Charter Bus Rentals in Merced
Merced Charter Bus is your #1 source for a charter bus rental in Merced, offering a wide range of vehicles for any group size or event. From sprinter vans and minibuses to full-size motorcoaches and party buses, we have the perfect vehicle for your next trip. Whether you need a simple airport transfer at Merced Regional Airport (20 Macready Dr, Merced, CA 95341) or a custom charter bus rental in Merced County for a school field trip to Applegate Park Zoo (1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA 95340), our team is available 24/7/365 to help you get exactly what you need. You can get pricing in seconds using our online quote tool or by calling us. We serve every city in the region-from Merced to Atwater, Livingston to Los Banos, and everywhere in between-so no destination is out of reach.
A few of the companies in Merced that have trusted us with their group transportation.
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About Merced Charter Bus
Merced Charter Bus is your trusted charter bus rental provider serving Merced, the Central Valley, and the entire state of California. We help groups of all sizes travel comfortably to UC Merced campus tours, family reunions at Applegate Park Zoo, school trips to Castle Air Museum, and more. Our fleet includes everything from minibus rentals to full-size motorcoaches, so you can easily match your headcount and budget while enjoying modern amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and reclining seats. When you book with us, you'll get transparent pricing, 24/7 customer support, and a vehicle that arrives on time-every time.
Whether you're navigating Highway 99, planning a long-distance road trip, or organizing a special event, we're here to make your transportation simple and stress-free!
Types of Buses Available in the Merced Charter Bus Fleet
Merced Charter Bus offers a large fleet of buses including the vehicles below. If you need something else, let us know!
15 Passenger Minibus
15 Passenger Party Bus
18 Passenger Minibus
18 Passenger Party Bus
20 Passenger Minibus
20 Passenger Party Bus
25 Passenger Minibus
25 Passenger Party Bus
28 Passenger Minibus
28 Passenger Party Bus
30 Passenger Minibus
30 Passenger Party Bus
35 Passenger Minibus
40 Passenger Party Bus
50 Passenger Charter Bus
50 Passenger Party Bus
54 Passenger Charter Bus
55 Passenger Charter Bus
56 Passenger Charter Bus
Sprinter Limo
Sprinter Van
You'll Have the Best Amenities
Groups attending events at the Merced County Fairgrounds (900 Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Merced, CA 95341) during the annual Merced County Fair can skip the traffic and parking headaches when they book a charter bus with us! Instead of cramming into multiple cars and paying for parking in the remote South Lot (which is a 20-minute walk), your group can be dropped off right at the main gate. Inside, you'll have access to premium amenities that make even the hottest Central Valley summer days bearable, like reclining seats, individual climate controls, and onboard WiFi to keep kids entertained while you travel past Atwater.
For students and chaperones taking a field trip to the Applegate Park Zoo (1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA 95340), we offer compact minibus options that make navigating the winding roads of Applegate Park simple. You can enjoy a loop around the park to see the Laura Fountain before heading inside, where your driver will handle all the logistics. No matter where you're going, you can coordinate pickup and drop-off times around your itinerary to keep your trip on track.
Comfortable Leather Seating
Climate Control
Onboard Restroom (on select models)
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Power Outlets and USB Ports
Entertainment Systems
Ample Luggage Space
Bluetooth/AUX Sound System
Charter Bus Prices in Merced
How much does a charter bus cost in Merced? Charter bus pricing in Merced depends on several factors like trip distance, number of passengers, time of year, and how many stops you plan to make. As a general rule, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 per hour for a full-size coach. Minibuses are a more budget-friendly option, usually ranging from $100 to $300 per hour.
Because Merced sits at the northern edge of the San Joaquin Valley, long-distance trips to nearby cities like Fresno, Sacramento, or San Francisco will increase your total cost due to higher mileage and tolls. The good news is that we offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing that makes it easy to budget for your next adventure. Call 559-319-0550 today to get a free quote in minutes!
The table below outlines estimated charter bus prices in Merced by vehicle type so you can compare typical hourly, daily, and mileage ranges.
| Type of Bus | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coach Bus | $180 – $485 | $1,400 – $3,800 | $4.50 – $8.75 |
| Minibus | $135 – $475 | $1,350 – $3,650 | $5.00 – $8.50 |
| School Bus | $150 – $465 | $1,350 – $3,550 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Shuttle Bus | $135 – $475 | $1,350 – $3,650 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Sprinter Van | $135 – $445 | $1,350 – $3,350 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Party Bus | $135 – $545 | $1,350 – $3,750 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Actual pricing in Merced depends on route details, event timing, passenger totals, amenities, and seasonal availability. | |||
Why Choose Merced Charter Bus
Merced Charter Bus has served groups across California for over 15 years, moving thousands of happy passengers through the heart of the Central Valley. When you book with us, you get a 24/7/365 reservation team, access to one of the largest fleets in the state, and expert logistics support for any event. From school trips to the Applegate Park Zoo to corporate retreats at Lake Yosemite, we've done it all-and we're proud to be the top-rated charter bus company in Merced County.
Whether you need a Fresno charter bus, a Bakersfield charter bus, or a charter bus rental in Stockton, our team is here to make your trip simple, comfortable, and stress-free. Call us anytime at 559-319-0550 to get started-one easy call gets you quotes, pictures, and pricing in minutes.
Merced Group Transportation Services We Offer
From school trips to the Applegate Park Zoo to family reunions, we provide event transportation for any occasion. Plan a campus tour of UC Merced, organize a church retreat, or host a birthday celebration without worrying about designated drivers. Your group will enjoy a private bus rental with modern amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and reclining seats-perfect for long-distance travel to nearby destinations like Yosemite National Park or Laguna Beach. No matter the size of your group, we'll match you with a vehicle that fits your headcount and budget while ensuring everyone arrives safely and on time.

