Eureka Springs, Arkansas is an idyllic Ozark mountain retreat that combines a historic downtown with incredible outdoor activities and attractions. It’s perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, art connoisseurs, spiritual pilgrims, and shopaholics alike to find peace of mind.
Eureka Springs boasts a variety of tourist attractions, such as historic landmarks, parks, museums, and wildlife preserves. Plus, visitors can experience the healing powers of natural mineral springs – which have been drawn here since the 1800s.
Christ of the Ozarks
Christ of the Ozarks, one of Arkansas’s most iconic attractions, is a must-see for visitors to Eureka Springs. Constructed in 1966 on the grounds of The Great Passion Play, it stands over 65 feet tall – one of the tallest Jesus statues worldwide.
The Christ of the Ozarks, with 24 layers of white mortar, is an impressive statue inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s famed Christ statue. It truly makes for a sight to behold.
It’s so impressive that it makes you question its authenticity. The sculpture’s arms extend an additional 65 feet, making it the largest Jesus statue in existence.
Christ of the Ozarks is a part of The Great Passion Play religious theme park and was commissioned by Gerald L.K. Smith, a controversial politician who once ran for president as an America First Party candidate.
Christ of the Ozarks aside, The Great Passion Play is another popular attraction in Springfield that has been enjoyed by millions of visitors over time. Not only does it offer an unforgettable experience, but you won’t want to miss it when you visit.
Travelers often stop at Thorncrown Chapel, designed by renowned architect E. Fay Jones and ranked fourth on the American Institute of Architects list of the top buildings of the twentieth century.
Eureka Springs offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy, but some of the most popular include visiting Christ of the Ozarks, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, Basin Spring Park, and the Downtown Historic District. Furthermore, Eureka Springs boasts numerous museums, restaurants, and shops to suit everyone’s taste – there’s something here for everyone!
Experience the area like never before by taking a tour. There are various tours available, both walking and driving alike, that provide various options.
Once you’ve seen all the major sights in Eureka Springs, why not enjoy some fun outdoor activities to remember your time there? Popular options include tubing, camping, and fishing. Visitors can also visit a natural spring-fed mountain creek for swimming and snorkeling. For something a little more relaxing after a long day of sightseeing in the city, Eureka Springs boasts plenty of spas and wellness centers that will leave you feeling rejuvenated after all that exploring.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is one of Eureka Springs’ top attractions, boasting 459 acres and home to more than 100 exotic animals. This sanctuary has earned recognition as one of North America’s largest big cat sanctuaries and should not be missed by those wanting to experience the wild side of the Ozark Mountains.
In addition to big cats, the refuge also rescues other animals like bobcats and bears. Its staff takes great care in caring for all these pets and ensures they receive the highest quality of life possible.
Turpentine Creek Animal Refuge is renowned for its educational programs and keeper talks, in addition to providing a home for animals. Staff members lead tours around the refuge with stories behind each animal and how it came to the refuge, while also discussing illegal pet trade practices and their effects on wildlife in America.
Be prepared to have your heart melted as you witness a lion playing or a leopard enjoying the warmth of the sun. Despite threats facing endangered species, Turpentine Creek staff members are doing everything possible to safeguard and care for these wild animals in their facility.
Turpentine Creek Animal Rescue Center rescues these animals from some of the worst conditions and provides them with a wonderful life. They’re fed daily, given special diets if necessary, and situated among lush grassy habitats with heated night houses and pools to cool them off in summer.
It’s good that they don’t offer any photo ops, since photographing a wild animal without its consent would be inappropriate. Furthermore, they do not breed their animals and do not permit people to touch them.
At Turpentine Creek, visitors can get up close and personal with the wild animals as they have plenty of room to move around. Their animal enclosures are secure and they take safety very seriously.
Experienced guides offer tours of the animal enclosures at this refuge, and there’s even on-site lodging if you’re feeling more of a safari vibe. It’s an ideal way to spend an hour or two learning about the wildlife at this sanctuary.
Basin Spring Park
Basin Spring Park in Eureka Springs has been a magnet for travelers since the late 1800s. Early settlers discovered its healing powers and began traveling there for health-related treatments. Nowadays, visitors are encased by a circular wall and railing around the spring for added enjoyment.
Another reason to visit the park is its stunning geological formations, such as Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge. These features can be reached after just a short hike and offer visitors plenty of photo ops to savor.
The park also features numerous shops and dining establishments, such as a brewery and winery. You can easily spend the entire day here exploring this park, guaranteeing yourself an enjoyable stay in town.
One of the most popular activities to do in Eureka Springs is taking a ride on the historic tram. This 90-minute tour will take you through the heart of Eureka Springs, stopping at landmarks such as the 1886 Crescent Hotel, the Christ of the Ozarks statue, and cold water springs.
If you’re traveling with children, why not take them on this exciting adventure? They will have an enchanting time learning about the history of the area! Plus, you’ll get to take in breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains along the way!
Make a stop at Cosmic Cavern for an exciting adventure with your family. On its 90-minute tour, you’ll get to explore two deep lakes and pan for gemstones just like gold prospectors did centuries ago!
Eureka Springs not only boasts these attractions, but it also has plenty more to offer. From horseback riding and wildlife refuge to caves, music shows and other inspiring activities – there’s something for everyone in this charming town!
When planning a visit to Eureka Springs, be sure to reserve a room at one of the best Arkansas resorts for families. The Best Western Inn of the Ozarks is an ideal option as it features an outdoor pool, is pet-friendly, and is close to all the fantastic attractions!
Downtown Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs’ historic district is a must-visit for travelers to the area. It brims with Victorian buildings, small museums, and Basin Spring Park at its center; streets lined with shops and cafes allow you to spend an enjoyable day exploring all that downtown Eureka Springs has to offer.
One of Eureka Springs’ most iconic and inspiring landmarks is the Christ of the Ozarks statue, standing 67 feet tall and made entirely by hand with 24 layers of white mortar poured over a steel frame. This majestic structure has drawn visitors from around the globe to this picturesque city. You can also attend The Great Passion Play, an immersive theatrical production telling Jesus Christ’s life story including his entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and execution.
Visit Thorncrown Chapel, a 48-foot wooden structure that stands as an impressive example of Gothic architecture. Tucked away in the Ozark woodlands, this tranquil retreat serves as an inspiring spot for worship and spirituality.
Art lovers will find Eureka Springs to be a thrilling destination, boasting hundreds of talented local artists to meet and shop from. Eureka Springs is often ranked as one of the finest small art towns in America.
When in town, be sure to visit the Quicksilver Gallery. Showcasing artwork and fine crafts from over 100 local and national artists, this gallery makes for perfect gifts for family members or yourself.
Visit the Eureka Springs Historical Museum to discover the rich cultural history of the town. Housed in an iconic 1889 building, it offers both permanent and rotating exhibits on Native American culture, fires, travel/tourism activities, and more.
The museum is an ideal starting point for any trip to the area, providing vital foundational information about the city and its people. Entry is free and knowledgeable guides will lead you through its fascinating past.
Conclusion
Arkansas’s Eureka Springs is a special and lovely place that shouldn’t be disregarded. Eureka Springs has something for everyone, from its spectacular natural beauty to its rich culture and history. This quaint city provides a wealth of possibilities to explore, whether you’re searching for an outdoor adventure or a cosy night out on the town. Visitors to Eureka Springs are guaranteed to depart with enduring memories that will stick with them long after their trip is over because to the city’s stunning surroundings and welcoming residents. So if you’re looking for the ideal vacation destination, go no further than The Best of Arkansas: Visit Eureka Springs!
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