UC Merced Conference Center

The UC Merced Conference Center is a modern wedding venue in Merced, California, set on the shore of Little Lake at the heart of the University of California's newest campus. Opened in 2020 and sustainably designed, this contemporary conference center offers couples a polished, full-service setting for both ceremony and reception, framed by open water views, landscaped campus grounds, and the wide skies of the San Joaquin Valley. Located off North Lake Road near Lake Yosemite Regional Park and just minutes from downtown Merced, it sits within easy reach of the gateway to Yosemite National Park, making it a convenient destination for local couples and traveling guests alike.

At the center of the venue is the Dr. Vikram and Priya Lakireddy Grand Ballroom, a 5,700-square-foot space that accommodates up to 250 guests for a seated banquet reception and as many as 520 in a theater arrangement, giving couples flexibility for celebrations large and intimate. The conference center also includes two conference rooms and four breakout rooms across more than 11,000 square feet of total event space, along with an outdoor Conference Center Terrace that lends itself to lakeside ceremonies, cocktail hours, and golden-hour photographs. The clean, current architecture provides a versatile backdrop that adapts easily to a couple's chosen colors, florals, and decor.

Managed by the campus Hospitality Services team, the venue pairs its spaces with a full suite of event planning support, on-site catering, and nearby guest housing options, so much of the wedding-day logistics can be coordinated under one roof. With its blend of waterfront scenery, generous indoor and outdoor capacity, and university-grade service, the UC Merced Conference Center offers a distinctive option for couples seeking a fresh, well-appointed place to gather family and friends in the heart of Merced County.