official 2015 merriam community & visitors guide
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MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 3
Merriam 5 to Try06Community Prof ile
16
Merriam A-Z Events Calendar
MERRIAM... next door neighbors to Kansas City!TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mayor’s WelcomeOn behalf of the more than 11,000 residents who call Merriam
home, I want to extend you a very warm welcome. Whether you are here for a day or long weekend, you will quickly sense the quality of life that will bring you back again, or perhaps, make Merriam your permanent home.
Merriam is a small, friendly community nestled in Johnson County, Kansas just eight miles from downtown Kansas City. Maybe you’re here to shop in our downtown or the all-new IKEA–Merriam, to trek the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, or to attend a business function or meeting. Whatever your purpose, Merriam offers it all. What doesn’t reside inside our city limits is certainly just a stone’s throw away in neighboring suburbs or the greater Kansas City region.
There are a number of special surprises awaiting you in Merriam including 12 historic sites and markers tracing the humble beginnings of our town; 27 restaurants to tempt your taste-buds; and, six ‘Made in Merriam’ products perfect for a take-home souvenir. Check out Merriam A-Z on page 14 of this guide for 26 reasons to live, work, shop, play and stay in Merriam. Or, plan your stay in our town using the five-to-try themed itineraries for connoisseurs, shoppers, families, historians and outdoor explorers.
As we embark on our 151st year as a community, Merriam remains an ideal choice for visitors to Kansas City. We would be delighted to have you stop by the Visitors Bureau to learn even more about our city. Once again, welcome to Merriam! I wish you a pleasant and memorable visit.
Mayor Ken SissomCity of Merriam
The 2015 Merriam Community & Visitors
Guide is producedin partnership with
MetroMedia, Inc. The entire guide is fundedby advertisers and the
transient guest tax fundof Merriam hotel visitors. No residential tax dollars
are used in supportof this publication.
Contact theVisitors Bureau:
6304 E. Frontage Road Merriam, KS 66202
913.403.8999 | 866.707.6534www.exploremerriam.com
3014Relax
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4 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE
LakeWaukomis
PlatteWoods
WeatherbyLake
KCIAirport
Kansas City,Kansas
PlatteCity
SmithvilleKearney
Gladstone
Parkville
Riverside
Mosby
Prathersville
Birmingham
Liberty
Claycomo
PleasantValley
NorthKansasCity
Glenaire
Missouri City
Independence
BlueSprings
Raytown
SwopePark
Lee’s Summit
Grandview
Greenwood
LakeWennebago
Raymore
Belton
SugarCreek
Randolph
Richards-GabaurAirport
OverlandPark
Prairie VillageShawnee
Lenexa
Olathe
Olathe
De Soto
Johnson CountyIndustrialAirport
Gardner
Spring Hill
BonnerSprings Edwardsville
Lake QuiviraM
erria
m
Leaw
ood
Mis
sion
RoelandPark
MissionHills
Westwood
FairwayWestwood Hills
HoustonLake
Kansas City
Kansas City
Kansas City
Johnson County
Clay County
Platte County
Cass County
Jackson County
Wyandotte County
UnityVillage
Missouri River
Missouri Rive
r
Kaw R
iver
To Excelsior Springs
To Weston
PlanE: Kansas CityInternational Airport (MCI) is just a three hour flight from either coast and only27 minutes from Merriam.www.flykci.com 816.243.5237
BuS: Greyhound Bus Lines serve the greater Kansas City area. Find rates and routes at www.greyhound.com.816.221.2835
The JO (JoCo Transit) is the local bus system for Johnson County and metro KC. Visit www.thejo.com for more details. 816.221.0660
CaR: Merriam offers several rental car options for your next visit or service repair loaner.aViS:7300 West Frontage Roadwww.avis.com913.722.1730EntERPRiSE: 10000 Shawnee Msn Pkwy www.enterprise.com913.262.8888
taxi SERViCE: Door-to- door delivery is availableand fast with cab service metro-wide.10/10 taxi:www.1010taxi.com 913.647.0010FiVE GuyS ShuttlE:www.fiveguystransportation.com 816.891.9999
tRain: Merriam is just 15 minutes from the Amtrak station which offers an enclosed waiting area, parking, accessible platform and convenient location in Union Station.www.amtrak.com
LakeWaukomis
PlatteWoods
WeatherbyLake
KCIAirport
Kansas City,Kansas
PlatteCity
SmithvilleKearney
Gladstone
Parkville
Riverside
Mosby
Prathersville
Birmingham
Liberty
Claycomo
PleasantValley
NorthKansasCity
Glenaire
Missouri City
Independence
BlueSprings
Raytown
SwopePark
Lee’s Summit
Grandview
Greenwood
LakeWennebago
Raymore
Belton
SugarCreek
Randolph
Richards-GabaurAirport
OverlandPark
Prairie VillageShawnee
Lenexa
Olathe
Olathe
De Soto
Johnson CountyIndustrialAirport
Gardner
Spring Hill
BonnerSprings Edwardsville
Lake Quivira
Mer
riam
Leaw
ood
Mis
sion
RoelandPark
MissionHills
Westwood
FairwayWestwood Hills
HoustonLake
Kansas City
Kansas City
Kansas City
Johnson County
Clay County
Platte County
Cass County
Jackson County
Wyandotte County
UnityVillage
Missouri River
Missouri Rive
r
Kaw R
iver
To Excelsior Springs
To Weston
MAP...getting around
Mer
riam
Mer
riam
Shawnee Mission Parkway
County Line Road
Switz
er
Antio
ch
75th St.
