10 Best Places in Merced, California To Visit By Charter Bus

Planning a group trip to Merced? Whether you’re organizing a school field trip, church retreat, family reunion, or team-building getaway, the best way to get around is with a charter bus rental from Charter Bus Rental Merced! Our extensive fleet of buses and minibuses can shuttle your group to all the city’s top attractions, so you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or cramming everyone into separate cars. With our 24/7 customer service and instant online quotes, it’s never been easier to book comfortable, reliable transportation for groups of any size. Give us a call at 350-503-8610 to learn more about our services and get a quote for your upcoming trip.

Castle Air Museum

Address: 5050 Santa Fe Dr, Atwater, CA 95301

If there are any aviation buffs in your group, a visit to Castle Air Museum is a must. This impressive museum displays over 70 restored military aircraft outdoors, including bombers, fighters, helicopters, and even a retired Air Force One jet. Step inside the indoor exhibit gallery to see vintage uniforms, flight gear, and wartime memorabilia. The museum also hosts special events like Open Cockpit Days, when visitors can climb aboard select planes. With so many large aircraft on display, it’s the perfect spot for kids and adults alike to marvel at engineering feats from different eras of flight. Your charter bus will have no problem parking in the spacious lot while your group explores the grounds.

Applegate Park Zoo

Address: 1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA 95340

Animal lovers of all ages will enjoy a stop at Applegate Park Zoo, a small but charming zoo located within Applegate Park. The zoo houses native California wildlife such as black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, birds of prey, deer, and reptiles. Informative signs teach visitors about each species and their conservation status. There’s also a petting zoo area where kids can meet friendly farm animals. Shaded picnic tables make this an ideal spot for a lunch break between sightseeing stops. Admission is very affordable, making it a great choice for budget-friendly group outings. Your bus can drop everyone off right at the entrance for easy access.

Merced Multicultural Arts Center (The MAC)

Address: 645 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340

Immerse your group in local arts and culture at the Merced Multicultural Arts Center, affectionately known as “The MAC.” This vibrant community hub features multiple galleries showcasing rotating exhibits of painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media by regional artists. The center also hosts live performances, film screenings, art classes, and cultural festivals throughout the year. Groups can arrange private tours or workshops to deepen their appreciation of Merced’s creative scene. With its downtown location, The MAC is easily accessible for large groups arriving by charter bus. After your visit, stroll down Main Street to admire colorful murals and grab a bite at nearby restaurants.

UC Merced Campus

Address: 5200 Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95343

For student groups considering college options, a guided tour of UC Merced is a valuable experience. As the youngest campus in the University of California system, UC Merced boasts modern architecture, eco-friendly design, and a scenic setting near Lake Yosemite. Prospective students can explore academic buildings, residence halls, research labs, and recreational facilities while learning about admissions, financial aid, and campus life from current students. The university frequently welcomes school field trips and offers customizable tour packages for groups of any size. Your charter bus can navigate directly to the designated visitor parking area, ensuring timely arrival for your scheduled tour.

Merced County Courthouse Museum

Address: 21st & N St, Merced, CA 95340

Step back in time at the Merced County Courthouse Museum, housed in a stunning 1875 courthouse building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, your group will discover fascinating exhibits on the region’s history, from Native American cultures and pioneer settlements to agriculture and railroads. Period rooms showcase Victorian-era furnishings, clothing, and artifacts that bring the past to life. Docent-led tours are available for school groups and other organizations, offering engaging stories and activities tailored to different age levels. The courthouse’s central location makes it easy to include in a day of downtown sightseeing, with your bus picking up and dropping off passengers at the curb.

Lake Yosemite Recreation Area

Address: 5714 Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95340

Escape to nature with a group outing at Lake Yosemite Recreation Area, just a short drive northeast of the city. This scenic reservoir offers a variety of outdoor activities for all interests, including fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, hiking, and birdwatching. Picnic areas with BBQ grills provide plenty of space for group meals and games. The park also features playgrounds, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits to keep everyone entertained. Larger groups can reserve covered pavilions for exclusive use during their visit. With ample parking for buses and easy access to restrooms and amenities, Lake Yosemite is an ideal destination for family reunions, company picnics, or youth retreats.

Playhouse Merced

Address: 452 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340

Enjoy a night of live entertainment with your group at Playhouse Merced, the city’s premier community theater. This intimate venue stages a diverse lineup of plays, musicals, improv shows, and concerts throughout the year, featuring talented local performers of all ages. From Broadway classics and children’s theater to original works and holiday productions, there’s something for every taste. Groups can take advantage of discounted ticket rates and reserved seating for larger parties. Consider booking a charter bus for round-trip transportation, so everyone can relax and enjoy the show without worrying about traffic or parking downtown.

Merced Golf & Country Club

Address: 6333 Golf Rd, Merced, CA 95340

Treat your group to a day on the links at Merced Golf & Country Club, a private 18-hole course renowned for its challenging layout and beautiful landscaping. Golf tournaments, corporate outings, and charity fundraisers are frequently hosted here, with event coordinators available to assist with planning every detail. Non-golfers can relax at the clubhouse, which features dining facilities, meeting rooms, and a pro shop. Arriving by charter bus ensures all participants have a safe and convenient ride to and from the course, especially if post-game celebrations include drinks at the bar.

Rahilly Park

Address: 3400 Parsons Ave, Merced, CA 95340

Rahilly Park is one of Merced’s largest city parks and a popular gathering spot for community events, sports leagues, and family outings. The park spans over 32 acres and includes baseball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, a skate park, and multiple playgrounds. Shaded picnic areas with tables and BBQs are perfect for group lunches or birthday parties. During the summer, Rahilly Park often hosts outdoor movie nights, concerts, and festivals that draw large crowds. Charter buses can utilize the spacious parking lots to unload equipment and passengers close to the action.

Downtown Merced Farmers Market

Address: 16th St & Canal St, Merced, CA 95340

Experience the flavors of the Central Valley with a Saturday morning visit to the Downtown Merced Farmers Market. Dozens of vendors set up along 16th Street, offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, baked goods, flowers, crafts, and more. It’s a lively atmosphere with live music, food trucks, and cooking demonstrations that appeal to visitors of all ages. Groups can browse the stalls together, sample local specialties, and support small businesses. Your charter bus can drop everyone off near the market entrance and then find street parking until it’s time to regroup and continue your itinerary.

Book Group Transportation to Merced’s Top Attractions

No matter which destinations you choose, Charter Bus Rental Merced will make sure your group travels in comfort and style across the city. Our wide selection of charter buses and minibuses can accommodate any itinerary, from museum tours and nature excursions to campus visits and nightlife adventures. Each vehicle comes equipped with amenities like cushioned seats, climate control, WiFi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms to enhance your journey. Plus, our reservation specialists are available 24/7 to answer questions, adjust schedules, and provide instant quotes tailored to your needs. Ready to start planning your Merced group trip? Call 350-503-8610 today to get a free quote and secure reliable transportation for your next adventure!