Emporia was formed when the towns of Hicksford and Belfield merged in 1887. It was named after Emporia in Kansas, the hometown of U.S. Sen. Preston B. Plumb, friend of Greensville County delegate Benjamin D. Tillar Jr. In 1900, the city had grant plans, issuing bonds to establish a water plant and new lights and improve its streets. It hosted an agricultural fair in 1906, and several new businesses, including retailers, insurance companies, and soda bottlers, established themselves in subsequent years. In 1967, the town of Emporia was rechartered as an independent city.
With a population around 6,000 people, Emporia is one of Virginia's smallest cities. But when it comes to cities, bigger isn't always better. CSX and Norfolk Southern railway lines both cross through the city, along with Route 58, Interstate 95, and Route 301. All these transportation services make Emporia accessible for travelers across America. These travelers appreciate Emporia's historic buildings, exciting festivals, boutique stores, and more. Discover all that this independent city offers during your next Virginia vacation.
When is the best time to visit the Emporia, VA area?
Emporia experiences all four seasons, with dramatically different weather ushering in each one. Summers can be very hot and winters can be very cold. Many travelers prefer the more pleasant temperatures in spring and fall.
During these seasons, expect a range of temperatures from the low 60s to high 80s Fahrenheit, depending when you're traveling. The closer to summer your visit, the warmer the weather will be, so consider what you hope to do with your time when making your plans. Rain is more common in spring than fall, so consider this precipitation occurrence when planning outdoor activities.
During summer, average highs usually hover around the mid- to high 80s, but temperatures can easily exceed 100 during heat waves. Summer is also Emporia's wettest season. The relentless rain can spoil vacation plans. Winters are on the other end of the spectrum, with daytime temperatures in the high 40s to low 50s. Temperatures have been known to drop below zero on chilly nights.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Emporia, VA:
Emporia by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Emporia, VA. You can use these line graphs to calculate the best time period to stay in Emporia for your upcoming travels.
Where are the top Emporia, VA luxury hotels?
As a small city, Emporia doesn't have the luxury hotels of many larger tourist hotspots. However, travel about 13 miles to Roanoke Rapids, and you'll find some best hotels near Emporia with excellent facilities and red-carpet service.
Hampton Inn Roanoke Rapids is conveniently located near Exit 173, off Interstate 95. Its guest rooms are spacious, but if you need more room, book a suite. All rooms have quality amenities, including large 42-inch TVs, WaterPik showerheads, work desks, and the signature Hampton beds. Wi-Fi is free, along with daily breakfasts. Linger over the buffet or grab an On the Run breakfast bag if you're short on time. Take care of cravings during the day at the Suite Shop, which sells snacks, beverages, and other essentials. The hotel also has its own business center, outdoor pool, and on-site gym.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Roanoke Rapids SE is also off the interstate. This hotel feels more modern, with contemporary-looking rooms and a light, airy fitness center with cutting-edge exercise equipment. The fitness center is open 24/7 throughout the year. Visit between mid-April and late September to supercharge your workouts with laps in the seasonal pool. After all the excitement, retire to your room for free Wi-Fi, time in front of the TV, or some quality shut-eye. With plush duvets, blackout shades, and a selection of pillows, your room offers a way to catch up on rest. After recharging your batteries, enjoy the Holiday Inn's complimentary breakfast buffet.
What are some of the low-cost hotels in Emporia, VA?
3 Star Average Prices: $105.05
Emporia is a great vacation destination for travelers who don't want to spend too much money. You can always rely on low rates from the following low-cost hotels in Emporia.
Red Roof Inn Emporia is a pet-friendly budget hotel only a few minutes from the Belfield Marketplace Shopping Center. Its rooms are great value for the money, with microwaves, mini-refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, and modern simulated wood floors. Wi-Fi is free along with in-room coffee, although if you don't want to brew your own, you can also find free mugs of coffee in the lobby. The hotel also serves free continental breakfasts, with waffles and a selection of breads and cereals, in the lobby each morning. Visit during Memorial Day and Labor Day to enjoy splashing about in the outdoor pool.
Motel 6 Emporia's rooms are a little more dated, but they're still serviceable with work desks and comfortable armchairs for enjoying the expanded cable TV channels. This hotel is a great spot for an affordable family vacation, with its pet-friendly policy and child-friendly facilities that include an outdoor pool and playground. Wi-Fi is also free in all rooms, so your kids won't use all their data playing games or streaming movies. The Motel 6 doesn't have its own restaurant, but it's only five minutes from Huddle House, which serves hearty American classics 24/7.