6801 West Sandy Mush Road, El Nido, CA 

Drive over to Merced National Wildlife Refuge – 10,200 acres of wetlands, native grasslands, vernal pools, and riparian areas - to see some wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s a half hour, 17-mile drive from downtown Merced, with parking for visitors. This is one for animal lovers and natural scenery enthusiasts. Around 20,000 cranes and 60,000 arctic-nesting geese migrate here in the autumn – a spectacular sight. Also, expect to see Swainson’s hawks, tri-colored blackbirds, marsh wrens and more – if you’re a keen birdwatcher you’re in for a treat. There are also desert cottontail rabbits, beavers and weasels. Add to your itinerary list, this one is not to be missed.

3361 G Street, Merced, CA 95340

Jantz Cafe & Bakery is an eatery located in central Merced, where you can park your car rental in the on-site lot, or find street parking in the vicinity. It serves homemade American style meals. The décor is minimally rustic and there’s a good vibe, here with exceptional service and carefully crafted dishes. The menu boasts kids’, breakfast and lunch options - their ethos is “homemade meals without the work”. Signature sandwiches include chicken salad, fresh veggie and classic BLT. There are also Jantz Burgers, like the Cali-chicken sandwich – grilled chicken breast with cheddar cheese and more. Indulge in hearty fare in the heart of Merced at Jantz Cafe & Bakery.

229 South Parsons Avenue, Merced, CA 95341

Stay close to the center of Merced at TownePlace Suites by Marriott for an elegant setting, comfortable beds, and great road access, sitting by the Golden State Highway. If you like space, the rooms here offer just that, with studios and suites. Kick back and relax in the outdoor pool, topping up your tan to sun-soak your skin with the Cali rays. There’s a business center too, great if you’re here with work and need space to plan some important meetings. You can also get your fitness flow on at the on-site gym, useful if you’re keen on staying on top of your routine while on your travels. 

69.2 miles & one hour and 31 minutes

Head east, passing Catheys Valley, Mariposa, Midpines, the Merced River Canyon and El Portal. In Yosemite, expect granite landmarks including El Capitan and Half Dome, plus Yosemite Falls and Yosemite Valley.

113 miles & one hour and 53 minutes

Travel north through California’s Central Valley, passing agricultural areas and communities including Atwater, Modesto, Stockton and Lodi before reaching Sacramento. This capital city has the Sacramento River, Old Sacramento and the California State Capitol.

450 miles & six hours and 49 minutes 

Drive south through Fresno and Bakersfield, then east through Tehachapi and Barstow, then through the Mojave Desert. In Las Vegas, Nevada expect the Strip, large resort hotels, and the surrounding desert landscape.