26 Fabulous Things to do in Eureka Springs

Head to the northwest corner of Arkansas, and you will find the charming town of Eureka Springs in the Ozark Mountains. The things to do in Eureka Springs draw visitors from all over the world.

Eureka Springs, AR, has been a tourist destination for generations thanks to the mineral-rich hot springs that gave the town its name.

While the hot springs still flow in Eureka Springs, that is no longer the only draw to this small town.

Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities, a charming historic downtown area, museums, wildlife preserves, and underground caves.

Let’s dive into all of Eureka Springs attractions just waiting for you to explore them!

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A Quick History Of Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs was founded and named on July 4, 1879. The town was originally a site in the legends of the Native Americans that roamed this land.

The tribes told of the healing waters in the mountains. The waters of Basin Spring drew visitors from all over to enjoy the healing waters of the mountain town.

People flocked to the area when words of the healing waters continued to spread. They built tent cities all over the area to partake in the waters of the hot springs.

The city then quickly developed, and investors took note of the city’s success. They then formed the Eureka Springs Improvement Company in 1882. This improvement company brought the railroad and other amenities to the city to meet the growing population.

The historic town center and the Crescent Hotel soon followed suit. The city of Eureka Springs was built in two short years, and many of the buildings still exist today.

This exciting history landed the entire town of Eureka Springs on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Today you can still see this throughout the town when you see the Crescent Hotel, the Basin Park Hotel, and the Bath Houses.

Historic Downtown Eureka Springs, Arkansas

A great place to start your visit to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is to visit the historic district in downtown Eureka Springs.

Lined with buildings boasting gorgeous Victorian Architecture, Spring and Main Street are the perfect streets to get a feel for the historic district.

Eclectic boutique shops will carry everything from unique housewares to clothing items.

Be sure to check out Basin Spring Park during your time downtown.

Basin Spring Park is located next to the historic Basin Spring Hotel. Basin Spring Park is home to the original spring in Eureka Springs that Native Americans and pioneer settlers used.

If you’re lucky, live music will be played in the historic bandshell located in Basin Spring Park during your visit.

Of course, the downtown Eureka Springs area is also home to some great restaurants, art galleries, and evening entertainment options.

Marvel At Thorncrown Chapel

The Thorncrown Chapel is a gorgeous 48-foot-tall chapel tucked away in the woods of the Ozark Mountains.

Thorncrown Chapel is an architecturally unique chapel that has won multiple awards and draws millions of visitors to its doors annually.

When you visit Thorncrown Chapel, you will immediately see why!

Thorncrown Chapel features 6,000 square feet of glass, 425 windows, and 100 tons of native stone and flagstone.

The natural light through the windows mesmerizes visitors inside, while the abundance of glass makes you feel as if the Ozark forest is engulfing you.

Designed by architect E. Fay Jones, Thorncrown hosts public services on Sundays between April and December. You can also rent the chapel for weddings throughout the year; book early, as this chapel is in high demand!

You can visit Thorncrown Chapel daily between April and November, and have some limited hours in March and December.

Address: 12968 Highway 62 West, Eureka Springs, AR 72632

Visit the Great Passion Play

The Great Passion Play is a Christian-based production that brings to life the Old Testament prophecies and the New Testament accounts of the last seven days of Jesus of Nazareth.

The Great Passion Play depicts accounts surrounding Christ’s death and resurrection.

Occurring several times throughout the year, the Great Passion Play can be seen from Memorial Day to October.

The Great Passion Play employs over 150 actors and uses live animals on a multi-level stage to truly immerse the audience in the experience.

During your time here, explore Passion Play Rd to see the other attractions this area has to offer.

There is a vast monument called the Christ of the Ozarks. The Christ of the Ozarks monument is a larger-than-life statue of Christ on the side of the Ozark Mountains.

Visitors can also take the Holy Land tour offered on-site, which includes a replica of the Eastern Gate in Jerusalem and a recreated Marketplace.

