Eureka Springs, located in Northwest Arkansas, offers a wide range of enjoyable experiences for all travelers.
Eureka Springs is a charming and attractive town located in Northwest Arkansas. It is sometimes called the “Little Switzerland of America” because of its beautiful surroundings and natural beauty.
Only two examples of the town’s outstanding historic architecture are the iconic Crescent Hotel and the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa. The unusual and charming ambiance generated by the Victorian-style houses draws visitors from all over.
In Eureka Springs, which boasts a flourishing arts and culture scene, various art galleries, museums, and live events are held throughout the year. The town offers several festivals and events, such as the Eureka Springs Fat Tyre Festival, the Eureka Springs Food & Wine Festival, and the Eureka Springs Jazz Festival.
Eureka Springs has something for all kinds of travelers. Here is a list comprising of all Eureka Spring things to do
1. The 15 Exciting Eureka Spring Things to Do
1.1. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church
Located on the tier of land between the Carnegie Library and the Crescent Hotel, this church provides a peaceful atmosphere and divine experience.
The church is also a replica of St. Sophia’s church located in Istanbul. The unique thing about this church is that it contains the bell tower, which has the 14 stations of the cross on its right side.
2. Beaver Lake
Beaver Lake is a popular family destination in Eureka Springs, offering a variety of enjoyable activities for all ages. Boating is one of the most popular activities at Beaver Lake, and tourists who want to explore the lake on their own can rent a boat.
The lake’s quiet and clear waters make it ideal for swimming, and there are several dedicated swimming places for guests to enjoy. Fishing is another favorite pastime in Beaver Lake, where you may catch a variety of fish species such as bass, crappie, and catfish.
The lake is also stocked with trout during the winter, making it an excellent place for winter fishing. Visitors can fish from the beach or rent a boat.
Aside from the recreational activities, Beaver Lake has some breathtaking vistas, making it a perfect retreat location. The lake is bordered by the gorgeous Ozark Mountains, giving visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Various hiking routes around the lake allow tourists to explore the area on foot and appreciate its natural beauty.
3. Downtown Eureka Springs
Considered one of the most popular tourist spots, Eureka Spring historical Downtown is the city’s main attraction.
That place reflects Victorian architecture and offers all kinds of downtown experiences, such as live musicals, boutique shops, delicious street foods, and so much more.
The Basin Spring Park downtown serves as the best place to rest in between shopping. Visiting Downtown Eureka Springs is unmissable in the Eureka spring things to do.
4. Thorncrown Chapel
The next on the list of Eureka spring things to do is pay a visit to the Thorncrown Chapel.
Thorncrown Chapel is an architectural marvel that contains a wooden structure measuring 48-foot-tall and about 425 windows and 6000 square feet of glass.
Apart from the divine experience, Thorncrown Chapel has scenic views. The chapel is open to all from April to December and offers wedding services throughout the whole year.
Where is it Located: 12968 Highway 62 West, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
5. The Great Passion Play
The Great Passion Play is another favorite attraction for visitors to Eureka Springs. This multi-stage theatrical play reenacts the last seven days before Jesus‘ ascension with trained actors and animals.
Many tourists find the performance a dramatic and touching experience, and it is a must-see for those interested in religious history and theatre.
The Great Passion Play is conveniently located at 935 Passion Play Road in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, making it easy for people to attend.
6. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
The Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is for all cat lovers worldwide. The refuge provides a home for all lions, leopards, tigers, cougars, and other abused, abandoned, or ill-treated animals.
The place also serves as home to about 100 exotic cats. Every animal housed there has its own inspiring story to tell.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit spot for all animal lovers.
7. Intrigue Theatre
Intrigue Theatre is a must-see destination for people searching for something unique and different to do in Eureka Springs. With a Victorian-era motif, Intrigue Theatre presents mind-blowing, magical shows that enthrall viewers.
The illusionists and performers also connect with the audience, leaving them wanting more. Intrigue Theatre’s tiny environment offers a more personal encounter, with up-close illusions and feats that will astound visitors.
Throughout the year, the theatre also hosts a variety of shows, including special events and holiday performances. Overall, Eureka Springs has various activities and attractions to appeal to tourists of all ages and interests.
