Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Meridian, ID
Meridian sits west of Boise with access to the Meridian Speedway, the Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park, and the Lake Lowell.
The Kleiner Park and the Lake Lowell offer suburban nature near Boise.
Browse by Drive Time
Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Meridian
Payette River Scenic Byway
ID 83611, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (5.0 stars) · 1 hr 20 min from Meridian · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hells Canyon Adventures Lodge, Warehouse, & Gift Shop
Oxbow, OR 97840
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 47 min from Meridian · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ponderosa State Park
McCall, ID 83638
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 16 min from Meridian · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Bruneau Canyon Overlook
Bruneau, ID 83604
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 39 min from Meridian · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Goose Creek Falls
ID 83654, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 2 hrs 29 min from Meridian · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Payette National Forest
ID 83638, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 17 min from Meridian · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 4.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 47 min from Meridian · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Kirkham Hot Springs
Lowman, ID 83637
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Meridian · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Legacy Park
McCall, ID 83638
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 14 min from Meridian · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Malad Gorge - Thousand Springs State Park
Hagerman, ID 83332
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 32 min from Meridian · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Sawtooth Botanical Garden
Ketchum, ID 83340
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.6 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 35 min from Meridian
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Trail Creek Hot Springs
ID 83611, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.4 stars) · 2 hrs 10 min from Meridian · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Meridian, ID?
The best day trips from Meridian include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Meridian?
Most great day trips from Meridian are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Meridian?
Many of the best day trips near Meridian are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Meridian?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Meridian, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Meridian?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Meridian make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
Plan Your Stay
We may earn a commission when you book through these links.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me