Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Victorian mountain village built into Ozark hillsides with no straight streets. Natural healing springs and the 'most haunted hotel in America' await.
Quick Facts
What Makes Eureka Springs Special
- •Entire downtown is a National Historic District
- •No 90-degree intersections - streets wind naturally through the mountains
- •1886 Crescent Hotel, 'America's Most Haunted Hotel'
- •Over 60 natural springs that originally drew visitors seeking healing waters
- •Thorncrown Chapel, a stunning glass and wood architectural masterpiece
- •Vibrant LGBTQ+ friendly community and destination
- •Over 100 local artists with studios and galleries throughout town
Things to Do
Thorncrown Chapel
ArchitectureAn architectural masterpiece made of glass and wood nestled in the Ozark woods.
12968 US-62, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 ↗Historic Downtown Walking Tour
Walking TourExplore Victorian buildings, unique shops, and galleries on winding mountain streets.
Downtown Eureka Springs, AR 72632 ↗Blue Spring Heritage Center
NatureNatural spring producing 38 million gallons daily, surrounded by walking trails and gardens.
1537 CR 210, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 ↗Eureka Springs Historical Museum
MuseumDiscover the town's Victorian past and the healing springs that made it famous.
95 S Main Street, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 ↗Where to Stay in Eureka Springs
1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa
America's Most Haunted Hotel sits majestically on the mountainside overlooking Eureka Springs. This Victorian-era grand dame offers period-style rooms, modern amenities, full-service spa, and nightly ghost tours. The Crystal Dining Room serves upscale cuisine with stunning views.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 Book a ghost tour - the hotel's haunted history is legendary
The Grand Central Hotel
1883 hotel in the heart of downtown, restored with modern comforts while preserving Victorian charm. Walking distance to everything. Complimentary breakfast, rooftop deck with town views. Friendly service and excellent value for the location.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 Rooftop deck offers the best sunset views in town
Basin Park Hotel
Seven-story hotel built into the hillside so each floor opens to street level (only in Eureka Springs!). Recently renovated with comfortable rooms, balconies overlooking downtown, and central location. The Balcony Bar & Restaurant is popular for cocktails and live music.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 Request a balcony room overlooking the spring and downtown
Lookout Lodge
Retro 1960s motor lodge with stunning mountain views. Simple, clean rooms with private balconies. The pool area has become Instagram-famous. Great budget option with personality. Short drive to downtown but free parking included.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 The vintage pool with mountain views is picture-perfect
Arsenic and Old Lace B&B
Beautifully restored 1890s Queen Anne mansion with five themed suites. Gourmet breakfast, afternoon treats, wrap-around porches with rockers. Adults only. The hosts provide excellent local recommendations and warm hospitality.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 The Secret Garden suite has a private hot tub
Treehouse Cottages
Whimsical hand-built cottages elevated in the forest canopy. Each treehouse is unique with full amenities, decks, and forest views. Feels secluded yet close to town. Perfect for romantic getaways or anyone seeking something different.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 Book the three-story Nest for the ultimate treehouse experience
Vacation Rentals
Eureka Springs has excellent vacation rentals from Victorian cottages in town to secluded cabins in the woods. Many feature hot tubs, full kitchens, and unique architecture. Ideal for longer stays or groups. VRBO and Airbnb have strong selections.
Book on Booking.com ↗💡 Look for properties with hot tubs - perfect after walking the hills
Where to Eat in Eureka Springs
Local Flavor Cafe
Eureka Springs' best restaurant showcasing local ingredients with creative preparations. Menu changes seasonally. Intimate bistro setting with excellent wine list. Reservations essential for dinner, especially weekends. The chef's tasting menu is outstanding.
Aquarius Taqueria
Creative tacos and Mexican street food in a colorful, casual setting. Fresh ingredients, vegetarian options, excellent margaritas. Popular with locals. The fish tacos and breakfast burritos are standouts. No reservations - expect waits at peak times.
Ermilio's Italian Home Cooking
Family-run Italian restaurant serving authentic recipes passed down generations. Homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, classic Italian wines. Cozy atmosphere with checkered tablecloths. The lasagna and tiramisu are legendary. Reservations recommended.
Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave
Upscale steakhouse in a converted cave space. Prime steaks, fresh seafood, extensive wine list stored in the natural cave. Dramatic setting with stone walls and intimate lighting. Special occasion dining. Reservations required.
Mud Street Cafe
Best breakfast in Eureka Springs. Huge portions, friendly service, reasonable prices. Famous for eggs benedict, pancakes, and biscuits and gravy. Cash only. Lines form early on weekends - arrive before 8 AM or after 10 AM.
