Things to Do in Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is a quirky town in northwest Arkansas with lots to do for everyone in the family!

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Just a short drive south of the city, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers a safe home for large cats.  Enjoy watching these felines while you learn about the issues surrounding these incredible animals. (Check out these blog posts on the problems with cub petting and how to identify a true sanctuary.)

Thorncrown Chapel

The Thorncrown chapel, a wood and glass architectural wonder, sits among beautiful bluffs and woods.  Visit just to appreciate the structure…or attend a Sunday worship service if you’re so inclined.

Crescent Hotel

Shopping

Downtown Eureka Springs is brimming with fun and diverse boutiques that are a shopper’s dream.

Restaurants

In addition to a wide variety of shops, Eureka Springs is full of all types of restaurants.  You’re sure to find something to please everyone.  Have vegetarians or vegans in your group?  Check out this blog post on great vegetarian restaurants in downtown Eureka Springs.

Ghost Tours

Eureka Springs has a long and somewhat turbulent history, which has given rise to a large number of ghost stories.  Two of the historic hotels in town—the Basin and the Crescent—offer ghost tours as well as independent groups that offer ghost tours of the town.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Opera in the Ozarks

In the summer, you can enjoy opera surrounded by the incredible Ozarks.  Each year the group puts on several different operas and shows.  You can check out their website for details on schedule and pricing.

Festivals

Eureka Springs hosts a variety of festivals all year long.  There’s something going on almost every weekend.  From bluegrass to (VW) bugs….  An official schedule is maintained on the city website.

Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway

Enjoy a ride on a refurbished train!  The ES&NA offers scenic rides that are sure to delight everyone.  You can even treat yourself to lunch or dinner during your trip.

Spas

Eureka Springs is famous for its springs.  After all, it’s the stories of the springs’ healing powers that originally brought people to the town in the first place.  Participate in history and visit one of the many spas in town to decide for yourself.

Blue Spring

Trolley tour

Give your feet a rest while you learn more about the area and its history on a trolley tour

Visit the Springs

Many of the springs that made the town famous have been preserved and are open for visitors.  Check out the springs in town or head north a ways to visit the Blue Spring.

Hiking

Eureka Springs has lots of hiking and biking trails nearby…many of them conveniently located right in town.  Check out this map for details.