“One of the most tourist-friendly cities in the U.S.” - Expedia
KANSAS
MERRIAM 2 0 1 8 Com munity & Visitor Guide
ICONIC
Merriam
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Crown Center District. Located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Missouri, the Crown Center District is the destination for vacation fun in Kansas City. With one-of-a-kind attractions, museums, theatres, shopping, dining and more, you will fill your days. Stay right in the center of things with our two hotels, Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center and The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center. Consider a package featuring tickets to our district attractions. crowncenterdistrict.com
KANSAS CITY, MO • MAIN & GRAND AT PERSHING ROAD The Coterie Theatre ..........................................................thecoterie.org Crown Center...............................................................crowncenter.com Hallmark Visitors Center ................................hallmarkvisitorscenter.com Kaleidoscope ................................................ hallmarkkaleidoscope.com LEGOLAND® Discovery Center....KansasCity.LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of KC ........... KansasCityFed.org/MoneyMuseum 2 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
National WWI Museum and Memorial ............................ theworldwar.org Science City ..................................................................sciencecity.com SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium .................. visitsealife.com/kansas-city Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center..................................... sheratonkansascityhotel.com Union Station Kansas City ............................................. unionstation.org The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center.............................. westincrowncenterkansascity.com
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What’s Inside 4 7 8
ALL ABOUT MERRIAM ICONIC MERRIAM ALL SEASONS ALL REASONS
10 EVENTS WE LOVE 12 HISTORY LESSON 15 TRAVEL HACKS 17 TREK ALONG THE TRAIL 18 WHAT’S YOUR MERRIAM? 20 VISITOR LISTINGS 25 TAKE MERRIAM HOME 27 3-DAY WEEKEND 30 52 REASONS
Connect With Us @exploremerriam
#MerriamKS #ExploreMerriam
Merriam boasts a population of more than 11,200 residents, tells a rich and fascinating historic story, offers close proximity to a major metropolitan area, and is a wonderful place to visit or call home. We are nestled right along I-35 in one of the Midwest’s most dynamic regions with convenient access to leading educational, entertainment, and recreational activities. Our workforce is thriving, and we are fortunate to house both nationally headquartered companies and entrepreneurial employers. Our residents enjoy an outstanding quality of life including nationally-ranked schools, affordable property values, beautiful parks and open spaces, award-winning healthcare, and a broad range of recreational offerings. Visitors are happy to explore the many assets our community offers and particularly enjoy our rivaled four-season weather with spectacular Kansas summer sunsets and Norman Rockwell inspired snow days.
In 2017, Merriam was named “one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the U.S.” by Expedia, and we couldn’t agree more! We wholeheartedly embrace the famed Midwestern hospitality persona and love to welcome people to our city. From a motor coach group to a sports team, a weekend girlfriends’ getaway or a company retreat, we are thrilled to host your leisure visit or corporate stay. I warmly welcome you to our beautiful community located right in the heart of Kansas City. Stop by the Visitors Bureau to pick up a map, a visitor guide, and a friendly referral. Or, stay awhile, and make Merriam your forever home. We are happy to be your host for a day, a weekend, or a lifetime! Thank you for visiting our exceptional city. Ken Sissom Mayor, City of Merriam
MERRIAM VISITORS BUREAU 6304 East Frontage Road Merriam, KS 66202 913.403.8999 / 866.707.6534 exploremerriam.com
The 2018 Merriam Community & Visitor Guide is produced in-house by the Merriam Visitors Bureau for the benefit of our residents and the visiting public. The guide is funded by paid advertisements and a portion of the transient guest tax collected from Merriam hotel visitors. No residential tax dollars are used in support of this publication. exploremerriam.com | 3
All About Merriam
Merriam Marketplace
Kansas
Just the Facts ▶ FOUNDED IN 1864
▶ POPULATION: 11,232
▶ 4.3 SQUARE MILES
▶ 15 HISTORIC LANDMARKS & SITES
▶ 4 HOTELS
▶ 11 PARKS WITH 6.5 MILES OF TRAILS
Feelin’ the Love “ONE OF THE MOST TOURIST-FRIENDLY CITIES IN THE U.S.” – Expedia “A TOP 100 BEST SMALL TOWNS” – Livability “THE BEST PLACE TO START A BUSINESS IN KANSAS” – Nerdwallet “#1 TAX-FRIENDLY RETIREMENT SPOT IN KANSAS” – SmartAsset “#24 SAFEST CITY IN KANSAS FOR 2018” – National Council for Home Safety and Security
Helpful Numbers
MERRIAM VISITORS BUREAU 913.403.8999 MERRIAM CITY HALL 913.322.5500 IRENE B. FRENCH COMMUNITY CENTER 913.322.5550 POLICE NON-EMERGENCY: 913.782.0720 | 913.322.5560 SHAWNEE MISSION MEDICAL CENTER 913.676.2000 NEJC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 913.262.2141 SHAWNEE MISSION SCHOOL DISTRICT 913.993.6200 JOHNSON COUNTY LIBRARY (ANTIOCH) 913.826.4600 POST OFFICE 800.275.8777
Getting Around
KC INT’L. AIRPORT (MCI) 816.243.5237 / flykci.com RIDEKC (BUS) 816.221.0660 / ridekc.org KC STREETCAR 816.221.0660 / kcstreetcar.org AMTRAK 800.872.7245 / amtrak.com AVIS 913.722.1730 / avis.com ENTERPRISE 913.262.8888 / enterprise.com 10/10 TAXI 913.647.0010 / 1010taxi.com SANTA FE TOW SERVICE 913.894.5201 / santafetowservice.com VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS: Baron BMW, Hendrick Nissan,
Antioch Park, Shawnee Mission Medical Center 4 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
Meet your neighbor:
Not Your Average Joe! Joe Kronawitter is co-PTA president at Merriam Park Elementary and a partner at a law firm in downtown Merriam. He and his wife, Maureen, are in their second year as PTA officers, first year as co-presidents. The high school sweethearts grew up in Shawnee but moved to Merriam in 1996. They have three kids in the Shawnee Mission School District. WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT MERRIAM:
I think the sense of community. We’re in the middle of a large, populated county, but to me, Merriam feels like a small town. I know my neighbors, I know many of the parents of other students at my kids’ schools, and I see the same people around town. Merriam feels close-knit, and I welcome that. WHEN FRIENDS OR FAMILY VISIT, I LIKE TO TAKE THEM TO:
IKEA. There are so few of those stores in the country, and most visitors have never been to one. IKEA was a great addition to the community.
