Nestled in the lush but rugged Ozark Mountains of northwest Arkansas, Eureka Springs is a place that seems pulled straight out of time. With more than 100 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the entire downtown exudes a quaint, artsy vibe, with nary a big-box store or outlet mall in sight. A tram can ferry those who don’t want to walk along the winding cobblestone streets. The village has a vibrant live music scene, and shoppers will delight in an abundance of original art galleries, antique stores and boutiques.
The city’s more than 60 cold mineral springs — many reputed to have healing properties — made it a desirable resort town for well-to-do tourists in the 1880s, and many of them chose to stay at the opulent 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa. It’s rumored to be haunted, but there’s nothing to fear about the stunning views and elegant lodgings at the “Grand Old Lady of the Ozarks.”
Eureka Springs offers many attractions for travelers of faith. Its most famous landmark is undoubtedly the Christ of The Ozarks. Located on Magnetic Mountain above the village of Eureka Springs, this seven-story statue of Jesus Christ has been drawing visitors since 1966. It’s also home to “The Great Passion Play.” Performed in Eureka Springs since 1968, this dramatic telling of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus has become the nation’s most well-attended outdoor drama and has been seen by more than 8 million people.
Surrounded by two rivers and three lakes, Eureka Springs also offers a chance to connect with the wonder of the great outdoors. Places to kayak, canoe, hike, bike, fish, swim and paddleboard are plentiful, and two golf courses, carved into rolling hills, are located within convenient distance of the historic downtown. Animal lovers won’t want to miss a visit to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. The 459-acre wildlife refuge houses abused, abandoned and neglected lions, tigers, jaguars and other animals.
Christ of the Ozarks
The ninth-tallest statue in the nation, and one of the largest Jesus statues in the world, the Christ of the Ozarks’ arms stretch 65 feet, symbolizing his embrace of all mankind. Built by hand, the steel frame is covered with many layers of white mortar and designed to withstand tornadoes and high winds. Groups and charter buses are welcome at the wheelchair-accessible site, and the Eureka Springs trolley stops nearby. There is no admission charge to visit the Christ of the Ozarks, but donations are gratefully accepted.
greatpassionplay.org/christ-of-the-ozarks.html
The Great Passion Play
A camel, horses, donkeys and doves join more than 100 human actors to bring the story of Jesus to life, accompanied by lighting, special effects and a score performed by London’s National Philharmonic Orchestra. (A new score recorded by the Budapest Orchestra is debuting in 2025.) Performances of “The Greatest Story Ever Told” run through November 9, but other attractions are open throughout the year. In addition to the inspiring performance, groups may feast on a buffet dinner, visit three museums, take a backstage tour, enjoy a petting zoo, walk through a reproduction of biblical-era Jerusalem and contemplate a section of the Berlin Wall.
Thorncrown Chapel
Constructed in 1980, Thorncrown Chapel is a gorgeous sanctuary just outside of town. Its award-winning design was the creation of Arkansas architect E. Fay Jones and brings to mind Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School works, with more than 400 windows and 6,000 square feet of glass highlighting the wooded views of its gorgeous woodland setting. Surrounded by outcroppings of native stone, the 48-foot-tall structure has been visited by more than 7 million people and is a sought-after spot for weddings. Everyone is welcome at the chapel. There is no admission charge. Visiting groups will hear a presentation about the chapel and its history, and reservations are not necessary.
Little Portion Hermitage and Monastery
Visitors may not expect to find a monastery in the Ozark Mountains, but the Little Portion Hermitage, Monastery and Bakery (about a 30-minute drive from Eureka Springs) is an increasingly popular stop for groups visiting the area. While it’s open for spiritual retreats, many visitors of all faiths simply enjoy a walk through the gardens and pathways, a prayer in one of the chapels or a tasty lunch. Groups of up to 80 are welcome. The on-site bakery makes a hearty granola, and “St. Clare’s Heavenly Breakfast Cookies” live up to their name.
