Our Story

Kiwanis Kiddieland, proudly operated by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Merced, has been a cherished part of the community since 1957. Founded by dedicated Kiwanis members, Kiddieland was created with a simple mission: to provide a safe, welcoming, and affordable amusement park experience for the children and families of Merced County.

For nearly seven decades, Kiddieland has brought joy to thousands of children, creating lasting memories for generations of local families. What began as a small community project has grown into a beloved tradition—one that continues today thanks to the generosity of sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters.

What We Offer

Today, Kiddieland features six classic rides and a snack shack for families to enjoy. At the heart of the park is our iconic Kiddieland Train, a longtime favorite that takes riders on a scenic around the perimeter of Applegate Park.

Other attractions include:

• GoGator Roller Coaster
• Merry-Go-Round Carousel
• Helicopter Ride
• Rocket Ship Ride
• Safari Car Ride

Kiddieland is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, typically operating from Easter through October each year.

Community Traditions

Kiddieland is more than just rides—it’s a hub for family-friendly community events. Each year, we proudly host:

• Annual Easter Egg Hunt – Featuring over 3,000 eggs and plenty of candy for children to enjoy.
• Fright Night – A fun and festive Halloween event serving hundreds of kids and parents.
• Free Community Kids Night – Providing families with a special evening of free fun.

In addition, we support and contribute to many youth-focused programs throughout the Merced area.

Looking Ahead

Our goal is to continue operating and maintaining Kiddieland for future generations. With the ongoing support of sponsors and community partners, we can preserve this special place and expand its impact.

Your involvement—whether through sponsorship, partnership, or volunteering—helps ensure that Kiddieland remains a joyful, accessible space for children in our community. Together, we can continue making Merced a wonderful place for kids to grow, play, and create lifelong memories.