I DESCRIBE MERRIAM AS:
Relaxed.
MY FAVORITE PARK OR TRAIL IS:
Campbell Park between Johnson Drive and Shawnee Mission Parkway. We found that park by accident after we moved to the neighborhood and were walking along the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail. It’s so tucked away. My eldest child (who was three at the time) called it Secret Park, and my kids still call it that.
A HIDDEN GEM IN MERRIAM IS:
Although it’s not exactly hidden, I’d say Caribou Coffee on Shawnee Mission Parkway. It’s by far the best coffee in town, but it’s never as busy as other local coffee shops. A FUN MERRIAM DATE NIGHT INCLUDES:
Dinner and a movie – Cinemark is the obvious choice. It’s the best theater in the area.
MY FAVORITE RESTAURANT IS:
Bilski’s on Merriam Drive serves good pub fare, but I would have to say my favorite Merriam restaurant is Anita’s, which is also on Merriam Drive north of Johnson Drive. It’s a fantastic, family-run local place, and if you like Latin American cuisine, you must try it.
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We’re close to everything... except average! The ideal community for comfortable family living, Georgetown Apartments offers acres of exquisitely landscaped grounds with a comprehensive array of fine residences, recreational and social amenities, and 24-hour-a-day service. Georgetown offers over 90 different styles and floor plans for studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartment homes. Georgetown Townhomes feature two, three, and four bedroom homes each with a private basement and bedrooms on the second floor for maximum family privacy. The Georgetown community is designed to promote a relaxed and fun-filled lifestyle with a private, residents-only King’s Hall clubhouse. Amenities include: • Tap room • Indoor pool • Outdoor pool • Sauna • Fitness center
7200 Eby Drive Merriam, KS 66204 P: 913-626-2666 F: 913-262-6839
• Billiards room • Kitchen for parties • Reading, activity, and game rooms • Putting green
• Tennis courts • Volleyball courts • Winding pathways throughout the community
OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.– 6 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
www. m a lk inproper t ies . c om
DOWNTOWN MERRIAM Shop, dine and play in the heart of historic Merriam Johnson Drive & Merriam Drive just west of I-35
/downtownmerriampartnership 6 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
ICONIC Merriam
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ICONIC: adjective
a: widely recognized and well-established b: widely known and acknowledged especially for distinctive excellence
If you’re a first-timer visiting Merriam, you may not be familiar with the iconic brands and points of interest that characterize our community. Some of our spaces are bold and garner lots of attention (hello, IKEA) while others blend more subtly into the background of our landscape. But, before you head back home, whatever you do, please make time to visit the places we deem iconic Merriam. You’ll be glad you did. LEE JEANS BUILDING // 9001 W. 67th Street
In 1889, H.D. Lee moved to the Kansas frontier to help his fellow pioneers do more every day. Since moving to Merriam in 1976, that spirit and vision lives on at the iconic Lee Jeans Building, which features a beautiful, modernist architectural design. Inside, Lee products continue to be purposefully designed to help you live a life in motion. Move your Lee!
STILL TIME // Corner of Merriam & Johnson Drives
Dedicated in 2016, and one of two public art pieces located in downtown Merriam, Still Time is a large-scale, wind chime housed in a distinctive stone and steel tower. The work celebrates the timeless presence of wind on the site, tying into the memory of the original settlers of the region, the Kanza Tribe, who were known as the “People of the South Wind.”
MERRIAM MARKETPLACE // 5740 Merriam Drive
This award-winning, community event pavilion located in the heart of the downtown Merriam historic district is home to the annual Merriam Farmers’ Market and is the access point for Werner Park along the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail.
MOTHERHOOD // 6304 E. Frontage Road
Merriam’s resident bears greet you at the entrance to Merriam Historic Plaza and Visitors Bureau. Paying homage to the former Merriam Park, this sculpture depicts frolicking bears from the zoo, which was located in this area back in the late 1800s (more info on page 12).
ANTIOCH PARK // 6501 Antioch Road
One of the county’s oldest parks (and our favorite), Antioch Park offers visitors the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, hop across the skipping stones, imaginatively play at Dodge Town in the Wild West, or attend Merriam’s annual event, Turkey Creek Festival (May 19).
TIM MURPHY ART GALLERY // 5701 Merriam Drive
The Tim Murphy Art Gallery was recently discovered by a local news station as one of the metro’s “best kept secrets.” Nestled in the Irene B. French Community Center’s third level, this stunning gallery features rotating collections throughout the year and two national juried exhibits in March and December.
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ALL SEASONS ALL REASONS You won’t need to worry about the weather when traveling to Merriam! We may get a little chilly in January and a little balmy in August, but we boast a bounty of outstanding natural beauty, recreation, festivals, and fun throughout every season of the year. Explore the many reasons to enjoy your travels to our community – whether you’re a snowboarder en route to another destination or a sunseeker planning a summertime stop in Kansas, there’s a season for you right here in Merriam!
SPRING »» Kick off spring with Merriam’s favorite annual event – Turkey Creek Festival on May 19. »» Learn about Merriam’s story at Historic Plaza’s paved walking trail.
SUMMER »» Take a dip at the Merriam Aquatic Center. »» Feel the patriotic pride by standing amid the red, white, and blue at Flags 4 Freedom from June 30 to July 7. »» Take home fresh ingredients from the Farmers’ Market – open Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. »» Join a summer Party in Your Park event. 8 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
MVP List
(MOST VALUABLE PACKING)
SPRING 44–75°F
SUMMER 63–89°F
FALL »» Get your motor runnin’ at the Turkey Creek Car & Motorcycle Show on September 8.
