Travel

Getaway to Eureka Springs

Founded in 1874 on healing waters, Eureka Springs has been a tourist destination for more than 100 years. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains 80 miles from Springfield, this quaint town is home to vibrant artists that engulf the community with local flavor. Th

By Peyson Shields

Dec 2015

Photo by Jeremy Mason McGraw

Stay

Snuggle up at The Inn at Rose Hall Bed and Breakfast (56 Hillside Ave., Eureka Springs, 479-253-8035). The cozy rooms give you the elegance of a getaway with the comfort of home. Plus, who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of freshly baked muffins and cheesy eggs? 

Eat

Settle into your B&B, then head over to Aquarius Taqueria (91 S. Main St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-6888) to start your trip with a taste of Mexico. Inspired by Mexican street food, this vibrant little find features daily specials and homemade margaritas. Because when you’re on vacation, a one o’clock marg is totally acceptable.

After you’ve burned off your lunch of tacos and tequila and spent some time around town, spruce up and head to Le Stick Nouveau (63 A Spring St., Eureka Springs, 479-981-3123) for dinner. The owners of Branson’s former Candlestick Inn opened this upscale dinnertime option. Featuring seasonal menus, Candlestick Inn menu favorites and new dishes sure to make your palate smile, you’re going to wish you had a standing reservation.

Let Go

A weekend getaway is all about unwinding and coming home refreshed. Check into the Solei Spa at the Grand Central (37 N. Main St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-6756) for a little pampering. Wrap up in detoxifying herbs, or opt for a simple massage—either way, you can’t go wrong with a spa day.

Continue the relaxing atmosphere and enjoy a glass (or three) of wine at Stone House (89 S. Main St., Eureka Springs, 479-363-6411). Considering Eureka Springs is a quiet town, most places close early. However, this spot is open until 10 p.m. serving up salty antipasto platters to pair perfectly with their wine selections.

Photo by Jeremy Mason McGrawSpring Street in Eureka Springs is filled with local eateries, stores and other hotspots.

Celebrate

One of the great things about going on vacation during the holiday season is being able to experience another town’s festivities. The Christmas Forest on the east lawn of the historic Crescent Hotel (pictured below; 75 Prospect Ave., Eureka Springs, 800-342-9766) is an annual event that illuminates the month for a cause. Each tree is decorated for a different charity, and the public can vote by donation on which tree they like best. The winning tree’s charity receives the donations. If you’re in town on December 5, check out the lighting ceremony to get you revved for the season.

See

Spring Street (above) is in the heart of historic downtown and offers several local shops and art galleries worth exploring. If shopping isn’t your forte, take a walk down to Saint Elizabeth Catholic Church (30 Crescent Dr., Eureka Springs, 479-253-2222). You enter the church through the bell tower, so the views are sure to make you feel a little closer to the clouds.