, who frequently mention the nice and clean rooms and pool, comfortable beds, and good food. The hotel offers connecting rooms, free cribs, sofa beds, and free rollaway extra beds, making it very accommodating for families. It is also conveniently located near the Merced County Fairgrounds and Regal Hollywood - Merced.

Another excellent choice is the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Merced by IHG, which boasts a high rating of 9.0. Guests consistently praise the convenient and good breakfast, the friendly and professional staff, and the comfortable and clean rooms. This hotel provides free cribs, connecting rooms, sofa beds, and free rollaway extra beds.

The 3-star TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced, with an 8.8 rating, is also a fantastic option for families. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the helpful and amazing staff, and the excellent and delicious breakfast. This hotel offers sofa beds, free rollaway extra beds, and free cribs, as well as a pool for family enjoyment.
What are the best spa hotels in Merced?
For a spa hotel in Merced, the Courtyard by Marriott Merced is a highly-rated option.

This 3-star hotel, with an 8.6 rating, offers a relaxing spa experience. Guests frequently highlight the considerate and great staff, the nice and clean rooms, and the comfortable beds. The hotel also provides free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, adding to the convenience.
What hotels in Merced offer free breakfast?
Several hotels in Merced offer complimentary breakfast, including the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Merced by IHG, the 3-star TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced, and the Hampton Inn & Suites Merced.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Merced by IHG has an excellent 9.0 rating. Guests frequently praise the convenient and good breakfast, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms. The staff are often described as friendly and professional, and the location is noted as convenient and quiet.

The 3-star TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced, rated 8.8, is another popular choice. Reviewers consistently highlight the excellent and delicious breakfast, the comfortable and clean rooms, and the helpful and amazing staff.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Merced, with an 8.2 rating, also provides free breakfast.

Additionally, the Best Western Inn offers a good breakfast, and the Quality Inn Merced Gateway to Yosemite, rated 7.4, provides a free and great breakfast. The Quality Inn is also conveniently located near McNamara Park.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Merced?
For top pet-friendly hotels in Merced, consider the Days Inn by Wyndham Merced / Yosemite Area, the Best Western Inn, and the Rodeway Inn Near University-Gateway to Yosemite.

The Days Inn by Wyndham Merced / Yosemite Area welcomes both dogs and cats and offers complimentary continental breakfast. Guests frequently mention the good breakfast, the friendly staff, and the nice, clean rooms. It is conveniently located near the Merced County Fairgrounds, Macready Park, and McNamara Park.

The Best Western Inn, with a 7.6 rating, permits both dogs and cats. Guests often praise the friendly and professional staff, good breakfast, and comfortable rooms. It is close to the Merced County Fairgrounds and Regal Hollywood - Merced.

The Rodeway Inn Near University-Gateway to Yosemite, rated 8.0, is another option that permits dogs. It is situated near the Merced County Fairgrounds, Regal Hollywood - Merced, and McNamara Park.
What are the best budget hotels in Merced?
For excellent budget-friendly accommodation in Merced, consider the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced or the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Merced by IHG.

The 3-star TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced, with an 8.8 rating, offers comfortable and clean rooms, and guests frequently praise the helpful and amazing staff. You can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast, and the facilities are noted for being clean. Free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking are also included.

Another highly-rated option is the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Merced by IHG, which has a 9.0 rating. Guests appreciate the convenient and quiet location, along with the comfortable and clean rooms and comfy beds. The breakfast is considered convenient and good, and the staff are described as friendly and professional. This hotel also provides free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking. View all budget hotels in Merced
What are the most romantic hotels in Merced for couples?
For a romantic stay in Merced, the El Capitan Hotel stands out as an excellent choice for couples.

The 4-star El Capitan Hotel, with an impressive 9.6 rating, is highly regarded by guests for its beautiful, clean rooms and friendly, nice staff. Its central, great location in a shopping district makes it convenient for exploring, and it offers amenities such as couples dining, premium bedding, and designer toiletries. Guests frequently praise the excellent, delicious food available.

What are the best hotels in Merced near Regal Hollywood - Merced?
For hotels in Merced conveniently located near Regal Hollywood - Merced, consider the El Capitan Hotel or the Courtyard by Marriott Merced.

The 4-star El Capitan Hotel, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is an excellent option as it is just 0.3 km from Regal Hollywood - Merced. Guests frequently praise its beautiful and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and nice staff. The hotel offers premium bedding, bathrobes, and designer toiletries for a comfortable stay. It also provides valet parking, including covered valet parking, and has air conditioning. The hotel's location is described as central and great, and the food is often noted as excellent and delicious.

Another great choice is the 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Merced, rated 8.6. This hotel is located 1.7 km from Regal Hollywood - Merced. It is particularly well-suited for families, offering connecting rooms, a free crib, a sofa bed, and free rollaway extra beds. Guests appreciate the considerate and great staff, the nice and clean rooms, and the comfortable beds. Free toiletries and free self-parking are also provided, along with free WiFi.
When is the best time to go to Merced?
The best time to go to Merced is during the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

During these months, you'll experience comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for exploring the local area and enjoying outdoor activities. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, particularly noticeable on nearby hiking trails, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. These seasons also avoid the intense heat of summer, when temperatures can often exceed 35 degrees Celsius, and the cooler, sometimes foggy, and rainy conditions of winter.

For travellers planning day trips to Yosemite National Park, visiting in spring means waterfalls are at their most powerful due to snowmelt, and the park is less crowded than in peak summer.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Merced.
How can I save on a Merced hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Merced hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Merced hotel?
Prices for hotels in Merced often vary, but you can find a great deal from £46 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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