JOCO Transit
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 5
Getting you there is our BUSiness!
Call or e-mail and mention "Merriam ad"for your FREE JO bus pass today!
Benefits of riding The JO:• Less fuel consumption• Less wear & tear on vehicle• Less congestion• Reducing carbon footprint• Better air quality• JOTrax (real-time bus info)
$2.25/trip and free Metro transfers10-ride and 31 day bus passes
available for sale atwww.thejo.com
JO 31 day passes accepted on Metro, KCK and Inde buses!
Ride The JO’s 546 KCK–Johnson–Quiviraaround Merriam & reap the benefits
Connections to other JO bus routes: 556, 575, 660, 667 & 670
Small town charm with big city appeal gives Merriam a distinct advantage for residents, business owners and visitors. Spanning 4.3 square miles, Merriam offers fantastic amenities and services to satisfy the long-term dweller or overnight visitor. We may be small, but
we are mighty in that we yield the largest pull factor in the State of Kansas which
helps us to maintain an affordable cost of living for our home-owners. Boasting a highly
educated community, Merriam is proud to call the award-winning Shawnee Mission School District our city’s partner in education. If healthcare is your priority, Merriam is home to numerous medical facilities and one of the top-ranked hospitals in Kansas. Just a few miles north or south along Interstate 35 will lead you to more of the area’s top attractions because Merriam is smack in the middle of the metro and convenient to all of Kansas City. With affordable housing, a healthy economy, top-ranked schools, fantastic recreation and unparalleled health care, Merriam is Just Right!
high schoolgraduates: 92%
College graduates: 35%
City of Merriam: 9001 West 62nd Street, Merriam KS 66202
Median homevalue: $158,300
home ownership rate: 62%
average age: 37Median household
income: $57,500
COMMUNITY...local life
City of Merriam Departments Municipal Complex/City Hall .....913.322.5500 Animal Control .............................913.322.5581 Aquatic Center ..............................913.322.5518 Capital Improvements ..................913.322.5522 Community Development ..........913.322.5520 Fire Department ............................913.888.6066 Municipal Court ............................913.322.5540 Parks & Recreation .......................913.322.5550 Police Department ....................... 913.322.5560 non-emerg. dispatch ....................913.782.0720 Public Works .................................913.322.5570 Visitors Bureau ..............................913.403.8999Animal Shelter: Great Plains SPCA ........913.742.7329Ask-a-Nurse .......................................913.676.7777Chamber of Commerce ......................913.262.2141Cinemark Movie Theatre ....................913.789.7038Driver License Bureau (Johnson Dr.) .....844.647.7635Hen House Grocery Store ..................913.831.3500Johnson County Government ............913.715.5000Johnson County Library (Antioch) .....913.826.4600Johnson County Transit .....................816.221.0660Notify JoCo ....................................... notifyjoco.orgPost Office .........................................800.275.8777Shawnee Mission Medical Center .......913.676.2000Shawnee Mission School District ........913.993.6200Vehicle Registration ...........................913.826.1800
Helpful Info
Electric:Kansas CityPower & Light816.471.5275
Natural Gas:Kansas Gas Service800.794.4780
Water:Water One913.895.1800
Trash Service:Deffenbaugh 913.631.3300A1 Disposal913.441.5400Republic Services816.254.1470Superior Disposal913.406.9460Town & Country816.380.5595
Wastewater:JoCo Wastewater913.715.8500
Communications:Consolidated Communications913.825.3000
Google866.777.7550AT&T800.288.2020Time Warner Cable816.358.8833
Welcome to the NeighborhoodJust moving in? Merriam can help with the transition–City Hall
is a great resource for city services, information or referrals. Need to know your councilmember or ward? Have a pet to register? Give us a call at 913.322.5500 or sign up to receive E-Merriam Updates at www.merriam.org to stay in the loop year-round!
Merriam MeetingsCity Council 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:00 p.m. at City Hall
Planning Commission 1st Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. at City Hall
Parks & Recreation Board4th Tuesdays, January-November, 6:00 p.m. at Irene B. French Community Center
BusinessDoing business in Merriam makes good sense,
which is why dozens of local business owners have been in Merriam for decades. Add to that the healthy economic conditions, and Merriam is now becoming an ideal target for new business, relocations and redevelopments. In fact, here’s what one of our local business owners has to say about why he chooses Merriam:
Spring: 57 degrees
Summer: 78 degrees
Fall: 58 degrees
Winter: 33 degrees
Parks & Recreation Residents and visitors can explore nine
parks, 6.5 miles of trails and hundreds of class offerings at the local community center. From fitness to festivals, parties in the park and a gorgeous gallery of art, Merriam’s recreation options are endless. For a complete list of classes, events and fitness offerings, contact our Parks & Recreation Department to request the latest issue of Merriam Highlights!
Public SafetyRelatively low crime and fast-reacting public safety
officials give our residents and visitors peace of mind in Merriam. In recent citizen satisfaction surveys, 88% of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with Merriam’s fire protection, and 90% with police services. Merriam’s a safe bet!
