18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR

Eureka Springs is a city steeped in natural and cultural appeal in northwest Arkansas, and while its scenic location lends itself to the outdoors, there are plenty of other attractions and things to do. It's a resort city named after the abundance of surrounding mineral pools. The same therapeutic properties that attracted Indigenous cultures and settlers to this Ozark Mountains hideaway still attract tourists today, and visitors of all ages often appreciate the history here.

The city's attractive downtown district is lined with historic Victorian buildings, small museums, and the centerpiece Basin Spring Park. It's easy to fill a day wandering around the hilly streets and stopping into shops or relaxing at shaded parks on a whim. Other nearby places to visit include the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway, the inspiring Thorncrown Chapel, and the theatrical production known as the Passion Play.

For underground tourist attractions and other fun things to do to the east of town, visit the inviting Onyx Cave, and to the west is the Blue Spring, one of the most abundant springs in the Ozark Mountains. Learn more about these and other attractions with our list of the top things to do in Eureka Springs.

See also: Where to Stay in Eureka Springs

1. Visit the Thorncrown Chapel

The Thorncrown Chapel is a 48-foot-tall wooden structure and a stunning place of worship and spirituality. This forested retreat has 425 windows and 6,000 square feet of glass. It's a true architectural amazement that allows ample light inside and provides an open feeling that really takes in the surrounding Ozark woodland scenery.

Designed by noted architect E. Fay Jones, the chapel hosts public Sunday Services between April and December and is available for weddings throughout the year. Every member of the public is encouraged to check out the impressive design of this woodland chapel, and plenty of parking for RVs and buses can be found nearby.

Thorncrown Chapel is open to the public throughout the day between April and November, with more limited hours in March and December. The chapel is closed during January and February. Over seven million people visit the chapel every year. When you visit, be sure to bring your camera.

Address: 12968 Highway 62 West, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: http://www.thorncrown.com/

2. Meet the Resident Animals at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for big cats and other large animals. It's home to abandoned, abused, and neglected tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars, as well as bears and bobcats.

Visitors to the refuge have many ways to interact with the resident animals and learn more about their species. Guided habitat tours happen daily, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours occur on the weekends.

The wildlife refuge also hosts numerous special events throughout the year, which help fund Turpentine's efforts, like festivals and educational programming. The refuge also provides lodging options, including a family-friendly treehouse and an adults-only safari lodge.

Address: 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: http://www.turpentinecreek.org

3. Christ of the Ozarks

It is hard to miss the Christ of the Ozarks, which is one of the most notable attractions in Eureka Springs. The monument stands 67 feet tall on Magnetic Mountain, and it can be seen from almost anywhere in town. The Christ of the Ozarks has been a fixture in Eureka Springs for more than 50 years, and it is worth seeing up close while you are in town.

There is free parking in the complex near the statue and pedestrian paths that lead to the base of it and below for various vantage points. Walk around the statue to see its 65-foot arm span, and learn about the efforts that it took to create it in 1966.

The foundation is made from 340 tons of concrete, with steel welded directly into the rock of Magnetic Mountain, and it weighs over 2,000,000 pounds. It is easy to continue your visit with a walk on the grounds to experience the other buildings and points of interest, including a section of the Berlin Wall that is on display to the public.

Address: 935 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: https://www.greatpassionplay.org/christ-of-the-ozarks.html

4. The Great Passion Play

The Great Passion Play brings to life the epic drama surrounding Christ's death and resurrection. The play is performed in an outdoor amphitheater surrounded by luscious landscaping. The production is based on the Old Testament prophecies and New Testament accounts of the last seven days of Jesus of Nazareth before and including His ascension.

Numerous performances occur throughout the year, ensuring ample opportunity to catch this Christian attraction comprising a multi-level stage, live animals, and 150 trained actors. The Great Passion Play's typical season spans from Memorial Day through October. Performances take place in the evening.

Other attractions at The Great Passion Play also give it a family-friendly reputation, including the immersive Holy Land Tour, complete with a life-size replica of the Eastern Gate in Jerusalem and an authentic marketplace to explore. Mountain bike trails, a Noah's Ark petting zoo, and a Sacred Arts Museum are also available to experience year-round.

