Meridian, ID has plenty of spots worthy of a bucket list for new residents, but the most memorable places can exist beyond the edge of what is familiar. Drive in any direction from the meridian for 20 minutes and the landscape changes. The orchards spread over the horizon, and the river follows paths through the valley, waiting for the quiet town to be discovered. It’s the type of fun you don’t need a plane ticket, just curiosity and gas tanks.
Whether you’re interested in buying a house in Meridian, finding an apartment to rent, or looking for a rental property in the city, it’s a must-have to make time to explore places you’ll visit near Meridian. In this Redfin article, we have created a list of 13 nearby destinations where you can go outside of everyday life and step into unfamiliar people. Let’s get started.
Estimated travel time: 19 minutes
Take a breath and enjoy views of popular attractions and hidden gems of Boise mountains. The city balances outdoor life with cosmopolitan talent, offering everything from paddleboarding at sunrise to celebratory community events.
1. Start your day by strolling around Estelle Simple Park and strolling the morning
There’s no better place to soften the day than Esther Simplot Park. Enveloping the Boise River, the park offers access to fun walking trails, ponds and easy rivers that set the tone for outdoor adventures.
Nearby on the banks of Boise River at Estersin Pro Park in Idaho River Sports, is where Stoke is as strong as the water. This Paddle Sports Store is where you can launch your first stroke, trade the story for a river fork, and catch live tunes after a session in the water. From kids’ camping to whitewater classes and board rentals, they’re about kicking out more people in the river and keeping the atmosphere high.
2. Catch a show at an Egyptian theatre
Egyptian theatres are one of the most important historic landmarks in the city to add to your Boise Bucket list. The venue provides a warm, loving, restored environment with great attention to the details of Egyptian architecture. Egyptians are centers for concerts, opera performances, guest speakers, film festivals and film premieres, houses many top-level national touring acts and theatrical works. Plus, the sound in the room creates an experience of attending a fantastic concert.
3. Explore the Boise dining scene
Boise’s dining scene has blossomed in recent years, combining farm-to-table freshness with unique flavours. From cozy brunch spots and craft breweries to sophisticated rooftop bars and underground gems, you’ll find everything.
Among these spots, one of the downtown facilities to check out is the Liquid Lounge & Solid Grill & Bar, a local favorite who has served Treasure Valley for nearly 20 years. What’s noteworthy about the menu worthy of the desire, creative drink specials and happy hour (4pm to 6pm to 10pm every day) is an easy go-to place.
Head downstairs and head to Liquid Ruffs. Their underground cellar’s underground comedy club is looking for some of the best stand-up shows in the area.
4. Take your time to relax at the rain salon and spa
Between back-to-back adventures and city hopping, a bit of downtime is essential, and Boise has a rain salon and spa. With locations in both Boise and Meridian, this full-service Aveda salon and spa offers everything from professional hair coloring and cutting to nails and skincare. Their distinctive scalp facials are outstanding with pure relaxation, stress melting massage, and scalp-loving care that rese from the root to the soul.
5. Check out the comedy lounge
To finish the night in Boise with a bit of excitement, a comedy show might be the perfect activity before you head home. Comedy Lounge presents an impressive lineup of professional comedians. Located in the Depotbench district, Boise’s only full-time, professional comedy club is the only professional comedy club to praise TV and film to the Valley. Tickets range from $25-50 and check out your favorite comedy stars.
Caldwell, ID
Estimated travel time: 23 minutes
Located in the heart of the Idaho Wine Country, Caldwell has evolved from a quiet farmland to a destination full of small town charm and seasonal delights. With orchards, fantastic views, and growing food and wine scenes, it feels like a fresh hideaway.
6. Choose your own fruit at Cherry Hill Farms
Few things capture the magic of the season, like a visit to Cherry Hill Farms. From the first spring flowers to the crisp age of autumn, this family-owned orchard offers an idyllic backdrop for your next day trip.
Between the famous peach days and the wonderful apple days during the tart cherry U-pic, there is something delicious all season. Visit the farm store for fresh produce and local merchandise during harvest and enjoy family fun in the corn maze. With U-Pick opportunities throughout the season, Cherry Hill Farms is a destination of fresh air, fresh fruit and an unforgettable memory.
