If you find yourself in the Gem State and you’re looking for a place where you and your visiting family or friends can have a great time, you won’t go wrong by choosing Meridian.

 

Ranked among the top 100 places to live in the United States while featuring among the fastest-growing cities in the country, Meridian is a suburban city in Ada County, Idaho. It is the second most populous city in Idaho after Boise, the state’s capital.

 

But Meridian is more than just its economy and demography stats. For instance, the city effortlessly combines the communal living typical of small towns with the burst of different activities found in city centers.

 

Now, these activities are some of the best in the entire southwest of Idaho — and for good reasons.

 

Let’s uncover the top things to do in Meridian, Idaho.

 

1. Explore Roaring Springs Waterpark

Imagine yourself zooming down a towering water slide, the wind whipping through your hair as you splash into the cool waters below. That’s what you experience at Roaring Springs Waterpark.

 

As the largest waterpark in the Northwest, you can rest assured this is where you make great summer memories. With Meridian, Idaho attractions like the Endless River and the Corkscrew Cavern, it’s really a water fun moment for people of all ages.

 

It is a winding slide with a 360-degree loop that adrenaline junkies can seek to conquer.

 

A day at Roaring Springs Waterpark is fun guaranteed.

 

Cost: 

General admission is $47.99, $42.99 for juniors and seniors, $42.99 for seniors, and FREE for children 2 and under.

 

1. Catch Thrills at Wahooz Family Fun Zone

If you’re looking for a one-stop spot for endless entertainment, Wahooz Family Fun Zone is right next door to Roaring Springs Waterpark. 

 

It’s an amusement center offering mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, an arcade, laser tag, and even a challenging ropes course. 

 

Consider it as the perfect place for families and groups of friends to run out of breath from fun activities. But if you want to move here, save that breath for Meridian movers, who can help you settle into the city in a jiffy.

 

At Wahooz family fun zone, you can feel the thrill of racing on the go-kart track, test your aim in laser tag, or try to sink that elusive hole-in-one in mini-golf. 

 

After you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at their in-house restaurant, featuring everything from pizza to burgers.

 

Cost: 

Prices vary by activity. Indoor activities cost around $35, while outdoor attractions cost $45.

 

1. Visit Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park

Meridian is not done with parks yet — there are still a lot of things to do in Meridian, Idaho. 

 

Looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of Meridian? Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park is your perfect escape.

 

Spanning over 60 acres, this park is an oasis of greenery, complete with serene ponds, winding walking trails, and open spaces that beckon you to relax and unwind. 

 

You can even pack a picnic, find a cozy spot under one of the many trees, and enjoy a lazy afternoon while the kids have a blast at the expansive playground. 

 

The park also features a splash pad, a big hit on hot summer days, and an amphitheater hosting concerts and events throughout the year.

 

Cost: 

Picnic shelter costs vary with amenities. Prices start from $50 and go up to $150. When not on reserve, these shelters are FREE on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

1. Experience the Settlers Park

Still on the park business, Settlers Park should be at the top of your list if you’re a fan of community vibes and outdoor activities. 

 

This bustling park is where Meridian comes into play. With baseball fields, tennis courts, and an adventure-filled playground, it’s a hive of year-round activity. 

 

But the real magic happens in the summer with CableONE Movie Night every Friday night from June to August.

 

Imagine this: you and your loved ones sprawled on a blanket under the stars, popcorn in hand, watching a blockbuster film on a giant outdoor screen. It’s one of those summer experiences that feels almost too good to be true.

 

Cost: 

FREE access to shelters when not reserved.

 

1. Shop at The Village at Meridian

Forget the village in its name; The Village at Meridian is a shopping center that’s more like an experience. 

 

Picture yourself wandering through European-inspired walkways, past bubbling fountains, and artfully designed landscapes. 

 

It’s a place where you can shop to your heart’s content, savor delicious meals, and grab some tasty BBQs. You can even catch a movie all in one beautifully crafted space. 

 

If you’re visiting in the winter, the outdoor ice skating rink adds a touch of magic to your day. The Village at Meridian is a place where you can spend hours with lots of fun things to do in Meridian, Idaho. 

 

Cost: 

FREE to explore. Shopping costs vary; ice skating costs $7 for adults and $5 for children 12 years and under.

 

1. Race It Out at Meridian Speedway

“Fast and Serious” is the summary of the Meridian Speedway. 

 

If you’re looking for things to do in Meridian, Idaho, that involve speed and races, check out this auto racing track. 

 

The Speedway hosts a variety of events, from stock car races to thrilling drift competitions and demolition derbies. Spectators particularly enjoy the Honkin Hornets races that deliver high-octane fun and adrenaline-fix levels.

 

Cost: 

Ticket prices vary by show, season, and day.

 

1. Immerse in Art at Initial Point Gallery

After your adrenaline boost, you might crave a dose of culture and creativity. 

 

Head over to Initial Point Gallery, located within Meridian City Hall. The gallery celebrates local art and showcases works from talented Idaho artists. 

 

It features rotating exhibits that include vibrant paintings, intricate sculptures, and thought-provoking photography. Plus, it’s a quiet, inspiring space where you can take your time to appreciate the art and maybe even find a piece that speaks to you.

 

Cost: 

FREE

 

1. Visit the Meridian Farmers’ Market

Still fishing for things to do in Meridian, Idaho? What better way to experience the local culture than by visiting the Meridian Farmers’ Market? 

 

Held every Saturday from May through September, this lively market celebrates all things local. 

 

Stroll through the stalls, where you’ll find fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisanal crafts. If you feel up to it, chat with local farmers, sample delicious treats, and discover unique handmade items that you won’t find anywhere else. 

 

The market also features live music, food trucks, and activities for kids, making it a perfect Saturday morning outing.

 

Cost: 

FREE to browse. Shopping costs vary.

 

Summing Up — The Call to Fun in Meridian

If your inner water-slide daredevil rears its head, then dive into Roaring Springs Waterpark. You can also channel your inner NASCAR champion at Meridian Speedway, or if you just want to perfect your mini-golf game while munching on some pizza, Wahooz Family Fun Zone is the place to be. 

 

But in case you’re more of a “picnic in the park” kind of person, Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park has got your back with shady spots and play areas that scream “family fun.” 

 

For that slice of local charm and fun, hit up the Meridian Farmers’ Market and sample all the goodies while pretending you’re on a Food Network show. Not forgetting Settlers Park, where summer nights mean outdoor movies under the stars. 

 

In short, you can never run out of things to do in Meridian, Idaho. So, kick start that visit. Who knows? You might love the city enough to want to relocate here.