Palace Hotel Eureka Springs
Every year, thousands of visitors descend on the Victorian mountain village of Eureka Springs.
By Michelle Salater
There may not be a single stoplight, but Eureka Springs, Ark., is anything but a backwoods Ozark town. It was founded in the 1880s as a spa resort, and some of the wealthiest and most prominent citizens of the Victorian era visited, believing that the spring water held the power to cure ailments. Today Eureka Springs is an eclectic city, merging Old World charm with day spas, art galleries, world-class dining and breathtaking views.
With the entire downtown district listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s possible to wander for hours admiring statuary, Victorian homes and lush gardens and taking the paths and steep staircases that lead from one street to another. Stop by the Chamber of Commerce and pick up an architectural walking map—you’ll soon see why the National Trust for Historic Preservation has named Eureka Springs one of the best-preserved communities in the country. When you tire, hop on one of the trolleys that run daily throughout the city.
Unwind from sightseeing with healing spa treatments and contemporary art at the GRYPHON’S ROOST DAY SPA AND GALLERY. Try a hot-stone massage at the Serenity Spa in the historic BASIN PARK HOTEL. Soak in a private mineral bath or sit in a eucalyptus steam barrel at the PALACE BATH HOUSE, in operation since 1901.
With a population of about 2,300, Eureka Springs claims more art galleries per capita than any other U.S. city, and more than 250 working artists live in the area. More than 20 galleries are scattered downtown, and local artwork can also be found in cafés, restaurants and residents’ gardens.
Eureka Springs is an outdoors enthusiast’s play-ground, with spring-fed lakes and one of the largest city parks in the country. And local restaurants have been recognized by Southern Living, Bon Appétit and the New York Times. One favorite of locals and visitors alike is the MUD STREET ESPRESSO CAFÉ, nestled underground, its limestone walls hung with local art. Try CARIBE RESTAURANTE Y CANTINA for artistically presented Mexican food. ROGUE’S MANOR at Sweet Spring lives up to its name with a roguishly romantic setting. Or walk to the 1886 CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA, where the Crystal Dining Room serves American cuisine and a Sunday champagne brunch. Go up to the fourth floor for a drink in DR. BAKER’S LOUNGE, an Art Deco jewel with live music. Step out onto the balcony for fresh mountain air and a spectacular view of the CHRIST OF THE OZARKS, the largest statue of Jesus in the Northern Hemisphere.