This delightful city has something for everyone, from natural beauty and historic architecture to cultural attractions and unique experiences.
8. Lake Leatherwood
Lake Leatherwood is the perfect place to relax and spend your day. Apart from the amazing view, it also serves as an excellent place for a swim.
Visitors can picnic near the lake and also enjoy kayaking. Lake Leatherwood is the idle spot for a family vacation and tries to entertain people of all ages.
9. Quigley’s Castle
Elise Quigley, an Italian immigrant with an ardent passion for gardening, originally built Quigley’s castle.
The castle looks out of a fairy tale, with a beautiful home surrounded by lovely gardens, pretty paths, and benches. The castle also houses fully-grown tropical trees and plants.
Open between March and November, the visitors can take a self-guided tour and view their exotic collections.
Where is it Located: 274 Quigley Castle Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
10. Christ of the Ozarks
Since the completion of this statue in 1966, it remains one of the top places for all tourists to visit in Eureka.
The sixty-seven-foot high statue considered the third tallest Jesus statue in the world, stands tall overlooking the whole village in Eureka Springs.
Where is it Located: 937 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, United States
11. Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway
This 1940s-era diesel locomotive, located at the depot on the north end of the main street, takes you over the scenic of Ozark.
The ride is for about 4.5 miles and lasts for an hour, and it also allows you to dine in and relax as you travel. The gift shop at the depot also offers souvenirs and other collections.
Where is it Located: 299 North Main Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Read more about Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway.
12. Onyx Cave Park
The Onyx Cave Park, originally discovered in 1893, is located east of Eureka Springs. This small cave allows tourists to explore wildlife and other cave features.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour that lasts about thirty minutes. The cave’s gift shop also has diverse jewelry and gem collections.
Where is it Located: 338 Onyx Cave Lane, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
13. Quicksilver Gallery
As the name suggests, Quicksilver Gallery specializes in high-quality, premium Jewelry. Apart from the lovely Jewelry, the place also has wide collections of ceramics, yard art, and so much more.
Quicksilver Gallery is a must-see for those wishing to shop in Eureka Springs. The gallery specializes in high-quality, premium jewelry, as the name implies, and offers a wide range of unusual and exquisite pieces.
However, the gallery also sells a variety of other things, such as pottery and garden art. Visitors will discover a plethora of one-of-a-kind gems suitable for gifts or souvenirs.
14. Zarks
Zarks is another must-see attraction in Eureka Springs for art enthusiasts. This excellent design gallery features diverse artworks, such as pottery, paintings, jewelry, and more.
Zarks is unique in that local artists create all of the artworks and are fairly priced. This benefits local artists and allows tourists to take home a piece of Eureka Springs’ distinctive art scene.
The gallery is a lovely place to visit, with works of art ranging from traditional to contemporary, and visitors are sure to find something that appeals to them. Zarks‘ welcoming staff is also ready to provide information about the local art scene and artists.
Overall, Quicksilver Gallery and Zarks are just two of the many shopping venues in Eureka Springs that provide guests with unique and gorgeous products they won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re looking for jewelry, art, or other unique presents, these galleries will surely have something for you.
15. The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa
The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa, steeped in History, is located on a hilltop overlooking the city. This popular hotel offers visitors a wide range of day and night activities, from yoga sessions to scary haunted tours.
The place also helps you to realize this by offering spa treatments.
Where it is located: 75 Prospect Avenue, Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
Closing Thoughts
To summarise, Eureka Springs is a charming town with many activities and attractions for tourists of all ages and interests.
Eureka Springs has something for everyone, from natural beauty and historic architecture to cultural activities and one-of-a-kind experiences.
It has a thriving arts scene and various retail options that feature locally manufactured goods and handmade crafts. Eureka Springs has it all for those looking for adventure, leisure, or inspiration.
The town’s friendly residents, beautiful environment, and warm hospitality make it a great location for anyone wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and experience something unique.
Other notable places to visit in Eureka Springs at 72632 are;
- Blue Spring Heritage Center
- beaver lake
- Eureka Springs Historical Museum
- Elizabeth catholic church
- holy land tours or walking tours
- basin park hotel
- Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour
- Eureka Springs City advertising
For these and other reasons, everyone should visit Eureka Springs at least once.
Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology
