As summer approaches, there’s no better way to experience Meridian, Idaho, than like a local. So we’ve asked business owners, community leaders, and lifelong locals to share their favorite hotspots, hidden gems, and family-friendly escapes. From adrenaline-pumping adventures at Roaring Springs Waterpark to peaceful walks through our beloved Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park, here are our insider recommendations for planning a Meridian summer to remember.
“Meridian offers a lot of activities year-round, but summer is one that you can always depend on a blue sky to welcome you most days. This is perfect for an early morning walk in our beautiful parks that turns into a round of golf and then dinner on a patio at a restaurant.”
—Sean Evans, President, Meridian Chamber of Commerce
“Attending one of the events in our parks — either Sparklight Movie Night at Settlers Park or the summer concert series in Kleiner Park. Movie night is always a great experience and brings back memories of doing it with our kids for the last 15 years, while the concert series allows for a relaxing evening of music — and you don’t have to stay out late!”
—Meridian Mayor Robert Simison
“My favorite thing to do in Meridian during the summer is go to Downtown Meridian for food and drinks on the patio of either Eight ThirtyCommon, 127 Saloon, Loose Screw Beer Co., or Voodoo Brewing Co. My friends andI also enjoy playing lawn games and listening to live music at Frontier Club.It's a great way to enjoy the sunny weather and make new friends.”
—Breauna Fracassa, Director of Sales at Hyatt Place Boise Meridian
“I enjoy taking my family to Discovery Park to play on the playground, walk the pathways, or play softball.”
—Garrett White, Recreation Superintendent, City of Meridian
“I love getting out to see performances of all kinds, and it’s even better if they are free! I love going to things like the Bri Kleiner Park Live concerts, the Concerts on Broadway at City Hall, and the Treasure Valley Children’s Theater shows in the parks. One of the best shows is when the Meridian Symphony Orchestra does a free performance at Kleiner Park on Gene Kleiner Day (the second Saturday of June).”
—Cassandra Schiffler, Arts & Culture Coordinator, City of Meridian
“I'll always take my friends and family visiting from out of town to The Village. I believe Kona Grill has one of the best happy hours in the city and a great atmosphere with the water fountain show in the background. With the upscale shopping and multiple different dessert shops, it's my favorite place to show off!”
—Breauna Fracassa, Director of Sales at Hyatt Place Boise Meridian
“I love to take out-of-town visitors to Albertsons Market Street off of Eagle Road. This is always fun to see them excited to get a drink and shop all of the amazing items at the largest Albertsons in North America. I also like to visit Truffles, Etc. for a sweet treat. Of course, Roaring Springs/Wahooz is also a go-to spot."
—Josha Iverson, Executive Assistant to the Meridian Mayor
"Nothing says Meridian like a night at the speedway. The small track experience with high-octane action is a must-do for someone wanting a truly unique and local experience!”
—Meridian Mayor Robert Simison
“The Village! It really is a gathering place full of great shopping, amazing dining, and lots of entertainment (including people-watching). Recently we have also enjoyed the various local breweries. There is just something about sitting on the cool patios and socializing with a beverage and some great food.”
—Sarah Franks, Assistant General Manager at The Village at Meridian
“Exploring Meridian Downtown. I love strolling around with ice cream from Truffles, Etc., popping into local shops, and then finding a quiet spot by Generations Plaza to relax with a good book…Meridian Art Days are also fun! Whether I'm sitting on a patio or grabbing a drink at one of the cozy local bars, there’s always something special about the vibe. Plus, Meridian truly comes alive in the summer with the art gallery at City Hall, an amazing monthly night market, and the best Fourth of July festivities around. It's all about soaking in the local charm and enjoying everything our community has to offer.”
—Natalie Plummer, Hello Meridian
“The Homecourt facility. Yes, most want to be outdoors in the summer months but on extremely hot days or smoky days, Meridian Homecourt is a great place to play pickleball, volleyball, or basketball.”
—Garrett White, Recreation Superintendent, City of Meridian
“I believe the farmers markets are one of the most underrated activities in Meridian. I love supporting local vendors and discovering delicious foods and services right here in the Treasure Valley. It's a great way to start the weekend!”
—Breauna Fracassa, Director of Sales at Hyatt Place Boise Meridian
"I think people sometimes forget how amazing our downtown area is, especially in the summer with all of the patios and the fountain in Generations Plaza.”
—Josha Iverson, Executive Assistant to the Meridian Mayor
“By heading over to Roaring Springs Waterpark. I've been running their social media for a decade now, so I'm a little biased! There’s just something unbeatable about splashing around on the water slides, drifting along the lazy river, and enjoying the wave pool on a hot day. And the kids like it too! It’s the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation outdoors. The new expansion was designed to add the most family fun possible. And they just announced a new slide coming summer of 2026! We also have great local splash pads. Meridian has invested so much in our local parks. Take advantage!”
