Founded in 1879 as a spa town, stunning Eureka Springs is a picturesque Ozark Mountain town built into steep hillsides and surrounded by over 60 natural springs. One of the nation’s top art destinations, Eureka Springs has been hailed by Travel + Leisure as one of the nine best small towns in the US for art lovers. Architectural Digest lists it as as one of the 50 most beautiful small towns in America. And Eureka Spring’s downtown is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. With the amazing scenery, and everyone singing Eureka Spring’s praises as being one of the best small art towns in the US, I simply had to visit. You should too.

Eureka Springs: one of the best small art towns in the US

Historic buildings dating as far back as the late 1880s line the streets of tiny, artsy Eureka Springs. You’ll find five historic hotels built before 1906, nearly one hundred restored mansions, and hundreds of cabins and cottages that range from summer cottages from the 1880 to roadside motor courts of the 1950s.

Hidden historical points of interest include the Municipal Auditorium opened by John Phillips Souza in 1929, famed Abolitionist Carry Nation’s home, houses of ill repute, numerous bath houses and the site of the capture of the last member of the infamous Dalton gang.

Art is at the heart of Eureka Springs

This Ozark Mountain town of just over 2,000 people has an extraordinary artistic bent. Downtown galleries represent hundreds of local artists, putting art at the heart of Eureka Spring’s economy. A great way to get the pulse of the local art scene is to participate in a 2^nd Saturday gallery stroll, held every month April through December. You can slowly stroll from gallery to gallery, enjoying local art and complimentary hors d’ oeuvres while sipping a glass of wine or champagne. It’s a beautiful way to spend an evening!

Also in downtown is the Eureka Springs Art Wall. This outdoor space is home to  ever-changing panels created by local artists.

Learn the history of the place

Want to get the full story of the history and folklore of the town? Eureka Springs Underground Tour offers a unique and entertaining dive into the origins of the magic healing waters, the town and the colorful characters who made Eureka Springs the great little town it is today.

Another way to learn about the town and its history is to take a ride on Eureka Springs Transit. You’ll get the inside scoop on the town and see a part of town you probably wouldn’t see on your own.

Shopping

In addition to the galleries, there are many unique and eclectic shops to visit in downtown Eureka Springs. Each on is decorated and beautifully lit at night, adding to the ambience of the area.

Basin State Park

Need a break from all the shopping and gallery hopping? Basin State Park, in the middle of town, is the perfect place to sit and relax your feet. It’s a charming little area with lots of benches. Sometimes there’s even a local band playing. If you need a place to sit, relax, and people watch while you catch your breath from all the hills in town, Basin State Park is your place! 

Eureka Springs at night

After a day of shopping or exploring the natural wonders in the region, you can relax in town with dinner, drinks, a ghost tour, and even a romantic carriage ride. Everything is within walking distance if you stay in town.

Tips for a better stay

• Eureka Springs is set into the hills, so walking about town you’ll be walking up and down hills. A lot.
• Many of the historic buildings that offer lodging don’t have elevators. If climbing stairs are an issue for you or a member of your group, you may want to keep this in mind when choosing where to stay.
• The beautiful mountains outside Eureka Springs are accessible to all, regardless of whether you want to hike, ride or drive to enjoy them. They’re especially amazing in the fall when the trees are a riot of color.
• Can’t come in the fall? Spring is also a good time to visit this part of the Ozarks. Eureka Springs School of the Arts hosts the Festival of the Arts every May, featuring  gallery openings, artist receptions, and even an ArtRageous Parade.
• Summer is also great time to visit Eureka Springs.  Opera in the Ozarks is a place for students in voice, instrumental music, and related arts to prepare for professional careers in their chosen fields. Established in1950, Opera in the Ozarks delights opera fans with great performances from late June to late July.
• There are lots of other fun things to do in the region.

Tucked into the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a beautiful place to while away a few days or a week. You can spend time in town taking in art by members of the community, or get out and enjoy the natural surroundings. Or do both! The beautiful Victorian homes, historic hotels, spas, springs, outdoor fun, world-class restaurants, and stunning architecture make Eureka Springs one of the best small art towns in the US. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit, and I’m sure you will too!