In Eureka Springs, you’ll encounter art not only in galleries and studios, but also on sidewalks and in stairwells. The area also offers historic districts, museums, guided tours, and outdoor trails. This gives you a range of ways to shape your visit: city history, art, a narrated tour, or time in parks and on hiking and biking trails.
History and Art in the Cityscape
Eureka Springs was the first historic district in Arkansas and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. The entire downtown area is also listed on the register. A great introduction to the city is the Eureka Springs Historical Museum, housed in the restored 1889 Calif House. Its two floors feature exhibits that introduce the area. The museum is self-guided. Check the latest visitor information before your visit, as operating details may change.
Green Spaces, Springs, and Trails
Lake Leatherwood City Park spans 1,610 acres and includes an 85-acre spring-fed lake. The park’s construction history is also part of its character: the limestone dam, historic diving platform, pavilion, and other park structures were built by the WPA in the early 1940s. The park is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Eureka Springs has more than 66 springs, 15 of the more notable ones are accessible on foot. Black Bass City Park has two miles of trails around the lake, including a half-mile accessible trail. Motorboats are not allowed on the lake, which is suitable for fishing. Check current trail and visitor conditions before your visit.
An easy 1.4-mile loop for walking and biking runs through Harmon Park and Spring Garden, toward the historic Upper Spring Street district, and on to the Crescent Hotel. The Great Passion Play also offers more than 18 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. These trails are designed for different experience levels, from beginner to advanced to expert. Trail conditions can change, so check the latest information before setting out.
Tours and Sightseeing Rides
The Holy Land Tour at The Great Passion Play takes visitors through a life-size replica of the East Jerusalem Gate and marketplace, as well as other biblically inspired exhibits. Tour times and reservation options may change; check both before your visit.
The Historic Loop is an approximately two-mile round trip from and back to Highway 62. The route passes through the business district and by Victorian homes and other residential areas.
Eureka Springs Transit also offers different durations and formats: the Red Route follows a 20-minute loop through the city center along Main Street and Spring Street. The Open-Air Tram Tours are fully narrated, 85-minute guided sightseeing tours. The Red Route may vary seasonally, and tour times may change. Check the latest schedule and tour times before making plans.
Discover more destinations: Holiday Island.
Return to the main travel overview: Carroll County.
