Spend a few days in this storied resort town experiencing its picturesque beauty, well-preserved past, and intriguing present. You’ll understand why Eureka Springs, Arkansas, has been an acclaimed vacation destination since the 1800s.
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, among scenic lakes, rivers, and springs, lies a quaint Victorian village that made a name for itself through its distinctive natural splendor. Long ago, Eureka Springs became known for its therapeutic mineral water—from the first Native American settlers’ legends of a great healing spring to European Americans’ discoveries of the water’s curing ailments and diseases.
Word of these magical springs attracted many travelers, and by the late 19th century, the town had become a thriving tourist retreat. Today visitors can experience much of the area’s Old-World wonder, thanks to its dedication to preserving its past. The entire city is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation named it one of “America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations.”
While perusing the downtown historic district on a narrated open-air tram tour or a simple solo saunter, you’ll first notice the intriguing topography of “The Stairstep Town.” Its mountainous setting results in miles of winding walkways that rise and fall along the foothills. Take a stroll down scenic Spring Street, also known as “The Boulevard,” and experience the celebrated Natural Springs Trail, as well as preserved historical structures like St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, with its unique bell tower entrance. The main street also showcases pristine examples of Victorian-style architecture, distinguished art galleries, charming shops, and tasty eateries—but not a single traffic light.
A longtime haven for artists, Eureka Springs boasts a multitude of artistic sojourns, such as the nearby Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. It comprises five centuries of our country’s masterworks, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House. The galleries in town range from illustrious fine art to contemporary folk art.
The shopping scene continues the city’s artful, eclectic character, and you can often meet the people behind the products that catch your eye, which might be glass, woodcrafts, clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, antiques, or other special finds. Dining options will please a wide variety of palates, as will the gracious hospitality from restaurant owners, many of whom are multi-generational Eureka Springs natives.
Though there’s so much to do in town, you’ll want to save some extra time for exploring the area’s natural wonders. With more than 1,800 acres of park land and water all around, opportunities for outdoor adventure abound—from hiking to biking, swimming to paddle boating, and birding to geocaching.
At day’s end, rest your head at a quaint bed-and-breakfast like The Heartstone Inn or The Inn at Rose Hall—both just a short walk from downtown. From your temporary dwelling to the city’s flourishing surrounds, the people of Eureka Springs are sure to offer their famous warm welcome, proving that the town’s healing power extends well beyond its storied springs.
A stroll along the main stretch of Eureka Springs promises a plethora of interesting sites that have a distinctly Victorian feel, from restored architecture and impressive structures like St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church to picturesque houses and bed-and-breakfast inns that continue the traditional draw. The Heartstone Inn, a 1903 late-Victorian home, features a welcoming wraparound porch, a gazebo and back deck overlooking a woodsy haven, and a tree-lined walkway that guides guests to the town’s historic district, less than a mile away. The Inn at Rose Hall offers a similarly quaint experience, with antique-filled rooms complete with modern amenities and a convenient location just 10 minutes from town. They also tout delectable culinary offerings—even a “Guest Pantry” stocked with homemade cookies and treats.
Springs have long been the town’s claim to fame, so you’ll want to visit at least a few of the 60-plus it boasts. Explore the Natural Springs Trail to see a stretch of the most popular, like iconic Harding Spring. These natural wonders stand alongside other attractions like charming storefronts and interesting constructions, such as Thorncrown Chapel, a 48-foot building nestled in the woods—one of many chapels the “Wedding Capital of the South” offers.
Experience Eureka Springs’ distinctive downtown, immersing yourself in its celebrated art and culinary scene. Peruse Zarks and Quicksilver Galleries for fine art, or check out Wilson & Wilson Folkart Co, a mother-daughter gallery featuring contemporary folk art. Shops like Hats, Hides & Heirlooms feature unique selections. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, drop by Mud Street Cafe, an old-fashioned room below street level, for breakfast, lunch, or just coffee and dessert, or try Local Flavor Café for fresh and creative cuisine in an inviting vintage atmosphere. If you’re looking for some take-home treats, visit Gourmet Eureka, a specialty-food store where you’ll find souvenir gift baskets.
About an hour from Eureka Springs, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art makes a worthwhile day trip. With an impressive collection of American masterpieces ranging from the Colonial era to the present day, as well as stunning natural surrounds that include a scenic 120-acre park, the museum seeks to “unite the power of art with the beauty of nature.” While there, you won’t want to miss the Bachman-Wilson House (above), a pristine example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s classic Usonian architecture developed during the Great Depression for middle-class American families.
By Elizabeth Bonner
Photography by Marcy Black Simpson
From Southern Lady, October 2016
Save