Eureka Springs: Your Family’s Next Great Getaway
If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination that combines outdoor adventures with a charming town vibe, let me share why Eureka Springs should be on your list.
The Perfect Basecamp for Family Fun
You might think of Eureka Springs as just a cute town for shopping or a romantic getaway, but it’s actually a fantastic spot for families. There’s so much to do without the stress of driving all over the place. From lake days to cave explorations, you can easily stack a lot of activities into your trip.
Water Adventures
Let’s start with the water. It’s a must for us with kids!
- Beaver Lake Boat Day: If you’re looking for a real lake experience, head to Starkey Marina. They offer boat rentals, kayaks, paddleboards, and more—everything you need for a fun day out on Beaver Lake. And if you’re not up for a full lake day, Beaver Lake also has great, clean swimming areas that are perfect for a more laid-back afternoon with the family.
- Table Rock Lake: If your family is looking for a fun day on the water, head to Holiday Island Marina on the Arkansas side. It’s conveniently close to Eureka Springs, and they make it easy with rentals and great service, so you can focus on having fun.
- Kings River Float Day: This is a winner! Trigger Gap Outfitters offers canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle service, making a float day simple and enjoyable for everyone.
- White River Fly Fishing: For older kids or teens, consider a fly fishing trip on the White River. It’s a unique experience that your kids will remember long after the trip.
Cave Exploration
Caves are always a hit with kids, and Eureka Springs has some great options.
- Onyx Cave Park: This self-guided tour is perfect for families, allowing you to explore at your own pace. It’s flexible and fun!
- Cosmic Cavern: If you prefer a guided experience, this cave features two “bottomless” lakes and a steady temperature, making it a cool adventure.
- War Eagle Cavern: Near Beaver Lake, this hour-long guided tour pairs perfectly with your lake day.
Evening Activities
Just because the sun sets doesn’t mean the fun has to end!
- Ghost Tours: If your kids enjoy a little spooky adventure, a ghost tour is a great way to uncover the town’s history without being overwhelming.
- Escape Rooms: Looking for something engaging? Escape Room 13 is perfect for families with kids of different ages, offering fun themes like a bank heist.
- Intrigue Theater: For a unique night out, catch the close-up magic show. It’s interactive and entertaining for the whole family.
- Ziplines: If your kids crave adventure, Ozark Mountain Ziplines has multiple options that cater to various age groups.
- Walking Tours: A leisurely walking tour through downtown can be a nice way to wrap up the day.
Finding the Right Place to Stay
Choosing where to stay is crucial. Here are a few tips:
- Downtown Lodging: If you want to be in the middle of it all, look for places in downtown Eureka Springs. It’s convenient for shopping, dining, and easy access to the trolley.
- Cabin Retreats: If your family needs a little more space and a quieter atmosphere, consider cabins at Loblolly Pines Adventure Camp or Lake Leatherwood In-Park Cabins. They offer rustic charm and access to nature.
- Unique Experiences: For something memorable, check out Turpentine Creek Safari lodging. It’s tied to a wildlife refuge, making for a story your kids will love.
A Simple Itinerary
Here’s a quick three-day itinerary that keeps things manageable:
Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Fun
- Explore downtown, let the kids choose a treat, and keep the schedule light.
- Evening Options:
- Ghost Tour for a spooky thrill, or
- Escape Room for some teamwork fun.
Day 2: Water Adventure
- Choose between:
- Beaver Lake boat day, or
- Table Rock Lake day trip.
- Evening:
- Casual hangout at Frisco Sporting Club, or
- Enjoy the magic at Intrigue Theater.
Day 3: Caves & Walking Tour
- Morning: Pick a cave experience that suits your family:
- Onyx Cave for flexibility,
- Cosmic Cavern for guided excitement,
- War Eagle Cavern for a lakeside adventure.
- Afternoon: Explore downtown at your own pace.
Planning a family trip can feel like a lot, but Eureka Springs has a way of making it worth every bit of the effort. Between the outdoor adventures, the quirky charm of the town, and enough activities to keep kids of all ages genuinely happy, this is one of those trips where you’ll actually get to exhale. And maybe you’ll sneak in a moment or two that feels like a vacation for you too. Go ahead and book it.