Merriam, Kansas • Parks & Recreation
Hours, Indoor Swimming, Fitness, Classes and Room Rentals
Merriam Community Center (MCC) is a 66,000-square-foot recreation facility operated by the City of Merriam at 6040 Slater Street, Merriam, KS 66202. It includes indoor swimming pools, seasonal outdoor aquatics, a fitness center, indoor walking track, gymnasium, group exercise classes, Child Watch and rentable event spaces.
Check the prices, schedules and booking steps below before you buy admission, register for swimming lessons or reserve a room.
Address, Opening Hours and Contact
Merriam, KS 66202
Welcome Desk, classes and rentals.
Regular building hours.
Pool and gym times differ.
8 AM–8 PM during the summer season.
Holiday hours may vary.
Merriam Community Center Daily Admission Fees
You can visit without a monthly membership by purchasing a day pass at the Welcome Desk.
| Visitor category | Resident / member guest | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $10 | $12 |
| Senior, 60+ | $8 | $10 |
| Youth, under 18 | $8 | $10 |
| Children under 2 | Free | Free |
A valid admission pass is required for visitors leaving the lobby and public community space to enter recreation areas.
For resident rates, you must live within Merriam city limits or qualify under the City’s taxable-real-estate residency rule. Be prepared to provide appropriate documentation.
Monthly and Annual Membership Prices
Memberships provide access to the fitness center, track, gymnasium and eligible pool sessions, including seasonal outdoor swimming. Specialty courses and some services carry additional fees.
| Membership | Resident monthly / annual | Non-resident monthly / annual |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $42 / $420 | $47 / $525 |
| Senior, 60+ | $32 / $350 | $42 / $440 |
| Youth | $32 / $350 | $42 / $440 |
| Two-person household | $58 / $625 | $73 / $780 |
| Senior household | $53 / $560 | $63 / $700 |
| Household | $63 / $695 | $78 / $875 |
A standard household membership covers two adults and up to four qualifying dependent children. The two-person household option requires both members to live at the same address, with at least one adult age 18 or older.
Membership rules that affect your decision
- Membership and pass purchases are handled at the Welcome Desk.
- Monthly membership charges are automatically processed on the fifth day of the month.
- Cancellation requires 30 days’ written notice.
- Summer memberships apply only from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Membership is available to both Merriam residents and non-residents.
- Selected eligible health-insurance fitness programs may provide membership benefits.
Fit Class Pass add-on
Members can add a $25 monthly Fit Class Pass for access to eligible group fitness sessions such as WERQ, strength training, restorative yoga and other classes in the current schedule.
Some health plans, including certain SilverSneakers, Renew Active, Silver & Fit and Active & Fit programs, may provide access benefits. Verify eligibility with your insurer.
How to join
- Choose an individual, two-person, senior or household membership.
- Decide between monthly billing and annual payment.
- Check whether you qualify for resident pricing or an insurance benefit.
- Bring proof of residency if requesting the resident rate.
- Visit the Welcome Desk and complete the membership application.
- Ask staff to explain the billing and cancellation conditions.
- Receive your access credentials and check the current activity calendar.
Indoor Pool, Lazy River, Lap Swim and Swimming Lessons
Merriam has a year-round indoor aquatic area with leisure features, lap lanes, a therapy pool and water slides. The outdoor complex provides seasonal swimming, diving boards and other attractions in summer.
Family recreation, water features and designated open-swim periods.
Lap swimming according to the current pool calendar.
The City lists this pool at approximately 90°F.
Seasonal lap lanes, diving boards, slides and water play.
Programs for young swimmers and different ability levels.
Scheduled water exercise and age-specific activities.
When is open swim?
The City advertises open swim beginning daily at noon. Ending times, individual pool availability and aquatic program blocks depend on the current indoor pool calendar.
Lap swimming is also schedule-dependent. All lane swimmers should be prepared to share. With two swimmers, lanes are split; with three or more, circle swimming is used.
Water walking and pool rules
- Water walking is intended for participants age 16 and older.