913.322.5500 | www.merriam.org
Merriam is nourished by nature and steeped in sunshine throughout most of the year. We are home to four true seasons with only 34 inches of rainfall. Over 2,700 hours of annual sunshine make Merriam a great city to visit and explore year-round.
Average Temperature
Whether you’re a home-based start-up or a multi-billion dollar company, Merriam wants to do business with you! Contact our Community Development Department for business guidelines within our city!
“We’ve been in Merriam since 1952. We’ve only moved once and that was just across the
street. Merriam is the only place we’d ever call home for our business. People all over the metro know
where to find us and we planto keep it that way.”– Johnny Pieters,
Merriam Feed, lawn & Garden Center
2,838
800
267
265
235
Shawnee M
ission Medical Center
Synchrony Financial
iKEa
hom
e Furnishings
First Student
hendrick Chevrolet/n
issan
Top 5 Employers
Jose Peppers
Johnson County Museum
8 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY AND VISITORS GUIDE
Kansas City-Wichita-Topeka • www.josepeppers.com
Come to your local Jose Pepper’s location at6870 Johnson Drive, Mission, KS…Or call for carryout…913-384-7360
Emporia CVB
MERRIAM...f ive to try!
10 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE
Hit the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail by foot or bike to discover nature, earn those fitbit steps and enjoy the great outdoors.
Navigate your way through Merriam and find all three geocaches placed by the Visitors Bureau. Log your finds at geocaching.com.
Snap a few nature and landscape photos of Merriam’s parks. Then, share them socially using #MerriamKansas so we can ooh and aaah over your shutter skills.
View Merriam by jog! Lace up and cross the finish line of Merriam’s annual Turkey Creek Festival 5k held the 3rd Saturday of May.
For the...outdoor explorer
WHAt BRIngs you to toWn? Is it Merriam’s plethora of shop-til-you-drop selections or family-fun festivals and events? Are you here for a business meeting and want to spend your downtime discovering a new trail in one of Merriam’s parks? Perhaps your bucket list contains “visit 15 historic sites in 2015.” Whatever your reason, Merriam’s got a themed itinerary of things to see and do just for you! Take a look at Merriam’s 5 to Try this year!
take a stroll through the tim Murphy Art gallery to view the latest exhibit on display (3rd floor of the community center).
sample over a dozen flavors of sweet dessert bread at strawberry Hill Povitica–made from family recipes of generations ago.
Fine tune your listening skills with the orchestral sounds flowing from K.C. strings Violin shop in downtown Merriam.
Release your inner cultural foodie with a plate of pupusas and cabbage salad from El Pulgarcito Restaurant.
For the...connoisseur
1
2
sip a shake at Merriam’s georgetown Pharmacy soda shop or Russell stover Candy Company. these sweet shops are a great afternoon optionfor a family treat.
Party in youR Park at one of Merriam’s annual summer park parties. With free hot dogs, live music and fun activities for the kids, all you need is a blanket or chair for a fun and memorable evening in the neighborhood.
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 11
one of Merriam’s signature events, turkey Creek Festival, is the perfect outing to kick off the summer. Hosted the 3rd saturday each May, this family fun event features live music, fantastic food, free activities, an arts and crafts fair, pancake feed and much more!
take a dip! Merriam’s Aquatic Center is an affordable family option each summer and recent pool renovations will have your kiddos raving about Merriam.
For the...family
Learn about memorable moments throughout Merriam’s history on a trek around Merriam Historic Plaza located at Shawnee Mission Parkway & I-35.
View the site of our town’s founder, David Gee Campbell, as you visit his former home located just west of our downtown.
Take a peek at one of Merriam’s oldest existing structures as you explore the Irene B. French Community Center from the original outdoor cornerstone to the historic mural located near the entrance.
Drive through our history on a tour of Merriam’s historic markers placed throughout the city! From town foundingto desegregation to the 1944 B-24 Liberator plane crash, you’ll experience what made Merriam the town we are today.
For the...history buff
Visit our quaint downtown just west of I-35. With stores and restaurants sprinkling Merriam Drive, you’ll surely find a place to shop and enjoy.
Looking for that shiny new car? Merriamhas it. Nearly every make and model isfound in our city and we take pride in our grand selection and dealer offerings.What’s blue and yellow and greeting shoppers along I-35 and Johnson Drive? The brand new IKEA–Merriam of course. No visit to Merriam is complete without a Swedish meatball lunch stop or home furnishing purchase at this retail giant.
Still have shopping energy to burn? Perhaps a visit to Merriam’s Hobby Lobby, Marshall’s, Old Navy, Dick’s Sporting Goods or Home Depot will help. In addition to these retailers, many more are to be found at Merriam Town Center and Merriam Village.
For the...savvy shopper
4
3
5
Auto Finance Centers
12 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE
4 First Time Buyers Ok 4 Low Down Payment4 No Application Refused 4 Easy Payday Payments
“Friendly and fast! I was financed and driving the same day.”
Sherri G. - Merriam
5232 Merriam Drive Merriam KS 66203
We Finance
NOCO-SIGNER
LOWINCOME
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You can apply for credit online.It’s fast easy & secure.
Need a fresh start? We can help!
Auto Finance Center of Merriam
913-403-8686 • www.mycarafc.comShop Today. Drive Today!
Crown Center
14 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE
A is for Antioch Park, one of Johnson County’s most loved and visited, nestled right in the heart of Merriam.
