Family Fun

You might be busy soaking up the last days of summer, but fall fun is just around the corner — and Meridian is ready to serve it up! Enjoy warm days and cool nights while exploring Southwestern Idaho’s epic local beers, wines, and foodie delights.

Tour the Wine Trail

Southwestern Idaho has steadily been building a reputation for excellent wines. Chalk that up to the region’s lush volcanic soil, perfect elevation, and low humidity, and hot days and cool nights. Idaho’s most celebrated wine region is just 30 minutes away from Meridian, which makes it the perfect day trip for curious experimenters and serious oenophiles. Hit the Sunnyslope Wine Trail and explore 17 Snake River Valley AVA wineries during the peak of harvest season, which typically runs from September through October (and sometimes even November). Please be sure to use a designated driver or enlist the services of a company like Meridian’s own Idaho Wine Tours. 

 

Brew Up Some Fun

There’s no shortage of great beer in Meridian. Whether you prefer an easy-sipping pilsner, a thick and full stout, a super-hoppy IPA, or a tried-and-true lager, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to indulge this autumn. 

Oktoberfest: Get ready to raise your stein and practice your “prost!” On October 1, more than 12 bars and restaurants will band together to transform Downtown Meridian into a supersized biergarten during the city’s inaugural Oktoberfest celebration. This daylong party, presented by sponsor First Federal Savings Bank and hosted by the Meridian Chamber of Commerce, will take place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

The city will block off part of downtown to automobile traffic during this free-flowing event, with the center of the action at the corner of West Second Street and West Idaho Avenue. Grab a commemorative beer stein for $15 and meander through participating vendors, including Heritage Hop Hause, 830 Commons, Deja Brew Bistro, The Roosevelt, Pauly’s Bar Room, The Vault, and more. Nosh on bratwurst and other bites, test your skills at a cornhole tournament, enjoy exhibitions, and dance your way through the day with live music from RJ McGuinness, Broken Tip Jar, Red Light Challenge, and headliner Pilot Error. 

Expect family-centered fun earlier in the day and traditional beer drinking games like Hammerschlagen as the evening progresses. There’s no admission fee for Oktoberfest, which promises to be the first of many new downtown-oriented festivals and events hosted by the Meridian Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit the chamber’s events section. 

Loose Screw: The folks at Loose Screw make it easy to have a good time. This easygoing, pet-friendly haven has quickly become a Meridian favorite for cranking out concoctions such as the sessionable Modest Freak IPA, tasty Blonde Bombshell Blonde Ale, and the off-the-wall Wacko Mango, which is flavored with — you guessed it — over 150 pounds of mango. Loose Screw also serves up beers from around the West and has plenty of games on hand. 

Ram Restaurant and Brewery: When you want plenty of room, a slice or a burger, and fun beers, the Ram is the place to go. The Ram serves its own beers, including the fruity Fun in the Suds IPA, Big Horn Hefeweizen, and Disorder Porter. Bonus: It’s kid-friendly. 

 

Feed Your Inner Foodie

Meridian has no shortage of fantastic restaurants, but these independent eateries have become favorites of both locals and visitors alike. Round out your day of wine tasting or beer sipping at these cozy restaurants. 

Kahootz Steak and Alehouse: Kahootz may have a funny name, but it’s seriously delicious. For 20 years, this Downtown Meridian steakhouse has been serving up classics made with fresh ingredients — thick and juicy ribeye steaks, crisp wedge salads topped with homemade dressing, and huge slices of caramel-apple bread pudding, just to name a few. FYI: Kahootz is first-come, first-served. 

Epi’s: A Basque Restaurant: For more than 20 years, ravenous diners have been stepping into the front door of Epi’s — located in a cute old bungalow — and walking out stuffed to the brim with classic Basque specialties. Whether you tuck into sizzling garlic shrimp, lamb chops, ink fish, or more, each dish will be accompanied by more side dishes than the average human can reasonably handle. Be sure to make reservations, because this place fills up fast. 

Il Sugo: This family-friendly intimate restaurant is high on comfort food and low on pretension. 

