Emporia Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, food, accommodations, and tips for visiting the charming city of Emporia in the heart of Kansas.


Introduction to Emporia

Emporia, Kansas, is a charming city located in the heart of the Flint Hills, surrounded by the Great Plains of North America. A diverse community with a rich historical and cultural heritage, Emporia is a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventures, great food, and one-of-a-kind attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Emporia

To make the most of your visit to Emporia, don’t miss these top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • William Allen White House: This house museum is the former home of William Allen White, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, and author who lived in Emporia during the early 1900s. The house showcases both the life of White and the history of Emporia.

  • Lyon County Historical Museum: Located in the heart of Emporia’s downtown district, this museum is housed in a restored 1904 railway depot. Visitors can explore exhibits on Lyon County’s history, including the Santa Fe Trail, Native American history, and pioneer days.

  • Beauvais-Boehringer Farmstead: This restored 19th-century farmstead offers a glimpse of life on the prairie during the Victorian era. With guided tours, visitors can explore the farmhouse, barn, and outbuildings to learn about the day-to-day operations of a working farm.

Natural Attractions of Emporia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Flint Hills National Scenic Byway: The Flint Hills are one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems in the world. This scenic byway offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills and native grasses, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

  • David Traylor Zoo: This small but well-maintained zoo is home to over 300 animals from around the world, including tigers, bears, and monkeys. Visitors can also enjoy a train ride around the zoo and a petting zoo for the kids.

  • Soden’s Grove Park: This historic park was once a stop along the Santa Fe Trail and served as a campsite for travelers. Today, visitors can enjoy a picnic in the shade of the trees, play on the playground, and cool off in the pool.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Emporia

Emporia is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Flint Hills Nature Trail: This 117-mile rail trail runs from Osawatomie to Herington, passing through Emporia along the way. The trail is open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.

  • Peter Pan Park: This park offers trails that wind through wooded areas, past a waterfall and a pond, and along the Neosho River. With picnic tables and shelters, this is a great spot for a family outing.

Best Things to Do in Emporia: Activities and Tours

From museums to outdoor adventures, Emporia offers plenty of fun activities for visitors of all ages. Don’t miss these top things to do:

  • Emporia State University: Take a guided tour of Emporia State University’s beautiful campus. Founded in 1863, the university has a rich history and stunning architecture.

  • Granada Theatre: This historic theatre hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and movie screenings. With its Art Deco design and restored interior, the Granada is a must-see for any visitor to Emporia.

  • Emporia Farmers Market: Sample the best of local produce and handmade crafts at the Emporia Farmers Market, held every Saturday from May to October.

Week-Long Itinerary for Emporia

If you have a week to spend in Emporia, here’s a suggested itinerary for making the most of your time:

Day 1: Historical Emporia

Start your trip with a day exploring Emporia’s rich history. Visit the William Allen White House, the Lyon County Historical Museum, and the Beauvais-Boehringer Farmstead. In the evening, catch a show at the historic Granada Theatre.

Day 2: Natural Beauty

Spend the day enjoying the natural beauty of the Flint Hills. Take a hike on the Flint Hills Nature Trail, visit the David Traylor Zoo and Soden’s Grove Park.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure

Get your adrenaline flowing with a day of outdoor adventure. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the Neosho River, or try your hand at fishing at one of the area’s many lakes. In the evening, relax with dinner at one of Emporia’s many local restaurants.

Day 4: Emporia State University

Take a guided tour of Emporia State University’s beautiful campus. Visit the National Teachers Hall of Fame, which honors outstanding teachers from around the country.

Day 5: Art and Culture

Emporia is home to a thriving arts community. Spend the day exploring local galleries and studios, such as the Emporia Arts Center. In the evening, catch a performance at the Granada Theatre or Emporia State University.

Day 6: Shopping

Spend the day shopping for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts at the Emporia Farmers Market and local boutiques.

Day 7: Relax in the Park

Spend your last day in Emporia enjoying the local parks. Pack a picnic and spend the day lounging in the sun at Peter Pan Park or Jones Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Emporia

Emporia is home to a vibrant food and drink scene, offering a mix of traditional Kansas fare and globally-inspired cuisine. Don’t miss these top spots:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgers at Bobby D’s: This local favorite serves up juicy burgers with a variety of toppings, and their onion rings are not to be missed!

  • Barbecue at Do-B’s: Do-B’s has been serving up mouth-watering barbecue for over 30 years. Their brisket and ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.

  • Tacos at Casa Ramos: This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Mexican cuisine, including their famous street-style tacos.

Local Beverages

  • Beer at Radius Brewing Company: Radius offers a rotating selection of small-batch craft beer, brewed on-site. Don’t miss their popular pizza and beer pairings!

  • Coffee at Twin Rivers Winery and Gourmet Shoppe: This cozy cafe offers a selection of coffee, wine, and gourmet food products. Sip on a latte while you shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Where to Stay in Emporia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Emporia offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

  • Candlewood Suites Emporia: This extended-stay hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens, perfect for longer stays.

  • Hampton Inn Emporia: This hotel boasts a fitness center, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.

  • Cottonwood Inn: This motel features cozy rooms and an on-site restaurant serving up local Kansas fare.

What to Buy in Emporia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Emporia’s unique charm with these locally-made products:

  • Prairie-inspired pottery from Deanie’s Ceramic Studio: Deanie’s creates handmade pottery with beautiful impressions of native Kansas grasses.

  • Jams and honey from Flint Hills Honey and The Jam Man: These companies offer up delicious local honey and homemade jams, perfect for breakfast or as a gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Emporia

Emporia is a diverse community with a rich cultural heritage. Be sure to explore the local arts scene and attend community events to fully immerse yourself in the culture.

Best Time to Visit Emporia

The best time to visit Emporia is from May to October, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Emporia

Do:

  • Take advantage of the local outdoor recreation opportunities.

  • Visit the local historical sites and museums to learn about Emporia’s rich history.

  • Try the local cuisine, including barbecue and Tex-Mex.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Emporia

Emporia is a generally safe city, but visitors should still take precautions, such as securing valuable items and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Emporia

There are no current health concerns specific to Emporia. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before travel and ensure all necessary vaccinations are up to date.

Getting to Emporia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Emporia is easily accessible via a variety of transportation options, including:

Airports Near Emporia

  • Topeka Regional Airport (68 miles away)
  • Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (125 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Emporia

  • Greyhound Bus Lines (1.5 miles away)

Other Options

Driving to Emporia is also an option, with several major highways running through the area.

How to Get Around in Emporia

Emporia is a small city, easily navigable by car or on foot.

Where to Go Next from Emporia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Don’t miss these nearby destinations and excursions from Emporia:

  • Council Grove: This historic town, located 25 miles east of Emporia, offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and unique shopping and dining experiences.

  • Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: Located 50 miles south of Emporia, this preserve offers visitors the chance to explore one of North America’s last remaining tallgrass prairies.

Conclusion

Emporia, Kansas, offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. From the charming downtown district to the stunning Flint Hills, there is something for everyone in Emporia. So pack your bags, and come explore this hidden gem in the heart of Kansas.