Things To Do
in Emmaus
Emmaus is a small, historic borough in eastern Pennsylvania, part of the Lehigh Valley. Streets are lined with brick storefronts, charming 19th‑century architecture, and tree‑lined sidewalks. The town has a strong sense of community, with locally owned shops, cafes, and frequent neighborhood events.
Nestled near the Lehigh River, Emmaus serves as a comfortable base for exploring Allentown, Bethlehem, and the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Emmaus Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich history of the town. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the charming downtown area, taking in the architecture and local shops. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a fresh cup of coffee to fuel your adventures.
After lunch, head to the nearby Trexler Nature Preserve for a tranquil hike amid beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Spend the afternoon enjoying the outdoors while capturing stunning photographs of the natural scenery. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the preserve's scenic spots.
As the sun sets, return to Emmaus and treat yourself to dinner at one of the cozy local restaurants offering farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, take a stroll through the town's picturesque parks or explore local art galleries that often feature evening events. End your night with a sweet treat from the local ice cream parlor.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Emmaus Arts Commission, where you can view local art exhibits and possibly participate in a workshop. Spend some time walking through the streets, appreciating the various sculptures and murals that adorn the town. A hearty breakfast at a local diner will prepare you for a day full of cultural exploration.
In the afternoon, check out the local library for literary events or author readings that might be taking place. Dive into the vibrant literary scene by participating in a book club or simply enjoying a peaceful moment surrounded by books. You could also explore nearby galleries that showcase local talent and engage in conversations with artists.
As dusk approaches, attend a performance at the Emmaus Theatre, where you can enjoy live music or a thought-provoking play. After the show, gather at a nearby pub for a casual dinner and perhaps enjoy some local brews while discussing the evening's entertainment. This combination of culture and community makes for a delightful end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚌Public transit pass (weekly) | $20-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with friendly locals
- Access to nature and easy day trips to Allentown and Bethlehem
- Lower crowds and prices compared with larger cities
- Limited nightlife options within Emmaus itself
- Fewer large-scale dining and entertainment venues nearby
Places to Visit in Emmaus
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful brick storefronts, period lighting, and brick sidewalks provide classic small-town charm, especially at golden hour.
Rolling fields and woodlands offer wide-open landscapes and wildlife moments—a great sunrise shoot.
Scenic bridges and water features along the creek provide tranquil riverside compositions.
Riverside scenes and canal locks suitable for daytime or twilight photography.
Food in Emmaus
Emmaus Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Pennsylvania Dutch molasses pie, often found in local bakeries and diners.
Must-Try!
Freshly baked pretzels from neighborhood bakeries, perfect with mustard.
Filled dumplings reflecting Polish and Ukrainian influences; common in local diners and markets.
A savory breakfast staple made from pork scraps; commonly served fried with eggs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, local meats, baked goods, and prepared foods from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
If you encounter Amish communities, observe quietly, avoid photographing people without permission, and give them space on rural roads.
Be polite, queue patiently, and greet others with a friendly hello; modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Emmaus
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard for good service; tip at bars and for takeout service as appropriate.
Major credit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy at smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with sudden thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; excellent for outdoor activities and photography.
Cold temperatures with possible snowfall; layer up and be prepared for icy surfaces; some outdoor trails may close.
Mild weather with rain showers and blooming flowers; great for hikes, markets, and street photography.
Emmaus at Night
Hiking in Emmaus
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through rolling woodlands and fields just outside town.
Forest and creekside trails with scenic overlooks and picnic areas.
Riverside trails suitable for easy hikes and long bike rides along the Lehigh River.
Airports
How to reach Emmaus by plane.
Located near Allentown, roughly 25-30 miles from Emmaus; about 30-40 minutes by car with domestic flights.
Major international hub about 75-90 miles southeast; 1.5-2 hours by car depending on traffic.
Large hub about 85-100 miles northeast; roughly 1.75-2.5 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The area has a majority White population with family-oriented communities.
Smaller but growing communities contributing to the area's cultural diversity.
Visible presence in the surrounding countryside; treat with respect and avoid intrusive photography on private property.
Residents who commute to nearby colleges and metro-area employers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local and regional games, with college teams nearby (Lehigh University and Muhlenberg College).
School and community leagues; opportunities to watch or join local events.
Popular outdoor activities on nature trails and river paths in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Emmaus.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find ample veggie dishes; look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and roasted vegetable sides. Don’t hesitate to ask for meat-free substitutions.