Seniors Roll Into Meridian

Meridian, the 3rd-largest city in the state of Idaho, is only 10 miles west of Boise with 75,000 residents. The City of Meridian’s slogan,“Built for Business – Designed for Living,” embodies the community’s character as a sophisticated, family-friendly city in the heart of what is called Treasure Valley.

Idaho State University – Meridian (ISU-M) brings culture and activities to the city with its 14,500+ students. The University currently offers five undergraduate programs and 10 graduate degree programs, primarily in the health professions.

Meridian has an abundance of honors. It was selected as one of the best communities for young people by America’s Promise Alliance and was named the “Safest City in Idaho.” Meridian is the tenth fastest growing city in the nation.

Meridian was established in 1891 on the Onweiler farm north of the present site and was called Hunter. Two years later an International Order of Odd  Fellows lodge was organized and called itself Meridian because it was located on the Boise Meridian. Shortly afterwards, the town was renamed.

The Settlers’ Irrigation Ditch, 1892, changed the arid region into a productive farming community which was incorporated in 1902. The early economy of the city was largely dependent on its fruit orchards.

Seniors Enjoy Treasure Valley

Meridianʼs urban renewal agency, Destination Downtown, is a community-driven initiative to establish downtown Meridian as a premier destination, the heart of the community, home of local businesses and the hub of Treasure Valley enterprise, culture and social activities.

What is there to do in Meridian? Visitors can start with the Village Cinema and the Roaring Springs Waterpark. The Meridian Speedway Stockcar Racetrack is another big draw for sports fans. The Meridian Idaho Temple is a beautiful Mormon site and it, too, brings in many visitors to the city.

In June, Meridian celebrates its heritage with the Dairy Days Festival, a community favorite for 80 years. It features arts and crafts, food, free entertainment and what is called a fun run. The city’s rural history is displayed in a one-room school house museum, the Pine Street School. Visit History Center in City Hall and enjoy the large courtyard that hosts “Concerts on Broadway” in the summer.

Other nearby attractions include Adventure Island Playground, World Center Birds of Prey, Warhawk Air Museum, Eagle Island State Park and the Idaho Botanical Garden. Senior travelers can stop in Meridian as you travel through Idaho and enjoy the environs.  jeb