FALL 33–79°F
»» Hit the trail to enjoy the changing leaves – see page 16 for information on all our parks!
WINTER
»» Get your groove on at the inaugural Merriam Drive Live on October 6.
»» Peruse the latest works on display at the Tim Murphy Art Gallery or grab a workout in the fitness center – all inside the Irene B. French Community Center.
WINTER 18–43°F
»» Bundle up for the annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting on November 30 at the Merriam Marketplace. »» Enjoy a hot cup of joe at participating KC Coffee Trips destinations – check kcdestinations.com for locations.
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S T N E EV we Love There’s never a shortage of great events in Merriam! From our signature Turkey Creek Festival to cozy parties in neighborhood parks, find the fun in Merriam.
Event Schmevent? Let’s have a little fun! Which of the following events do you think are real events that have taken place in Merriam? Check those that apply and then see if you’re right using the answer key! TURKEY TROT 5K FLAGS 4 FREEDOM SUMMER SUNDAYS MERRIAM MUSIC MANIA TURKEY CREEK FESTIVAL EASTER BUNNY BREAKFAST FOOD TRUCKIN’ FRIDAYS POOCH PADDLE HIP HOP HALLOWEEN ANSWERS: FLAGS 4 FREEDOM, SUMMER SUNDAYS, TURKEY CREEK FESTIVAL, POOCH PADDLE 10 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
HEARTLAND ARTIST EXHIBITION March 3–31 Now in its 22nd year, this juried art show features works from across the nation and is Merriam’s largest annual event at the Tim Murphy Art Gallery. SUMMER SUNDAYS FOOD TRUCKS May 6 & June 10 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. Bring your appetite to the Merriam Marketplace for a summertime food truck eating frenzy. TURKEY CREEK FESTIVAL May 19 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Turkey Creek Festival is the place for family fun on the third Saturday each May. From kids activities to plenty of carnival inspired eats, a wide assortment of vendor booths, live music, paddle boats, and much more, Antioch Park will be bustling with tons to see and do. For extra Turkey Creek fun, join the 5K run taking place in downtown Merriam at 8 a.m.
PARTY IN YOUR PARK June – August | 6:30–8:30 p.m. Exploring Merriam’s parks has never been easier, or fun! Join the Party in Your Park events hosted on June 15 (Brown Park), July 20 (Quail Creek Park), and August 17 (Campbell Park). Three different parks, good food, live music, and great people = fantastic fun on a Friday night. See page 16 for park addresses. FLAGS 4 FREEDOM June 30–July 7 Merriam’s most patriotic event, Flags 4 Freedom transforms downtown into a beautiful display of red, white, and blue as 1,500+ flags fly in perfect rows to honor our nation. Visit flags4freedom.org to view the lineup of activities. TURKEY CREEK CAR & MOTORCYCLE SHOW September 8 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. This annual show features music, food, and plenty of beautiful cars, trucks, and motorcycles on display in downtown Merriam. FUNDAY SUNDAY FOOD TRUCKS September 16 | 4–7 p.m. Come to one last Sunday food truck event to sink your teeth into. MERRIAM DRIVE LIVE
New! October 6
Musicians will take over Merriam Drive for the inaugural downtown music festival. MAYOR’S TREE LIGHTING November 30 | 6:30 p.m. Join the Mayor as he lights the beautiful Christmas tree in downtown Merriam and stay for a visit with Santa!
All events take place at the Merriam Marketplace, 5740 Merriam Drive, except when noted otherwise.
Ongoing Activities FARMERS’ MARKET | 5740 MERRIAM DRIVE Garden staples, home baked goods, and other local finds are available for purchase each Saturday at the Merriam Farmers’ Market. Open May to September on Saturdays, and Wednesday evenings June through August, the market is a great place to grab fresh local ingredients. TIM MURPHY ART GALLERY | 5701 MERRIAM DRIVE Inside the Irene B. French Community Center, the Tim Murphy Art Gallery features 11 exhibits throughout the year with receptions held on opening nights. Check out the exhibit schedule at merriam.org/artgallery. MERRIAM AQUATIC CENTER | 6040 SLATER STREET Have a splashin’ good time at the Merriam Aquatic Center. Cool off from the summer heat in the lap pool or join the kiddos in the zero-depth area. With slides, diving boards, and concessions, enjoy a day of summer fun at the MAC.
For more events and details, visit exploremerriam.com exploremerriam.com | 11
History Lesson...
The Bears Merriam has a broad and fascinating history. From our humble founding as a rail town, to the development of one of the metro’s most highly traveled highway systems, our historic timeline includes quite a few notable happenings. But, perhaps one of the most frequent questions we get at the Visitors Bureau office is, “Why do you have bear statues outside?” Let us explain… In the late 1800s, Merriam was a growing and bustling community where thousands of people came by rail to visit. Not only was Merriam situated in a convenient and suitable location for residential settlement, but it was also home to the famed Merriam Park, termed the “greatest amusement west of the Mississippi” by former President Ulysses Grant upon his dedication in
July 1880. For just 25 cents admission, they were meant to be. He described Merriam Park would greet thousands them as playful and harmless, and then corralled them back into their home to of visitors each day – up to 20,000 at be admired by park visitors the its peak. The park grounds featured For just 25 cents next day. concessions and Sadly, by 1900, Kansas City admission, games, a baseball was developing its own Merriam Park diamond, tennis parks system and the grand would greet courts, croquet, a Merriam Park closed soon after. thousands of horse-driven merryRemnants of the bear pits and go-round, a small visitors each day steps were still visible in the lake, picnic area, a – up to 20,000 at 1930s, but today, the grounds tabernacle and square serve as a welcoming center its peak. dancing pavillion, for visitors to Merriam Historic and even a small zoo, Plaza & Visitors Bureau. The which housed many animals, including bronze statue on the grounds pays a mama bear and her two baby cubs. tribute to the frolicking mama bear and her baby cubs as they play in the creek. The park’s caretakers would often find the bears out roaming around the park Stop by Merriam Historic Plaza at 6304 after hours – not far from their den in E. Frontage Road to learn more. the hillside, but certainly not where
12 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
Historic Oddities of Merriam Bears weren’t the only curiosity once found in Merriam. Take a look at some of Merriam’s historic oddities to appreciate the quirks that make up Merriam. 1. Baseball...where’d it go? Sullivan Gee Campbell, son of Merriam founder David Gee Campbell, played professional baseball for 10 years. Upon retirement, he came home to play for the Merriam Merchants, and in one particular game hit a home run for the win, but the ball was never found. Twenty years later, when clearing out trees at old Hocker Grove Park, the ball fell out of one of the trees where it had been lodged in its fork all that time. 2. Hocker Grove circle – There was once a perfect circle of rocks 30 feet in diameter in the backyard at 5732 Connell Drive. Many residents thought the rocks were left behind from Native American land occupation, but after finding an article published by the Johnson County Museum about round barns in the early 1900s, the home owner dug into the ground to discover that he indeed had found the remnants of a round barn. This specific location had once been a dairy farm years prior. 3. Cornelius Jackson carried mail from Merriam to the Shawnee Mission Post Office for many years. According to a newspaper article, Jackson’s wife died while he was working, “but he refused to go home saying he was responsible for seeing that the mail arrived safely, and he would not trust it in anyone else’s hands.”