Merced Airport Transportation
Skip the long-term parking fees and complicated pickup logistics when you book a private airport shuttle for your next trip out of town! Whether you're sending a student group to UC Merced for orientation or taking a family vacation overseas, we make airport transportation easy. Our airport shuttles include options like 15-35 passenger minibuses, 40-56 passenger charter buses, and 6-15 passenger sprinter vans, ensuring there's a perfect vehicle for any group size heading to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) or Sacramento International Airport (SMF). Your driver will handle all the details-from navigating Highway 99 bottlenecks to dropping everyone off right at the terminal-while you sit back in a comfortable, climate-controlled cabin with modern amenities.
Enjoy reclining seats, overhead monitors, WiFi, and power outlets to keep everyone connected during the drive. It's the best way to start or end your trip without the stress.

Merced Concert Transportation
Event organizers can also use a Merced charter bus for festivals and annual events around the city. A charter bus rental in Merced is a great option for the Merced County Fair, offering a simple way for attendees to travel to and from the fairgrounds during the multi-day event. We can also provide faith-based charter bus rentals in Merced for religious leaders hosting large-scale events at places like St. Patrick's Catholic Church (671 E Yosemite Ave, Merced, CA 95340). Whatever your reason for renting a charter bus in Merced, we ensure it's an event transportation service you can rely on.
Hosting a large-scale event like a music festival or faith-based conference? A charter bus in Merced makes for the perfect shuttle service for attendees. With options like one-day shuttles and long-term shuttle bus rentals, you can coordinate safe, convenient transportation for attendees. Whether it's a designated driver after dancing all night to live music at the Merced County Fairgrounds (900 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Merced, CA 95340) or a shuttle between event venues, you can count on us to handle the logistics while you focus on planning a successful event.

