About Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is an extraordinary town in the Ozark Mountains that packs quite the punch. Home to only 2,000 or so residents, its quaint Victorian style downtown offers many shops, restaurants, and lodging options, and is easy to explore. Beware of its stairstep-like streets; Eureka Springs was built on a picturesque mountainside and streets zig and zag without ever creating 90-degree corners. The town was built around its namesake, one of many natural springs in the area thought to offer healing waters. Today, visitors flock from all over to experience the area's unique artistic community, historic district, and endless opportunity for outdoor recreation.
Orientation
Located in the northwest corner of Arkansas, Eureka Springs is tucked in the mountains between two huge lakes, Beaver Lake and Table Rock Lake. It makes for a fantastic destination along a road trip and is a popular spot for motorcyclists. The closest airport is in Fayetteville at the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA). The next best option is to fly into Springfield-Branson Airport in Missouri (SGF). From either airport, it's best to rent your own car to give you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Once you are settled in Eureka Springs, the Trolley offers transportation throughout town and to nearby attractions for a nominal fee. While there's never really a bad time to visit Eureka Springs, it does have a slower season through its winter months (December through February). Some businesses and attractions may be closed at that time. Overall, peak travel is from May through October and be prepared for hot and humid weather in the summer months (June through August).
Things to Do
Eureka Springs Historic District: Marked by the city limits, Eureka Springs has preserved its Victorian style architecture and historic landmarks. You can wander through the historic district on your own or take an official tour.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge: Visit one of the largest refuges of its kind, featuring large cats and bears in a close-to-natural environment.
Lake Leatherwood Park: A large spring fed lake with tons of surrounding singletrack trails, great for mountain biking and hiking.
Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway: Take a ride back in time along this historic railroad and dining experience.
Thorncrown Chapel: Explore this one of a kind striking church, constructed of wood and floor to ceiling glass walls that show off the beauty of the surrounding forest.
Blue Spring Heritage Center: This botanical garden encompasses 33 acres with meandering trails, native plants, and the natural Blue Spring pool.
Beaver Lake: An expansive reservoir just west of Eureka Springs, Beaver Lake features water sports including boating, waterskiing, SUP, and even scuba diving.
Crescent Hotel: This historic landmark is located in downtown Eureka Springs. Pay it a visit for fun activities like ghost tours and live performances.
White River: Eureka Springs nearby river, dammed to create Beaver Lake, offers a pleasant escape for canoeing and fishing enthusiasts.