7. Have competitive fun at Pyrrhic Tactical Sports Center
If you’re traveling with older kids or thrill-seeking friends, the Pyrrhic Tactical Sports Center offers high-energy excitement with its sturdy paintball facility. Whether you arrive solo, plan a birthday party, or compete for a church or sports group, this venue is set for serious fun. Gear rentals are available on-site, including gloves, vests, and coveralls. All you have to bring is your competitive spirit. It’s a playful adrenaline-filled way to spend the afternoon outdoors.
Estimated travel time: 18 minutes
Eagle, ID is a great place to visit near Meridian, which offers a more relaxed pace. Expect to see riverside trails and hidden gems that make the most of Idaho’s natural beauty. This nearby town combines outdoor adventures in the comforts of small towns to make it a unique day trip destination.
8. Start your day at Eagle Island State Park
Start your day at Eagle Island State Park, a local favorite for good reason. Once the weather warms, sandy beaches, swimming areas and water slides are required. And if you are craving a taste of adventure? Don’t miss this zipline course with six ziplines and a heart racing quick jump that simulates parachute diving outdoors.
As the Envie Fitness Meridian team explains, “Eagle Island State Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts offering a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, swimming and picnics. With its beautiful scenery and friendly atmosphere, it makes it an ideal destination for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Idaho.”
9. Connect with the nature of the Eagle Green Belt
For a peaceful, riverside escape, head to the Eagle Green Belt, which is accessible just off Expressway 55. “The rivers and trees in this area provide a gentle escape to the city centre.”
“In the summer you may find families hanging out at rocky beaches or nearby Reed Merrill Park. There is also the opportunity to fish, bike or take a bite at one of the nearby restaurants like Baldenai.” Locals also love it as a photograph-worthy background, especially in the summer and fall.
10. Get creative with glasses at Fusions Glass Studio
In downtown Eagle, Fusions Glass Studio offers a playful, hands-on experience that goes beyond the usual paint and sinking. Walk solo or with groups to design your own glass manufacturing. Think suncatcher, votiver, votive, luminous, votive, or cooking with fusion glass. Plus, it’s fun and safe for all ages. They host school groups, parties, and team building events, and no reservations are required for groups of 3 or fewer. The finished work is ready for picking in about a week.
Estimated travel time: 15 minutes
Photo courtesy of West Idaho Fair
Located on the banks of Boise River and just minutes from downtown, Garden City is a promising Treasure Valley favourite. Known for its art scene, rich history and outdoor recreation, the place is where you can drink craft cocktails, catch concerts, and run your puppy in one day.
11. Participating in the West Idaho Fair
The Western Idaho Fair is Idaho’s biggest event and its final explosion of the summer in August every year. With a five-night lineup of free Grandstand concerts, Butler Carnival rides and games, iconic fair food, livestock shows and competitions, everyone can enjoy at the fair from August 15th-24th.
12. Let your puppy play in the club hound
Located in Garden City, just outside Meridian, Clubhound is a unique dog park bar with human equipment. Basically a Disneyland for dogs. This unique spot will allow your puppy to roam the Offlees in a safe and spacious environment, drinking a cold beer, glass of wine, or a variety of other refreshing drinks.
And what if you feel hungry? Enjoy a food truck serving delicious local meals while your dog makes new furry friends. If you want to relax, socialize, or treat your puppy for a great day, Clubhounds are the ultimate hangout for your dog and its owner.
13. Explore the local art talents of Garden City
Garden City doesn’t lack the creativity for local artists to make their vision come true. First, we’ll stop by Surel’s Place where you can see artists making it in our live workspace. Nearby, Visual Arts Collective is a gallery that hosts events and offers a glimpse of fresh and exciting creations. Finally, as you wander around the city of Garden City, the bright, whimsical city bench will surprise you with colorful public artwork that transforms simple walks into inspiration.
Explore each of the places you visit near Meridian
Whether you’re zipping with the Eagle, paddleboarding on the Boise River, or passing through the Idaho Wine Country, it’s clear that Meridian is surrounded by adventure. These day trip destinations offer something for any taste. No plane tickets are required. Next time you’re craving something new, go out of town and enjoy all these places to visit near Meridian. This city is just the beginning.
