Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Getting There

Eureka Springs is tucked away in the northwest corner of Arkansas. The nearest major airports are Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) in Bentonville (about 50 miles away) and Branson Airport (about 60 miles away). Most visitors arrive by car, as the town is accessible via scenic Highways 62 and 23.

When to Visit

Eureka Springs is beautiful year-round, but each season offers something special. Spring brings vibrant blooms and comfortable temperatures (60-75°F). Summer (75-90°F) is peak tourist season with all attractions open. Fall offers spectacular foliage with comfortable weather (50-70°F). Winter (30-50°F) is quieter but still charming with holiday decorations and occasional light snow.

Thorncrown Chapel

This architectural masterpiece designed by E. Fay Jones features 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass, creating a stunning sanctuary in the woods. The chapel has won numerous architectural awards and attracts visitors from around the world. The peaceful setting and remarkable design make it a must-visit attraction.

Christ of the Ozarks

Standing 67 feet tall, this monumental statue is one of the largest Christ figures in North America. Built in 1966, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains and serves as a prominent landmark visible from many parts of town.

Eureka Springs Historic District

The entire downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll through the winding streets to admire Victorian architecture, visit unique shops and galleries, and discover hidden springs that gave the town its name. Don’t miss Basin Spring Park, the central gathering spot for events and music.

Eureka Springs Historical Museum

Located in the 1889 Calif Building, this museum houses exhibits on the town’s fascinating history, from its Native American roots to its heyday as a Victorian health resort. Artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays bring the past to life.

The Great Passion Play

This outdoor drama depicting the last days of Jesus Christ features over 150 actors and live animals on a 550-foot-wide set. The surrounding grounds include the Christ of the Ozarks statue, Bible Museum, and Sacred Arts Center.

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway

Take a step back in time with a ride on a vintage steam train. The railway offers excursion trips and dinner train experiences that showcase the area’s beautiful scenery while enjoying a gourmet meal in restored dining cars.

Ghost Tours at the Crescent Hotel

Dubbed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” the 1886 Crescent Hotel offers nightly ghost tours that explore its colorful and sometimes dark history, including its time as a fraudulent cancer hospital in the 1930s.

Gallery Strolls

With over 30 galleries in the downtown area, art lovers can spend days exploring the diverse works of local and regional artists. Many galleries host special events and artist receptions throughout the year.

The Eureka Springs School of the Arts

This educational center offers workshops and classes in various media. Visitors can often view exhibitions or even participate in short workshops during their stay.

Music & Performance

From the historic Auditorium to intimate venues like Chelsea’s Corner Cafe, live music is a staple of Eureka Springs culture. The town hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Eureka Springs Blues Weekend and the Original Ozark Folk Festival, America’s longest continuously running folk festival.

Getting Around

Eureka Springs’ steep, winding streets can be challenging to navigate. Consider these options:

• Trolley System – The affordable trolley service covers most major attractions with all-day passes available.
• Walking – Downtown is best explored on foot, but be prepared for hills and stairs.
• Driving – A car is useful for reaching attractions outside downtown, but parking can be limited in the historic district.

Seasonal Events

Timing your visit around these popular events can enhance your Eureka Springs experience:

• May: May Festival of the Arts – Month-long celebration with gallery walks, demonstrations, and performances
• June: Eureka Springs Blues Weekend – Blues musicians perform throughout town
• September: Eureka Springs Multisport Festival – Cycling, running, and swimming events
• October: Original Ozark Folk Festival – America’s longest continuously running folk festival
• December: Christmas Festival of Lights – Downtown decorated with thousands of lights

Weather Considerations

Eureka Springs experiences all four seasons, with humid summers and mild winters. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Pack layers, as mountain weather can change quickly, and comfortable walking shoes for the hilly terrain.

Beaver Lake

Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, this 28,000-acre lake offers fishing, boating, swimming, and scenic shorelines. Several outfitters offer boat rentals and guided fishing trips.

War Eagle Mill

This working grist mill dates back to the 1830s and produces organic flours and mixes. Visitors can tour the mill, shop for products, and dine at the Bean Palace restaurant overlooking War Eagle Creek.

Branson, Missouri

About an hour’s drive north, Branson offers live music shows, theme parks, and additional shopping options. It makes for a complementary experience to Eureka Springs’ more laid-back atmosphere.

Buffalo National River

America’s first National River is about 1.5 hours away and offers world-class canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and camping experiences in a pristine natural setting.