Meridian

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Meridian is the second largest city in Idaho and is the states-'s fastest growing city.  In 2020, its population was estimated to be about 130,000 residents.  The city was incorporated in 1903. 

 Meridian is about 34 square miles and is comprised of subdivisions, strip malls, an outdoor shopping mall called the Village, and businesses both large and small.  Farmland and farm animals are interspersed among the homes 

and businesses. 

Blue Cross of Idaho and Scentsy are two of the largest companies in the city. 

The town was originally settled in 1891 with the name of Hunter.  In 1893 a 1.0.0.F lodge called Meridian was formed and the town was renamed Meridian as it was located on the Boise Meridian. 

 The original town site was filed in 1893 on homestead grant land. Many of the early settlers were from Missouri who arrived via covered wagons and trains.  

Go-cart races...laser tag...a downtown speedway...parks with splash pads in the summer plus tennis courts, pickleball courts, and horseshoe pits...a bowling alley...a water park...car shows...movies in the park  and outdoor concerts in summer...ice skating in winter.   Your family will not lack for things to do in Meridian. 

There are several hotels in the city of Meridian. Motel 6 is probably the least expensive of your options but you'll also find a Best Western Plus,  Hampton Inn, and a Hilton.  Be sure to check out Boise hotels also as many are listed there and very close to Meridian. 

Bella Vista Idaho is a B & B set in Meridian that gets consistent 5* reviews.  Their patio offers lovely views of the surrounding area. 

If camping is your choice, the Boise-Meridian KOA Camp is in Meridian.  They offer spaces for RVs up to 75 feet, tent camping, an indoor pool, children's playground, laundry, showers, meeting rooms, and a dog walk.  They have live music on some nights. 

There is a nice selection of parks here, from small neighborhood parks to larger ones like Settlers Park which offers tennis and pickleball courts, horseshoe pits, splash pads, a baseball diamond, plus picnic tables and pavilions.

Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park is located adjacent to the Village just east of Eagle Road.  It hosts many events throughout the year.  There is a large fishing pond, bocce ball and basketball courts, jogging/walking paths and picnic areas. The hills by the Children's Playground are ideal for sledding in winter.  There is also a senior center located in the park. 

The Village is a large, beautiful outdoor shopping center with a seasonal ice skating rink, a bowling alley, a movie theatre, and dancing water fountains.  Shop at stores like the Loft, Sephora or Sur La Table. Dine at Grimaldi's, Twig's Bistro,  or Yard House. Work out Axiom or CycleBar, enjoy games at Big Al's, or just relax in their lovely outdoor spaces.  There are concerts in the summer, art shows, and various other events throughout the year.