—Natalie Plummer, Hello Meridian
“Did you know that Meridian City Hall is very well air-conditioned n the summer and it has a dedicated gallery space on the third floor of CityHall!? It’s free, fully accessible, and open during regular business hours. It features a rotating display of local artists every month, and it really is one of the best places to see visual art in the valley.”
—Cassandra Schiffler, Arts & Culture Coordinator, City of Meridian
“I like to head up in the mountains to escape the warmer days in the valley. A little time by the rivers always cools things down. A short drive will get you to many destinations that offer fishing, rafting, hiking, or just relaxing by he water.”
—Sean Evans, President, Meridian Chamber of Commerce
“My family enjoys spending a few days during the summer at Roaring Springs. We enjoy all the rides and the lazy river. It is a great way to cool off and relax.”
—Garrett White, Recreation Superintendent, City of Meridian
“I'd definitely recommend checking out Reed's Dairy for some delicious treats. There are also plenty of local spots offering kids-eat-free nights, which makes dining out both fun and budget-friendly. Plus, many parks host pop-up ice cream and snow cone vendors during the summer, so you can always find a cool treat while enjoying the outdoors. And if you're looking for a great lunch option, Idaho Pizza Company is my favorite — it's perfect for kids with its awesome quality and reasonable prices.”
—Natalie Plummer, Hello Meridian
“The Village has great dining options that are both quick-serve and sit-down. La Créme Frozen Yogurt is fun, there is the rice crispy treat with your kids’ meal at Noodles & Company, there’s awesome pizza at Yard House, [and] Big Al’s with the arcade card that comes with the kids’ meal. Red Robin is one of our go-to places because we love the unlimited fries and root beer floats. Oh, and the build-your-own kids’ pizza minis at PapaMurphy’s.”
—Sarah Franks, Assistant General Manager at The Village at Meridian
“Cravin’s Candy Emporium and Truffles, Etc. in downtown are great spots to get some treats for the family, and for ice cream, Lovejoy’s can’t be beat! When it comes to eating, Big Jud’s brings the fun and the tots to the table. Grab their one-pound (or larger) burger and watch the kids’ eyes light up — you won’t be disappointed!”
—Meridian Mayor Robert Simison
"Meridian parks and pathways! We have beautiful parks and miles of pathways to enjoy.”
—Garrett White, Recreation Superintendent, City of Meridian
"I think our Historic Meridian Downtown Walking Tour experience is fun and of course a visit to one of our parks to picnic, play catch, or just hang out. We also have the Children’s Museum of Idaho for kids.”
—Josha Iverson, Executive Assistant to the Meridian Mayor
“In my opinion, Meridian's public parks are a great low-cost way to have fun! Playing pickleball on the new outdoor courts, exploring independently led scavenger hunts scattered through Kleiner Park, or even taking my dog to different dog parks are my favorite things to do.”
—Breauna Fracassa, Director of Sales at Hyatt Place Boise Meridian
“Checking out our parks or the Meridian Community Swimming Pool is a great way for families to enjoy a free or low-cost outdoor activity together. Be it attending an event, enjoying the amenities such as splash pads, playgrounds, or picnic shelters, or taking a turn on the high-dive, there is always something for kids of all ages!”
—Meridian Mayor Robert Simison
“If you are interested in history, the Meridian Historic Preservation Commission volunteers will be leading free guided walking tours of downtown Meridian on the third Saturday of the month from April to September at 10 a.m., starting at the front steps of City Hall. They are free; no registration necessary! Just bring your walking shoes and prepare for the weather. The Main Street Market will also be happening at that time, so you can check out the market before you go.”
—Cassandra Schiffler, Arts & Culture Coordinator, City of Meridian
“The parks for sure! Settlers Park and Kleiner Park are amazing parks that have beautiful landscaping with great trees for a shaded picnic or leisurely hour of reading. The Village has story time and Corbin Maxey. Additionally, there is a free play program at Big Al’s.”
—Sarah Franks, Assistant General Manager at The Village at Meridian
Whether you’re a frequent or first-time visitor, Meridian is the place to be this summer. So, grab your sunscreen, gather your family, and get ready to experience our city like a true local. However you choose to experience Meridian this summer — cooling off at the water park, shopping at The Village, exploring our parks, or kicking back on a patio — you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.
There are many conveniently located dining options and hotel accommodations in and around Meridian, so it’s easy to get from place to place. Click here to view lodging options.