At Il Sugo, you choose your pasta and your sauce for a completely customizable experience — and when the experience includes fresh pasta made by local experts Ferranti Pasta, you can’t go wrong! 

Vintage ’61 Wine Bar and Kitchen: Vintage ’61 is based on a farm-to-table philosophy: super-fresh ingredients, prepared well, and served with some of the best wines in the world (including those from Idaho). Its location in a former house is cozy and makes it a great choice for date night. 

Ramen House: When the weather starts to cool, there’s no better way to warm up than ramen. This family-owned restaurant serves up six different kinds — and if you walk away hungry, it’s your own fault. 

Of course, there are hundreds more opportunities to feast your way through Meridian! For even more Meridian fun, check out the Events tab of our website. 

 

While You’re Here … 

Balance all that wonderful indulgence with some activity! There’s no shortage of things to do in Meridian, no matter the season. 

• Top Golf is coming! This uber-popular entertainment venue is under construction just off I-84 and is one of the most anticipated openings in the Treasure Valley — well, ever! The venue’s famous hitting bays are set to open by the end of the year. 

• The Village is a one-stop shop for dining, shopping, and entertainment — it’s not unusual to find you’ve spent the whole day there! From the on-site movie theater to dinner outside by the fountain, you’ll find plenty of ways to take leisure time to the next level. 
• Both kids and adults will find something to love at Big Al’s. How could they not? With a wall of TVs broadcasting sports, a bowling alley, an arcade, and a full menu of food and adult beverages, Big Al’s is the perfect addition to a laid-back weekend. 

Rafting. Golfing. SUP. Shopping. Adventure is easier than ever in Meridian, centrally located for summer fun. 

Basecamp: Meridian

There are endless adventures to be had in southwest Idaho — but where you choose to set up your basecamp can make all the difference. 

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Idaho’s wine country, boating at Lucky Peak or Lake Lowell, surfing the sand at Bruneau Dunes State Park, having a hoot at the Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey, exploring the past in Idaho City, or trying one of the many ideas listed below, Meridian is the perfect starting point. It’s just minutes away from I-84 and in the middle of the action — not to mention home to countless hotel and restaurant options. 

Ready to be inspired? Here are just a few of the many adventure options available when you choose Meridian.

Family Fun in the Sun

You won’t have to go far to make the kiddos happy: Idaho’s largest water park, Roaring Springs, is conveniently located in Meridian. This sprawling complex features more than 20 water attractions ranging from an endless river to heart-stopping thrill rides, and it’s the ideal place to play on a hot July day. Or, skip the extra sunblock and keep it cool indoors at Wahooz Family Fun Zone, which features a smorgasbord of activities — climbing walls, a bowling alley, arcade games, laser tag, and tons more.

Head Up the Hill

Bogus Basin is the Treasure Valley’s favorite place to ski, but the fun doesn’t stop once the snow melts. Both fat tire and mountain biking enthusiasts can barrel down more than 20 miles of hilly terrain. For a real technical challenge, take the chair lift to The Basin Gravity Park and work your way down the hill … then do it all over again. Not a biker? No problem. The Glade Runner Mountain Coaster offers plenty of freewheeling fun. Just hop on, take the wheel, and let gravity propel you through 4,330 feet of twisting turns and unbeatable hilltop views. 

Float Away

Floating the Boise River is the simplest of summer pleasures. Just rent an inner tube or raft from Boise River Raft and Tube at Barber Park and set off on your two-hour, six-mile adventure. This experience is great for kids and adults alike, but make sure you pick up personal floatation devices for children under 14 (it’s the law). Once you’re done, hop on the low-cost shuttle at Ann Morrison Park to head back to your car. 

What’s SUP? 

Stand-up paddleboarding has quickly become one of the best ways to experience the Treasure Valley’s many lakes, ponds, and waterways — most of which are accessible by the iconic Greenbelt. SUP enthusiasts flock to the 22-acre Quinn’s Pond, a little piece of heaven located between Fairview Avenue and Veterans Parkway in Boise. Nearby Esther Simplot Park is even bigger: 55 acres, 23 ponds, and endless opportunities for flat-water enthusiasts, swimmers, and anglers alike. Or, head toward the outskirts of Boise to Lucky Peak State Park, where the wide-open water of the Boise River is placid and perfect for an afternoon adventure.

