Visit Eureka Springs, Arkansas

If you always wanted to visit the Swiss Alps and experience the fresh mountain air, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, should be your vacation destination.

Located in the Northern part of Arkansas, off on US 62, this small hamlet offers a European flair throughout the town. It is nestled in the Ozatrk Mountain, and with its hilly terrain, resembles the topography of the Swiss Alps.

For years, this town was known for its healing waters. Today it is known for its visitor friendly atmosphere.

The town is a great vacation site, year round. In the summer, when the rest of Arkansas is sizzling, the cool mountain air gives the area an ideal temperature. In the winter, when the snow flakes fly, the town takes on a festive look.

As the trolleys ascend and descend the city’s hills, the riders can see the various shopping venues and victorian mansions that are located here. The trolley is the ideal way to get around the city. Purchase an all-day pass and get off when something catches your eye. There are ample parking lots around the town to park your private vehicle and take the trolley.

There are several interesting stops on the trolley route. The Crescent Hotel, with its ghostly legend, is a “must see.” The lobby is furnished with antiques, and the decor is something out of the 1800s. The restaurant at the hotel serves good food in elegant style. The ghostly legend can be seen on the top floor of the hotel, after dark. There are tours that take the brave guests to that top floor in the evening to see the haunted area. Check with the desk at the hotel to schedule your tour. A horse and carriage ride leaves from this hotel to take guests on a guided tour of the town.

The Victorian homes are well maintained and all must keep in the city’s mandated codes for repairs, etc., to keep with the integrity of the home’s original structure. These homes can be viewed on the many streets in the town. Private tours are available to view the structures and to hear the history of the homes. Some streets are very narrow, so the guided tours are the best way to get around the town.

There are many motels, hotels, and bed and breakfast establishments located in the city. Check with the Eureka Springs Visitor Information Center at 800-638-7352 to get additional information on these lodging choices.

The Belle of the Ozarks offers a chance to see Beaver Lake and a 200 acre game preserve island. This 12 mile cruise is an opportunity to see many varieties of wildlife.

The Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway offers a narrated trip aboard a steam train. There is lunch or dinner available on the ride. Call 479-253-9623 for additional information and reservations are needed for the lunch or dinner ride.

The Great Passion Play has been performed for many years. This is an re-enactment of the last days of Christ. It is complete with live animals and actors. The sets are outstanding, and the 4100 amphitheater is handicap accessible. This is an outdoor performance, so prepare for chilly evenings.

The Christ of the Ozarks statue is a tribute to the city. This statue stands 7 stories tall, and overlooks the entire city.

Onyx Cave Park is a treat for everyone. The Doll Museum is located here, and the 30 minute tours feature a taped narration.

St. Elizabeth Church is a unique structure. You enter the church via the bell tower. The gardens, surrounding the church, are spectacular.

Thorncrown Chapel is another worship center, that is unique. It is made of glass and wood, and the woods and trails surrounding the structure, add to the architectural wonder of the building. It is available for wedding rentals, so check first to see if you can enter the church. There is a guide in the chapel to explain the details of the building process, and the history of the actual building of the chapel.

Shopping in Eureka Springs is a different sort of adventure. The merchandise sold here is not the “run of the mill” things you see in stores. There are stores that specialize in quilts, laces, homemade candles, and items that you normally would not find in a regular store.

There are many choices for food in the city. Restaurants serve Bavarian favorites, American specialties, and lite fare. There are no fast food restaurants located in the city.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a place that is fun to visit. It is like crossing the ocean and visiting an European country. It is well worth the trip.

References: AAA Publishing Company
Eureka Springs Visitors Bureau


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