- Swimmers must shower before entering the pool.
- Proper swimwear is required.
- Only U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are permitted; ordinary floaties and rafts are not allowed.
- Water features operate during posted open-swim periods.
- Lifeguards are on duty while the pools are open.
- Swimwear with hard decorative items or zippers may be prohibited on slides.
Aqua Toddler and sensory-friendly pool time
For young children ages 0–4 who prefer quieter aquatic activities, the City offers Aqua Toddler / Sensory Time. Water features are turned off during these sessions.
The published schedule lists Monday–Friday from 10:30 AM–noon, with punch passes priced at $50 for 10 visits or $90 for 20 visits. A parent must be in the water, and this session is not a formal swimming lesson.
How to enroll in swim lessons
- Review the Fall Aquatics page and select swimming lessons.
- Match the participant’s age and existing swim skills to a class.
- Check the session dates, times, instructor location and fee.
- Sign in to Merriam’s online recreation registration system.
- Complete participant information, payment and any required forms.
- Keep the enrollment confirmation and bring appropriate swimwear.
Basketball, Pickleball, Walking Track and Group Fitness
The gymnasium hosts basketball, pickleball and scheduled community programs. Check the calendar before visiting because reservations, classes and special events can temporarily occupy the courts.
Fall 2026 pickleball
| Option | Schedule / price |
|---|---|
| Open pickleball | Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings; the fall adult-program page lists 8 AM–noon. |
| Member access | Free for members during the scheduled session. |
| 10-visit pickleball punch card | $20. |
| 20-visit pickleball punch card | $40. |
| Beginner clinic | Selected Tuesday sessions, including October 20–November 17, 2026; published price $50. |
The membership page lists a shorter 8–11 AM pickleball window, while the fall program listing shows 8 AM–noon. Confirm the actual session end time before scheduling a visit late in the morning.
Gymnasium safety and fitness age rules
- Wear appropriate non-marking athletic shoes.
- Children younger than nine must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the gym.
- No dunking or hanging on basketball rims.
- Food, glass containers and unsafe behavior are prohibited on the court.
- Members ages 12–15 need a Youth Fitness Equipment Orientation before using designated exercise equipment.
- Fitness rooms can be reserved for group exercise classes at scheduled times.
Walking track punch card
The City lists a walking-track punch option for Monday–Friday 8:30–11:30 AM, priced at $12.50 for 20 punches. This can be useful for visitors who want track walking without committing to a full membership.
Child Watch: Ages, Hours and Fees
Child Watch offers supervised play for children 6 months through 8 years old while their parent or guardian uses the Community Center.
| Day | Child Watch hours |
|---|---|
| Monday–Thursday | 8:30 AM–noon and 4:30–7:30 PM |
| Friday–Saturday | 8:30 AM–noon |
| Sunday | No regular Child Watch hours listed |
Per visit.
Per visit.
Per child per visit.
Member punch cards are also available: $30 for 12 visits, $54 for 24 visits and $72 for 36 visits.
Parents should confirm check-in requirements, the child’s eligibility and availability before arriving during a busy session.
Classes, Preschool Play and Recreation Programs
Merriam Parks and Recreation offers seasonal programming for children, adults and families. Most classes take place at 6040 Slater Street unless an individual activity description lists another location.
| Program | Who it serves | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming lessons | Infants, children and developing swimmers | Select the correct skill and age group. |
| Preschool Indoor Playground | Young children with parental supervision | Check Tuesday morning sessions. |
| Adult fitness | Adults seeking strength, cardio and flexibility | Review class registration or Fit Class Pass. |
| Pickleball instruction | Beginners and returning players | Select an upcoming clinic. |
| Youth activities | Children and teens | Check current Fall Youth Programs. |
| Special events | Families and the local community | Check dates, fees and registration. |
Preschool Indoor Playground
Tuesday sessions are published from 9:30–11:30 AM, with an individual $2 child admission or a $10 ten-visit option. Admission is free for eligible members. A parent or guardian must supervise the child.