Merced Corporate Shuttle Services
The Merced Transpo Center (710 W 16th St) is a key downtown hub for employees who commute, but your team will appreciate a private ride instead! Help them beat the daily 7:00 AM congestion where Highway 59 meets 16th Street with a private & comfortable corporate shuttle. Whether you're shuttling employees to the Merced Business Park (901 N Mission Ave) or planning a leadership retreat at Lake Yosemite, we ensure your team arrives on time and refreshed. Our buses feature WiFi, power outlets, and reclining seats-perfect for both daily commuters and long-distance travelers.
For large-scale events, we offer reliable convention shuttles to the Merced County Fairgrounds (900 Martin Luther King Jr Way). Your attendees will appreciate smooth pickups from nearby hotels like the Courtyard by Marriott (225 S Parsons Ave), and your driver will know exactly how to navigate around the MLK Jr. Way and Childs Avenue intersection to avoid post-event traffic jams. From minibuses to full-size motorcoaches, we help you coordinate efficient transportation for any size group.

Merced Employee Shuttle Services
Companies with employee shuttle services in Merced can keep their teams ahead of schedule when you book with Merced Charter Bus. Whether you're based downtown or in an industrial park outside of town, we can design a custom shuttle route that moves your team between the University of California, Merced (5200 N Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95343) and the surrounding business districts. Your driver will navigate high-traffic routes like Highway 99 and Campus Parkway to ensure your team arrives right at the UC Merced Administration Building entrance near Scholar's Lane-without bottlenecking at the wrong drop-off circle.
From construction shuttles for worksites near Atwater to corporate shuttles for offices on M Street, we've got the right bus for you. Best of all, every bus comes with a driver and our 24/7 customer support team, helping you coordinate custom routes and schedules that fit your team's needs. Let us handle the logistics while you focus on growing your business!

Merced Field Trip Transportation
For educators and students, the Merced Charter Bus team provides reliable field trip transportation to the Applegate Park Zoo (1830 Applegate Dr, Merced, CA 95348), where classes can explore the zoo's exhibits with the help of a trained educator. We also offer trips to the UC Merced campus (5200 N Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95343), giving high schoolers a first look at college life during guided tours. You can also plan hands-on lessons at the Castle Air Museum (5050 Santa Fe Dr, Atwater, CA 95301), where students can walk among historic aircraft and visit the museum's indoor exhibits. Our full-size charter buses include undercarriage storage for backpacks and school supplies, while sprinter vans and minibuses are great for shorter trips across town.

Merced Government & Military Transportation
For government and military transportation needs, Merced Charter Bus provides discreet and secure transportation for agencies traveling to and from the Merced County Courthouse (627 W 21st St, Merced, CA 95340) or the Merced County Administration Building. Our GSA-approved charter buses include features like seat belts, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms for long-distance travel to training camps or federal offices. We understand the importance of punctuality and will ensure your team arrives exactly on schedule for high-security meetings or training sessions.
In addition to courthouse transportation, we also provide reliable shuttle services for government staff working at the John Latorraca Correctional Facility (2825 W Olive Ave, Merced, CA 95348). Whether you need a simple minibus or a full-size charter bus, our 24/7 reservation team is here to help you coordinate efficient transportation that meets your exact requirements. Call us today at 559-319-0550 to get started.

Merced Long-Distance Bus Rentals
Groups traveling long distance often have to make a difficult decision: Should we carpool and split the cost of gas, or should we rent a bus? While carpooling may seem like the cheaper option, it comes with hidden costs like wear and tear on personal vehicles, paying for parking, and the logistical nightmare of keeping everyone together. A Merced long-distance bus rental keeps your group in one vehicle, saving you the headache of coordinating multiple cars. Whether you're planning a faith-based retreat in Yosemite National Park or a campus tour of UC Santa Cruz, we'll help you get you a motorcoach that fits your budget.
Our fleet includes everything from 15-35 passenger minibuses to full-size 56-seat charter buses, so you can match your rental to your headcount and save on unnecessary seats. Each vehicle comes with comfortable reclining seats, climate control, overhead storage, and a driver who will handle the entire trip. You can even add WiFi and power outlets to keep everyone connected on the road! Call our team anytime at 559-319-0550 to get an instant quote for your next adventure.

