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Emmaus

Emmaus, Pennsylvania, United States

Nestled in the heart of Lehigh Valley, Emmaus, Pennsylvania is a charming town with a rich history and vibrant community spirit. Located just a short drive from Allentown, this quaint destination offers visitors a deligh…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Emmaus.

Top Hotels in Emmaus

Top Flights to Emmaus

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Emmaus.

Tours

Visit the Emmaus Historical Society

Learn about the local history of Emmaus through fascinating exhibits and collections.

Lehigh County Heritage Center Visit

Discover the heritage of Lehigh County at this insightful museum.

Shopping

Emmaus Farmers' Market

Experience the local produce and handmade goods at Emmaus Farmers' Market.

Outdoor

Hiking at South Mountain Preserve

Explore the trails of South Mountain Preserve, a beautiful natural area offering hiking and bird watching opportunities.

Rodale Institute Farm Tour

Take a guided tour of the Rodale Institute, known for its pioneering work in organic farming.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Emmaus.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
11,600
Languages
French, Arabic, English, Spanish
Average weather
Emmaus
Jan
cold
3°-6°
Feb
cold
5°-5°
Mar
cloud
10°-1°
Apr
rain
16°4°
May
sun
22°9°
Jun
sun
27°15°
Jul
hot
29°18°
Aug
hot
28°17°
Sep
clear
24°13°
Oct
cloud
18°7°
Nov
rain
11°2°
Dec
cold
5°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Emmaus.

What people love

Emmaus, Pennsylvania, is a charming town with several pros for travelers looking to visit. Some of the key attractions and benefits of traveling to Emmaus include:

  1. Small-Town Charm: Emmaus offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere that provides a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a slower pace and experience a sense of community while exploring the town.

  2. Historic Sites: Emmaus has a rich history, with several historic sites and buildings to explore. The Emmaus Historical Society offers tours and information about the town's past, including its role in the industrial revolution.

  3. Outdoor Activities: The area surrounding Emmaus is known for its beautiful natural scenery, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring nearby parks and trails such as the South Mountain Preserve.

  4. Local Shops and Restaurants: Emmaus has a variety of locally-owned shops, boutiques, and restaurants that offer unique shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can support small businesses and enjoy a taste of local flavor during their stay.

  5. Proximity to Allentown and Bethlehem: Emmaus is located near larger cities like Allentown and Bethlehem, providing easy access to additional attractions, shopping, and dining options. Visitors can explore nearby cities and return to the peaceful atmosphere of Emmaus at the end of the day.

Overall, traveling to Emmaus, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of small-town charm, historic sites, outdoor activities, and local flavor that can make for a memorable and enjoyable trip.

What to know

Information not available.

Emmaus, Pennsylvania, is a borough located in Lehigh County, in the eastern part of the state. The town has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era and has seen significant events and developments over the years.

Early History and Founding

  • 1761: Emmaus was founded by the Moravian Church, a Protestant denomination with roots in Central Europe. The town was originally established as a closed community for Moravian settlers, similar to other Moravian towns like Bethlehem and Nazareth in Pennsylvania.
  • Name Origin: The name "Emmaus" is derived from a biblical village mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus appeared after his resurrection.

19th Century Developments

  • Industry and Growth: Throughout the 19th century, Emmaus grew as an industrial town. The opening of the East Pennsylvania Railroad in the 1850s spurred growth by improving transportation and trade.
  • Incorporation: In 1859, Emmaus was incorporated as a borough, marking its official recognition as a self-governing entity.

20th Century Changes

  • World Wars: Like many American towns, Emmaus saw its citizens participate in World War I and World War II, and the town's economy was affected by the wars.
  • Suburbanization: Post-World War II, Emmaus experienced suburban growth as people moved away from larger cities into smaller communities. This period saw a significant expansion in residential development.

Historical Figures

  • Edward H. Reimer: A notable figure from Emmaus, he was involved in the early development of the town's infrastructure and industry.
  • Charles H. Kline: Another important figure, he was a local leader and instrumental in the town's civic developments.

Landmarks and Cultural Heritage

  • Emmaus Moravian Church: Central to the town's founding, the church remains a historic and spiritual centerpiece in the community.
  • Shelter House: Built around 1734, it is one of the oldest continually inhabited buildings in the Lehigh Valley and serves as a museum today.
  • Emmaus Public Library: Founded in 1946, it serves as a cultural and educational hub for residents.

Recent Developments

  • Modern Emmaus: Today, Emmaus is known for its small-town charm, vibrant community events, and proximity to larger cities like Allentown. The town maintains a balance between preserving its historical roots and fostering modern growth.

Emmaus continues to be a community that values its historical heritage while embracing new growth and opportunities. The town is recognized for its commitment to preserving the past while providing a thriving environment for residents and businesses.