On-site, you can also enjoy a Noah’s Ark petting zoo, a museum, and mountain biking trails.

Address: 935 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, AR72632

See Quigley’s Castle

If you want to see a unique dwelling during your visit to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, then you want to visit Quigley’s Castle.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Quigley’s Castle was built as the dream home for Elise Quigley.

Elise’s love for gardening is apparent when you visit the house. Not only will you see plants and flowers outdoors, but you will also notice that full-size trees are growing inside the house.

There are also several exciting collections on-site for you to view. These include a collection of fossils, arrowheads, and butterflies.

Visitors are welcome to take a self-guided tour of the home from March through November.

Address: 274 Quigley Castle Rd, Eureka Springs, AR

Make Friends With Big Cats

One of the unique things to do in Eureka Springs, AR, is to pay a visit to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a rescue operation for large animals, including big cats.

In addition to the big cats, which include tigers, leopards, lions, bobcats, and cougars, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge also houses bears.

The refuge offers guided tours daily and special behind-the-scenes tours on the weekends. This allows visitors to learn more about the big cats and the rehab efforts of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

If you are inclined, you can even stay on the property in one of their treehouses or adults-only safari lodge.

Address: 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Tour Onyx Cave Park

Head east of Eureka Springs, AR, and you will find Onyx Cave Park, a cave opened to visitors to tour.

Onyx Cave Park has welcomed visitors since 1893 to the small cave on site. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of Onyx cave to see the cave’s features and the wildlife inside.

You can try panning at the Gem Panning station before finding the perfect souvenir in the on-site gift shop during your visit to Onyx Cave.

The address for Onyx Cave is: 338 Onyx Cave Lane, Eureka Springs, AR 72632

Visit a Winery

Wine enthusiasts will be happy to know that you can visit a winery in Eureka Springs.

Keels Creek Winery is a boutique winery that allows visitors to try their delicious wines made from locally harvested grapes.

Here you can do a wine tasting of their red, white, blush, and dessert wines. Their tasting room is perfect for finding a new wine you love.

Surrounded by artwork from local artists, the Keels Creek Winery is a great spot to enjoy some local wine and support local artists.

Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge

Pivot Rock Park was naturally produced over 100 years ago.

This is one of the fascinating natural attractions in Eureka Springs, where you can see numerous interesting rock formations.

Walking along the pathways, you can look for two of the park’s most interesting features, Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge.

Ask the locals, and they will tell you that this park was once used as a hideout for outlaw Jesse James!

Address: 1708 Pivot Rock Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Visit The Crescent Hotel

Even if you aren’t staying at the Crescent Hotel, you should still visit this 1886 historic hotel.

Sitting on the hilltop above the historic district, the Crescent Hotel is one of the shining jewels of Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

The Crescent Hotel offers numerous activities for guests and visitors to enjoy. These range from haunted tours to spa treatments.

A great ghost tour takes place after dark in the hotel that tells you all about the spirits that haunt these historic halls.

This is one of the attractions in Eureka Springs that you don’t want to miss.

Address: 75 Prospect Avenue, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Learn Local History at the Eureka Springs Historical Museum

You will find the Eureka Springs Historical Museum in the Eureka Springs historic district inside the historic 1889 Calif Building.

The museum houses relics from the local community that focus on the city’s cultural history.

The displays here include collections focusing on Native American history, the historical fires in the city, travel, and tourism, and the city’s hot springs.

Local artists also create artwork on display in the museum.

Address: 95 S Main St, Eureka Springs, AR 72632,

Ride a Train

If you want to experience what it was like when the rail service arrived in Eureka Springs in 1883, pay a visit to the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway Company.

The historic rail line allows visitors to hop aboard the historic line daily. The train rides include a sightseeing ride, lunch, and dinner excursion.

These seasonal journeys are available from April through October.

While here, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the museum on-site. In addition to the collection of railroad items on display, you can visit the gift shop to find the perfect souvenir.

Please check their website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and prices.