Address: 935 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: http://www.greatpassionplay.org/

5. Downtown Eureka Springs

The historic downtown district of Eureka Springs is a central attraction of the city. The aesthetics of the 1900s Victorian architecture lining Spring and Main Streets makes for an excellent backdrop for many kinds of downtown experiences.

Local storefronts, eclectic shops, and specialty boutiques comprise many of the shopping opportunities downtown, which are only rivaled by the generous selection of local eateries and evening entertainment. The downtown Basin Spring Park is a great place to rest between shopping excursions or to catch live music from under the bandshell, which often provides a soundtrack to the downtown experience.

Walking tours are a popular way to experience downtown Eureka Springs. These guided excursions vary from historic underground tours to narrated trips that explore the haunted side of the city. The Eureka Springs Transit is an open-air tram that is a great way to tour the city, see some of the local sights, and learn about local history. Festivals, celebrations, and community spirit is also downtown, including an annual festival of the arts, seasonal parades, and memorable Mardi Gras celebrations.

6. Intrigue Theater

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Eureka Springs is the Intrigue Theater, with master illusionist Sean Paul and medium Juliana Fay. The show is performed in a century-old church in historic downtown and has been an entertainment staple in Eureka Springs for more than a decade.

The intimate venue makes for a fun evening out with a performance that is engaging. For a full evening, plan to have dinner in one of the locally owned restaurants in historic downtown before the performance.

Address: 80 Mountain Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: https://intriguetheater.com

7. Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake is one of the best recreational lakes in the area, with more than 480 miles of shoreline. The scenic limestone cliffs, wide lake, forestland, and caves make for a great day outdoors, whether you are enjoying it from a boat or from a picnic bench in one of the public areas.

Beaver Lake is popular for fishing, swimming, hiking, and even scuba diving, with marinas that are open year-round for supplies, boat rentals, and fishing guides. There are several public pull-off areas with parking and picnic pavilions.

There are small public swimming beaches, campsites, and children's playgrounds available. There is a day use fee for Beaver Lake during the high tourist season.

Address: 2260 North 2nd Street, Rogers, Arkansas

Official site: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/530 /

8. St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

The St. Elizabeth Catholic Church is an inspiring landmark of Eureka Springs. It's over a century old and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The walkway leading to St. Elizabeth Church is lined with the Stations of the Cross, and a small prayer garden can be found at the side of the building. Visitors enter the church through a charming bell tower.

History runs deep in the interior of the church, and visitors can sign up for a self-guided tour or take part in any of the scheduled masses that occur throughout the week. This historic church is also a popular wedding venue. An attached gift shop features locally made jewelry, inspirational readings, and a wide variety of religious items for sale.

Address: 30 Crescent Drive, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

9. Experience the Ozarks & Natural Springs

You cannot visit Eureka Springs without soaking in some of the natural beauty that the area is known for and the natural springs bubbling in the pristine Ozarks environment. The town is surrounded by three lakes and two rivers, making it a perfect place to visit to enjoy the outdoors in the stunning Ozark Mountains region.

One of the best ways to enjoy the undisturbed natural environment of the area is to hike, bike, or walk on some of the nature trails and parks that are plentiful around Eureka Springs. There are over 25 miles of trails through woods that are easily accessible from town. You can find more than 66 natural springs within the city limits and more beyond.

There are many parks around town, including Black Bass Lake with miles of trails through woods and rock formations. For full immersion or for a quiet retreat in nature, you can stay in luxury log cabins in the woods, like The Cinnamon Valley, which sits on 140 acres with two spring-fed lakes, and walking trails.

10. Hop aboard a Historic Train at the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway Company

This historic depot and passenger line is a mile from downtown Eureka Springs and allows visitors a glimpse of what life was like when rail service arrived in Eureka Springs in 1883. Within this depot-turned-museum, visitors encounter a collection of vintage rolling stock, a restored turntable, handcar, and an automobile outfitted to run on the rails.