Sparky's Roadhouse Cafe
Classic diner with '50s decor serving burgers, shakes, and comfort food. Fun, kitschy atmosphere. Great for families. The milkshakes are thick and delicious. Reasonable prices and big portions.
The Sweet n Savory Cafe
Charming cafe and bakery with excellent pastries, quiches, sandwiches, and salads. Perfect for light lunch or afternoon coffee and dessert. The croissants and fruit tarts are exceptional. Limited seating.
Nibbles Eatery
Elevated comfort food in downtown location. Creative takes on classics - gourmet grilled cheese, loaded mac and cheese, craft burgers. Full bar with creative cocktails. Lively atmosphere. Good vegetarian options.
Oscar's Cafe
Quirky cafe serving eclectic menu from Thai curry to burgers. Outdoor deck with forest views. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Portions are generous, prices fair. Popular with both tourists and locals. The pad thai and breakfast skillets are favorites.
Sample Itineraries
Perfect Day in Eureka Springs
Experience the magic of Eureka Springs' Victorian architecture, natural springs, and artistic spirit in one enchanting day.
Romantic Weekend Getaway
A couples-focused itinerary featuring the most romantic spots and experiences in Eureka Springs.
Family-Friendly Weekend
Kid-approved activities that showcase Eureka Springs' fun side while keeping parents happy too.
Getting Around Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs is built into steep Ozark hillsides with no straight streets or 90-degree intersections - streets curve naturally following the mountains. This makes walking adventurous but challenging. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The downtown historic district is compact (about 4-5 blocks) but VERY hilly. Most streets have sidewalks. Free public parking is limited - arrive early or use paid lots ($5-10/day). Many hotels include parking. A trolley system runs in summer connecting major attractions ($5-7 per person). For visiting outlying attractions like Thorncrown Chapel or Turpentine Creek, a car is necessary. Be prepared for narrow, winding mountain roads. Take your time and enjoy the scenic drives. GPS can be unreliable in the mountains - download maps or get a paper map from the visitor center.
When to Visit Eureka Springs: Seasonal Guide
Spring (March - May)
Spring is magical in Eureka Springs. Dogwoods, redbuds, and wildflowers bloom throughout the Ozarks. Temperatures are mild, crowds are manageable, and the town comes alive after winter.
- •Dogwood and redbud blooms (late March-April) paint the mountains pink and white
- •Perfect temperatures for walking the hilly streets (60-75°F)
- •Gardens and outdoor spaces at peak beauty
- •May the Fourth Festival celebrates arts and culture
- •Fewer crowds than summer with full business hours
- •Waterfalls and springs run full from spring rains
- • May the Fourth Be With You Parade (early May)
- • Daffodil Festival (March)
- • Easter celebrations throughout town
Summer (June - August)
Summer is peak tourist season. Warm, humid weather and all attractions operating full hours. Book accommodations well in advance. Expect crowds on weekends but weekdays are more relaxed.
- •All businesses operating full hours and schedules
- •Outdoor dining and patio seating available
- •Evening entertainment and live music throughout town
- •Longer daylight hours for sightseeing
- •Swimming at nearby Beaver Lake
- •Can be hot and humid (80-90°F), but shade and AC provide relief
- • Blues Festival (June)
- • Hillberry Harvest Moon Festival (August)
- • Thursday evening concerts in Basin Park
Fall (September - November)
Fall rivals spring as the best time to visit. Spectacular foliage, comfortable temperatures, and harvest season bring crowds but it's worth it. October weekends require advance booking.
- •Ozark mountain fall foliage (mid-October to early November)
- •Perfect weather for outdoor activities (60-75°F days, cool nights)
- •Harvest festivals and seasonal events throughout the region
- •Less humidity than summer
- •Great Passion Play has limited fall schedule - check dates
- •Eureka Springs is especially beautiful with autumn colors
- • Ozark Folk Festival (October)
- • Halloween festivities throughout town
- • Art studio tours and fall gallery openings
Winter (December - February)
Winter is quiet and peaceful in Eureka Springs. Many businesses have reduced hours or close January-February. However, Christmas season (through New Year's) is magical with decorations and events.
- •Christmas lights and decorations transform the Victorian town
- •Significantly lower hotel rates (except Christmas week)
- •Fewer crowds mean you'll have attractions to yourself
- •Cozy bed and breakfasts with fireplaces are perfect
- •Some businesses close or have limited hours - call ahead
- •Occasional snow makes the Victorian architecture even more picturesque
- • Christmas events and tours throughout December
- • New Year's Eve celebrations
- • Winter Lights (December-January)
Best Photography Spots
Thorncrown Chapel
This architectural masterpiece is stunning from every angle. The 48-foot tall glass and wood chapel in the forest creates magical light patterns. Interior photography is allowed but be respectful - it's an active place of worship.
