Emporia usually gets its best weather during fall. Daily highs sit in the mid-80s in September but drop to the mid-50s by the end of the season. Fall is usually dry, so you can leave your umbrella behind.
Summers are warm, with average daily temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s. However, this season is also Emporia's wettest. Local storms can be more than an annoyance. They can also turn violent at times. While Emporia hasn't seen a fatal tornado since June 1974, strong winds and relentless rain can make visiting during this season unpleasant. Research the local weather conditions and tornado safety before you leave to avoid any nasty surprises.
Spring weather can be pleasant, especially as summer approaches. However, as the weather warms to a balmy average in the mid-70s in May, rain becomes more common.
You'll need thick skin to enjoy Emporia during winter. The weather can be extremely cold, bringing more than 10 inches of snow over the course of the season. Ice storms and blizzards are also common from December to February.
Several well-known accommodation providers in Emporia treat selected guests to special rates. The following hotels offer some of the best discounts in the city.
La Quinta Inn Emporia has special rates for AAA members, AARP members, senior citizens, military personnel, and government employees. The rooms will feel like your home away from home, with comfortable Bright Morning pillow-top beds, cable TV sets, microwave ovens, and fridges. In your downtime, La Quinta Inn lets you mix up your workout with an indoor pool and fitness center. The hotel serves a free Bright Side breakfast with waffles and pastries each morning. There are snacks at the Bright Side Market, and you're an easy walk from Applebee's, IHOP, and Montana Mike's for lunch and dinner.
Super 8 by Wyndham offers discounts for AAA members, seniors and AARP members, government employees, currently serving military personnel, and veterans — making this affordable pet-friendly hotel even more budget-friendly. Its rooms are simple but comfortable, with large 46-inch high-definition LED TVs, free and fast Wi-Fi, and soft beds. Rest while the charging station recharges your electric car, then enjoy the tasty SuperStart breakfast served free to guests each morning.
Savvy travelers know that bigger isn't always better, yet they understand that often you get just what you pay for. The following hotels get the balance right, with relatively affordable prices considering their rooms and facilities. When you want to see value for money, these Emporia hotels are bound to impress.
Quality Inn & Suites in Emporia is a smart choice for business travelers and leisure seekers. Professionals will enjoy its close proximity to local companies, copy, print, and fax facilities in the business room, and 1,500 square feet of meeting and event space. In your downtime, swim laps in the indoor pool, work up a sweat in the fitness center, or connect with loved ones back home using the free Wi-Fi. The complimentary breakfast buffet provides all the energy you need to get through a busy day in Emporia. Pet-friendly rooms are available on request.
Candlewood Suites Emporia is perfect for guests who want to take control of their vacation. As an all-suites hotel, there are kitchens in each room along with a gazebo grill downstairs, providing plenty of options for eating in. The on-site laundry facilities help you keep on top of your washing while you're away. But staying here isn't all about hard work. There's a recently renovated fitness center, DVD players in each room, rental movies in the lobby, and board games in the Lending Locker. Guests enjoy plenty of free perks too, including standard Wi-Fi, local calls, and laundry use.
While Emporia has its fair share of popular chain restaurants, its family-owned eateries provide the real taste of the city. Enjoy delicious food and Midwestern service with a smile at the following establishments.
Billy Bob's BBQ & Ice Cream has everything you need to satisfy your cravings. Think melt-in-the-mouth ribs, pulled pork, and brisket served with all your favorite sides. Make sure you save room for dessert. Billy Bob's ice cream is legendary around these parts. The daily lunch specials are always a great value.
For authentic Mexican, it has to be Casa Ramos. The delicious dishes, no doubt passed down through generations of Ramos family members, combine with friendly service to make this dining experience unforgettable.
If you're jonesing for burgers and other fast food indulgences, skip the chains and head to Do-Bs instead. This family-run fast food restaurant has popular treats like burgers and fries as well as a few unexpected offerings like Philly cheesesteaks and Louisiana po'boys. With low-priced meals that are big on taste, it's easy to see why college kids love Do-Bs.
Emporia is a friendly city with a vibrant energy that visitors of all ages love. Discover the charm of this Midwestern city on your next getaway.
Below are reviews of the city of Emporia, KS from an actual visitor's perspective.
I loved the Zoo, and the Emporia State University campus was very beautiful. Emporia's diners and eateries served excellent food. The people were friendly and I'll probably return someday.
Stopped by chance, glad we did!
Didn't get to explore it much but it didn't seem like there was much to it. Very small.