The Downtown Emporia Historic District is the place to go for a truly unique, local experience. Visit downtown to shop, eat a good meal, and meet friends for a night out.

You'll find antique stores, a gourmet chocolate shop, brewery, winery, coffee shops, bars, and restaurants serving everything from authentic Mexican and Vietnamese to BBQ, pizza, sandwiches. Downtown Emporia begins at 12th Avenue and Commercial Street, and extends 9 blocks to the south. The Emporia State University campus sits at the north end of downtown, where you can catch an ESU football game or just enjoy a stroll around Wooster Lake.

Downtown Emporia also serves as a gathering place for parades, sporting activities, celebrations and events that bring people in the community together. Downtown Emporia hosts over 40 events throughout the year, including epic block parties for the Garmin Unbound Gravel cycling race each summer and the PDGA Dynamic Discs Open disc golf tournament. See our event page or subscribe to our newsletter to find out what's happening next.

The area was designated a national historic district in 2012 and continues to be revitalized. Make to check out the gorgeous Granada Theatre, a 1920s gem that has been restored to its eye-dazzling glory. Downtown Emporia is also home to a history museum and arts center, public library, and much historic architecture.

Downtown Map

Upcoming Events

Public Improvement Auction with Dueling Pianos
Feb 18 , 2023
5:00pm - 9:30 pm
Show of Hands Pitch Competition
Mar 9 , 2023
5:30 pm
The Taste
Apr 15 , 2023
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Glass Blown Open Block Party & Food Truck Festival
Apr 29 , 2023
5 pm - 10:00 pm
Unbound Finish Line Celebration
Jun 3 , 2023
11 am - Midnight
Dynamic Discs Open Block Party & Food Truck Festival
Jun 17 , 2023
5 pm - 10:30 pm
Great American Market
Sep 9 , 2023
7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Apella – Emporia High School Reunion Weekend
Sep 22 - Sep 23 , 2023