Known as the ‘Gateway to Yosemite’, Merced is just a short drive from the Yosemite National Park and its spectacular valleys, waterfalls, granite monoliths and giant sequoias. The Yosemite Wildlife Museum is a great place to learn about the animals that live in the area. Visitors to Merced can also sample the award-winning wines and beers at the Red Rock Winery and Brewery or see cheese being made at the Hilmar Cheese Company. The Castle Air Museum at Atwater displays 43 vintage military aircraft from World War II and the wars in Korea and Vietnam.