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Guest Feature: Family Weekend in Merriam
Making Family Memories in Merriam: A guest editorial by Sierra Redmond
As a military family, we've had the pleasure of living from coast to coast, but no experience is as unique as the heart of the American Midwest. When I think of the Midwest, I think of smaller towns, BBQ to die for, and a family-friendly atmosphere. So, when we had the chance to cross more Midwestern towns off our family travel bucket list, visiting Merriam, Kansas, was a no-brainer for us. Merriam is in the suburbs and a gateway to the Kansas City region. At around a three-hour drive from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; a two-hour drive from Fort Riley, Kansas; and a 45-minute drive from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, this growing suburb makes the perfect weekend destination for Midwestern-stationed military and families looking to get away.
The best way that I could describe Merriam is the quintessential Midwestern town with big city offerings. At first glance, we were pleasantly surprised with the variety of modern offerings tied into such a historical area. Whether you want to shop at IKEA, enjoy a mom and pop dining experience like local favorite Pegah’s, or enjoy an outdoor lifestyle at one of the many trails and outdoor spaces, it’s all here.
Our first stop was the stunning Visitors Bureau. One of the many things that they've done right is hospitality. The Bureau is an attraction within itself. We were welcomed warmly by the amazing staff and invited to stay awhile in the gorgeously manicured public spaces. After a three-hour ride, we were more than happy to take a break and discover the grounds a bit.
“Where history and a modern look collide.” The Merriam Historic Plaza and Visitors Bureau features a brief walking path where history and a modern look collide. The outdoor walking path showcases plaques that pay homage to Merriam’s rich history. If you’re a history buff like we are, you may consider downloading the Otocast app for a FREE and easyto-use historical audio tour of the city. There are 12 amazing sites on the app to visit that you don’t want to miss, including Brown Park dedicated in honor of Esther Brown, a civil rights activist who is most notable for desegregation in Merriam and across Kansas. As another option, ask the Visitors Bureau staff about participating in the Sunshine Scavenger Hunt which includes the Visitors Bureau and other locations as stops to discover the city. “Merriam caters to the entire family. It's a town with all-inclusive FUN.” Merriam caters to the entire family. It’s a town with all-inclusive fun and those family values shine throughout the entire city. Just steps away from our hotel, the newly renovated Hampton Inn, we were able to visit Strawberry Hill Povitica. This family-owned bakery planted roots in Merriam years ago and every bit of love and tradition is baked into their made-from-scratch goods. If you or your family have never had a slice of Povitica bread, do
yourself a favor and visit. Not only will you learn about the family business, but you’ll delight in over 14 flavors of FREE samples and watch as bakers make it by hand.
“Weekends are for FAMILY time and EXPLORATION.” Weekends in Merriam are a prime time to visit. There’s no shortage of things to do and see. On the weekend that we visited, we got up close and personal with classic automobiles at the Turkey Creek Car & Motorcycle Show. This was in conjunction with the Saturday Farmers' Market, where we were able to purchase local goods and handmade crafts from local artisans. I was pleased to find families of all ages, from grandparents to toddlers, enjoying the festivities. Merriam makes the perfect destination for a quick generational getaway and much needed bonding time with the grandparents. I’ve long thought that the best way to fall in love with a city was to stumble off the beaten path and find out what you discover. What makes Merriam most unique is its appreciation for the arts. From the murals to the three public art sculptures, there is art to be discovered and interpreted everywhere. Our weekends are for family time and exploration, so we did just that! End your weekend with a sweet treat at Russell Stover Candy Store. There’s no better way to recap your trip than over ice cream and conversation. If the Midwest and the Kansas City metropolitan area is in your future travels, a stop in Merriam should top your family’s list.