Merced Private Event Transportation
For private event transportation in Merced, a charter bus is the best way to keep everyone together. Whether you're hosting a family reunion at Applegate Park Zoo (1830 Applegate Dr, Merced, CA 95348) or a birthday party at the Merced County Fairgrounds, we'll make sure your group arrives on time. You can customize your route and schedule to fit your exact needs, and enjoy amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, and power outlets. Instead of coordinating multiple cars, your group can ride together and focus on making memories.
Our private event transportation service is flexible and reliable, perfect for church groups, school trips, or corporate events. Planning a day trip to Yosemite National Park? We'll get you there safely in a modern motorcoach built for long-distance travel. Call us anytime at 559-319-0550 to get started-we're available 24/7/365!

Merced Religious Group Transportation
Faith-based groups in Merced can trust the Merced Charter Bus team for safe, consistent transportation. Whether your congregation is traveling to a retreat at Yosemite National Park (603 Badger Pass Rd, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389) or attending a regional conference, we have a bus rental that fits your needs and budget. Our larger charter buses feature reclining seats, WiFi, and onboard restrooms-perfect for long-distance trips or multi-day events. You can even request a sprinter van or minibus for weekly services or bible study groups. No matter your destination, our team will handle the logistics so you can focus on fellowship.

Merced Sporting Event Transportation
Fans, athletes, and coaches all rely on Merced Charter Bus for game-day transportation. Instead of splitting your group into multiple cars and paying $20+ for parking near Valley Children's Stadium, your driver can drop everyone off right at the student entrance. Keep your team together for away games, tournaments, and practices with a full-size charter bus rental equipped with undercarriage storage bays for bulky gear and reclining seats for post-game naps.
Coaches can use the PA system to review plays, while onboard restrooms and WiFi keep everyone comfortable on the road. Whether you're heading to the University of California, Merced (5200 N Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95343) for a college matchup or traveling out of town, we'll make sure your group arrives on time, together, and ready to win.

Merced Wedding Transportation
If you're planning a wedding at Applegate Park Rose Garden (1830 Applegate Dr), your guests will appreciate not having to navigate the one-way maze of W 25th Street and Parkside Drive. A Merced charter bus ensures your group avoids the 20-minute traffic bottleneck on Highway 99 east of town. We offer a full range of vehicles-from sprinter vans and minibuses to full-size motorcoaches-so you can easily shuttle guests between hotel blocks near the Merced Mall and your reception at the Italo-American Lodge (1351 W 18th St). Your driver will handle all the parking passes and off-site logistics, allowing your family to focus on celebrating while we manage the ride.