Did You
Know?
Merriam is situated on the 168-mile Frontier Military Historic Byway, which was once used to transport troops and supplies along the former military road connecting Fort Leavenworth to Fort Blair in Baxter Springs. Today, you can traverse the byway with a full-scale itinerary highlighting points of interest and places to dine, shop, and play along the way! Stop by the Merriam Visitors Bureau to grab a copy of the Kansas Byways Guide.
Events that happened in the 29 eastern Kansas and 12 western Missouri counties of Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) led to the Civil War and an enduring struggle for freedom. Conflict over slavery and other issues drew those on both sides into a violent Border War. Missouri heroes were Kansas villains. Kansas victories were Missouri tragedies. Now, Freedom’s Frontier bridges the border. Explore the heritage area and experience from many viewpoints the strong freedom story that runs along the Missouri-Kansas border. Pick up a copy of the FFNHA site map at the Merriam Visitors Bureau office.
4. Vernon “Skinny” Campbell, another Campbell descendant, served as the town’s postmaster for 24 years and a probate judge for four years. While serving as a judge, he performed marriage ceremonies from the “Cupid’s Bow Chapel” he maintained in his home, which was located across the street from the original Campbell house on Johnson Drive. exploremerriam.com | 13
65 million people served in world war i. EACH YEAR, 500,000 PEOPLE REMEMBER THEM HERE. The world’s most comprehensive
WWI collection is Kansas City’s foremost visitor destination.
No. 1 attraction in Kansas City TripAdvisor
One of the Top 5 Museums in the country Yelp 14 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
theworldwar.org 816.888.8100
Travel Hacks Planning a trip isn’t easy. Sometimes, you need a vacation after your vacation just to get organized and back in sync. Take the hassle and stress out of the equation with these tried and true travel hacks from some of Kansas tourism’s experts. KERRY GREEN Visit Kansas City, KS I take packages of oatmeal for a quick breakfast. You can use the hotel coffee pot for hot water, which is also handy for my favorite tea in the evening. I also ALWAYS leave space in my suitcase – you never know what treasures you may need to bring back home! KELLI HILLIARD Kansas Dept of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism I keep all of my bathroom necessities in a separate travel cosmetic bag, so it’s always ready to go. That way, I don’t have to worry if I forget something! MARCI PENNER Kansas Sampler Foundation When using the Kansas Guidebook 2 for Explorers, or any travel guide, I always like to get autographs or date the places I’ve been. Asking for an autograph is a great conversation starter. SCOTT SHIELDS Kansas Department of Transportation I use Yelp and TripAdvisor to find restaurants where I’m traveling to. It is very helpful in finding what interests me, and more importantly, I look at the ratings people give them. I use these apps all the time. MARCIA ROZELL Visit Manhattan Travel light! Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring. Take less than you think you need as you can always buy something new to remember the trip. NATALIE BRIGHT Travel Industry Association of Kansas Be adventurous and take the road less traveled. There are great adventures out there that we drive by and don’t stop to see. Car rides take awhile, so what’s a little more time? This year, we saw the most beautiful herd of buffalo outside of Scott City, Kansas because we added a few more miles to our trip. JAN HIEBERT Visit Wichita If you are on a multi-day trip and staying overnight in several places, always put things back in your suitcase the way you originally packed them. It makes things easier to find, and you are less likely to leave something behind. LARRY GAZAWAY Fort Scott Tourism My best hack is taking a six-outlet power strip and a roll of duct tape. We’ve used it every time we travel.
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PARKS & Trails Mother nature knows best, so explore the great outdoors in any of Merriam’s 11 parks. Fun and fresh air await you!
A Local Favorite “I grew up in this neighborhood. Some of my favorite memories as a kid took place at Quail Creek Park, whether it was racing our bikes along the trails or hanging out at the playground eating lunch. It’s perfect because it’s tucked away in a quiet neighborhood with little traffic to worry about. A very nice and relaxing oasis in Merriam.” — CAMERON J.
16 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
Quail Creek Park
Featured Park: Quail Creek Park is nestled in the quiet
Antioch Hills neighborhood. Named for the creek that meanders along the park boundaries, this park is a beautiful place for recreation with passive areas, a paved walking path, picnic area, and newly installed playground equipment. Complete with a seated merry-go-round, twisted traverse for core and stability, tree climber for problem solving and upperarm strength, and large-scale percussion pieces to enhance sensory experiences, this park is sure to delight.
Learn more about Quail Creek Park and discover other metro area parks during National Parks & Recreation month in July. Print your passport at merriam.org/parkpassport.
