Did a 3 night stay here last week. Probably the nicest hotel in the Central CA corridor between Sacramento and Fresno. Good Globalist recognition - valet parking drop off on the street right in front of the lobby. Bell staff was quick and friendly. My Concierge had me upgraded to a Jr. Suite in the new build section overlooking the courtyard. Liked the bathroom and bed and couch were comfortable. As others have mentioned you will hear trains and loud cars (people in Merced must like loud cars). Neither woke me up but you definitely hear them in your room.

I like firm pillows. I always request two. They brought me one and said it was the only foam pillow the hotel had. Hard to believe that for 114 rooms but if it matters you've been warned. Globalist breakfast was ok. I prefer ordering off a menu at a full service restaurant. Native Son is more of a grab & go that doubles as a bar and was the only thing open during my stay. It was fine but the items (breakfast sandwich, burrito, pastry) seemed like they were all pre-made then warmed up in a microwave. All my breakfast charges were covered so no complaints but $12-$15 for an item & $7 for a small orange juice with ice in it would explain why it was empty everytime I was there.

I would stay here again. I'm guessing most of their business comes from U.C. Merced, groups and people headed for Yosemite. Downtown Merced seems a little rough after dark but the hotel location seemed ok. One note: the weather was bad and due to flooding many roads in the area were closed. They were also doing construction on I-99 so it was down to one lane. My business took me to Turlock & it took over an hour during the day but less than 30 minutes when I returned at night.