B is for bears! Come visit the welcoming mascots to our city. While you’re here, learn about their historic Merriam Park adventures during the late 1800’s at Merriam’s Historic Plaza.
C is for Convention & Visitors Bureau. The bears aren’t the only welcoming feature you’ll find in Merriam. Located on the same grounds as the Bear Pit statue and fountain, be sure to come inside our Visitors Bureau office for maps, guides, attraction brochures, directions or a friendly hello from our staff at 6304 E. Frontage Road.
D is for dining. With 27 restaurants and numerous food truck events in Merriam throughout the year, the foodies in your group certainly won’t leave Merriam hungry!
E is for events. Hosting nearly 30 events annually, Merriam has no shortage of fun and family-friendly events each season. Check out our event calendar on page 30 for a complete rundown in 2015.
MERRIAM...A to Z
F is for flags! 1,200+ of them actually. Merriam’s famed Flags 4 Freedom event is the largest in the state and one to see for yourself. Experience the breathtaking magnificence of Old Glory on display the week before the 4th of July.
G is for gallery! The Tim Murphy Art Gallery is a stunning collection of local, regional and national works of art, and features changing monthly exhibits year-round.
H is for history. From settlement to current day, Merriam is steeped in history and our heritage is fascinating to explore and discover. Check out our historic markers throughout the city or stop by the Historic Plaza for a glimpse of Merriam’s past 150 years.
I is for IKEA. New to Merriam in 2014, the Swedish furnishings and home décor retailer is greeting shoppers daily high atop I-35 and Johnson Drive.
J is for Just Right. It’s Merriam’s tagline, but holds true for living, working, doing business or visiting. Merriam is Just Right, so give us a call for a relocation/new resident packet.
K is for K.C. Strings Violin Shop in downtown Merriam. This one-of- a-kind shop creates, sells and repairs string instruments for the novice to professional musician. Stop by to see the beautiful rows of custom-made instruments handcrafted by skilled artisans.
L is for library. Merriam’s Antioch Branch of the Johnson County Library was the first library to open in the county back in 1956 and is still serving the community today.
A to ZMERRIAM
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 15
M is for Merriam Marketplace. The home to many annual events, the farmers’ market and private rentals, this outdoor pavilion is one of downtown Merriam’s busiest addresses.
N is for Nutter. One of the most pivotal moments in Merriam’s history is the desegregation case which paved the way for Brown v. Board of Education in the 1940’s. South Park school teacher, Corinithian Nutter, was at the center of the Walker School Walkout which took place in Merriam, Kansas. Learn more at the historic marker located at 9420 W. 50th Terrace.
O is for Ollie the Octopus. This handsome sea creature is new to the Merriam Aquatic Center and greets the kiddos from the zero-depth pool. Come and see him this summer!
P is for Povitica. Made in Merriam, this delectable dessert bread is loved across the world and still made with grandma’s recipe. Tours offered for groups with free samples and coffee. Call the CVB to schedule at 913.403.8999.
Q is for quaint neighborhoods. Merriam is no cookie-cutter community with rows of identical homes. Drive through our charming city and you’ll find dozens of dwellings with unique design styles sprinkling the streets.
R is for Recreation. Our Parks & Recreation Department hosts abundant recreational offerings and classes. Check out the latest issue of the Merriam Highlights for a complete list of options from fitness to festivals.
S is for Shop Merriam, a new discount loyalty program launched this year. Similar to a buy local campaign, Shop Merriam provides varying discounts to patrons visiting participating merchants andbusinesses in Merriam. Learnmore and find discount offers atwww.exploremerriam.com/ShopMerriam.
T is for Turkey Creek—as in Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, Turkey Creek Festival, Turkey Creek Car Show and the actual Turkey Creek. See a trend? Merriam was founded along Turkey Creek when settlers camped on the banks and we continue promoting our landmark namesake to this day.
U is for Unique. From local shops to enticing eateries, one-of-a-kind products to entertaining events, Merriam offers a unique mix of things to do, see and enjoy.
V is for Valomilk, Merriam’s most beloved candy. This delicious creation features a flowing marshmallow center surrounded by a chocolate covered cup made right here in our town.
W is for Walnut Grove. A one-time recreational area of Merriam, this neighborhood now contains a middle school and beautiful homes with established walnut trees.
X is for X marks the spot. Grab your GPS and do some digital treasure seeking in Merriam. The Visitors Bureau has placed three geocaches throughout the city for you to find and log at geocaching.com.
Y is for youth. From community center youth classes to youth sports and youth events, Merriam stakes our future on the next generation of leaders by offering numerous opportunities to keep them invested in our community.
Z is for zzzzz’s. In Merriam, you can certainly find a cozy spot to rest your head at one of our five hotel properties located along the East and West Frontage Roads of Interstate 35.
16 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE
Merriam offers an abundance of cozy spots to rest your head after a full day exploring the metro. With affordable rates, convenience to all of Kansas City, and newly renovated rooms with guest-preferred amenities, Merriam is a great choice for an overnight stay!
RELAX...catch some zzz’s
A 2013 Certificate of Excellence winner and #1 ranking nine years in a row by Trip Advisor, Merriam’s Drury Inn offers guest preferred amenities including free hot breakfast, wireless internet, flat screen TV’s and the ever-popular 5:30 kickback which includes free hot appetizers and cold beverages seven nights a week!