Merriam Parks Open sunrise to sunset
ANTIOCH PARK 6501 Antioch Road BROWN MEMORIAL PARK 5040 Booker Drive CAMPBELL PARK 9674 W. 61st Street CHATLAIN PARK 6300 Carter Avenue MERRIAM HISTORIC PLAZA 6304 E. Frontage Road MERRIAM MARKETPLACE 5740 Merriam Drive QUAIL CREEK PARK 7024 Grandview Avenue TURKEY CREEK STREAMWAY TRAIL 75th Street to Antioch Road VAVRA PARK 6114 Slater Street WATERFALL PARK 5191 Merriam Drive WERNER PARK 5750 Merriam Drive Don’t miss Party in Your Park... Find details at merriam.org/events June 15 (Brown Park), July 20 (Quail Creek), and August 17 (Campbell Park)
Trek Along the Trail Looking for an adventure? The Streamway Trail along Merriam’s Turkey Creek is just the place! Lace up your tennis shoes and set out on this four-mile paved trail full of nature and the great outdoors. Along the way, the trail will guide you through residential developments, commercial and industrial centers, and public parks and art installations. Whether on skates, a bike, or just hoofing it, we’ve captured the best points of interest for your trek along the trail! We’d love for you to share your photos and Streamway Trail experience with us socially @ExploreMerriam. GEOCACHING
WATERFALL PARK
N
Various locations (geocaching.com)
WaTeRfAlL PaRk
If you love techie treasure hunting, grab your GPS to discover numerous geocaches along the trail. Geocaching is a fun activity and perfect for a little extra trail time on a nice, sunny day. DOWNTOWN MERRIAM Merriam Drive
Hungry? Hop off the trail at the Werner Park access point to grab a bite at any of the downtown Merriam restaurants. From pub fare to the best pupusas in Kansas City, you can recharge and refuel just a few steps off the trail path.
WeRnEr PaRk
CaMpBeLl PaRk
ChAtLaIn PaRk
BUTTERFLY GARDEN
Just south of 6901 Knox Street
StIlL TiMe Stop for a serene moment at the butterfly garden during summer. You’ll see all varieties of butterflies perched atop a beautiful array of flowers at this favorite location along the trail. Homemade Trail Mix 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries Our Parks & Recreation Director, Anna Slocum, shares her easy and kidapproved trail mix recipe for your trail-trekking snack break.
½ cup dried tart cherries ½ cup dried blueberries ½ cup dried pineapple pieces 1 cup dark chocolate M&Ms out peanuts 2 ½ cups salted deluxe mixed nuts with serving Yields 24 ¼ cup servings 166 calories per
5191 Merriam Drive
One of the most photoworthy spots along the Streamway Trail is the cascading waterfall at Waterfall Park. Tucked behind a busy industrial section of the trail, this water feature is a nice, natural viewing spot for trail visitors. MERRIAM MARKETPLACE 5740 Merriam Drive
Located at the access point to Werner Park, Merriam Marketplace is a great location to park your car and hop on the trail. It’s also home to a new sculpture, Planting the Seeds, and numerous community events including the Farmers’ Market, Turkey Creek Car Show, and more! STILL TIME
Merriam & Johnson Drives
What’s that you hear? It’s the melodic chimes from Still Time, one of Merriam’s public art installations. Follow your ears on a short side-jaunt to see the sculpture in action.
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What’s Your Merriam?
There could quite possibly be more Merriam to explore than you have time! If that’s the case, we’ve categorized the gems in our community to remove the guesswork of where to go and what to do. If you find you’re just not ready to leave after choosing one theme, feel free to package any of the options with a comfy and accommodating hotel and pick up where you left off the next day. Happy exploring!
FOO D I E
A N E Y E FO R A RT
If eating is your main goal when traveling, we’ve got you covered. From burgers to authentic cuisine, hunger pangs be gone.
Got a penchant for paintings, sculptures, and more? Check out our collection of public art on display year-round in Merriam.
Povitica, 7226 W. Frontage Road: Grab a sample (or 12) as you savor your way through this delicious European dessert bread baked daily at Strawberry Hill Povitica.
Planting the Seeds, 5740 Merriam Drive: The newest public art installation in downtown Merriam, Planting the Seeds, was created by artist Christopher Weed and inspired by nature. Each sphere’s brilliant mirror finish with organic variations suggests a large, sprouting seed.
Valomilks: Merriam’s long-time candy, the Valomilk has delighted fans for decades. Made from simple ingredients of vanilla, marshmallow, and chocolate, this candy cup is a favored treat in our community. Pick one up at the nearby retailer, Merriam Hen House! Meatballs, 6000 Ikeay Way: No visit to Merriam would be complete without a meatball entree from IKEA. Overlook the city’s pool while you enjoy traditional Swedish, chicken, or vegetable meatballs. Pupusas, 5816 Merriam Drive: Staff’s pick for best food in Merriam, the pupusas from Anita’s on Merriam Drive are delicious. Seating is at a premium, but tons of flavor and great service will greet you. Their salsa is award-winning too. Pub Fare, 5831 Merriam Drive: Craving a burger? Head to Bilski’s on Merriam Drive. This corner bar and grill is a great place to grab the daily lunch special or have a beer at happy hour. Doughnuts, 8805 Shawnee Mission Parkway: A staple along the Parkway, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts serves the glazed doughnuts hot off the line – ask for one while you wait for your dozen to go. 18 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
Tim Murphy Art Gallery, 5701 Merriam Drive: Located inside the Irene B. French Community Center, this gallery was recently called “one of the metro’s best-kept secrets.” Come see the current exhibition on display or attend one of our opening night receptions and buy a one-of-a-kind piece to take home. Still Time, Johnson & Merriam Drives: Still Time celebrates the enduring winds of the great plains. A wind chime inside a limestone tower encourages visitors to reflect on the passage of time. Downtown Merriam Mural, 5701 Merriam Drive: Located in the Irene B. French Community Center lobby, this mural by Merriam artist Michael Young depicts downtown Merriam circa 1940. The stylized painting was influenced from a photo taken by Dr. Fawks, whose family was prominent in Merriam for more than 50 years. Trinity, 9100 W. 74th St.: This hand-blown glass piece crafted by Merriam artist Dierk Van Keppel suspends from the ceiling at Merriam’s Shawnee Mission Health campus. Learn more about art in Merriam at exploremerriam.com/art
