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 OK! Here's a unique little town of Eureka Springs Arkansas set in the heart of the Ozark Mountains we would like to share with you. Sometimes called "Little Switzerland" is a definite surprise to find in northwestern Arkansas. Many of the hotels, commercial buildings and homes are constructed in the Victorian and Swiss Chateau style. Hence, Eureka Springs nickname.
We have enjoyed this charming small town many times and find the area still boast a bit of undiscovered quality. Don't get me wrong, Eureka Springs Arkansas has thousands of tourist each year, but the pace is unhurried even laid back.
There are numerous hotels and gift shops on Hwy. 62, but the old part of Eureka Springs, Arkansas is its downtown. The street leading into this area is narrow, winding and descends the hill into a haven between the steep hillsides. Parking is sometimes difficult, but well worth the effort. NOTE: Don't try to take your RV downtown. There is a parking lot at the top of the hill on left just as you leave Hwy 62 on S. Main St. And numerous areas to park on Hwy 62 including the Information Center.
On one side of the road, the shops are built into the hillside, and on the other side businesses hang precariously on the bluff. When we come to the bottom, we immediately start to climb again and the road weaves around sharp curves. This is Spring Street.
We park finally realizing we'll never see everything unless our feet get us there. On Spring Street there is a neat and quaint bookstore called "Gazebo " having a diverse selection of books. Past it are jewelry stores, general stores, restaurants, clothing stores, and art galleries. Yes, art galleries. Eureka Springs is home too many gifted painters, glassblowers, and crafter's of various types. 
This is one of the many springs located on Spring Street. The stone works was constructed in the 1880's. Eureka Springs is really known for its healing springs. Ever since the 1880s, it has brought people in from all over the world for it's supposed "healing waters". Even before the white man discovered it, Indians were traveling here, bringing their sick and lame.
 Today, thousands come each year to bathe in the healing springs. One such bath house is called the Palace Bath House located on Spring St. and restored to its 1901 grandeur. Please check to make sure the bath house is open, their hours may change depending on the time of the year. There are also dozens of similar spas throughout town to choose from so check them out. Many people say the waters are even beneficial for folks with arthritis. I don't know but it couldn't hurt.
Be sure to take Spring Street all the way to its end, so you can visit the old springs along the way. The drive would also take you past beautiful Victorian era homes, plus lovely bed and breakfast inns.
As I've mentioned before, there are dozens of fine restaurants in town. Everything from fancy dining, to fast food is available. We think the best dining for the price, is Sheridan's Ozark Buffet on Hwy. 62. The restaurant is not fancy but good down home cooking. And the price is right, with plenty of room to park your RV.
 You may also want to check out the "Great Passion Play". The outdoor theater is located east of the downtown area on Hwy. 62. Don't worry you can't miss it, with its huge sign leading you there. We have truthfully never attended this famous play (I'm a little squeamish about the content). Actors bring to life the last days of Christ using a stage very resemblance of the era. Casting even includes live animals. Many people say it is a very moving experience. And the grounds of the Passion Play are beautiful. Parking is plentiful and sufficient for RV's of any size. This area is also accessible by trolley, which I will explain in a moment. Also on the same grounds is the Museum of Earth History.
For those cave lovers, there is Onyx Cave. The cave is located off Hwy. 62, then approx. 3 1/2 miles to the entrance. NOTE: We would not recommend taking your RV to this site, unless it is a small one. The road is narrow, steep and only a small turnaround. Watch for the large sign to Onyx Cave on the eastern end of Eureka Springs. Fee is modest, under $5.00.
Probably, the absolute best way to get around Eureka Springs, is by trolley. If you park at the Information Center, you can catch the trolley to about any location in town. Should you be staying in one of Eureka Springs many wonderful hotels, there is more than likely a trolley stop near.
For live entertainment you may enjoy the Pine Mountain Jamboree on E. Van Buren, or the Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down Theater on Hwy. 62 east. Both specializing in live music and comedy.
Some RV parks and campground here at Eureka Springs are: Kettle Campground & Cabins on Hwy 62-east, Wanderlust RV Park on Passion Play Road (we stay here and love it), Eureka Springs KOA on Hwy. 187, Beaver Dam Cottage & RV Park, Hwy 187, Ozark Cabins & RV on CR 136 (10 miles west).
Eureka Springs, Arkansas is located approx.. 30 miles east of Rogers on Hwy. 62. For I-40 drivers, take exit 35, then go about 74 miles north on Hwy. 23. You won't be sorry for taking yourself out of the way.
Keep in mind, Beaver Lake is not far from Eureka Springs. The lake has numerous attractions including boating, picnicking, great campgrounds, elegant and rustic lodging. It is a beautiful lake and one you would want to miss if you have the time. Beaver Lake camping area can be reached from Hwy. 62, between Eureka Springs and Rogers.
Eureka Springs was founded in July 1879, by people who believed the city existed for one reason "to be a place of healing." As a result the first businesses were bathing houses and resort hotels.
Many of those seeking good health were educated and engaged in the latest trends and fashion. For the ones who stayed there homes and businesses reflects their taste.
With the coming of the railroad, success of Eureka Springs as a resort, was assured. Travelers were met at the station by fancy trolleys and carriages. Their ride to beautiful hotels, were through gas-lit streets. Social activities were numerous with musicals, literary events at hotels and homes, plus theater productions at the Opera House.
The relaxation and healing atmosphere started so long ago is still very much at the core of this town today. This Eureka Springs web site has the latest news about Eureka Springs and surrounding area. Eureka Springs Arkansas is a definite gem.
For map and directions to Eureka Springs.
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