Merced City Guide

Food is mostly Mexican and American comfort food with fresh local produce. Some Asian options available. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist but limited. Late-night food is mostly fast food.

Nightlife is modest with local bars and pubs. No big club scene.

Growing coffee scene with local cafes and chains like Starbucks.

Tipping is expected for restaurants, taxis, and personal services. Usually 15-20%.

Buy SIM cards at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, or retailers like Best Buy and Walmart. eSIM is supported. No ID needed for prepaid SIMs.

Reasonably clean with regular waste services; some areas have litter.

Few 24/7 stores; some gas stations and fast food open all night.

Stores like Save Mart, Raley's, FoodMaxx, Walmart, and local markets offer groceries. Most open early and close late, including Sundays.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is used less for everyday purchases.

You can find ATMs easily at banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo, and many stores. Expect fees for out-of-network withdrawals.

Public schools under Merced City and Merced Union High School Districts teach primarily in English. No major international schools.

Limited nomad community and events.

Parks like Applegate and Bear Creek Path offer green, shaded spaces suitable for outdoor activities.

Good running routes like Applegate Park and Bear Creek Path. Generally safe during the day.

Several gyms are available, including national chains and community options.

Public tennis courts in parks and schools; booking is mostly first-come, first-served.

Padel is not widely available.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles.

Several dojos offering Taekwondo, Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Ski resorts like Badger Pass and Dodge Ridge are 2-3 hours away.

Lake Yosemite offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing during certain seasons.

Surfing is not available; the city is inland.

No diving options; Merced is inland.

Facilities like Mercy Medical Center have English-speaking staff. US healthcare is mostly private with good quality. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens offer OTC meds but require prescriptions for many drugs.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards.

Parks like Applegate and McNamara have playgrounds. Baby supplies are at Walmart and Target. Attractions include Applegate Park Zoo and Lake Yosemite.

Generally accepting with strong California protections, but small local scene.

Pet-friendly city with dog parks and vet clinics.