Eureka! Great Finds

Discover the digs, the chow and the fun of Eureka Springs.

Been to Eureka Springs lately? Well, whether you are a regular guest or a first-time visitor, Eureka Springs always has something new to offer. Here are a few surprises to check out on your next one-day escape or weekend getaway.

Fun Time

The Works: Get your spa on in Eureka Springs by visiting the bathhouse at the Palace Hotel. There, the ultimate massage begins with a stress relieving mineral bath in a clawfoot tub. Next, hop into the eucalyptus steam barrel—the same type that was used at the turn of the century—where you are enveloped in an aromatic cloud that clears your sinuses and opens your pores. Afterwards, a clay facial mask is applied to stimulate circulation, purify and tighten your skin. Then comes an awesome massage. The Swedish techniques fused with athletic massage restores your body to a state of harmony. If you stay at the Palace Hotel, you only have to walk a few steps to your room. (Palace Hotel & Bath House, 135 Spring St., Eureka Springs, 479- 253-7474, palacehotelbathhouse.com)

The Art Colony: About halfway between the railroad station and downtown is a small village of 13 little wooden buildings that serve as working studios for the artists who rent them. On Saturdays, visitors can wander through the studio galleries to visit with the artists, shop and experience creativity in action. The Colony, brainchild of J.D. Harris, the metal sculptor who used to own Harris’ Hot Doggery on Fort Avenue and Sunshine Street in Springfield, is the newest addition to what is quickly becoming the cultural and arts district of Eureka Springs. A variety of painters, carvers, printers, workers in stained glass and other artisans who work in a variety of mediums are available to answer questions and personally sign their work. Best benefit? Free parking! (185 North Main, Eureka Springs)

The Quilt Shop: Many of the 300 quilts are handmade by Amish families who are friends of the owner. Each year she travels to Amish country and orders quilts for her shop in colors reflecting current trends. (The Quilt Shop, 2 Center St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-2093)

Chow Time

Café Soleil: You’ve got to try the famous spiced tea. The restaurant offers unique Italian and Mediterranean dishes with large portions, interesting sauces and great prices. You can also try locally made organic breads. (Café Soleil, 3094 E. Van Buren St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-2345, cafesoleilrestaurant.com)

Local Flavor Café: Located downtown, the diverse menu features 14 different sandwiches and seven salads in addition to burgers, appetizers and daily specials. It offers a great family atmosphere with lots of windows to watch what is going on outside. (Local Flavor Café, 71 S. Main St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-9522, localflavorcafe.net)

Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking: One of the most recommended restaurants in Eureka Springs, this eatery has a casually elegant atmosphere and excellent service. It offers authentic Italian dishes and is only open for dinner. (Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking, 26 White St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-8806, ermilios.com)

Bedtime

The Palace Hotel and Bath House: Believed to have one of the first neon signs west of the Mississippi, the former bordello is the only site in Eureka Springs with a fully operational bathhouse. Restored and decorated with Victorian antiques, the hotel has upscale amenities that include king-sized beds, two-person Jacuzzi tubs, wireless Internet and energy-efficient light bulbs. The best part is the convenience of the bathhouse, downstairs. (Palace Hotel & Bath House, 135 Spring St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-7474, palacehotelbathhouse.com)

The Flatiron Flats: One of the most photographed buildings in Arkansas offers four luxury suites in the heart of downtown. On-site parking, welcome baskets with wine and golf privileges are extra perks. (Flatiron Flats, 25 Spring St., Eureka Springs, 479-253-9434, eureka-net.com)