A Good Sam RV Park located in the heart of the metro, Walnut Grove offers affordable rates and a host of amenities less than one mile west of I-35, Exit 229.
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Stay at the Rodeway Inn and experience the best deal around. Rodeway Inn provides an attractive, well-maintained, secure place to stay when away from home. Nearby all of Kansas City’s attractions and events, this hotel offers free long-distance calls, free wi-fi and hot breakfast!
95 HC • O6401 E Frontage Road
913-262-2622www.rodewayinn.com/
hotels/ks023
9009 Shawnee Mission Pkwy913-236-9200
www.druryinn.com
10218 Johnson Drive913-262-3023
www.walnutgroverv.com
6601 E Frontage Road913-262-4448
www.qualityinn.com/hotel/ks093
110 H • O 12 •
Hampton’s promise to you is a warm and inviting base with thoughtful amenities including high-speed internet, a hot breakfast each morning, and a clean and fresh Hampton bed. Stay on top of your exercise regimen while you’re on the road with Hampton’s fitness center, indoor saltwater pool and spa tub. Great for business, this Merriam hotel has a fully equipped business center and two meeting rooms accommodating up to 50 guests.
7400 W Frontage Road913-722-0800
www.hamptoninn.com
85 H • I 50 •
Guests will enjoy the Q Corner Café Breakfast, a free newspaper, free local calls and a seasonal outdoor pool. Business travelers will appreciate conveniences including high-speed internet in all rooms and public areas and access to copy and fax services. The meeting room accommodates up to 40 people for most events and business functions.
88 HC • O 40 •
Discover special offers atwww.exploremerriam.com
This hotel is designed for both short and longer stays with studio suite rooms featuring a fully-equipped kitchen…something you won’t find in a typical hotel. Enjoy a grab-n-go breakfast, free wireless internet and pet-friendly accommodations.
6451 E Frontage Road913-236-6006
www.extendedstay.com
141 • •C
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 17
Diamond Finish Car Wash
Hampton Inn & Suites
Walnut Grove RV Park
Great Plains SPCA
Hampton Inn & Suites7400 W Frontage Road
Merriam, KS 66203
www.kansascitymerriamsuites.hamptoninn.com
(P) 913-722-0800(F) 913-722-0222
vComplimentary Hot BreakfastvComplimentary Wi-FivIndoor Pool and Hot TubvOnsite Guest Laundry
& Same Day Laundry ServicevTwo Room Suites AvailablevExclusive 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Superior Diamond Wash Includes basic full service wash, plus wheel cleaner, white wall scrub,
underbody wash, clearcoat protectant, triple clearcoat polish, tire dressing & machine mat cleaning. Additional charge for larger vehicles. Over-sized
charge may apply. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 2/1/16.
FULL SERVICE SPECIAL
50% OFF50% OFF
5960 Barkley St. Mission, KS 66202
913-236-6886HOURS: Mon-Sat 8-7 • Sun 8-5
www.diamondfinishwash.com
Reg. $7Basic Exterior Wash includes: Towel dry and door jams wiped
down. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 2/1/16.
EXTERIOR ONLY SPECIAL
$5
Complete interior shampoo, all floor mats, carpeting, upholstered seats, or clean & conditions leather seats. All interior vinyl is cleaned &
conditioned. See cashier for more details. Over-sized charge may apply. Not valid with any other offers. Exp. 2/1/16.
25% OFFDIAMOND 1 PROFESSIONAL DETAIL
25% OFF
Reg. $49.95Includes a hand wax. Additional Charge for larger vehicles.
Over-sized charge may apply. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 2/1/16.
HAND WAX
$10 OFF$10 OFF
$5
EAT...foodie delights Merriam Dining
Aftershock Bar & Grill5240 Merriam Drive • 913.384.5646
Bilski’s Bar & Grill5831 Merriam Drive • 913.831.2337
Bob Evans Restaurant5870 Antioch Road • 913.432.4747
Caribou Coffee8722 Shawnee Msn Pkwy • 913.789.9266
Carmen’s Cocinia5816 Merriam Drive • 913.432.5855
Chili’s Grill & Bar5880 Antioch Road • 913.262.0067
China Garden Buffet5860 Antioch Road • 913.831.6888
Denny’s9001 W. 63rd Street • 913.831.3285
Domino’s Pizza10240 W. 75th Street • 913.268.3337
El Pulgarcito5921 Merriam Drive • 913.384.3887
Georgetown Pharmacy Soda Shop5605 Merriam Drive • 913.362.0313
Hurricane Allie’s5541 Merriam Drive • 913.217.7665
IHOP8701 W. 63rd Street • 913.362.8663
IKEA Restaurant6000 IKEA Way • www.ikea.com
Jack in the Box9101 Johnson Drive • 913.236.9671
Jimmy John’sComing Soon to Merriam Village
KC’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill10201 W. 47th Street • 913.262.7211
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts8805 Shawnee Msn Pkwy • 913.432.5944
Long John Silver’s9900 W. 63rd Street • 913.831.3585
McDonald’s8915 Johnson Drive • 913.432.3874
QT Kitchen9025 Johnson Drive • 913.789.7211
Sonic Drive-in5440 Merriam Drive • 913.831.0444
Starbuck’s5800 Antioch Road • 913.831.3500
Subway8801 Johnson Drive • 913.677.6788
Taco Bell / Pizza Hut8800 Shawnee Msn Pkwy • 913.262.4562
Wendy’s10006 W. 75th Street • 913.789.8207
Winstead’s8817 Shawnee Msn Pkwy • 913.384.2224
With tons of local flavor (and nearby some of Kansas City’s most revered eateries), you won’t go hungry in
Merriam! Check out our list of dining options to munch until your heart
(and tummy) is content.
