Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Eureka Springs
With its gingerbread-style buildings, winding roads, and forested backdrop, Eureka Springs feels like a hidden gem out of a fairytale. Art galleries, quirky shops, and live music venues fill the downtown, while outdoor adventures await in the surrounding Ozarks. The town is also known for its inclusive community, historic hotels, and reputation as a wellness destination. Visitors will find a blend of relaxation, inspiration, and small-town hospitality around every corner.
Top areas to stay at in Eureka Springs
Historic Downtown Eureka Springs
Historic Downtown is the heart of the city, filled with preserved Victorian storefronts, antique shops, and locally owned cafes. Vacation rentals in this area include walk-up apartments, boutique Airbnbs above shops, and beautifully restored townhomes. Staying downtown offers easy access to Basin Spring Park, nightlife, and seasonal festivals.
Upper Historic Loop
The Upper Historic Loop is a quiet and scenic area just above downtown that showcases some of the city’s most iconic architecture. Many Airbnbs in the Upper Historic Loop are large, wrap-around-porch homes or historic B&Bs with panoramic views. The neighborhood is peaceful yet still within walking distance of shopping and dining.
East Mountain
Perched above the town, East Mountain offers wooded serenity and beautiful views of the Ozark landscape. Vacation homes and cottages in this area often include private decks, hot tubs, and hiking trail access.
Lake Leatherwood Area
Located west of downtown, the Lake Leatherwood Area provides access to one of the region’s best-loved outdoor recreation spots. Rentals in this area include cozy cabins, rustic lodges, and family-friendly homes near the water. Guests can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking in a scenic park setting.
Highway 62 Corridor
Running east to west through town, the Highway 62 Corridor offers a range of modern accommodations with easy access by car to all of Eureka Springs’ highlights. Vacation rentals near the Highway 62 Corridor often feature contemporary amenities, ample parking, and larger spaces for families or groups. The area is also close to restaurants, theaters, and seasonal attractions.
Must-visit places and attractions in Eureka Springs
Thorncrown Chapel
Nestled in the woods, Thorncrown Chapel is a breathtaking glass-and-wood structure named one of the most beautiful churches in America. Its striking architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest, creating a serene and spiritual experience. Visitors are welcome daily for quiet reflection or photos.
Basin Spring Park
Located in the center of downtown, Basin Spring Park is a lively gathering place with music, festivals, and historic significance. The spring itself was once believed to have healing properties and helped establish Eureka Springs as a wellness retreat. Today, it remains a central and symbolic heart of the city.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Just south of town, the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for rescued big cats and exotic animals. Guests can tour the large enclosures and learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of lions, tigers, and bears. The refuge also offers overnight lodging for a truly wild experience.
Blue Spring Heritage Center
Set around one of the area’s largest natural springs, the Blue Spring Heritage Center blends natural beauty with Native American history. Trails wind through gardens, archaeological sites, and scenic overlooks. The spring flows into a lagoon filled with trout, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting. Visitors can explore the grounds while learning about the area’s rich heritage.
Christ of the Ozarks
Towering over the mountainside, the Christ of the Ozarks statue is one of Eureka Springs’ most iconic landmarks. Standing seven stories tall, it offers panoramic views and is part of the larger religious park known as The Great Passion Play. Visitors can tour the grounds and attend seasonal performances or exhibits.
Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway
Train lovers will enjoy a visit to the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway, where you can ride a vintage locomotive through the scenic countryside. The depot includes historic cars, gift shops, and dining options aboard the train. Families especially love the themed rides and photo opportunities.
Quigley’s Castle
Known as "the Ozarks' strangest dwelling," Quigley’s Castle is a quirky home built with rock walls and indoor gardens. The home was designed by its eccentric owner in the 1940s and has become a beloved roadside attraction. Visitors can tour the house and surrounding flower gardens filled with folk art and collected curiosities.
Lake Leatherwood City Park
This expansive park features an 85-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by hiking and biking trails. Lake Leatherwood City Park offers fishing, kayaking, camping, and picnic areas for visitors of all ages. Nature lovers will find endless ways to enjoy this scenic escape.
Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Located about 90 minutes west, Fayetteville is a vibrant college town known for its arts scene, hiking trails, and Razorback sports. Dickson Street offers lively dining, music, and shopping. Fayetteville adds youthful energy and urban variety to your Eureka Springs trip. Stay in an apartment in Fayetteville near the university or in a cabin nestled in the nearby hills.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Roughly three hours south, Hot Springs is famous for its namesake thermal waters, historic bathhouses, and mountain setting. Guests can unwind at the Hot Springs National Park or stroll the charming Bathhouse Row. Hot Springs offers a wellness-focused retreat to complement Eureka’s artistic charm. Relax in a vacation rental in Hot Springs near the springs or along a lakeside trail.
Mountain View, Arkansas
Around two hours southeast, Mountain View is a folk music haven nestled in the Ozarks with a deep sense of tradition and scenic charm. The town is known for its music festivals, crafts, and outdoor activities like hiking and trout fishing. Mountain View adds cultural richness and tranquility to your regional adventure. Rest for the night in a cabin in Mountain View surrounded by forest and folk melodies.
Berryville, Arkansas
Just 20 minutes east, Berryville is a small town offering a slower pace and local charm with easy access to the Buffalo National River. It’s a great base for canoeing, fishing, or simply enjoying the countryside. Berryville is a relaxing addition to any Eureka Springs itinerary. Spend a few peaceful days in a house in Berryville tucked among meadows and quiet backroads.
Branson, Missouri
Just over an hour north, Branson is a bustling entertainment destination known for live shows, family attractions, and lakeside fun. Visitors can enjoy Silver Dollar City, boat tours on Table Rock Lake, and a wide array of theaters and restaurants. Branson brings family-friendly energy and high-volume fun to the Ozark region. Spend the weekend in a condo in Branson with easy access to the Strip and lakefront activities.
Explore the rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene across the United States
With its historic architecture and vibrant artistic community, this destination offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored across the United States. Just as you uncover the charm of the historic district, immerse yourself in the quaint Victorian architecture found through an airbnb in Port Townsend. Oklahoma City, with landmarks like the Oklahoma History Center, offers Oklahoma City rentals that immerse visitors in the region's storied past. Journey through Wisconsin accommodation options to discover cultural treasures like the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee. Further enrich your experience with rentals in Idaho Falls, where the city's charming streets echo the past.
Known for its creative spirit, this destination invites you to continue your artistic exploration across the United States. Delight in the vibrant festival atmosphere with Coachella airbnb stays, and experience the liveliness of music and arts that mirror the essence of the local art scene. In Austin, the live music capital of the world, find accommodation in Austin that radiates an artistic aura akin to its iconic South by Southwest events. For a touch of entertainment and live performances, places to stay in Branson offer access to theatrics that bring the town's vibrant culture to life.