Make a Run for Rapid Fun

The Main Payette River is roughly 45 minutes away from Meridian, yet it feels like the middle of the wide-open West. This beautiful stretch is known for its big, splashy fun, with rapids ranging from Class II to III — in other words, perfect for families or newbies. Book a trip with a guide for the best experience. The river trip should take about three fun-filled hours. 

Hit the Links

Meridian’s 200-plus days of sun make it perfect for golfing — and during the summer, you can discover just how good 18 holes can be. BanBury Golf Course is located along a tributary of the Boise River in Eagle, just next door to Meridian, and is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 courses in Idaho by Golf Digest. Lakeview Golf Club in Meridian is insanely affordable ($39 for 18 holes during the weekend) and has a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to both novices and experienced players alike. 

Satisfy Your Need for Speed

Once the calendar flips to July, the competition at Meridian Speedway really takes off. This quarter-mile asphalt track is home to some of the top races in the state, including six events during July alone. Tickets are super reasonable and the action is fast, which makes it a great evening option for both kids and adults.

Play at the Park

Meridian’s plentiful sunshine and high-desert climate (humidity has no home here) makes it perfect for a day in the park. Keep the kids busy at Settlers Park, which features a pond, tennis courts, baseball fields, horseshoe courts, and more. Sprawling Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park includes a recreation complex with everything you need for an afternoon of fun, from a splash pad to bocce to sand volleyball. Or, drive a few miles to Eagle Island State Park, which offers 545 acres of outdoor opportunities — including fishing, paddle sports, disc golf, and even a waterslide! 

Drive Through History

Southwestern Idaho has miles of open road — and very little traffic to stand in between you and adventure. History lovers will especially enjoy the Western Heritage Historic Byway, which combines several bucket-list locations in one 90-minute drive. The byway begins in Meridian and ends at Swan Falls Dam and Park. Along the way, visit Celebration Park and its ancient petroglyphs; Cleo’s Ferry Museum and Nature Trail, which offers a peek into the ferries that once provided passage across the Snake River; and Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey Conservation Area, where you can spot hundreds of raptors like owls and red-tailed hawks.

Too Hot to Handle? Try These Indoor Options

When the temps start blazing, head inside — Meridian offers plenty of air-conditioned options. Check out The Village for upscale shopping, fantastic restaurants, and even movies! Or, test your leisure skills at Big Al’s, where a cold beer can be the perfect companion to a bowling or arcade session. Escape to other worlds at Cinemark Majestic Cinemas or fly high at Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park. 

While You’re Here … 

Why not try living the laid-back life of a local while you’re here? Check out these events for a taste of what Meridian is all about. 

• Meridian Main Street Market: Nearly every town in the Treasure Valley has a farmer’s market, but Meridian’s has a twist: You’ll see kids selling their wares and fresh products, too. The market started as a way for young people to broaden their entrepreneurial skills, but has now expanded to local businesses, vendors, artists, and craftspeople who are beyond their school years. Expect plenty of farmer’s market staples such as fresh fruit and veggies, along with a whole range of concoctions and crafts — vendors include candy makers, purveyors of hand-blended spices, candlemakers, cake sellers, and coffee roasters. You’ll want to come hungry to take advantage of the on-site food trucks, too. 
• Second Annual Surf’s Up! Christmas in July Fair: Is it ever too early to start shopping for holiday gifts? Get a head start at this unique fair that will feature a wide variety of vendors, a food truck rally, and even a cornhole tournament. 

 

Summer in Meridian is already off to a great start: The weather is perfect, beloved annual events are back, and every weekend beckons with family-friendly fun. Are you ready to add good times to your schedule? Use this quick guide and discover how Meridian can make it happen.

Go Old School at Dairy Days

Meridian might be one of the fastest-growing cities in Idaho, but it stays true to its farm roots with its annual Dairy Days festival. Since 1929, when Dairy Days was founded to celebrate the opening of the Meridian Creamery, this event has supported the Future Farmers of America and 4-H organizations. 

