Hey Becky, some info about Merced (click on the image to see a big picture):
More info is here at the city's web page. UC Merced just open and still under construction. This is the biggest thing happening in this city. It's bringing in new professionals. Downtown is pretty nice but empty of people at 6PM. People say Japanese or Thai restaurants should be good. But according to Art, must be prepare to sink money for a year or two. There a lots of new housing being build. I see the city will get busier as the University grow.

Maps
Map of the general areaMerced