Why This Arkansas Town Deserves More Attention
Founded in 1879 near the site of some medicinal springs, Eureka Springs quickly grew to become one of the region's top resorts during the Victorian era. However, by the early 20th century, its popularity waned, leading to fewer developments and a drop in visitor numbers. Today, with a population of just over 2,000, Eureka Springs remains relatively unknown outside of Arkansas. Yet, those who are familiar with this gem know that it offers much more than meets the eye. Surrounded by lakes, brimming with outdoor activities like ziplining, and adorned with public art installations, Eureka Springs is a town that should be on the radar of every traveler.
Activities on the Water
With three lakes and two rivers nearby, it's no wonder outdoor enthusiasts from across the state head to Eureka Springs in northwestern Arkansas for a weekend outdoors. Lake Leatherwood City Park, covering 1,610 acres, is popular among kayakers, canoers, fishers, and boaters and features a spring-fed lake that spans an impressive 85 acres. What makes this lake particularly unique is its origin as one of the largest hand-carved limestone dams in the U.S. Built in the 1940s, the dam is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park’s woodlands and lake support more than 120 species of birds along with native mammals like bobcats, white-tailed deer, snakes, and raccoons. There are also over 25 miles of hiking and biking trails throughout the park for visitors who prefer exploring the area on solid ground.
Looking for a park that is more off the beaten path? Black Bass Lake, located along the edges of Eureka Springs, offers a more remote atmosphere and is popular for hiking, biking, picnicking, or fishing. The clear green water is perfect for watching the lake’s bass! Observant parkgoers may spot frogs, dragonflies, and butterflies as well.
Adventure Sports
In addition to its nearby bodies of water, Eureka Springs offers a variety of exciting recreational sports like ziplining and horseback riding. Those who want to appreciate the Ozarks from above can embark on a ziplining tour with Eureka Springs Zipline. This Costa Rican-style canopy tour is home to the largest ziplining system in the region, offering 11 zipline cables and a swinging canopy bridge. Several stables near town offer travelers the chance to explore the forests and meadows of Eureka Springs by horseback. Keels Creek Trail Rides, for example, will take riders along scenic trails by Keels Creek, while The Homestead at Rocky Acres offers riding lessons and trail rides across its 143 acres of wooded property.
Art Scene
Eureka Springs has been ranked time and time again as one of the country’s best art towns, and rightfully so. Around 300 of Eureka Springs' 2,000 residents are artists, meaning that there is an abundance of art galleries, public art installations, and murals. As visitors stroll through Basin Spring Park, they'll encounter various public artworks, including a "Doughboy" statue honoring those who served in World War II and the 900-pound statue of Adora Zerlina Astra, Basin Spring's "Goddess," who watches over the park. Travelers can also stop by the Eureka Springs Centennial Mural downtown. Louis Freund created this mural in 1979, depicting the area’s history, ranging from Native American settlers to Eureka Spring’s 20th-century tourism.
Many of the art galleries throughout town have their own unique flair, such as the Wilson & Wilson Folk Art Gallery. Owned by Blakeley and Sylvia Wilson, this mother-and-daughter duo creates contemporary folk art paintings. Several of Blakeley’s works have even been featured in art museums around the country. For some hand-crafted jewelry, wood carvings, ceramics, or wall art, stop by Quicksilver Gallery, which features art in all kinds of mediums.
Restaurants & Nightlife
The innovative spirit of Eureka Springs' art community is also reflected in the diversity of its restaurants scattered throughout town. Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave, for example, aims to create unique flavor combinations curated by the innovative Chef Slane. Some of the signature entrees include wood-fired cedar plank salmon, smoked duck, and filet mignon. For a more casual and eclectic experience, travelers can grab lunch or dinner at Local Flavor Cafe, a colorful cafe with bright, painted walls that offers dishes like shrimp diablo & creamy grits, grilled salmon caesar, and eggplant parmesan.
Before turning in for the night, make sure to grab a drink at one of Eureka Springs’ creative bars. Missy’s White Rabbit Lounge is an interesting bar to check out. It is located in the historic district and features an eclectic and laid-back vibe with frequent live events and performances. In addition to live music, travelers can enjoy karaoke and open mic nights. Prefer a craft beer? Gotahold Brewing, a local brewery, offers in-house beer, cider, and kombucha. It also features local art, plenty of games, and a one-acre beer forest with plenty of seating for you to relax and enjoy your drink.
Although Eureka Springs faded from the spotlight for a while during the 20th century, the town is back on the map and ready to receive explorers. Whether you are interested in folk art, or soaring above the Ozarks, this small town has the perfect activity for every type of interest. Even the restaurants offer a cultural experience that rivals those of larger cities. So, if you’re wondering where to travel in 2025, leave your doubts behind and add Eureka Springs to your itinerary!