Expect plenty of old-fashioned fun – a carnival with tons of rides and games, a parade, farm animal shows, fair food (hello, funnel cakes!), and the annual Dairy Princess pageant. All you need to enjoy this three-day extravaganza is a hefty dose of sunscreen and enough cash to eat Pronto Pups and ride the Ferris wheel to your heart’s content. 

Dates: June 22-25

More information: dairydays.org

Stock Up at the Meridian Main Street Market

Nearly every town in the Treasure Valley has a farmer’s market, but Meridian’s has a twist: You’ll see kids selling their wares and fresh products, too. The market started as a way for young people to broaden their entrepreneurial skills, but has now expanded to local businesses, vendors, artists, and craftspeople who are beyond their school years. 

Expect plenty of farmer’s market staples such as fresh fruit and veggies, along with a whole range of concoctions and crafts – vendors include candy makers, purveyors of hand-blended spices, candlemakers, cake sellers, and coffee roasters. You’ll want to come hungry to take advantage of the on-site food trucks, too. 

Dates: Now through October 15

More information: meridianmainstreetmarket.com

Celebrate a Local Hero

You don’t have to know Gene Kleiner’s name to benefit from his generosity. Many decades ago, Julius Kleiner – Gene’s dad – farmed a 60-acre parcel of land in Meridian. Julius Kleiner passed away 50 years ago, but his son ensured his name would never be forgotten by donating the land and $25 million to create Kleiner Park. The park, which opened 10 years ago, is now one of the prettiest and most popular in the area, with a band shell, walking paths, fishing ponds – even a community garden. 

Gene Kleiner Day marks the Kleiner family’s generosity toward the city. This year, Gene Kleiner Day will be even bigger and better than usual: The Meridian Symphony will give a free concert in the bandshell to mark the occasion; just pack a blanket or chair to secure your spot. 

Date: 7 p.m. June 11

More information: meridiancityspecialevents.org/gene-kleiner-day.html

The Fast and the Fireworks

The Meridian Speedway and the City of Meridian are teaming up for an Independence weekend filled with non-stop thrills. First, head to the Speedway on July 2 for the Geico Local Office Motorfest, a racing-meets-auto industry event featuring a 100-foot drag strip and a special appearance by Bill Carlton from the TV show “Texas Metal.” All ages are welcome at this auto extravaganza. 

Pace yourself, though, because the fun continues on July 4 at the Speedway with the Stinker Sinclair Firecracker 50, a series of breakneck races that will leave you hoarse from cheering. Then head to nearby Storey Park to continue the all-American celebration! There, you’ll dance to the Billy Blues Band and nosh on food from the Rusty Dog, Tacos Y Tartas El Paco, and Daisy’s Gelati & Frozen Custard. When the sun goes down, the skies will light up with fireworks launched from the Speedway. 

Dates: 

• Geico Local Office Motorfest, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 2, Meridian Speedway
• Stinker Sinclair Firecracker 50, 4:45 p.m. July 4, Meridian Speedway
• 4th of July Celebration, 4 p.m. July 4, Storey Park; fireworks to begin around 10:20 p.m. 

More information: 

• motorfestboise.com
• meridianspeedway.com/schedules/event/393699
• meridiancityspecialevents.org/independence-day.html

For even more Meridian fun, check out the Events tab of our website.

While You’re Here … 

The next few weeks will be filled with plenty of good times, but don’t keep the fun to just scheduled events! Here are a few ways to round out your Meridian summer adventures. 

• The Village is a one-stop shop for dining, shopping, and entertainment – it’s not unusual to find you’ve spent the whole day there! From the on-site movie theater to dinner outside by the fountain, you’ll find plenty of ways to take leisure time to the next level. 
• When the temps heat up, Roaring Springs is ready. The Northwest’s largest water park has endless slides and wave pools to keep the kids happy (not to mention cabana rentals where Mom and Dad can take a quick nap). 
• Both kids and adults will find something to love at Big Al’s. How could they not? With a wall of TVs broadcasting sports, a bowling alley, an arcade, and a full menu of food and adult beverages, Big Al’s is the perfect addition to a laid-back weekend.