📸 Best time: Late afternoon when sun filters through the western glass walls, creating dramatic light beams
Downtown Victorian Streets
The winding streets lined with colorful Victorian buildings are endlessly photogenic. Spring Street, Main Street, and the area around Basin Spring offer classic Eureka Springs scenes. Shoot from street level or elevated vantage points.
📸 Best time: Early morning for empty streets, or blue hour when shop lights glow warmly
Crescent Hotel
The grand 1886 hotel sits majestically on the mountainside. Photograph from the front for the full facade, or from town below for its hilltop perch. The interior lobbies and staircases are also beautiful.
📸 Best time: Sunset for warm light on the limestone facade, or twilight when the building is lit
Basin Spring
The historic spring where the town began, surrounded by Victorian architecture. The small park area makes a great foreground for shots of surrounding buildings and mountains.
📸 Best time: Mid-morning for good light without harsh shadows
Blue Spring Heritage Center
The impossibly blue spring-fed lagoon with peacocks is surreal. The bright blue water contrasts beautifully with green foliage. Peacocks often pose obligingly.
📸 Best time: Midday when sun penetrates the spring revealing the deepest blue color
Scenic Highway 62
The winding mountain highway offers numerous pullouts with Ozark mountain vistas. Fall foliage season provides spectacular colors. Several overlooks provide elevated views of valleys and ridges.
📸 Best time: Fall foliage season (mid-October to early November) in morning or late afternoon light
Day Trips from Eureka Springs
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Big cat sanctuary with over 100 rescued lions, tigers, leopards, and other animals. Educational tours explain wildlife conservation and rehabilitation. The guided tours get you close to these magnificent animals. Overnight lodging available in safari-style tents. Plan 2-3 hours.
Beaver Lake
28,000-acre lake with 487 miles of shoreline offering swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Several marinas rent boats and equipment. Dam Site Park has swimming areas and picnic facilities. The clear water is perfect for summer cooling off.
War Eagle Mill and Cavern
Working 1830s undershot water-powered grist mill still grinding grains. Watch demonstrations, buy stone-ground cornmeal and flour, visit the attached craft village. War Eagle Cavern offers cave tours. Beautiful setting on War Eagle Creek. The War Eagle Craft Fair (October) is one of America's best art fairs.
Ozark Medieval Fortress
Unique attraction - they're building a genuine medieval castle using only medieval techniques and tools. Watch stonemasons, blacksmiths, and carpenters at work. Educational and fascinating. Kids and history buffs love it. Allow 1-2 hours.
Buffalo National River
America's first national river offers pristine Ozark beauty. Excellent for canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and swimming. Hemmed-In Hollow features Arkansas's tallest waterfall (209 ft). Several access points. Consider guided canoe trips or plan a full day of exploration.
Crystal Bridges Museum
World-class art museum in neighboring Bentonville (funded by Walmart heiress). Stunning architecture integrated into the Ozark forest, free admission, exceptional American art collection from Colonial to contemporary. The grounds and trails are as beautiful as the art. Plan 3-4 hours.
Practical Tips for Visiting Eureka Springs
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes with good traction. Eureka Springs is VERY hilly. Flip-flops and heels are not practical for the steep, uneven sidewalks.
- •Book accommodations 1-3 months ahead for weekends, 6+ months for October (peak foliage) and special event weekends. Popular properties sell out early.
- •Many businesses are cash or check only. Bring cash and know where ATMs are located. Not all restaurants accept credit cards.
- •Check business hours before planning your day. Many shops and restaurants have limited hours, especially midweek or off-season. The visitor center website has current information.
- •The historic downtown has limited parking. Arrive early for free street parking or use paid lots ($5-10). Many hotels include parking - confirm when booking.
- •Cell service is generally reliable in town but can be spotty in surrounding Ozark mountains. Download maps and directions before leaving town.
- •Eureka Springs is extremely LGBTQ+ friendly and has been for decades. Rainbow flags fly throughout town. Everyone is welcome.
- •If visiting Thorncrown Chapel, dress respectfully (no tank tops or shorts). It's a place of worship as well as an architectural attraction.
- •The trolley system is convenient in summer but doesn't reach all attractions. Having a car provides much more flexibility for exploring.
- •Many bed and breakfasts are adults-only. If traveling with children, confirm the property allows kids before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eureka Springs worth visiting?
