Eureka Springs, Arkansas Lodging

One site that simply must not be missed is Christ of the Ozarks, a 70-foot tall statue built from pristine white concrete that towers on the top of a mountain overlooking the sprawling valleys. Even if you are not religious by nature, Christ of the Ozarks will leave you in awe of its imposing stature. The breathtaking view from the small open-air meditation shelter at the foot of the hill where the statue resides is transcendentally inspiring in itself. This is not a trek for the weak at heart, however, as the walk up the hill to the structure and then back up the hill from the foot of the structure can be taxing for those with health problems. The average person can make it without too much difficulty, though. Stroller and wheelchair accessibility makes this a great energizing walk for young and old.

On the grounds of Christ of the Ozarks you can also: take in a free gospel concert at the Smith Memorial Chapel; reflect in the peaceful aura of the Church In The Grove, a rural community church that is ideal for romantic weddings; see the Great Passion Play, a story of Christ's last days before his crucifixion; view a sobering 10' x 10' section of the Berlin Wall with an excerpt from the 23rd Psalm written in the author's native German language; experience the Parables of the Potter Presentations, visit the Bible Museum or Sacred Arts Center; and even dine at the Mission Buffet Restaurant, which has the décor of a medieval monastery with inspirational woodcarvings on the impressive walls.

Imagine, this is only the grounds of Christ of the Ozarks; we have only just begun! While visiting Eureka Springs, one can choose from a variety of seasonal events, including: exhilarating foot stamping shows and hoedowns available most nights of the week that will be sure to get your blood pumping, frog festivals, blues concerts, three day long creative writing conferences, police memorabilia auctions, and a host of festivals, fairs, conferences, concerts, and other events to keep you entertained.

For the families there is: a trout hatchery; a working grist mill; Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge which is dedicated to "Preserving and protecting endangered "˜Big Cats' for our children's future;" and "The Ozark's Strangest Dwelling," Quigley's Castle, built entirely by hand from natural materials by a determined woman and her family. Quigley's Castle's building material consists of rocks, fossils, petrified wood, a fossilized turtle shell, ordinary marbles, oak and possesses a central focal point containing subtropical shrubs, trees, flowering plants and southwestern cactuses, some of which now reach the second-story ceiling. Mrs. Quigley died in 1984, but her legacy reigns on with the help of a granddaughter.

For many, taking the scenic route through Eureka's historic district will be the magnificent highlight of their getaway as it transports one to another world; a world never before encountered, a world rich in splendid history and seductive character. This "other" world is replete with: breathtaking scenery; charming Victorian Bed & Breakfast establishments; hostels nestled into hillsides; rock cottages offering rooms for the night; quaint out of the way cozy restaurants; romantic weekend getaway cabins; overflowing gift shops; balconies that beckon with the tantalizing and sensual sound of a lone saxophone playing swaying melodies; brimming antique shops; and an ambience that will inspire even the most unromantic of partners. For those who would prefer, you may enjoy the scenic route while lazily relaxing on one of the city's historic trolleys.

Based on personal experience, the culmination of a sunny day fraught with activity is most definitely accomplished best by experiencing the cuisine of Local Flavor, a restaurant with exquisite service, cuisine, and ambience. You can sit at their informal umbrella-clad tables on the balcony overlooking the hustle and bustle of the street below and breathe deeply of the fresh mountain air, or you may choose to be seated inside in their cozy yet elegant dining area. Either would be a fine choice and comes complete with flickering candlelight. Do yourself a favor and stay away from Jalapenos - it's fast food, only lower quality, at Chi-Chi's prices. Eureka offers a variety of delectable culinary delights; their best feature being that the dress is casual wherever you choose to dine.

A visit to Eureka could not be complete without taking a refreshing trip to both Beaver Lake and Dam or to one of the well-known spas in the area. Known for being, "The city that water built," Eureka Springs is rich in water-oriented history and activities. Should your penchant be for the aquatic environment, there are a vast selection of cabins, resorts and lodges to choose from. Make reservations, though, because it is not uncommon to arrive in Eureka and be unable to find accommodations due to the overflowing schedule of events the city hosts.

Enjoy your whirlwind stay at Eureka; soak up every ounce of culture that you may - it doesn't matter, when you leave Eureka Springs, Arkansas your spirit will be clamoring for more. As you depart, you will already most assuredly be planning when you are going to return. Be forewarned, the charming Victorian village unobtrusively nestled into the hills softens even the overpowering strength of the Ozarks and it will captivate you as well with its undeniably seductive, inviting aura.