Emporia

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Emporia's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Emporia
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh coffee and pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the beautiful parks in the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the David Traylor Zoo to see a variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the zoo or nearby park.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a family-friendly restaurant downtown. Afterward, consider catching a live music performance at a local venue.

day 2
Nature Walks
morning
:

Grab a coffee and head out to the Flint Hills Nature Trail for a morning hike. Enjoy the scenic views and fresh air as you connect with nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at the trailhead before exploring more of the Flint Hills Region. Look for local flora and fauna during your walk.

evening
:

Return to Emporia and unwind at a local brewery for a casual dinner. Pair your meal with a locally brewed beer or a refreshing soda.

day 3
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Emporia Arts Council to view local art exhibitions. Engage in any hands-on art workshops if available.

afternoon
:

Explore the Emporia State University campus and check out the Memorial Union for more art and cultural experiences. Grab lunch at the university cafeteria or a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Attend a theater performance or a local play at a community center to immerse yourself in the arts. Finish the night with dessert at a charming café.

day 4
History Day
morning
:

Start the day with breakfast at a historic diner, enjoying classic American fare. Visit the Lyon County History Museum right after to learn about the rich local history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant that showcases regional cuisine. Afterward, explore the historic downtown area and its unique shops.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant with a historical theme to continue the day's exploration. Wrap up the evening with a historic walking tour if offered.

day 5
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a diner, then prepare for a day in nature. Head to a nearby lake for fishing, boating, or kayaking.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch with views of the water and continue to spend time in the great outdoors. Try hiking trails or have fun birdwatching.

evening
:

Return to Emporia and grill dinner at a local park’s picnic area. Share stories of your day with friends around a fire pit, if allowed.

day 6
Culinary Journey
morning
:

Start with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite spot that features farm-to-table ingredients. Explore the local farmer's market to discover fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class that showcases regional dishes or traditions. Enjoy the meals you prepare for lunch and gather tips for cooking at home.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned restaurant to savor gourmet interpretations of classic dishes. End your culinary journey with a sweet treat from a local bakery.

day 7
Family Fun
morning
:

Kick off the day with breakfast at a family-friendly café. Afterward, enjoy a morning of fun at a local children’s museum.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a kid-friendly restaurant and then visit the local bowling alley or arcade for some indoor sports. Keep the kids entertained with fun activities.

evening
:

Wrap the day with a family movie night at home or in a local theater. Share a pizza delivery dinner as a treat for the whole family!

day 8
Museums and Learning
morning
:

Have breakfast at a local café, then head to the Kansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial for a touching experience. Reflect on the importance of service and sacrifice.

afternoon
:

Visit the Emporia State University Museum of Anthropology to expand your knowledge. Engage with interactive exhibits and enjoy lunch at the campus café.

evening
:

Find a local spot to eat and discuss what you've learned throughout the day. Optionally, attend a guest lecture or community event focused on historical topics.

day 9
Active Day
morning
:

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast at a local health-conscious café. Rent bikes and explore the city’s paths and parks, getting in some exercise.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a bike-friendly restaurant. After lunch, visit the local skate park or community center to engage in more sports activities.

evening
:

End the day with a peaceful outdoor dinner at a scenic spot. Reflect on your active day and enjoy the sunset.

day 10
Festival Day
morning
:

Start with breakfast from a local food truck to get in the festival spirit. Head out to a local fair or festival happening in the area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the local crafts and food offerings at the festival while interacting with vendors. Grab lunch from one of the food stalls showcasing local cuisine.

evening
:

Stay for the evening entertainment, like concerts or performances at the festival. End the day with fun fireworks if the festival features them.

Discover Emporia

Read more in our Emporia 2024 Travel Guide.

Emporia Travel Guide