K ITCH E N S I N K H I S TO RY Does a town’s antiquity archives speak to you? Revisit Merriam’s intriguing past at these well-known historical spots. Antioch Pioneer Cemetery, 75th Street & Antioch Road: The cemetery is the resting place of many Quakers who were associated with the Indian Mission. The cemetery dates back to before 1850 and a replica of the original church (Antioch Cumberland Presbyterian) is also located on the grounds. Campbell Home, 9503 Johnson Drive: Home of David Gee Campbell, the founder of Campbellton. The original house was moved from Shawnee in 1864 and placed on an 18-inch rock foundation and basement, made from stone and sand hauled from Turkey Creek. The house burned down in 1890 and was later rebuilt on the original foundation. Merriam Historic Plaza, 6304 E. Frontage Road: One of Merriam’s most robust historic collections is located at Merriam Historic Plaza, which includes an outdoor walking path of 12-historic stations depicting Merriam’s history from pre-settlement to present day. Inside the conference room, you’ll discover a photo and map archive of Merriam’s founding, homes, recreation, businesses, and community. Walker School, 9420 W. 50th Terrace: Now the site of Merriam’s Philadelphia Baptist Church, this former schoolhouse, built in 1888, educated both both black and white students until 1947, when the new South Park Elementary School opened for white students only. Black students were forced to remain in the one-room school with poor conditions, but, with the aid of community activist Esther Brown, black parents organized a boycott of Walker School and children later attended school in private homes taught by Corinthian Nutter. Loomis Home, 8325 Johnson Drive: Situated along one of Merriam’s busiest streets, this 19th century farmhouse was built in 1886 by the Loomis family. It was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 2006, and today, retains much of its form, materials, and architectural detail, including a cornerstone marked 1886 on the home’s east side.
With a little bit of this and a little bit of that, here’s a mash-up of Merriam’s tried and true – everything but the kitchen sink! K.C. Strings, 5842 Merriam Drive: Handcrafted violins, cellos, violas, and basses adorn the showroom at K.C. Strings Violin Shop in downtown Merriam. This unique little shop crafts the sounds heard in symphonies across the world. Dodge Town, 6501 Antioch Road: This child-sized main street reminiscent of the wild west reopens in Spring 2018 at Antioch Park. For generations, Dodge Town has been one of the most popular play areas in Merriam and all of Johnson County. Shopping: Merriam offers a mecca of retail recreation. With stores ranging from small antique boutiques to the world-famous home furnishings retailer, IKEA, there are aisles and aisles of inspiration for you to discover in Merriam.
Farmers’ Market, 5740 Merriam Drive: During season, the Merriam Farmers’ Market is a happening place. Saturday morning entertainment, tons of delicious garden staples, and homemade goods are abundant from early May to late September. Milkshakes, 5605 Merriam Drive: Nothing is better than a mid-afternoon dessert. At Merriam’s Georgetown Pharmacy and Soda Shop, you’ll be treated to the most delicious old-fashioned milkshakes in the county. exploremerriam.com | 19
DINE & Sip
Get your grub on and sink your teeth into any of the tasty menu offerings at Merriam’s delicious restaurants.
Roast-o-rama There’s a new “trip” coming to Kansas City in 2018. The KC Coffee
Anita’s Cuisine
ANITA’S CUISINE 5816 Merriam Drive
5935 IKEA Way
BILSKI’S BAR & GRILL
KC’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR & GRILL
Trip offers visitors a chance to sip
5831 Merriam Drive
and savor the local brew options
CARIBOU COFFEE
across the metro. With a passport to keep track of your perk hopping, collect five or more stickers and you can earn a cool coffee themed prize
8722 Shawnee Mission Parkway
CHILI’S 5880 Antioch Road
CHINA GARDEN BUFFET 5860 Antioch Road
and deem yourself a coffee ninja.
DENNY’S
Learn more at kcdestinations.com.
9001 Shawnee Mission Parkway
#KCCOFFEETRIP
DOMINO’S PIZZA 10240 W. 75th Street
EL PULGARCITO
10201 W. 47th Street
KRISPY KREME
8805 Shawnee Mission Parkway
LONG JOHN SILVER’S / A&W 9900 Shawnee Mission Parkway
MCDONALD’S 8915 Johnson Drive
PEGAH’S 8701 Shawnee Mission Parkway
QT KITCHEN 9025 Johnson Drive
5921 Merriam Drive
SONIC DRIVE-IN
GEORGETOWN PHARMACY & SODA SHOP
STARBUCKS
5605 Merriam Drive
HURRICANE ALLIE’S 5541 Merriam Drive
IKEA RESTAURANT 6000 IKEA Way
JACK IN THE BOX 20 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
JIMMY JOHN’S
9101 Johnson Drive
5440 Merriam Drive 5800 Antioch (Hen House)
SUBWAY
8801 Johnson Drive
TACO BELL
5930 IKEA Way
WENDY’S
10006 W. 75th Street
=Local Spots
SHOP & Save
From unique boutiques to major brand retailers, shop until your heart’s content (or your wallet gives out) in Merriam.
Ikea Merriam
Merriam offers plenty of shopping for you to indulge in yearround. Whether you’re buying or browsing, we’ve got lots of great products, brands, and take-home options just for you. 3 WISHES 5031 Merriam Drive Paintings, books, pottery, musical instruments, jewelry, and more. DOWNTOWN MERRIAM Johnson Drive & Merriam Drive Boutiques, restaurants, automotive, specialty stores, and more. HOBBY LOBBY 5945 IKEA Way Arts & crafts materials, party supplies, fabric, and home-decor. IKEA MERRIAM 6000 IKEA Way Scandinavian-inspired home furnishings, accessories, and decor. MERRIAM TOWN CENTER Johnson Drive & Antioch Road Old Navy, Marshall’s, Famous Footwear, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Party City, Hen House, Office Max, PetSmart, Home Depot, restaurants, movie theater, and more. RUSSELL STOVER CANDIES 10100 Shawnee Mission Parkway Chocolate, handmade confections, and ice-cream. SHUT UP & FLY 5911 Merriam Drive | etsy.com/shop/shutupandfly Vintage treasures, handmade items, and repurposed finds. STRAWBERRY HILL POVITICA 7226 W. Frontage Road Handmade European sweet bread offered at this favorite ! Merriam bakery! Fre e samples daily
Meet Max! Driving into Merriam and want someone to ride shotgun on your way back home? Great Plains SPCA has a pal for you! Great Plains SPCA is Kansas City’s most unique and comprehensive no-kill animal welfare organization, serving more than 35,000 needy pets annually. So, if you’re looking for a forever furry friend, take a peek at the animals at the Merriam campus! With affordable adoption rates and plenty of pets to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find a perfect match. GREATPLAINSSPCA.ORG
Shop Merriam and save money!