Address: 299 North Main Street, Eureka Springs, AR

Beaver Lake

Outdoor enthusiasts will want Beaver Lake to be on their list of things to do in Eureka Springs.

This lake is located a few miles from Eureka Springs in the Ozark Mountains.

One of the main draws of this lake is the 487 miles of scenic shoreline that the lake offers. This is the perfect area to enjoy a relaxing day on the lake.

Beaver Lake offers numerous recreational opportunities. Scuba divers love the crystal clear water, and photographers will be in heaven with the dramatic limestone cliffs and wildlife found around the lake.

Of course, the lake is also great for fishing, skiing, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

This lake is one of the places to visit in Eureka Springs for a great family-friendly getaway.

Address: 4022 Mundell Rd, Eureka Springs, AR 72631-8911

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Lake Leatherwood City Park

Another great Ozark lake to add to your list of things to do in Eureka Springs is Lake Leatherwood City Park.

Located on the north side of Eureka Springs, Lake Leatherwood is a 100-acre lake located on the property of a 1,600-acre park.

Lake Leatherwood is one of the great places to visit to enjoy outdoor recreation. The family-friendly activities on this lake include boating, canoeing, fishing, and kayaking.

You can also spend the day enjoying hiking, running, or biking on the trails of the park.

Numerous structures were also located on site built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. These buildings allow Lake Leatherwood to be listed as a historic district in Eureka Spring, Arkansas.

St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church

Another building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, is a beautiful church located near the downtown historic district.

The church is famous for its Bell Tower and the gorgeous architecture of the building.

The grounds of the church are perfect for taking some outdoor photographs, thanks to flora and fauna in the area.

You can also visit the church to see the Bell Tower and the stained glass windows. Take time to do the self-guided tour of the church and visit the on-site gift shop to view the religious items and jewelry for sale.

Address: 30 Crescent Drive, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Visit the Blue Spring Heritage Center

The Blue Spring Heritage Center is one of the historical attractions in Eureka Springs that should be on your list of things to do in Eureka Springs.

Blue Spring Heritage Center has welcomed visitors for over 70 years.

During your visit, you can see the artifacts displayed throughout the park. These artifacts include the remains of an old mill and the Blue Shelter, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Some numerous gardens and greenspaces will be the perfect addition to your Eureka Springs, Arkansas itinerary.

Address: 1537 County Road 210, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

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Take a Cruise on the Belle of the Ozarks

The Belle of the Ozarks offers a 12-mile narrated cruise on Beaver Lake for visitors to enjoy.

The cruise will take you to areas all over the lake, including an ancient Indian burial ground, submerged caves, and more.

The cruise will not only allow you to learn more about the history of Eureka Springs, but it will also allow you to relax and possibly see some of the local wildlife.

Get a Spa Treatment

The healing waters of the Eureka Springs hot springs have drawn visitors here since the 1800s.

Today, you can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment in town to help get the healing juices flowing in your body.

There are several spas and wellness centers in the Eureka Springs area that we would be delighted to have you visit.

Enjoy Local Art

Eureka Springs is a thriving local art community. Several of the Victorian architecture buildings on Main Street house art galleries and shops showcasing the works of the local Eureka Springs artists.

Suppose you visit Eureka Springs on the second Saturday of the month. In that case, you will want to join in on the 2nd Saturday Art Strolls offered by the Eureka Springs Gallery Association.

Throughout town, you will also notice several public art displays. One of our favorites is the Humpty Dumpty sculpture sitting on the wall in Basin Spring Park.

Take a Tour of Eureka Springs

A tour of Eureka Springs is a great way to get to know the city better.

Several Eureka Springs tours are available, including walking tours, a trolley tour, and more.

One of our favorite tours is the Downtown-N-Underground Tour. This takes you to downtown underground sites visitors do not usually see.

It allows visitors a unique perspective on Eureka Springs’ history.

Holiday Island Marina

Those of you visiting during the warm months of the year won’t want to miss some time out on the water. That is where a visit to Holiday Island Marina comes in handy.

