This Is Arkansas's Quirkiest Little Town

Some towns are known for their natural beauty, while others shine through their art and music scenes. Eureka Springs does both. Once famous for its healing springs, it later became a thriving arts community. Today, this quirky Arkansas town is home to over 300 working artists, a major folk festival, scenic lakes, and winding zipline courses. If you are looking for a destination that is as eclectic as it is beautiful, Eureka Springs will not disappoint.

History Of Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs experienced a surge of settlers in the late 19th century, drawn in by its mineral springs, which were believed to have therapeutic properties. As its reputation as a health resort grew, so did its population, leading to the development of bathhouses, hotels, saloons, grocery stores, and other businesses centered around the springs. However, by the early 20th century, advances in modern medicine diminished interest in such remedies, causing a decline in health tourism. By the 1920s, the town shifted its focus to promoting nearby recreational attractions, with auto tourism becoming its primary source of revenue.

During the Great Depression, as the country yearned for nostalgia and simplicity, Eureka Springs embraced country themes in its art, fostering an image of wholesome living. This image attracted artists seeking an affordable and peaceful lifestyle. After World War II, the town’s artistic spirit continued to thrive, attracting even more creative minds and solidifying its reputation as being an artistic haven. This reputation continues to endure today.

The Rich Cultural Scene Of Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs visitors will quickly discover how its artistic heritage has shaped the town’s active art scene today. From folk music and opera performances to art museums, Eureka Springs offers a truly remarkable range of artistic experiences. Travelers who are craving some live music can check out the calendar at The Auditorium, which regularly hosts performances by artists of all genres, including both local and international talent. Some of the musicians who have performed here in the past include Willie Nelson, Bo Diddly, BB King, Merle Haggard, John Hammond, and Jefferson Starship! Travelers who enjoy classical music will love Eureka Spring’s Opera in the Ozarks, where university and graduate students perform three operas each summer. This year’s lineup features Carmen, Into the Woods, and The Merry Widow.

To explore the past century of Eureka Springs’s art, make sure to spend an afternoon at the Museum of Eureka Springs Art. This museum wonderfully encapsulates the town’s art heritage, showcasing 400 works of art from 150 artists spanning back as far as 140 years.

Original Ozark Folk Festival

For those hoping to hear folk music, the best time to visit Eureka Springs is during the annual Original Ozark Folk Festival. This festival, running for over 77 years, is the longest-running folk festival in the country. In addition to live folk music performances, there are interactive workshops for visitors to attend. Past workshops have featured mandolin and ukulele classes, flatpicking and fingerpicking techniques, folk rock sessions, and jig dance lessons. While enjoying live music in the park, attendees can browse artwork and handcrafted goods from local vendors, including paintings, ceramics, instruments, fiber sculptures, and more. The festival also hosts a songwriter competition, open to entries from all genres, languages, and cultures.

Outdoor Recreation

Located in the Ozark Mountains near three lakes and two rivers, Eureka Springs offers endless opportunities for adventure. Travelers who want to see the Ozarks from above can embark on a zipline tour with Eureka Springs Zipline, the largest zipline in the region. The tour will take travelers on 11 different zipline cables along with a swinging bridge, soaring above red oaks, white oaks, black walnuts, cedars, dogwoods, redbuds, and pines.

For a more laid-back afternoon, visit Lake Leatherwood City Park on the northern edge of Eureka Springs. Spanning 1,610 acres, the park features an 85-acre lake formed by a historic dam, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With over 25 miles of trails, it’s a great spot for hiking and biking. Those looking to get out on the water can head over to the historic marina for fishing or boating.

Before concluding their trip to Eureka Springs, travelers must visit one of its famous springs! The Blue Spring Heritage Center is home to the largest spring in northwest Arkansas, with 38 million gallons of water flowing from it every day. The spring is also stocked with trout, so keep your eye out! In the gardens of this spring, travelers will also find a historic bluff shelter that Native Americans once used for rituals and shelter. Following an archeological dig in 1971, scientists found prehistoric artifacts that date back as far as 8000 BCE. Today, the Bluff Shelter at Blue Spring is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to visit Eureka Springs for its art scene or the natural beauty of the Ozarks, this town offers the perfect balance of both. After a day at Leatherwood City Park, travelers can conclude the day with a performance at The Auditorium or an Opera put on by Opera in the Ozarks. Those wanting to appreciate the beauty of a natural spring, meanwhile, can stop by the Blue Spring Heritage Center. No matter what kind of itinerary you want to build, you are sure to walk away with a weekend full of memories in Eureka Springs.