Find great deals at exploremerriam.com/specialoffers exploremerriam.com | 21
STAY the Night
Stay
Rest easy with 400+ hotel rooms to choose from in Merriam. All conveniently located, your sweet dreams are waiting for you at check-in.
Kim ’s Merriam! “Thank you for the hospitality Merriam offered to all of us attending the Third Shot’s A Charm Pickleball Festival. We enjoyed staying, playing, and dining in your community. This first-ever festival was a tremendous success, and I know that your Visitors Bureau contributed to that. I hope we see you again in the future!“ – KIM W., ST. LOUIS, MO
Drury Inn & Suites
DRURY INN & SUITES
Newly rennovated
!
9009 Shawnee Mission Parkway | 913.236.9200 | druryhotels.com
Free hot breakfast, free 5:30 p.m. kickback snacks, free Wi-Fi, free soda and popcorn (3–10 p.m.), free long distance, free local calls, free parking, new indoor pool and fitness center, business center, guest laundry, same-day dry cleaning available. EXTENDED STAY AMERICA 6451 E. Frontage Road | 913.236.6006 | extendedstay.com
Fully equipped kitchen/suite rooms, laundry on-site, pet-friendly, internet access, free grab-n-go breakfast, and 100% smoke-free. HAMPTON INN & SUITES
7400 W. Frontage Road | 913.722.0800 | hamptoninn.com
Hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, indoor pool and hot tub, onsite guest laundry and same-day laundry service. Suites and meeting room available. SUPER 8 (TRANSITIONING TO QUALITY INN, SUMMER 2018) 6401 E. Frontage Road | 913.262.2622 | super8.com
Deluxe continental breakfast, business center, pet-friendly, 100% non-smoking, free parking, high speed internet, seasonal outdoor pool. WALNUT GROVE RV PARK 10218 Johnson Drive | 913.262.3023 | walnutgroverv.com
Free Wi-Fi, free coffee, ATM available, RV store, snack & pop machines, Good Sam Park, military discounts, hot showers, clean restrooms, full hook-up sites, laundromat, dump station, petfriendly, 20/30/50 amp sites, mail forward, community room, fax and copies, notary public. 22 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
VE HA some Fun ! What provides you with
amusement and enjoyment? How about Merriam’s amazing attractions?
Planting the Seeds
Research shows that incorporating a bit more play as a grownup
Howdy Partner!
can have some seriously positive side effects. Let Merriam help you carve out a little time to whittle away the responsibilities at
Saddle up and head over to the
home and work, so you can play until your heart’s content. Here
newly renovated Dodge Town at
are a few suggestions: AFTERSHOCK LIVE MUSIC VENUE 5240 Merriam Drive | 913. 384.5646 ANTIOCH PARK – DODGE TOWN 6501 Antioch Road | 913.831.3359 CINEMARK THEATRES 5500 Antioch Road | 913.789.7038 HAPPY FEET SOCCER 9701 W. 67th Street | 913.851.9898 MERRIAM AQUATIC CENTER 6040 Slater | 913.322.5518 MOTHERHOOD SCULPTURE 6304 E. Frontage Road | 913.403.8999
Antioch Park. This beloved attraction is one of the county’s most visited and features a wild west theme for fun, imaginative play. Have a rootin’ tootin’ good time, just don’t squat with your spurs on! REOPENING SPRING 2018
PLANTING THE SEEDS SCULPTURE 5740 Merriam Drive PUMP IT UP 7230 W. Frontage Road | 913.236.7867 SKATE CITY 9800 W. 62nd Terrace | 913.262.0711 STILL TIME SCULPTURE Johnson & Merriam Drives TIM MURPHY ART GALLERY 5701 Merriam Drive | 913.322.5550
Check out pages 10-11 for great local events! Find more fun online at exploremerriam.com exploremerriam.com | 23
GREAT for Groups
Tour
Tour operators and motor
coach groups are pleasantly surprised with Merriam’s itinerary of unique and eclectic tour offerings.
Meet in Merriam Looking for meeting space in the metro? Merriam’s the perfect fit for small to medium size functions including corporate trainings, board meetings, staff retreats, sales presentations, planning sessions, and more! With rates starting at only $40 per hour, Merriam Historic Plaza offers convenience to all of Kansas City with open catering, free Wi-Fi, affordable rates, and a friendly and helpful staff to assist you. Call to schedule a site tour today or learn more at exploremerriam.com/meet
24 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
Come see where world-renowned handcrafted string instruments get their exquisite sound, watch as your favorite flavor of dessert bread comes off the bakery line, or marvel at the more than 160+ year-old collection where America’s beloved denim brand resides. If you’ve got a group of 10 or more, Merriam has a tour for you – it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3. Check out our group tour locations below Visit exploremerriam.com/tour to learn more 3 Call the Merriam Visitors Bureau to schedule – 913.403.8999 1 2
Strawberry Hill Povitica
K.C. Strings Violin Shop
GuitarLamp
Mixture
Georgetown Soda Fountain
Lee Jeans Heritage Hall
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4
1
5 2
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7
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Take Merriam Home You’ve picked the destination, planned a great itinerary, and requested time off from work. Now’s the time to pack your bags and hit the road to Merriam! If there’s one piece of advice the local Visitors Bureau recommends when traveling – remember to save a little room in your suitcase for a made-in-Merriam take-home keepsake. Here’s a great list of options for you to choose from! 1. GuitarLamp 5848 Merriam Drive | 913.362.5004 | guitarlamp.com 2. Ikea 6000 Ikea Way 3. Valomilk valomilk.com 4. KC Strings 5842 Merriam Drive | 913.677.0400 | kcstrings.com 5. Postcards are available at Merriam Historic Plaza 6304 E. Frontage Road – and they’re free! 6. Mixture madebymixture.com 7. Willow Brooke Co. etsy.com/shop/willowbrookeco 8. Strawberry Hill Povitica 7226 W Frontage Road | povitica.com
exploremerriam.com | 25
3 weekend DAY
DAY 1 When you arrive in KC, unpack the car and make Merriam your home base. We’re close to everything, conveniently located and affordably priced for your overnight lodging needs. Be sure to check our special hotel rates at exploremerriam.com/specialoffers to find the best deal.