FOOd TRUCkS RETURN TO MERRIAM IN 2015!What is yummy and mobile and coming to a Merriam Marketplace near you? FOOD TRUCKS!!! Why cook Sunday evening dinner when you can gather with friends, watch the kids play, enjoy a delicious, affordable meal and listen to live music in the beautiful outdoors? Join us for Summer Sundays (4:30-7:30 pm) on June 14, July 12 and August 9 and Funday Sunday (4:00-7:00 pm) on October 11 for a taste of local selections from food trucks across the metro. Bring a blanket or chair and a hearty appetite for these favorite foodie eventsin downtown Merriam!
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Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
Mission Pet Mart
First Church of Christ, Scientist, Merriam
Midwest Medical Specialists
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Union Station
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FUN...shop and play
ShopMerriam is the place to be to get your shop on! From large
big box retailers like the all-new Swedish furnishings giant IKEA-Merriam to quaint downtown merchants, we’ve got a great selection of shop-til-you-drop options in Merriam.
Look for the Shop Merriam logo across town for a discount offerat participating merchants. Or,take a peek before you shop atwww.exploremerriam.com/shopmerriam for a list of offers and merchants.
New in 2015:
Attractions
Cinemark Theatres5500 Antioch Road913-789-7038Offering 20 screens at Merriam’s Town Center, the Cinemark is a great place to catch all the latest movies!
Happy Feet Soccer9701 W. 67th Street | 913-851-9898A preschool fitness program that introduces soccer to kids ages two and up. Happy Feet offers camps, weekly classes, weekend leagues, birthday parties and Legends Soccer Club.
Merriam Aquatic Center 6040 Slater | 913-322-5518Open for the season May 30 to September 7. Featuring lots of special events, pool parties and tons of fun, make a splash at Merriam’s Aquatic Center, located at Vavra Park.
Pump It Up7230 W. Frontage Road | 913-236-7867Premier place to host kids’ birthday parties, team-building events, fundraisers or field trips. Pump it Up features indoor, gigantic inflatable filled arenas, private party rooms and open jump playtimes.
Tim Murphy Art Gallery5701 Merriam Drive | 913-322-5550Located inside the Irene B. French Community Center, this intimate gallery features monthly collections and exhibits with opening receptions and items for sale by the artists.
Skate City9800 W. 62nd Terr. | 913-262-0711Discover Kansas City’s best place to skate! Skate City offers fun for all ages.Visit during public skate sessions or call to schedule private parties.
Merriam Town CenterJohnson Drive & I-35
Stores include Hen House, Home
Depot, Marshall’s, Dick’s Sporting
Goods, Lakeshore Learning, PetSmart,
Office Max, Cinemark Movie Theatre,
three restaurants and several
other retailers.
Russell StoverCandy Company10100 Shawnee Mission Pkwy.
Completely new store featuring the
finest chocolates and handmade
confections, ice-cream and more!
Merriam LOVES Cars…and
Trucks…and Vans….and….
I-35 leads to great exposure and
Merriam is fortunate to house over
15 auto dealers in our City. We are THE
place to purchase your next vehicle.
Downtown MerriamJohnson & Merriam Drive just west of I-35
Historic downtown area with quaint
shops, restaurants, auto service
companies, and much more.
Hobby LobbyJohnson Drive and IKEA Way
Brand new retailer to Merriam
Village featuring arts and crafts
supplies, fabrics, baskets, silk flowers,
needlework, picture framing, party
supplies, furniture, and more.
IKEA–MERRIAMI-35 & Johnson Drive (IKEA Way)
If you’re looking for home
furnishings, accessories or the
best Swedish meatballs in town,
IKEA should be on your list. This
internationally known retailer is now
open in Merriam Village and features
a restaurant, supervised children’s
play area and tons of design
inspiration right along I-35.
Merriam’s convenient, affordable and accessible location fares well for guests looking to visit metro area attractions. In fact, Kansas City was recently ranked as the #1 affordable destination in Travel + Leisure’s America’s Favorite City survey and #3 in free attractions!
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 23
Sunflower Medical Group
Kansas City Kansas Convention & Visitors Bureau
We Now Offer Complete Family Care
Dr. Erin O'Laughlin practices the full scope of Family Medicine. She welcomes new patients, from newborn to the elderly, with specific skills in women's health. She is well prepared to take on the challenges of primary care medicine through her training at the UMKC Community and Family Medicine program at Truman Lakewood, which, like Sunflower Medical Group, is a level 3 NCQA Certified Patient Centered Medical Home. Her undergraduate degree is from Indiana University in psychology, and her medical degree is from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, graduating in 2011. She has strong ties to the Kansas City area and is committed to promoting better health through wellness.
