You have young kids and summer is approaching, which means planning a vacation is on your radar. How do you provide a satisfying and entertaining experience that the whole family will enjoy? The solution is simple, it’s all here in one of a kind Eureka Springs, Arkansas! We are your Ozark Mountain vacation destination getaway! Customize your very own entertainment agenda!
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Arkansas Ozarks, the drive to reach this town is a vacation in its own right. With rolling hills, twists, rivers and streams all along the way, the kids will easily stay distracted with the scenic wonders.
You know their inquisitive little minds work a million miles a minute and between the natural springs (over a dozen around town), the hidden walkways, and brightly colored houses they will not need much convincing that the town is magical.
Check Out These Great Lodging Deals
- Crescent Hotel – Book Direct Special
- Best Value Hotel Rate – Basin Park Hotel
- More Family Lodging Deals on ReserveEureka.com
Things to Do and Places to Visit
- Two Dumb Dames — This fudge factory was started by a mother and daughter candy-making duo and has been passed down through the generations. They make all their own candies with family recipes in small batches to ensure they serve their customers only the freshest.
- Check out the store East By West at 9 Center Street. They adopt and rescue rabbits and train them to work at the store. After you make a purchase, these bunnies hand out receipts, cards, pens and packages. When they are not working, they are visiting with customers on the floor. Your kids will love them and you will be equally charmed.
- Of course, a vacation calls for at least one or more proper photo shoots. While Eureka has copious photo-ops, one of the most eye-catching backdrops is the Rainbow Staircase. This iconic staircase connects North Main Street to Center Street. You may have even seen it on Pinterest — it is a popular pin and best of all free!
- Shopping Downtown — Downtown Eureka Springs is an attraction all on its own. Storefronts reflect each passing holiday and season with colorful and creative displays. From unique boutiques and galleries to antique stores and gift shops, you’re sure to find a treasure for yourself or a loved one.
- Maybe your kids are getting tired of walking or you would like to see more of the town without weaving through the streets yourself. A Tram Tour or a Trolley ride might be just the thing. With a trolley pass, you have the option of purchasing an all-day pass, which allows you to hop on the various routes that take you not only around town but also along the city limits. The open-air tram tour will give you time to view the historic district of Eureka with tour guides that are either natives or longtime residents (AKA they know everything).
- Just a short drive from Eureka is the Cosmic Cavern. This cave stays 64 degrees year-round and features two bottomless cave lakes. The cave tour lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes and is full of amazing formations — some are even transparent! After the tour let your kids pan for gems or dig for fossils.
- Another attraction a short drive from Eureka is Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. Turpentine rescues animals throughout the U.S. and has a reputation for compassionate care. This facility is one of the biggest that is open to the public. The majestic lions, tigers, bears and more will mesmerize your whole family. Pro tip: try to plan your visit around feeding time for the full experience!
- Ozark Mountain Ziplines — Looking for a thrill? Soar through the air from up to 200+ feet high with cable lengths up to 1800 feet long over gorgeous Ozark hardwood trees and limestone cliffs. A hit with teenagers and adventurous kids alike.
- Located high above Downtown Eureka Springs is a network of hiking and cycling trails weaving throughout The Great Passion Play grounds, with miles of trails on the almost 700-acre complex.
- Crescent Ghost Tour — Eureka Springs is home to America’s Most Haunted Hotel. Take a ghost tour at the Crescent — older kids and teens will love the spooky history.
With all these things to do and places to visit you and your kids will love nothing more than a nice dip in the pool at the end of the day. Check out the Crescent Hotel to find great deals. You will not even have to leave for dinner. The SkyBar Gourmet Pizza sits at the top of the Crescent with a panoramic view of the Ozarks and is open late.
Bonus: Eureka Springs is dog-friendly! Many stores keep water dishes supplied during the summer months and several hotels welcome your furry friends including both the Crescent Hotel and the Basin Park Hotel.