This marina allows visitors to enjoy renting a watercraft so that guests can get out on the water.

The marina on Table Rock Lake offers all sorts of watercraft rentals. These include jet skis, pontoon boats, and more.

Holiday Island Marian also offers an on-site snack bar serving everything from ice cream to pizza.

Holiday Island Marina has everything you need for a fun and safe day out on the lake.

They even offer life vests, fishing equipment, and anything else you need.

A visit to Holiday Island Marina is the perfect addition to your Eureka Springs itinerary, especially in the warm summer.

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Do a Ghost Tour at the Crescent Hotel

Another of our favorite tours in Eureka Springs is the ghost tour the Crescent Hotel offers.

The Crescent Hotel’s tumultuous history only adds to the intrigue of this tour.

Originally built as a luxury resort for the rich visiting Eureka Springs, Arkansas, in the late 1800s, the hotel later changed owners numerous times.

The Crescent Hotel even served as The Baker Cancer Hospital in the early 1900s, meaning the building had several people pass away on site.

A hotel ghost tour introduces guests to the spirits that haunt the hotel. You never know; you have had an encounter of your own during the tour!

This is one of the unique attractions in the Eureka Springs downtown district.

You can grab a souvenir from the hotel gift shop if you love your tour!

Address: 75 Prospect Ave, Eureka Springs, AR 72632

Try Horseback Riding

Imagine taking a horseback ride through the Ozark Mountains during your vacation.

If that appeals to you, you will want to add Bear Mountain Riding Stable to your list of Eureka Springs things to do.

The stables have ten horses suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels.

They also offer an event center to host weddings, family reunions, or large gatherings.

Go Ziplining

Those who want an adrenaline rush will get their fill when you do one of the outdoor zipline tours offered by Ozark Mountain Ziplines.

The zipline tours offered by Ozark Mountains offer trained professionals and high-quality safety gear to be sure that everyone has a safe time on their canopy tour.

The Ozark Mountain Zipline consists of 10 ziplines for guests to enjoy. You can soar from the treetops on this outdoor adventure!

Address: 208 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632

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Head to Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point is an incredible scenic overlook in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, take a gorgeous picture, or enjoy some time outdoors in nature.

Here you can see the White River and views of the valley 500 feet below. This is the perfect place to visit any time of year, allowing you to see the gorgeous Ozark Mountain scenery.

If you can visit during the fall, you will be treated to the changing of the gorgeous fall foliage. It is such a treat to see the beautiful colors of orange, red, and yellow as the trees begin shedding their leaves for winter.

You will want to bring your camera when you visit Inspiration Point, as the view from this vantage point is fabulous.

Aviation Cadet Museum

A visit to the Aviation Cadet Museum is another great thing for history buffs to enjoy during their visit to Eureka Springs.

The museum is dedicated to sharing and honoring our military’s aviation accomplishments.

Kids (and kids at heart) will love the hands-on exhibits throughout the museum that allow you to get up close and personal with history.

Some noteworthy items on exhibit at the Aviation Cadet Museum include historical planes, a fighter bomber used in the Vietnam War, and a T-29 training plane.

This museum is a great attraction for lovers of aviation, history, and flight.

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The sisters who voyage

Monday 5th of September 2022

I’ve anyways wanted to visit the ozarks because of the show 😆 but now I really want to go! Great guide!

Caroline

The wildlife reserve looks like something right up my alley. Would love to visit one day.

thattexascouple

It is such a great place!

Melissa

Sunday 4th of September 2022

How cool does this place sound!? I would definitely put this place on my bucket list of cool things to do in the US. Thanks for all the tips!

Thank you so much, Melissa!

Jennifer Record

I am so mad we drive right past this part of Arkansas!! it looks like so much fun!

Oh man, now you have to plan a trip back! It's one of our favorite towns in Arkansas!

Lasma

I never heard about Eureka Springs before, but you really inspired me to visit it. I would start with the castle and the winery... but there are so many fun things to do! Thank you for sharing!

I'm so glad we could inspire you!