How to register for a class
- Open the applicable City of Merriam seasonal programs page.
- Choose an age group and activity.
- Review the class date, fee, age restrictions and any materials required.
- Click the registration link for that exact class.
- Create or sign in to your recreation account.
- Complete participant information and the online registration process.
- Save the confirmation and follow the activity’s check-in requirements.
Merriam Community Center Room Rental Rates
Merriam offers meeting rooms, flexible event spaces, a conference room, gymnasium and private aquatic rentals. Room fees vary by residency and whether the event is classified as commercial.
| Meeting space | Resident / hour | Non-resident / hour | Commercial / hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campbell, Kessler or Loomis | $35 | $45 | $55 |
| Two adjoining rooms | $60 | $75 | $90 |
| Founders: all three rooms | $95 | $120 | $145 |
| Esther Brown | $30 | $35 | $45 |
| Walker School conference room | $25 | $30 | $40 |
Meeting room capacities
| Room | Banquet | Classroom | Theater |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Campbell / Kessler / Loomis | 56 | 48 | 70 |
| Two adjoining rooms | 144 | 80 | 112 |
| Founders | 224 | 120 | 224 |
| Esther Brown | Not listed | 30 | 40 |
| Walker School conference room | 12-person conference setting | Not listed | Not listed |
Sample base room costs
Resident Walker School conference room, two hours.
Resident single meeting room, two hours.
Resident Founders room, four hours.
Examples cover room time only and are not approved rental quotes. Deposits, staffing and special conditions may add to the cost.
Important rental conditions
- The renter must be at least 21 years old.
- Preparation and cleanup must be included in the reserved rental time.
- Rentals cannot extend beyond midnight.
- The renter or designated group contact must remain present throughout the event.
- Room rental does not grant access to other recreation spaces.
- Resident-rate eligibility must be documented.
- After-hours staff charges are listed at $20 per staff member per hour.
- The facility can require deposits, additional staffing or other conditions depending on the event.
How to book an event space
- Select a meeting room based on your guest count and layout.
- Choose a primary event date and alternate dates.
- Include setup, decorating, event time and cleanup in the request.
- Open the City’s official rentals page and locate the facility rental application.
- Complete contact information, event type, estimated attendance and requested room.
- Submit the application to the rental team.
- Review availability, pricing, deposits and event restrictions.
- Complete payment and receive confirmation before inviting guests.
Swimming Pool Birthday Parties and Pool Rentals
Merriam offers pool party packages that combine swimming and private party-room time, as well as separate after-hours aquatic rentals.
Pool birthday package
Up to 20 guests.
Up to five additional guests.
All adults and children count.
Packages last approximately 2½ hours, with swimming for 1½ hours and party-room time. Available party dates are Friday, Saturday and Sunday, depending on reservations.
How to book a birthday party
- Choose a Friday, Saturday or Sunday and prepare an alternate date.
- Keep the guest list within 25 people, including adults.
- Open the official birthday party reservation application.
- Submit event contact information and requested date.
- Allow one business day for staff to confirm receipt.
- Wait for availability confirmation and the payment call.
- Make payment and keep the emailed paid receipt as booking confirmation.
Birthday party rules
- Swimmers must bring their own towels.
- Children 8 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
- Children 4 and younger must have an adult in the water at all times.
- Food and drinks must remain in the designated party-room area.
- Banners, streamers and confetti are prohibited.
- Maximum room capacity is 25 people without exception.
Private aquatic rental rates
| Area | Resident / hour | Non-resident / hour | Commercial / hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor pool | $200 | $250 | $300 |
| Outdoor pool, seasonal | $200 | $250 | $300 |
| Therapy pool | $120 | $150 | $180 |
| Individual lap lane | $15 | $15 | $15 |
Private aquatic rentals take place after the facility closes. The listed pool fee includes staffing for up to 40 guests, with additional charges possible for larger or more complex events.
Scholarships and Reduced-Cost Programs
Some Merriam residents can qualify for scholarships to help pay for recreation membership, swimming lessons or group fitness programs.
