Eureka Springs

Set in the beautiful Arkansas Ozarks, few towns have the character and charm of Eureka Springs. Surrounded by rugged terrain and rolling hills, this mountain town offers a mix of outdoor adventure, historic healing springs, and a boldly creative spirit.

Eureka Springs’ charisma rises from its winding mountain streets, lined with springs, spas, art galleries, live music, Victorian architecture, and one-of-a-kind attractions. The seven-story Christ of the Ozarks statue rises above the treetops on The Great Passion Play grounds. Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural icon of glass and wood, is immersed in a forest canopy. Big cats call the hills of the Ozarks home at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. 

Eureka Springs’ entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a shopper’s paradise with block after block of one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques, fine art galleries and craft emporiums. Shop Blackie’s Backyard for specialty dog items, Christopher’s for contemporary clothing and accessories, and Kaleidokites for colorful and unusual kites. At East By West, the real draw isn’t just the international clothing and gifts. It’s the working bunny behind the counter, handing out receipts, change and packages.

Art is everywhere, from galleries and studios to sidewalks and stairwells. Some galleries highlight the work of a single artist, such as J.A. Nelson Gallery’s multidimensional wood sculptures. Others, like Quicksilver Gallery, showcase works by more than 160 artists. Shop jewelry, wildlife watercolors, photographs, limited edition prints, glass and pottery. 

Not all of Eureka Springs’ art is in galleries or shops. Humpty Dumpty sits on a brick wall downtown, and rainbow steps brighten an alleyway between buildings. Sculptures, large and small, spill into every corner of town.

Spas TowN

In addition to art, Eureka Springs is also known as a spa town. More than 60 natural springs drew visitors to Eureka Springs in the late 1800s. Its reputation as a healing spa town continues today with numerous massage centers and spas offering traditional services. Established in 1901, the Palace Bathhouse is the last remaining original bathhouse in Eureka Springs.  

Those seeking deeper rejuvenation can head to places like Fire Om Earth Retreat Center, which offers clay classes, herbal studies, creative workshops, private yoga, and dance. Private and group retreats and house concerts add to the soulful vibe.

Eureka Springs’ calendar of events is as eclectic as the town itself. Events span blues, jazz, folk and opera festivals as well as car shows and UFO conferences. Zombies fill the streets at Halloween. Main Street is a sea of green on St. Patrick’s Day. Kings and queens rule at Mardi Gras, and Christmas is pure magic. New Year’s Eve ends with an iconic midnight Water Drop.

Live music flows from bars, cafes and patios across town. Chelsea’s Corner Café & Bar is a legendary stop, while The Auditorium hosts touring acts and local legends alike.

Foodies will find plenty to love, from the classics at Mud Street Cafe and Local Flavor to the pasta dishes at Ermilio’s. Dine on a historic train, sip craft beer at Gotahold Brewing, sample local vintages at Keels Creek Winery, or unwind in a wine cave or lounge. 

Lodging is just as varied. Choose from cozy B&Bs, family-friendly hotels like Best Western, or something more unconventional — haunted hotels, treehouses, or even hobbit caves. Lake Shore Cabins on Beaver Lake are just nine miles from downtown, while Loblolly Pines Adventure Camp offers easy access to nearby ziplines and trails.

Outdoor Eureka

Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a natural basecamp for adventure. Discover springs, hidden grottos and urban trails throughout town. Zip through the trees at Ozark Mountain Ziplines or Eureka Springs Zipline, paddle a nearby river, or explore the chambers of Onyx Cave.

At Eureka Springs Adventure Park, 50 miles of off-road trails await. Lake Leatherwood and Black Bass Lake offer fishing, hiking, paddling, and access to trails that are part of the Oz Trails system of Northwest Arkansas. The Great Passion Play’s 667-acre property features more than 18 miles of trails with Biblically inspired names.

Anglers can fish for trout in the White River, float the Kings River, or launch a boat at Beaver Lake, where water sports, camping, and shoreline hikes round out the day.