EUREKA SPRINGS
ARKANSAS
EUREKA SPRINGS
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
A World of It’s Own
It’s Eclectic
It’s Magical
by sydney m conover
If you haven’t been to Eureka Springs, Arkansas let me be the first to tell you, you are missing a lot. Not only for the beautiful shops that sell the magnificent artworks of the locals as well as other wonderful items, the fantastic restaurants, and marvelous lodging including treehouse cabins but for the beauty and history of it. At this time of the year especially with the ever striking fall colours the trip into town is breathtaking. The Ozarks are spectacular and Eureka Springs has the added bonus of being totally unique. From the architecture to the diversity of its residents and the visitors that flock by the thousands.
One of the historical wonders is the building at 85 S. Main St. which is the home of The Blarney Stone Irish Pub. As the story goes a little spring used to run through the establishment starting in the ladies room that was built right into the rock. The new owners have done a great job in preserving the spring and containing it behind a big glass widow to allow the world to see. You must venture on over and check it out. The food was awesome, the bartender entertaining, and the drinks quite tasty and comically named. Overall it was a great experience that will lead to a return visit.
Another special place is Harding Spring which is on the outskirts of town on Spring Street at the corner of German Alley. The story behind the spot is especially touching for me because I have a photography kinship with the man the spring was named for, Emmett Harding. He is credited for beginning the tradition of taking souvenir photographs of people in front of the spring. It is also the site of one of Eureka’s most famous healings. Legend has it a blind girl regained her sight after drinking from the spring, when others in the town had failed to cure her. I must say it is a very peaceful and beautiful location. I am not surprised miracles may have occurred there.
Given my love of food and a great chef with personality I would be amiss not to mention Cafe Amore. It is one of our favourite stops, when in town. Chef Katherine spins a mean pizza among other Italian fare. Her desserts are highly prized as well. The restaurants atmosphere is quaint and cozy with a fireplace that is frequently stoked in the winter months. Along with the magnificent pie Katherine serves up a great smile and a sense of humour to match. Consistency is a staple in any dining establishment and Cafe Amore never lets me down. Be sure to put it on your radar, when you are in Eureka. You’ll find Katherine, Amy (her partner in crime and love) and all the welcoming crew at 2070 E. Van Buren.
Unusual if you will, is a draw that keeps me coming back to Eureka almost as much as all the sights. It’s the twists and the turns. The roads leading to this magical locale are like a big roller coaster and that appeals to the kid in me. Reminds me of taking my bike (motorcycle that is) to Deals Gap, North Carolina home of the Tail of the Dragon. Fun can never be overrated and neither can Eureka Springs. Be sure to visit soon. Let me warn, though, you may never want to leave.