Monday – Friday: 5 pm – 8 pmSaturday: 9 am – 2 pmSunday: 10 am – 2 pmClinic Hours (by appointment)Monday – Friday: 9 am - 5 pm
Urgent Care (walk-in)
Santa Fe Tow
The Savage Group
REACH Healthcare Foundation
24 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY AND VISITORS GUIDE
Buy a large sandwich and geta FREE medium fry and drink
($1 Menu and More Excluded)
McDonald’s Locations!6767 Johnson Drive in Mission
&8915 Johnson Drive in Merriam
Expires August 1st, 2015
Casey’s Auto Repair
5917 Beverly, Mission, KS (1 Block North of Community Center)
403-9500 • 403-9502 (fax)www.caseysautorepair.comHours: Mon. - Fri. 7am - 6pm Sat. by appointment
• Tires• Brakes• Computer Diagnostics• Electrical• A/C Service• Oil Change (Free Lubes)• Tune-ups
• Comfortable Waiting Room• Wireless Internet• Big Screen Satellite TV• Walking distance to Mission
shops & restaurants• Close access to Community
Center
DiD you know?Casey’s Auto Repair has the capability to:
• Install Manufacturer written updates to your car’s computer• Reprogram ignition keys & remote fobs• Perform Idle Relearn Procedures• Unlock your car’s radio• Hub Match Brake Rotors (eliminating brake pulsation)• Repair or replace windshields• Repair or replace engines, transmissions & differentials• Perform all factory maintenance• Work with all extended warranty companies• Sell and install all major tire brands
ASE Certified • NAPA Car Care Center
26 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY AND VISITORS GUIDE
Merriam is loaded with outdoor recreation and natural beauty in our nine parks, 6.5 miles of trails, marketplace events and endless beautiful landscapes. If you’re looking for a place to grab a few steps, a beautiful grassy hill to catch some rays or a fun playground for the kiddos to burn off some energy, check out the list of park and recreation offerings sprinkled throughout our community.
CITY OF MERRIAM
TURKEY CREEK STREAMWAY TRAIL
W 47TH ST
W 49TH ST
W 51ST ST
W 53RD ST
AN
TIO
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RD
AN
TIO
CH
RD
SWIT
ZER
RD
LOW
ELL
AV
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SWIT
ZER
RD
CA
RTE
R A
VE
KN
OX
AV
E
MER
RIA
M D
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JOHNSON DR
SHAWNEE MISSION PKWY
W 67TH ST
W 71ST STI-
35 H
WY
W 75TH ST
TURKEY CREEK STREAMWAY TRAIL
CITY PARK
TRAIL HEAD LOCATIONSWaterfall ParkMerriam MarketplaceCampbell ParkChatlain Park75th Street
EXPLORE...the great outdoors
Party in Y OUR Park! Make sure to join one of Merriam’s neighborhood
park events throughout the summer on June 12, July 17
or August 21 from 6:30-8:30 pm. With kids games and
inflatables, free hot dogs and beverages, live music and
warm summer weather, all you need to bring is a chair–
we’ll take care of the fun quotient!
For park amenities and information,visit www.merriam.org/parks
June 12: Brown
July 17: Quail Creek
Aug 21: Campbell
Merriam Parks & TrailsAntioch Park 6501 Antioch Road
Brown Memorial Park 5040 Booker Drive
Campbell Park 9674 W. 61st Street
Chatlain Park 6300 Carter Avenue
Merriam Marketplace 5740 Merriam Drive
Quail Creek Park 7024 Grandview Ave.
Turkey Creek Streamway Trail 75th St. to Antioch Rd.
Vavra Park 6114 Slater Street
Waterfall Park 5191 Merriam Drive
Werner Park 5750 Merriam Drive
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 27
Eisenhower Presidential Library
Georgetown Apartments
The ideal community for comfortable family living,Georgetown Apartments offers acres of exquisitely land-
scaped grounds with a comprehensive array of fine residences, recreational and social amenities, and 24-hour-a-day service.
Georgetown residences offer 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 relaxedand fun-filled lifestyle with a private, residents-only King's Hall clubhouse. Facilities include a Tap Room, indoor pool, sauna, fitness center, billiard room, kitchen for parties, and reading, activity and game rooms. Georgetown also offers an outdoor
pool, putting green, tennis courts, volleyball courts and winding pathways throughout the community.
7200 Eby Drive • Merriam, KS 66204(913) 626-2666 • Fax (913) 262-6839
We're close to everything…Except average!
Office Hours:Monday-Friday - 9am - 6pm
Saturday - 10am - 5pmSunday - 1pm - 5pm
w w w . m a l k i n p r o p e r t i e s . c o m
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If you’re looking for a group tour or want to host a meeting, you’ll definitely want to consider Merriam. Because of our convenient location along Interstate 35, our affordable lodging, a variety of meeting spaces and group-friendly tours, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how accommodating Merriam can be. Contact the CVB office to book a tour or schedule a site visit.
Group ToursFrom old-fashioned milk shakes to
custom-made violins, delicious dessert bread to the rockin’ vibe at GuitarLamp, touring Merriam is a treat! Be among the hundreds of people who tour our community each year and see for yourself what everyone is raving about. With 1-2 day itineraries and great hotel rates for overnight groups, we’re here to make your tour a success.
*All tours must be booked through the CVB office at 913.403.8999.Please visit the group travel section at www.exploremerriam.com for details.
