Local Attractions

Merced Courthouse Museum

On the National Register of Historic Places, the County Courthouse was designed in 1875 by State Capital Architect, Albert A. Bennett. In addition to the temporary exhibits, the museums permanent collection includes a blacksmith shop, turn-of-the century schoolhouse and Indian artifacts.

Applegate Park & Zoo

Go wild in Merced’s first city park. See native wild animals at the Applegate zoo or head to Kiddyland amusement park and ride the train (weekends, June to September) around the parks 23 acres. In addition, the park features picnic areas and a rose garden.

Merced Agricultural Museum

Experience the rich agricultural history of the Valley and catch a glimpse of how previous generations of farmers worked and lived. The museum features a wide variety of antique farming equipment, gas engines and household appliances. The grounds also feature a working blacksmith shop and a model of the proposed New Yosemite Valley Railroad.

Laura's Fountain

Named for his wife, Charles Huffman built this fountain in 1888 in front of the El Capitan Hotel. In 1935 it was moved to its current home in Applegate Park.

Hilmar Cheese Company

Tour, Taste, Shop and Eat at the world's largest single-site cheese manufacturer (1 million pounds of cheese per day). Hilmar Cheese Company Visitor Center features a show and fun, interactive exhibits. See the “Big Cheese” as you watch employees’ package 640 lb. crates of cheese. Complimentary cheese and gourmet foods tasting and beautiful gift shop.

Buchanan Hollow Nut Company

See how pistachios, almonds, and other local nuts are produced in the area, with a tour of this processing and packaging company. Samples are available and gift packs can be shipped.

Castle Air Museum

Experience aviation adventures as you peek into the cockpits of 46 vintage airplanes from World War II to the present. Visit the gift shop and take home a piece of history.

Castle Science and Technology Center

The Center includes numerous hands-on exhibits teaching scientific principles. Attractions include; NASA Displays from Johnson Space Center in Houston, Planet Polluto, Nanotechnology, View Space, and Two Worlds of Science.

Merced Fruit Barn

Merced Fruit Barn offers a variety of locally dried fruit and nuts, as well as fresh produce, deli sandwiches, gift baskets, and unique gift items. Located on East Highway 140 heading towards Yosemite, stop by to enjoy a fresh deli sandwich in their picnic areas and visit with their barnyard animal.