Meridian established roots as a small agricultural town, but it has blossomed in recent years — becoming one of Idaho’s fastest growing cities and the second largest in the state. And it’s easy to see the appeal: Meridian’s suburban enclave is well-balanced by a revitalized downtown, vibrant city center, and diverse economy.
It’s also a fantastic place to visit, especially at the tail end of summer, when local events are still in full swing but the weather is a bit more mild. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together a summer’s last hurrah list for families, individuals 21 and older, endorphin chasers, and treasure hunters. Whatever your age, interests, or group size, there’s plenty to see and do in Meridian — from traditional community events to off-the-beaten-path adventures.
For Families
There won’t be any trouble keeping the kids occupied in Meridian. Start by burning off any pent-up energy at Roaring Springs, the Northwest’s largest (and we believe its best) waterpark. Continue the action next door at Wahooz Family Fun Zone, where there are attractions for kids of all ages: go-karts, bowling, laser tag, indoor rides, miniature golf, and arcade games, to name a few. Or, bounce, splash, and have a water balloon fight with the kids at Inflatable World.
Moving at a slower pace? Inspire your kiddos’ curiosity at the Children’s Museum of Idaho. The museum is designed for kids ages two to eight, and encourages adult-child interaction through creative play. You might also check out Story Trail, an interactive walking tour that features 16 reading stations as it winds around Kleiner Park’s south pond.
If the little ones aren’t ready to wind down, Meridian offers family-friendly nightlife. Catch a film in Settlers Park at Sparklight Movie Night, held every other Friday from the end of May to August. This time of year is also racing season at Meridian Speedway. Here, motorsports enthusiasts of all ages can see a variety of short-track races, including stock cars, modifieds, and sprint cars. The best part? Thanks to the speedway’s reasonably priced tickets and smaller venue, you’ll get extra close to the action.
Special Summer Events
Dairy Days: An annual celebration that pays homage to Meridian’s dairy farming heritage with a parade through Downtown, carnival rides, food vendors, educational exhibits, and competitions (ice cream eating contest, anyone?). Held the third week of June.
Independence Day: A July 4th celebration in Storey Park, complete with games, live music, onsite food trucks, and fireworks.
Meridian Art Week: Free or low-cost arts activities and events, including a Community Art Party which will feature live performances, a chalk art competition, and art installations. Held in September.
For Adults’ Day/Night Out
When you’re kid-free and want to be pampered, nourish your body with a hydrotherapy session at SISU Sauna and Cold Plunge, opening in August 2024. Athletes and wellness practitioners have long touted the health and performance benefits of this kind of hot/cold routine, so why not give it a try? Next, treat yourself to a therapeutic or cold stone massage at Natural Choices Bodyworks and let your stress melt away.
If you’re a patron of the arts, immerse yourself in Meridian’s cultural offerings and catch the latest exhibits at Initial Point Gallery and Idaho Art Gallery. Both galleries regularly display two- and three-dimensional works from local artists, ranging from fine art and photography to pottery and sculpture. When you’re ready to get in touch with your creative side, pull up a chair at Wood & Root Bar, part craft center/plant shop and part cocktail joint (open to adults 21 and older).
Late summer in Meridian is the season for music lovers, too. If you prefer local vibes, the Bri Kleiner Park Live concert series features performances in the bandshell every other Friday through August. Or, if you’d like to catch a mainstream band or headliner, the Ford Idaho Center offers an impressive line-up of summer concerts and is only a ten-minute drive from Meridian.
Feel like bustin’ a move? Pull on your boots and head to the Big Al’s patio on Friday nights for line dancing and live music. When it’s time to rest your feet, saddle up to a patio for dinner and drinks. Why not sample the brews at Loose Screw Beer Co. then light up a Havana at The Vault Cigar Lounge and see where the night takes you?
Special Summer Events
Concerts on Broadway series: Free live musical performances to be held in City Hall’s outdoor plaza on select Saturday nights in September and October. Presented by the Meridian Arts Commission.
For Endorphin Chasers
Need to break a sweat? Meridian Homecourt’s 49,000-square-foot community center is bound to get your heart rate up — with 4 NBA-sized multi-use basketball courts, 14 pickleball courts, 7 volleyball courts, and recreation classes for youths and adults. You can also get your gains at one of Meridian’s free outdoor gyms (located in Kleiner, Tully, Reta Huskey, and Keith Bird Parks). These are open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset.
Or, perfect your handholds and footholds at Vertical View Climbing Gym. Whatever your interest and skill level, a challenge awaits — from rope climbing and bouldering to auto belaying and training. The gym offers day passes, classes, and memberships, as well as access to its locker room and showers, infrared saunas, and yoga and fitness studios.
From Top Golf to disc golf, there’s a green for every birdie chaser in Meridian. At Top Golf, climate-controlled hitting bays come complete with HDTVs, and a sports bar and restaurant are available when hunger strikes. Clubs are complimentary to rent or you can bring your own. If you prefer to stretch your legs, try for a hole-in-one at Lakeview Golf Course or chase an ace at one of three disc golf courses in town.
Because your gear is as important as your workout, head to Scheels for anything sports- or recreation-related you might want or need. But Scheels is more than just a sporting goods store, it’s an experience. Sure, you’ll find retail apparel and gear via dozens of specialty shops within the store. But attractions like its 65-foot Ferris wheel, rollerball lanes, shooting gallery, arcade games, photo ops, and kids’ play area will keep everyone in your crew happy for hours. When you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite at the café (and a treat at the candy store).
Special Summer Events
Axiom’s Yoga on the Green: Free public yoga classes Saturday mornings at The Village. June 1st through August 31.
For Treasure Hunters
Whether you’re seeking retail therapy at The Village or prefer thrifting at the Idaho Youth Ranch, shopping in Meridian can’t be beat. At The Village, more than one hundred stores and restaurants offer a mix of national brands and local flavor. The outdoor plaza also hosts concerts and other seasonal events, and a state-of-the-art fountain comes alive every hour with a choreographed music and light show.
You may also enjoy browsing at some of Meridian’s locally-owned shops. Head to Blue Fringe Boutique for women’s clothing, accessories, and footwear with a vintage flair. And don’t miss 44 East Boutique for sophisticated women’s apparel, unique gifts, and stylish home decor.
If bling is your thing, splurge at one of Meridian’s jewelry stores. Start by perusing the curated antique pieces and luxury accessories at Copper Canary Boutique, or have something bespoke handcrafted at Shmukler Jewelry Design. Got extra time? Visit the impressive showroom at Simmons Fine Jewelry, or admire the collection of Rolex watches at Prestige Diamonds & Jewelry. When shopping for yourself or someone special, you’re sure to find something in Meridian that sparkles.
The foodies and locavores will want to hit the booths at the Meridian Main Street Market on Saturdays from April through October. This is the place for beautiful fresh produce, artisanal products, live music, and food trucks — plus, you’ll be supporting the local farmers and makers who call this special town home.
Special Summer Events
Meridian Night Market: A 21-and-older event featuring local artists, live music, food, and drinks. Held every first Tuesday in June, July, and August.
Sidebar: Stay Awhile
To enjoy all Meridian has to offer, why not make it a weekend? There’s no shortage of lodging options in the city, with over a dozen hotels ranging from upscale to budget-friendly. Many of these accommodations are in the vicinity of key attractions, which makes getting around convenient and easy.