A connected Baggage Room Gift Shop is also available at the depot for locomotive-related memorabilia and keepsakes. The real experience of visiting the depot comes from the daily scheduled rides and the chance to hop aboard the historic line. Trips include an excursion train, lunch train, and a special dinner train. These narrated journeys take place between April and October.

Address: 299 North Main Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: http://www.esnarailway.com/

11. Quigley's Castle

Quigley's Castle is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and noted as the "the Ozark's strangest dwelling." It was the dream home of Elise Quigley, an Italian immigrant with a passion for gardening. Perennial gardens surround the home, with lovely paths, benches, and other features.

Inside the home are full-size tropical plants and trees, growing from natural ground soil on the first floor. And on display within the home are several unique collections, including butterflies, crystals, fossils, glassware, and arrowheads.

Quigley's Castle is open from March through November. Visitors are welcome to take a self-guided tour of this quaint and memorable residence. Tours take place both inside and outside among the beautifully landscaped gardens. Children under 14 years old receive free admission.

Address: 274 Quigley Castle Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: http://www.quigleyscastle.com/

12. Step Back in Time at Blue Spring Heritage Center

Comprised of beautiful gardens, local history, and a large natural spring, Blue Springs Heritage Center has been a popular tourist attraction for over 70 years. Prior to attracting tourists and Eureka Springs residents, the spring was considered a sacred space for local and traveling American Indian tribes.

Today, it's a popular family destination and a great place to enjoy the Ozark outdoors. The history of Blue Spring is on full display with every visit. Artifacts and exhibits are interspersed throughout the park, including the remnants of an old mill that was once powered by the moving water.

A notable Bluff Shelter is also worth a visit, now on the National Register of Historic Places, with evidence of use spanning back thousands of years. The various gardens are also worth seeing, and just over a mile of trails connects the different garden beds.

Address: 1537 County Road 210, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: http://www.bluespringheritage.com/

13. Go Underground at Onyx Cave Park

First discovered in 1891 and hosting tours since 1893, the Onyx Cave is just a short drive east of Eureka Springs. It offers a family-friendly opportunity to see some amazing cave features and wildlife. The cave is small, and visitors can walk through it with relative ease on a self-guided audio tour that takes about a half hour or less.

Onyx Cave also hosts a popular Gem Panning station outside the cave, which entices both children and adults. The gift shop at the cave features a variety of gems, jewelry, and photo opportunities with a large set of Amethyst Angel Wings. Axe throwing, with guided instruction and supervision, is also available.

Address: 338 Onyx Cave Lane, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

14. Explore the Outdoors at Lake Leatherwood

Hiking, biking, and water sports are some of the most popular ways to explore the Ozark mountains surrounding Eureka Springs, and a visit to the historic Lake Leatherwood City Park is one of the best places to visit when you arrive. This 1,600-acre park has facilitated outdoor adventures in the region for nearly 80 years.

Visitors can enjoy over 25 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails that cover beginner, intermediate, and expert skill levels. With easy access to the lake, paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular things to do.

The park has a fully stocked bait shop to take advantage of the fishing opportunities and a fishing trail to help guide anglers to the best spots.

15. Basin Spring Park

Before the city was incorporated, the mineral water found at the site now known as Basin Spring attracted Indigenous cultures and settlers. And this single spot set the stage for the thriving city found today. Every visit to Eureka Springs should include at least a quick stop in the park.

Today, Basin Spring Park is a central downtown park incorporating benches, a bandshell, and the original spring encased by concrete and a fountain. It provides a scenic resting opportunity between downtown excursions and serves as a great jumping-off point for other nearby attractions.

Walking tours often start at Basin Spring Park, and the public space hosts community celebrations, including live music and holiday festivals. The park's bandstand, built in 1921, often provides a summer music soundtrack on the weekends.

Address: 4 Spring Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansa

16. Eureka Springs Historical Museum

Eureka Springs is a unique town with a fascinating history, so making a stop at the historical Museum as you start your way along Main Street will add a lot of perspective to your visit and enhance your appreciation of the city.

The museum and gift shop has several floors of exhibits that highlight the area's history, most notably as a health resort that once had over 50 health spas in the area. Other exhibits have information about the natural springs, the Native American history, and the Ozarks region.