Absolutely! Eureka Springs offers a unique combination of Victorian architecture, artistic community, natural beauty, and quirky character. It's unlike anywhere else - a preserved 1880s mountain town that's also progressive and welcoming. Great for romantic getaways, art lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking small-town charm with personality. If you like cookie-cutter tourist towns, this isn't it. If you appreciate authenticity and character, you'll love it.
How many days do you need in Eureka Springs?
2-3 days is ideal. One full day to explore downtown, galleries, and architecture. A second day for attractions like Thorncrown Chapel, Crescent Hotel tour, and outlying spots. A third day allows for day trips to Turpentine Creek, Beaver Lake, or just relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. A long weekend (3 days/2 nights) is perfect.
What is Eureka Springs known for?
Eureka Springs is famous for: Victorian architecture (entire downtown is a National Historic District), natural healing springs that drew visitors in the 1800s, Thorncrown Chapel's stunning glass architecture, the 1886 Crescent Hotel (America's Most Haunted Hotel), thriving artist community with 100+ studios, LGBTQ+ welcoming atmosphere, winding streets with no 90-degree angles, and unique Ozark mountain character.
Is Eureka Springs LGBTQ+ friendly?
Extremely! Eureka Springs has been a welcoming LGBTQ+ destination for decades. Rainbow flags fly throughout downtown, same-sex couples are completely welcomed everywhere, and the town actively celebrates its inclusive culture. It's one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly small towns in the South. All accommodations, restaurants, and businesses are welcoming.
Can you walk around Eureka Springs?
Yes, but be prepared for HILLS. Downtown is walkable (about 4-5 blocks) but built into steep mountainsides. Streets wind and climb - good walking shoes are essential. Many visitors walk downtown but drive to outlying attractions like Thorncrown Chapel or the Crescent Hotel. A trolley runs in summer connecting major spots. The hills are challenging but manageable for most people. Just take your time.
Why is the Crescent Hotel haunted?
The 1886 Crescent Hotel has a dark history that fuels its haunted reputation. It operated as a hotel, then a girls' school, then (infamously) as a fraudulent cancer hospital in the 1930s where 'doctor' Norman Baker claimed to cure cancer while patients died. The hotel offers history and ghost tours sharing documented paranormal activity and the building's tragic past. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the history is fascinating.
What is Thorncrown Chapel?
Thorncrown Chapel is an architectural masterpiece designed by E. Fay Jones (studied under Frank Lloyd Wright). This 48-foot tall glass and wood chapel sits in the Ozark forest. With 425 windows and 6,000 square feet of glass, it feels like a cathedral made of trees and light. It's won numerous architectural awards and is considered one of the finest buildings in American architecture. Free admission, open daily for visits and weddings.
When is the best time to visit Eureka Springs?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather and beautiful foliage. April has dogwood blooms, October has fall colors - both stunning but busy on weekends. Summer is peak season with all activities but can be hot and humid. December is magical with Christmas decorations but some businesses close January-February. For the best overall experience with good weather and smaller crowds, visit April-May or September-October weekdays.
Where should I stay in Eureka Springs?
Depends on your style: The Crescent Hotel offers grand historic luxury with ghost tours. Grand Central Hotel provides excellent downtown location and value. Basin Park Hotel has unique balconies on every floor. Treehouse Cottages offer whimsical romance. Numerous B&Bs provide Victorian charm and hospitality. Budget travelers can find value at Lookout Lodge or vacation rentals. Choose based on desired experience - they're all good options.
Is Eureka Springs expensive?
Moderate for a tourist town. Hotels range $120-$400/night depending on property and season. Meals cost $10-$50 per person. Many attractions are free (walking downtown, window shopping, Thorncrown Chapel). Tours and shows cost $15-$40. You can visit affordably by choosing mid-range lodging, eating at casual spots like Mud Street Cafe or Aquarius, and focusing on free activities. Or splurge on B&Bs and fine dining for a luxury experience.
What should I not miss in Eureka Springs?
Don't miss: Walking downtown's Victorian streets and galleries, Thorncrown Chapel (architectural must-see), Crescent Hotel tour (history or ghost version), browsing local artist studios, enjoying a meal with a view at Oscar's, experiencing the quirky character and steep streets, visiting Blue Spring Heritage Center, and simply soaking in the unique atmosphere. The town itself IS the attraction.
Are there springs in Eureka Springs?
Yes! The town was founded because of 63 natural healing springs. In the late 1800s, visitors came seeking the waters' supposed healing properties, building the Victorian town we see today. Basin Spring in downtown is the most accessible historic spring. Blue Spring Heritage Center showcases a stunning bright-blue spring-fed lagoon. While no one claims healing powers anymore, the springs remain a beautiful part of the town's character and history.
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