Eureka Springs is an eclectic town in the heart of the Ozarks with a unique personality. Victorian houses and shops are perched along the mountainside streets. The downtown area is begging to be explored with shops and eateries welcoming all travelers. Numerous kid-friendly outdoor activities are easily found here in this scenic part of Arkansas. I will say that when we arrived here in March the landscape was still very dormant. We are planning on returning this summer and I am excited to see this area when the trees, shrubs, and flowers are in full bloom.
Things to Do
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Joe Exotic and Carol Baskin are nowhere to be found here! Turpentine is a wildlife refuge that rescues lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) in addition to a few other homeless animals. We really enjoyed our visit to this wildlife sanctuary. The staff members were very knowledgeable and shared so much information about each animal. Small group guided tours allow you to walk up close next to the enclosures while learning the name and history of how each animal came to live at Turpentine. The staff also shared facts about animal behavior and specifics about how they care for each animal. When visiting Eureka, seeing the big cats is a must!
Eagle Rock, Table Rock Lake
Eagle Rock, MO has a small campground area on the White River Arm of Table Rock Lake, located about 20 min outside of Eureka Springs. There is a nice beach area and a marina nearby making this a great spot for a low-key afternoon adventure. In March it was still a little cool for swimming, although the kids didn’t mind. They ran up and down the waters edge, jumping into the cool water before hopping out to chase each other into exhaustion. Being early spring, we were the only people there but it appeared to be an excellent swimming spot in the summer months.
Explore Downtown Eureka Springs
Downtown Eureka Springs has many local eclectic little shops. You can make a whole excursion out of wandering the streets and exploring the shops along the way. The locals are very welcoming and friendly. We liked walking around the stores, checking out the local products such as jams, candies, and fudge they offered. The downtown area also has some side gardens and scenic areas that were fun to stroll through.
Hike Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag)
Whitaker Point, otherwise known as Hawksbill Crag, is located about 1.5 hours from Eureka Springs. I had seen amazing pictures of the view from the top of this point and knew we had to do this hike. The hike is located near Pettigrew, Arkansas which is essentially in the middle of nowhere. At 2.9 miles in length total, it’s a great family hike! We crossed over streams and a little waterfall along the way before reaching the incredible view at the end. I will say we are headed back to Arkansas this summer and I can’t wait to repeat this hike when the scenery is a little more green and lush. Definitely make time for this if you are in the area!
Where to Eat
Local Flavor
This is such a cute, eclectic eatery right in the downtown area. All of our dishes from appetizers to the dessert were so fresh and delicious! So, let’s talk about dessert. They have an award winning pie that is so amazing that we went back the next night again, ha! Order anything or everything here, it is all fantastic.