Drury Inn • 9009 W. Shawnee Mission Pkwy • 913.236.9200 12
Hampton Inn & Suites • 7400 W. Frontage Road • 913.722.0800 50
Irene B. French Community Center • 5701 Merriam Drive • 913.322.5550 10-325
Johnson County Library – Antioch Branch Non-profit groups only • 8700 Shawnee Mission Pkwy • 913.826.4600 100
Merriam City Hall - Community Room • 9001 W. 62nd Street • 913.322.5500 20-112
Merriam Historic Plaza • 6304 E. Frontage Road • 913.403.8999 49
Quality Inn • 6601 E. Frontage Road • 913.262.4448 40
LOCATION CAPACITY
GROUPS... a nd meetings
Meetings
TourS:Strawberry Hill Povitica
K.C. Strings Violin Shop
Georgetown Pharmacy Soda Shop
Tim Murphy Art Gallery
GuitarLamp
Mixture
Small to mid-size meetings in Merriam are Just Right for your business needs. We’ve got seven different meeting facilities to choose from with capacity for oneto 300. From board meetings to birthday parties, Merriam is a great destinationto meet in the middle of the metro.
Visit the Meeting Planners section at www.exploremerriam.com for more information.
The Bubble Room
Drury Inn • 9009 W. Shawnee Mission Pkwy • 913.236.9200 12
Hampton Inn & Suites • 7400 W. Frontage Road • 913.722.0800 50
Irene B. French Community Center • 5701 Merriam Drive • 913.322.5550 10-325
Johnson County Library – Antioch Branch Non-profit groups only • 8700 Shawnee Mission Pkwy • 913.826.4600 100
Merriam City Hall - Community Room • 9001 W. 62nd Street • 913.322.5500 20-112
Merriam Historic Plaza • 6304 E. Frontage Road • 913.403.8999 49
Quality Inn • 6601 E. Frontage Road • 913.262.4448 40
30 | MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE
March 7 - April 11HEARTLANd ARTIST EXHIBITIONTim Murphy Art Gallery19th annual juried art show featuring collections of artistsfrom across the United States.
April 6 - 1025TH ANNIvERSARY CELEBRATIONIrene B. French Community CenterCome and enjoy daily specials atthe Irene B. French Community Center in celebration of 25 years!
April 25 | 7am-1pmCOMMUNITY GARAGE SALEMerriam MarketplaceFind a bargain at the annualcommunity-wide garage sale,but come early for the best deals.
Saturdays, May 2–October 10 | 7am-1pmWednesdays, June 3–August 26 | 4-7pmFARMERS’ MARkETMerriam MarketplaceFruits and veggies, hand-madeitems, baked goods and so much more every week at the market.
May 16 | 10am-4pmTURkEY CREEk FESTIvALAntioch ParkMerriam’s annual city-wide festivalfeaturing food, games, arts & crafts vendors, live music, kids area and great family fun.
May 30 – September 7AqUATIC CENTER SEASONTake a dip at the Merriam Aquatic Center – a great place to catch some rays or enjoy pool time with the kids!
June 14, July 12, August 9 | 4:30-7:30pmSUMMER SUNdAYSMerriam MarketplaceEnjoy live music and children’s activities as you delight in the local flavor from metro area food trucks.
June 12, July 17, August 21 | 6:30-8:30pmPARTY IN YOUR PARkVarious ParksGrab a blanket or chair and meet your neighbors at one of the Party in YOUR Park events. Kids inflatables, food, live music and great summer memories are on us!
June 27 - July 4 FLAGS 4 FREEdOM Merriam Marketplace Salute the red, white and blue as you enjoy the patriotic beauty of the largest flag field in the state of Kansas!
June 30 | 11am-2pmTRUCk TUESdAYMerriam MarketplaceLeave the office for lunch and explore the unique menus of the local food trucks right in downtown Merriam.
August 15 | 6:30-8:30pmCRUISE NIGHTMerriam MarketplaceCruise downtown Merriam in your car or truck for a fun evening with music, food and plenty of engine revving.
October 11 | 4-7pmFUNdAY SUNdAYMerriam Marketplace Enjoy the last food truck event of the season with neighbors and friends in downtown Merriam.
October 24 | 2-4:30pmHALLOwEEN HAPPENINGMerriam MarketplaceDress up for this scare-free event in down-town Merriam so your little ghosts and goblins can enjoy candy, prizes and fun!
November 13 | 6:30-8:30pmFAMILY MOvIE NIGHTIrene B. French Community CenterCome if you dare and enjoy a family-based thriller movie (appropriate for all ages) on Friday the 13th. Refreshments provided.
December 5 | 5:30pmSUNdOwN wITH SANTAMerriam MarketplaceHo, ho, ho! Meet Santa in downtown Merriam for hot cocoa, caroling and a fun holiday time while the Mayor lights the tree! December 10 | 7-8:30pm METRO HIGH SCHOOL ART EXHIBITION Tim Murphy Art Gallery One of the highest attended art shows in Merriam, join us on opening night for special performances, awards, food and tons of local student talent.
EvENTS... a nd fun happenings
For event details,visit www.exploremerriam.com/events
September 12 | 10am-4pmTURkEY CREEk CAR SHOwMerriam MarketplaceThis annual event features all classes of cars,trucks and cycles. Enjoy prizes, music,concessions and 250+ entries on display.
MERRIAM COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE | 31
Museum at Prairiefire
Shawnee Mission Med