13 Iconic Destinations for Your Meridian, ID Bucket List

Meridian, Idaho may sit just outside Boise, but make no mistake; it’s a city with a personality all its own. With open-air markets, locally loved restaurants, and just the right dose of adventure, Meridian delivers a more relaxed take on life in the Treasure Valley. Picture sipping your morning coffee before hitting a scenic trail, or spending the afternoon exploring boutiques and ending the day with sunset views from a neighborhood park.

Whether you’re planning to purchase a home in Meridian, searching for an apartment to rent, or have your eyes on a rental home in the city, this Meridian bucket list is your guide to the city’s most iconic experiences. From the tried-and-true activities to some delightful surprises, these are the stops that capture the essence of Meridian and keep you coming back. Let’s dive in.

1. Spend an afternoon at The Village at Meridian

No Meridian bucket list is complete without a visit to The Village at Meridian, the city’s chic shopping and lifestyle destination. Here, you’ll find everything from indie shops to national favorites, but what makes the experience shine is its sense of community. “I highly recommend this mall for those who are new to the city. With beautiful shops, restaurants, and more, it’s a very welcoming place to spend an afternoon,” says Brenda from the Idaho-based skincare company, Larkspur Lane.

It’s also where locals gather with a rotating calendar of events that brings the space to life. “The Village is not only known for its amazing shopping of local and big brand stores,” shares Kristen Schafer, owner of Elle M Boutique, “but they also have so many fun events. From local bands playing on summer Friday nights to amazing restaurants, coffee shops, farmers markets, car shows, and so much more.”

“The Village is a great place to gather and have a bite to eat, shop, have a glass of wine/coffee, grab an ice cream, go bowling or take in a new movie at the cinema. There are many different places to sit in comfort, relax, and watch the fountain water show. They also have a playground for little ones to enjoy too.  Make sure to visit our boutique when you shop.” – Team at 1st Miracle Boutique

“With twinkle lights, dancing fountains, and cozy fire pits, it’s where people come together for dinner, shopping, or a movie under the stars. It captures that perfect blend of small-town warmth and modern convenience that makes Meridian feel like home.” – Iridessa, Boise Aerial & Fitness

“The Village is a great place to visit with many shops and restaurants, a movie theater, and a beautiful park and playground area for everyone to enjoy.” – Amy Merrill, Inspired Dance

2. Explore Discovery Park

To experience Meridian like a local, start with Discovery Park. This 64-acre regional park blends Idaho’s natural beauty with endless recreational activities, from playgrounds and bike trails to shaded picnic spots.

“One of the best ways to soak up that Meridian lifestyle? Discovery Park,” shares Kaysi of TatorJo Idaho Apparel. “It’s a total win for all ages: 64 acres of fun with giant playgrounds, ziplines, bike and skate zones, sand and water play, and open space for kids to be kids. You can easily spend the whole day here, and trust me, you’ll want to.”

3. Celebrate city pride at Dairy Days

There’s no better way to embrace the spirit of Meridian than at Dairy Days, a week-long celebration packed with hometown pride. From the lively carnival and Meridian Speedway races to one of Idaho’s biggest parades, 4H shows, and the all-new hot air balloon glow, Dairy Days brings the entire community together. This is also a tradition that gives back; raising money for local 4H and FFA scholarships, and supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

4. Go on a treasure hunt with Vintage Road Trippin’

“One of my favorite events in the Meridian area is Vintage Road Trippin’,” shares the team at Blue Fringe Boutique. “It’s a semi-annual shopping event that takes participants to 18 small businesses in meridian and surrounding towns. Some businesses host pop-up vendors, while others offer in-store specials. And if you visit all 18 stops, you’re even entered to win a grand prize.” Held each April and September, this event allows shoppers to spend three days visiting boutiques across the Treasure Valley area.

5. Spend the day at Meridian Speedway

Craving a dose of adrenaline in Meridian? Add Meridian Speedway to your bucket list. This local favorite turns a quiet evening into a major event, where the grandstands fill with cheering fans. “This is an absolute must-do,” says Andy, owner of Meridian BNB. “It’s loud, exciting, and seriously fun. You’ve gotta see the boat races, where they chain old boats to cars and trucks, and watch them crash around the track.”

From rocket car exhibitions to real NASCAR events, the Speedway brings an unexpected edge to Meridian’s family-friendly reputation. “It’s perfect for anyone new to Meridian or anyone looking for something unique and entertaining (just don’t forget your ear protection),” Andy adds.

6. Take a leisurely stroll at Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park

For those moments when you just want to wander someplace lovely, Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park is a spot that will win your heart. Once a working farm, this park was generously donated by its namesake as a gift to the community.

Today, visitors can appreciate its peaceful outdoor beauty with a stroll along its trails, a trip to the playgrounds, or while attending one of its community events. While you’re weighing the pros and cons of living in Idaho, this spot might just tip the scale in favor of calling Meridian home.

7. Tee off at Lakeview Golf Club

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