Just 13 miles northwest of Merriam, you’ll find the fun little town of Bonner Springs. Known mostly for its concert venue and the always popular Renaissance Festival, you can also lose your marbles with a stop at Moon Marble Company (600 E. Front Street). This favorite spot in Bonner features marbles of all sizes and colors and toys and games for the young at heart. You might even catch a marble-making demo. From there, muster up some courage because next you’ll be flying through the sky at Zip KC (12829 Loring Road), a four-mile drive from Moon Marble. With various guided tours and zips, you’ll enjoy the view from the tree tops at an adrenaline-pumping speed. Once your heart rate returns to normal, you’ll be hungry, and there’s no place more mouth-watering than Joe’s KC BBQ at the original gas station location (3002 W. 47th Avenue). The line may be long, but it moves fast, so hop in and enjoy some lip-smackin’ KC BBQ – order the Z-man, you won’t be sorry!
26 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
So, you’re coming to the Kansas City area for an extended weekend! While it may be hard to fit all of the region’s finest into three days, we’ve put together our picks for must-see spots across the metro. From marbles to museums, wines to ziplines, your adventure begins and ends with a whirlwind weekend of exploring, dining, shopping, and appreciating KC as much as we do!
DAY 2
The Kansas City Zoo (6800 Zoo Drive) is always a visitor favorite, so pack a cooler and be there when the gates open for the most active animal sightings. After a half-day at the zoo, visit the murals located across Kansas City’s vibrant arts district. From the Buck O’Neill mural (19th & Paseo) to the giant bookshelf at the central library (14 W. 10th Street), you’ll have fun creating photo memories at these art-inspired and selfieworthy spots. Just across the street from the Raised Royal mural, you’ll find Boulevard Brewery (2534 Madison Avenue) – the place to be for happy-hour hops. Wind down before heading back to your hotel with a wine sampling/record browsing break at downtown Overland Park’s Vinyl Renaissance (7932 Santa Fe Drive). Then, walk across the street to grab a slice of homemade pie at The Upper Crust (7943 Santa Fe Drive) because dessert before dinner is a must while on vacation!
exploremerriam.com | 27
DAY 3
Eat a light breakfast at the hotel today because Strawberry Hill Povitica (7226 W. Frontage Road) will fill you up with free samples of their homemade, sinfully delicious dessert bread (grab a discount at exploremerriam.com/specialoffers for your loaf purchases). From there, hop on the highway and head to downtown Kansas City for the day. Park anywhere between the fun and fabulous Crown Center (2450 Grand Boulevard) and the River Market along Main Street and jump on and off the free Ride KC Streetcar at your leisure. Steamboat Arabia (400 Grand Boulevard) is a great spot to discover sunken treasures recovered from the 1856 journey along the mighty Missouri River. Within walking distance, you can pick up farm-fresh goodies at City Market, or trek along Berkley Riverfront Heritage Trail. If more shopping beckons, there’s none better than first weekends at the West Bottoms. From vintage finds to repurposed gems, there are blocks and blocks of shops to peruse – and food trucks line the streets when your tummy starts to grumble. Finish the day at one of Kansas City’s most beloved museums, the World War I Museum and Memorial (2 Memorial Drive). Located nearby Crown Center and Union Station, this popular Kansas City attraction is home to the most comprehensive collection of WWI objects in the world. 28 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
Bonner S prin g s Kansas
Downtown Specialty Shops, Kansas City Renaissance Festival, Moon Marble Company, National Agricultural Center & Hall of Fame, Providence Medical Center Amphitheater, Sunower Hills Golf Course, Wyandotte County Museum & Zip KC
I-70 Exit 224 A-B www.bonnersprings.org
exploremerriam.com | 29
52 Reasons
1
We Love Merriam Here at Merriam Visitors Bureau, we challenged ourselves to capture a weekly photo and post via Instagram last year. This weekly social share provides a fun look back at 2017 and what makes Merriam Just Right! Follow along @ExploreMerriam to see what 2018 will bring!
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30 | 2018 Merriam Community & Visitors Guide
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Selfie Spots Share your favorite memories in Merriam! Tag @ExploreMerriam at any of these selfie-worthy spots. Antioch Park – two ponds, a rose garden, playground, trails, and more! There’s no shortage of great selfie locations in this park. 1
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Flags 4 Freedom – Salute the red, white, and blue with patriotic pics during this annual 4th of July event in downtown Merriam. 2
With dozens of milkshakes to choose from, capture your favorite shake selfie at Georgetown Pharmacy’s Old Fashioned Soda Shop. 3
5
Frolic near the fountain with the bears, but don’t fall in. This is Merriam’s best spot for selfies during the summer. 4
Merriam’s coolest new selfie locale is Planting the Seeds. Catch your reflection, snap, and share— all from the grounds at Merriam Marketplace. 5
With more than 200 entries, the Turkey Creek Car & Motorcycle Show will no doubt give you plenty of selfie inspiration on September 8. 6
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exploremerriam.com | 31
MERRIAM VISITORS BUREAU 6304 E. FRONTAGE ROAD MERRIAM, KS 66202
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PAID BLS
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