A Couples’ Weekend in Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Welcome to the Ozarks! For those who want to be in the heart of downtown at a historic old hotel, the Crescent Hotel — believed to be haunted — is a solid choice. However, if you don’t mind being a five-minute drive away, the Inn of the Ozarks offers large rooms and a lot of amenities, including views overlooking the woods.

Both of the above hotels are on the Eureka Springs trolley route. Street parking can be difficult even in the off-season, so it’s worth looking into this option. The trolley stops at a variety of downtown locations, taking the stress out of your visit. By taking the trolley, you can pay a flat rate for an entire day, stopping off at various downtown historic buildings, cafes and stores. It’s very convenient to avoid fighting for a coveted street parking spot!

I hope you brought good walking shoes, because Eureka Springs is hilly! Take the first evening to wander around the downtown area and explore the cute shops and cafes. Depending on your time of arrival, you may have time for a quick snack before dinner. The huckleberry pie with huckleberry ice cream at the Basin Park Balcony Restaurant and Bar is very flavorful and not to be missed. Either before or after your pie, take a few moments to sit in Basin Park. There are benches just above the street level, and you can also take stairs to the upper level, for a birds’-eye view of downtown.

While exploring downtown, do not miss the East by West store with the “working bunnies”. The owner brings her rescue bunnies to the store, which help deliver merchandise and change to customers. This was one of the highlights of our visit to the town, since the bunnies are so adorably cute!

For dinner, you can check out classic American cuisine at Local Flavor Café. It’s a short walk from the other downtown sites, making it a convenient place to round out your first night. From internationally-inspired pasta dishes such as meatballs pomodoro to indulgent angus steaks, there is something to please everyone. This includes incredible wines from around the world.

Before you set out for the day, you must have a cinnamon roll at Myrtie Mae’s. If you’re staying at the Inn of the Ozarks, it’s conveniently located on the property. These indulgent pastries are the best I’ve ever had, baked in a dish lined with butter and cream to make them extra gooey.

After that sweet indulgence, it’s time to start burning it off. Get out in nature! Head to Black Bass Lake for a gentle, peaceful stroll. Alternatively, for a longer hike, try Lake Leatherwood, which boasts 25 miles of trails.

You’ve earned an indulgent lunch after your walk. The Crescent Hotel offers pizza with a view at their Skybar. If you look in the distance, you can see the Christ of the Ozarks statue peeking out from the trees. You can build your own pizza from a variety of toppings, or meat lovers may want to share the calzone with their partner. When you’re done eating, explore the Crescent Hotel and its grounds. This historic hotel, which opened in 1886, oozes Victorian charm. Some say that it is haunted — take a Ghost Tour to learn more!

After lunch, get back in your car and drive northwest on Highway 62 for a few miles to the beautiful Thorncrown Chapel. This woodland sanctuary is built of wooden beams and over 6,000 square feet of glass, nestled beautifully in the woods outside the city. Its majestic beauty and simple aesthetic has led many to call it one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. Many weddings have been held in this peaceful setting.

Weekends between April and November, you may be able to see the Great Passion Play. Just east of town, the outdoor amphitheater hosts a dramatic rendition of Jesus Christ’s last days on earth. Even if you don’t see the performance, the Christ of the Ozarks statue is impressive. Rising sixty-seven feet above Eureka Springs, this statue is free to visit, though donations are happily accepted.

For a more indulgent dinner, check out Grotto Wood Fired Grill at the north end of downtown. Their seasonally-inspired plates range from shrimp mac’n’cheese to cedar-planked salmon. Try out their extensive wine list!

If you’d like dinner that’s a little more low-key, Myrtie Mae’s not only has good cinnamon rolls, but they make famous fried chicken — you are in the South, after all. I recommend trying this tender, moist chicken. To balance out your indulgences, try their large all-you-can-eat salad bar, showcasing fresh, flavorful veggies such as red bell peppers and cucumbers.

Bid farewell to the Ozarks as you indulge in one final cinnamon roll from Myrtie Mae’s. Highway 23, which runs south of the village, offers stunning views of foliage — especially beautiful in the autumn. Or continue your adventure northeast to the music capital of the Ozarks -- Branson, Missouri. There is something fun for everyone in this part of the country!