The museum has a great art gallery featuring some history about the artists and artwork that helped Eureka Springs flourish as an Artist's Colony in 1930.

You can take a self-guided tour to peruse the vintage photographs and artifacts from the area and walk through the Heritage Gardens on-site. The gift shop has some unique locally referenced books and jewelry and artwork for sale by local artists.

Address: 95 S Main Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Official site: https://eurekaspringshistoricalmuseum.org/about-the-museum/

17. The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa

Much more than just a place to stay, the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa provides numerous community attractions and things to do. Celebrating over 130 years on a hilltop overlooking the city, this historic hotel provides day visitors and overnight guests with activities ranging from full moon yoga to haunted tours, as well as great places to eat, socialize, and indulge in spa treatments.

The Crystal Dining Room at the Crescent Hotel is a popular venue for special events throughout the year. And gourmet pizza is served on the hotel's balcony, with great views overlooking the Ozark landscape. Many of the events offered by the hotel are complimentary when booking a room, though anyone interested in checking out the entertainment and history is welcomed to peruse the event calendar.

Address: 75 Prospect Avenue, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

18. Antiquing

Given the great history in Eureka Springs, it is no wonder that you will find some rare and unusual finds at the roadside antique shops. Eureka Springs has an active Antique Dealer's Association to support the diverse shops and sellers that make this a worthy stop for antiquing.

People come from around the United States to shop the small antique dealers and to attend the annual Antique Festival of the Ozarks. Antique shops come in all sizes and specialties, but the most exciting ones to visit are the random roadside stops that have changing inventory by the day.

Where to Stay in Eureka Springs for Sightseeing

Luxury Hotels:

• Steeped in history and culture, a few of the most luxurious places to stay in Eureka Springs continue the legacy of attracting visitors from around the world. Besides an outstanding tourist attraction, the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa also provides a great place to stay. Special programs, balcony restaurants, and a sprawling estate are just a few of the reasons why the Crescent Hotel has prospered for so long. Other features include spa amenities and timeless décor.
• Near downtown and adjacent to Basin Spring Park, the 1905 Basin Park Hotel is another overnight spot that has attracted visitors for well over a century. Highlights include easy access to the historic downtown district and old-fashioned rooms complete with modern amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Eureka Springs is filled with many great hotels that provide first-class service for an excellent value. The rates and amenities found at the Palace Hotel & Bath House Spa encourage visitors to stay an extra night or two. Featuring comfortable rooms in a historic 1901 building, including antique Victorian furniture, the Palace Hotel delivers a great deal, with friendly front desk staff, an elegant lobby, and a long list of specialty spa services.
• Also located in downtown with easy access to nearby shops and restaurants, the Grand Central Hotel & Spa can be found in a historic building with clean, comfortable rooms and a surplus of spa pampering services.
• Farther south, Brydan Suites is another popular mid-range option, which features modern suites with ample space to spread out your things.

Budget Hotels:

• For those interested in saving money on lodging, budget hotels in Eureka Springs don't skimp on service. The Trails Inn is popular thanks to its friendly rates and excellent customer service.
• Another affordable hotel near downtown, the Edelweiss Inn features a quite location, modern rooms, a well-kept facility, and a trolley stop right outside the front door.
• The Ozarka Lodge is another great budget option near the historic district, featuring a balcony area overlooking a pool, a convenient location, and many repeat guests.

Eureka Springs, AR - Climate Chart

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Exploring Arkansas: Outside of all the excitement found in Eureka Springs, the capital city of Little Rock is another popular city worth visiting in Arkansas. Also check out Hot Springs National Park, one of many top tourist attractions in Arkansas.

More to Explore in Missouri: The state of Missouri, directly north of Arkansas, also has plenty of fun to explore. From major cities like St. Louis to other fun places to visit including Branson, Missouri provides ample exciting things to do.

Lots to Discover in Louisiana: To the south of Arkansas, the state of Louisiana is filled with historical and cultural appeal. Perhaps the two best cities to visit are Baton Rouge and New Orleans, each offering their own unique style and many things to do.