Assistance for qualifying Merriam households with children.
Up to $100 per youth each year toward eligible swim lessons or swim team registration.
Up to $240 per eligible senior per calendar year, subject to funds.
How to apply
- Confirm Merriam residency and the scholarship category.
- Open the official scholarship page and read eligibility requirements.
- Prepare proof of Merriam residency.
- Prepare current proof of qualifying public assistance where required.
- Submit the scholarship application online or at the Welcome Desk.
- Allow approximately seven working days for a decision.
- If approved, visit the center to complete registration and pay any remaining balance.
Merriam Community Center Map and Parking
Merriam Community Center
6040 Slater Street
Merriam, KS 66202
Johnson County, Kansas
Parking and arrival tips
- By car: Use 6040 Slater Street. The City advertises free parking and convenient access from Interstate 35.
- For swimming: Allow additional time for check-in, lockers and changing.
- For pickleball: Check the actual session end time and court calendar.
- For a rental: Confirm the room name and access arrangements for your guests.
- For accessibility: Contact the Welcome Desk about accessible entrances, pool accommodations or other program needs.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Merriam Community Center located?
Merriam Community Center is at 6040 Slater Street, Merriam, Kansas 66202, near Interstate 35.
2. What are Merriam Community Center hours?
Regular hours are Monday–Thursday 5 AM–9 PM, Friday 5 AM–8 PM, Saturday 8 AM–6 PM and Sunday 10 AM–6 PM. Summer Saturday hours extend to 8 PM between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
3. What is the Merriam Community Center phone number?
The main telephone number is 913-322-5550 for admissions, classes, aquatics, rentals and general assistance.
4. How much is a Merriam Community Center day pass?
A resident or member-guest adult day pass is $10; non-resident adult admission is $12. Youth and seniors pay $8 for residents/member guests or $10 for non-residents. Children under two are free.
5. Does Merriam Community Center have an indoor pool?
Yes. The indoor aquatic area has recreation features, lap lanes, slides, a lazy river and therapy water. The City advertises open swim beginning daily at noon, subject to the pool schedule.
6. How much does a Merriam membership cost?
Resident adult membership is $42 monthly or $420 annually. Non-resident adult membership is $47 monthly or $525 annually. Household, senior, youth and two-person memberships have different prices.
7. Does Merriam Community Center have pickleball?
Yes. The fall program lists pickleball Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, free for eligible members. Ten-visit and twenty-visit punch passes are $20 and $40. Confirm current court times before visiting.
8. Is Child Watch available at Merriam Community Center?
Yes. Child Watch serves children aged six months through eight years for up to two hours per visit. Fees are $3 per child for members or $4 for non-members during the posted Child Watch schedule.
9. Can I rent Merriam Community Center for a meeting or party?
Yes. Meeting rooms, conference space, birthday parties and private pool rentals are available. Resident hourly meeting-room rates range from $25 to $95 depending on the room, with additional charges and approval requirements possible.
10. How do I register for Merriam recreation classes?
Open the City’s current seasonal program listing, select an activity, review eligibility and dates, then use the online registration system. You can also call the Welcome Desk at 913-322-5550 for help.
Official City of Merriam Resources
These official pages provide the final application, booking, registration and schedule information:
- Community Center Main Page — hours, amenities, contact and facility calendar.
- Membership, Day Pass and Punch Pass Rates — prices, resident eligibility and cancellation conditions.
- Fall Aquatics — current swim calendars and aquatic programs.
- Gymnasium and Group Fitness — court calendars, rules and fitness information.
- Adult Programs and Pickleball — current classes and activities.
- Youth Programs — swimming lessons, preschool activities and recreation classes.
- Facility Rental Information — rooms, prices and rental forms.
- Birthday Party Application — pool packages and booking procedure.
- Recreation Scholarships — assistance eligibility and application steps.
Information reviewed October 16, 2026. Independent visitor guide; not affiliated with the City of Merriam.