Merced Winery and Brewery Transportation
The agricultural bounty of the Central Valley makes Merced a hidden gem for local wineries and breweries, and there's no better way to experience them than with a private tour. Whether you're sampling reds at Vista Ranch Vineyard (7326 E Highway 140, Merced, CA 95340) or sipping craft beers at Tioga-Sequoia Merced Taproom, we'll make sure everyone has a safe ride home. You can book a minibus for small groups, a full-size charter bus for large events, or even a sprinter van or party bus to keep the energy high between stops. Instead of worrying about designated drivers or navigating rural roads, you'll be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as we handle the logistics. It's the perfect choice for winery tours, brewery crawls, and special celebrations like birthdays or bachelor parties.
How to Rent a Charter Bus in Merced
Submit Your Request
Use the Merced Charter Bus online quote tool to share your trip details, including the date, passenger count, and pickup/drop-off locations. You can receive a personalized quote in under 30 seconds.
Review The Options
Compare real-time pricing and vehicle photos from our fleet. You can browse various makes, models, and amenity packages to find the perfect fit for your group.
Lock In Your Bus
Secure your vehicle by making a payment directly online. Now you can relax!
Providing Bus Rentals in Merced & All Nearby Cities
While we're experts in local transportation, we also provide long-distance transfers for out-of-town trips. Groups planning class trips to the California Academy of Sciences or UC Berkeley can rent a San Francisco charter bus for the day, while travelers heading south can rely on a Los Angeles charter bus. We also offer charter bus rentals for trips to nearby national parks like Yosemite, ensuring you don't have to worry about parking passes or cramming into personal cars.
Whether you need a local shuttle or are planning a multi-day trip, we've got you covered. Call our team anytime at 559-319-0550 to get a free quote and see how we can help you coordinate your next adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a bus in Merced, California?
+The cost of a charter bus rental in Merced, California, depends on your mileage, vehicle type, and trip details. Local trips within Merced or nearby towns usually range from $135 to $545 per hour depending on your vehicle, while multi-day long-distance trips can cost between $1,350 and $3,800 per day. For example, a simple campus shuttle at UC Merced or a field trip to Applegate Park Zoo will likely fall on the lower end of that scale, while a full-day charter bus rental for a large group traveling to Yosemite will be priced higher.
Because Merced is a major agricultural hub, we regularly accommodate large-scale events at the Merced County Fairgrounds-which means we can offer you competitive rates and packages that fit your budget. The best way to get an exact price is to call our team anytime at 559-319-0550. One quick call gets you an instant quote right away.
What amenities are available on each of our bus types in Merced, California?
+Merced Charter Bus offers a wide range of amenities to keep your group comfortable on that long I-5 stretch. Many full-size charter buses include WiFi, power outlets, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms-perfect for CSU Stanislaus or UC Merced campus tours or long-distance trips to Los Angeles. Minibuses often feature similar perks like WiFi and overhead monitors, making them great for corporate travel between Modesto and Fresno. If you're looking for something special, our party buses amp up the fun with wraparound seating, smart TVs, Bluetooth sound systems, and neon lighting-ideal for a night out in downtown Merced or a wedding bachelorette party.
We'll help you get you a vehicle with the right amenities for your trip, whether it's ADA-accessible features, extra luggage storage, or entertainment options. Call us anytime at 559-319-0550 to get started!
What types of vehicles do you offer in Merced, California?
+Merced Charter Bus offers a huge selection of vehicles to fit any group size or event. You can choose from minibus options holding 15-35 passengers, full-size motorcoaches for 40-56 passengers, sprinter vans fitting 6-15 riders, and even party buses that seat 10-50 guests. Every vehicle comes with a driver and comfortable seating, plus amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and climate control to keep everyone relaxed on the road. Whether you're moving a small corporate team through downtown or shuttling hundreds of guests to a wedding at Vista Ranch, we'll make sure your group travels together and on schedule.
What types of events & destinations do you frequently serve in Merced, California?
+Merced Charter Bus provides reliable transportation for school field trips to the Applegate Park Zoo (1830 Applegate Park Dr, Merced, CA 95340), where classes can explore local wildlife exhibits, as well as campus tours of the University of California, Merced. We also offer faith-based group transportation for congregational events at St. Patrick's Catholic Church (671 E Yosemite Ave, Merced, CA 95340) and youth trips to Lake Yosemite (5714 Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95340). Our drivers ensure safe travel along Merced County's busy routes, including the intersection of Highway 99 and 59-one of the most dangerous in the county-so your group avoids the 99-traffic bottleneck and stays on schedule.
How far in advance should I book my Merced, California bus rental?
+As a general rule of thumb, it's best to book your bus rental at least 3 to 6 months in advance. This ensures you get exactly what you need before dates fill up, especially during the busy spring season when UC Merced commencements, high school graduations, and wedding events at venues like Vista Ranch are stacking up. Last-minute bookings can sometimes be accommodated, but planning ahead gives you the best selection and pricing.
Because Central California has a heavy agricultural economy, we recommend booking your charter bus rental well in advance of peak seasons like spring and fall. This is when major campus events at UC Merced draw large crowds, and the Delray Farms Pumpkin Patch and Castle Air Museum host their annual festivals, which can cause regional demand for charter buses to spike. By securing your transportation early, you'll have peace of mind knowing your group will stay on schedule for that long-awaited trip to Yosemite National Park or a game day bus rental for the Golden Valley High School football team.
Popular Merced Charter Bus Destinations
Groups in Merced can book a private bus rental for any event, from campus tours at UC Merced to family reunions at Applegate Park Zoo (1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA 95340). Our company provides custom transportation for school field trips to the Castle Air Museum (5050 Santa Fe Dr, Atwater, CA 95301), where students can explore historic aircraft without parents worrying about carpools. Faith groups often organize retreats to Yosemite National Park, while sports teams head to Yosemite for away games. You can also plan a group trip to the Merced Multicultural Arts Center (645 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340) or the Merced County Courthouse Museum (21st and N Streets, Merced, CA 95340). No matter the destination, we make getting there simple.

Merced Theatre
The Merced Theatre (301 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340) is a top destination for large groups attending live performances, film screenings, and community events. Because this historic downtown venue lacks dedicated oversized vehicle parking, your driver will drop passengers right at the front entrance on W Main Street for a seamless arrival. Your group can skip the hassle of navigating downtown Merced's one-way streets or searching for distant public lots. We coordinate staging at nearby lots to ensure your bus is ready when the show ends, providing a smooth ride home after your night out.
301 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340
(209) 381-0500

Merced County Fairgrounds
The Merced County Fairgrounds (900 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Merced, CA 95341) host massive events like the annual county fair and Merced Speedway races, drawing huge crowds that gridlock local roads. When you book with us, your driver navigates the MLK Jr Way traffic and brings your group directly to the main gate for a convenient drop-off. Instead of splitting into multiple cars or fighting for a spot in the sprawling dirt and paved lots, your group stays together in a comfortable charter bus. We coordinate your arrival and departure so everyone enjoys the event without worrying about the chaotic post-show traffic surge.
900 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Merced, CA 95341
(209) 722-1506

University of California, Merced
UC Merced (5200 Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95343) welcomes thousands of visitors for campus tours, Bobcat sports games, and major events like Commencement. The university sits north of downtown, requiring a coordinated drive along G Street and Bellevue Road. We handle the logistics by dropping your group at the designated Transit Hub or Bellevue Lot, ensuring everyone arrives together and on time. Whether you're transporting prospective students, alumni, or a school group, we help you navigate the campus's strict oversized vehicle rules so you can focus on your visit instead of circling for a legal parking spot.
5200 Lake Rd, Merced, CA 95343
(209) 228-4400

Castle Air Museum
Castle Air Museum (5050 Santa Fe Dr, Atwater, CA 95301) is a premier aviation destination located just outside Merced. The museum regularly hosts large tour groups, school trips, and veteran organizations. When you book with us, your driver pulls directly into the main entrance loop for an easy passenger unload near the ticket office. Your group can explore the massive outdoor aircraft collection without worrying about a long walk from a distant lot. We coordinate your drop-off and pickup times so your group enjoys a stress-free day learning about aviation history.
5050 Santa Fe Dr, Atwater, CA 95301
(209) 723-2178

Playhouse Merced
Playhouse Merced (452 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340) is a popular stop for school field trips, senior groups, and theater enthusiasts. Because downtown Merced offers limited oversized vehicle parking, your driver will drop your group off right at the front entrance before staging at a nearby city lot. This eliminates the need to coordinate multiple vehicles or walk several blocks from a distant garage. After the show, your driver returns to the same spot to pick up your group, ensuring a seamless start and end to your cultural outing.
452 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340
(209) 725-8587

Applegate Park and Zoo
Applegate Park and Zoo (1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA 95340) is a favorite destination for school groups, youth organizations, and family reunions. Navigating the narrow, high-traffic streets around the park can be difficult for large vehicles, but we simplify your logistics. Your driver drops your group off near the zoo entrance, then parks the bus along the designated perimeter areas on R Street. This allows your group to enjoy the park's attractions without worrying about a long walk or violating street parking restrictions. When your visit is over, your driver is ready and waiting to take your group home safely.
1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA 95340
(209) 385-6225