Having spent more than two decades within the magical realm of hospitality, I’ve encountered some truly remarkable destinations. But there’s one quaint, mountainous town that keeps beckoning me back—Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
Enclosed by the mesmerizing Ozarks, this town’s beauty is only paralleled by the distinctive charm of its accommodations. So buckle up as I share with you the hidden treasures and the captivating stories of the ten most unique places to stay in this tucked-away haven.
1. 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa
- Historic and reputed as one of America’s most haunted hotels—ideal for thrill-seekers.
- Panoramic views of the Ozarks from its mountaintop location.
- Modern comforts combined with historic elegance, including a full-service spa and a renowned dining room.
No list about Eureka Springs can commence without paying homage to the legendary 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa. This enchanting structure is dubbed the “Grand Old Lady of the Ozarks“, owing to its deep roots in local history. Infused with stories of intrigue and speculation, the Crescent Hotel is also famous for its other-worldly residents, offering Ghost Tours that are a must for those with a taste for the supernatural.
Apart from its rich history, the Crescent Hotel is a luxury resort in its own right. Its location atop the West Mountain in the Ozarks provides panoramic views that will leave you spellbound. Whether you’re indulging in its full-service spa or dining in the Crystal Dining Room, this grand hotel perfectly combines historic elegance with modern comfort.
2. Treehouse Cottages
- A unique experience of staying in a handcrafted cottage elevated amidst trees.
- Luxurious amenities inside, including custom stone and glass accents, Jacuzzi tubs, and fireplaces.
- Ideal for a romantic retreat with a tranquil, natural environment.
Imagine a fairy tale coming alive as you lodge in the middle of the woods but with all the modern amenities and luxuries. That’s exactly the experience Treehouse Cottages offers. Tucked away in the verdant woods of the Ozarks, these handcrafted cottages built on stilt-like structures provide a serene retreat, making you one with nature.
The interior of these treehouses is just as fascinating as the exterior, with custom stone and glass accents, Jacuzzi tubs, and cozy fireplaces. A perfect romantic getaway, the Treehouse Cottages will help you leave the world behind and reconnect with nature—and your partner—in an utterly enchanting way.
3. The Grand Treehouse Resort
- The one-of-a-kind resort features unique architectural designs for each treehouse.
- The perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, with private decks for each treehouse.
- Offers an adventurous treetop experience, making for an unforgettable vacation.
The Grand Treehouse Resort is another magical woodland getaway that offers an exclusive fusion of comfort and adventure. With its unique architecture and meticulous design, each treehouse stands as a work of art amidst the lush surroundings of the Ozarks.
Inside, you’ll find a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, featuring contemporary amenities and cozy furnishings. Each treehouse also comes with its private deck, perfect for soaking in the surrounding natural beauty. This resort offers an unforgettable treetop experience, perfect for those seeking a one-of-a-kind vacation.
4. Beaver Lakefront Cabins
- Located on the shores of Beaver Lake, with floor-to-ceiling glass fronts and large decks for stunning lake views.
- Equipped with luxury amenities, including private Jacuzzis.
- Private, covered dock available for those who enjoy fishing.
If you’re a water lover and enjoy scenic views, then Beaver Lakefront Cabins are for you. These cabins are not only situated on the shores of beautiful Beaver Lake but are also equipped with floor-to-ceiling glass fronts and large, lake-view decks. This means you can wake up to the sight of a serene, glistening lake every morning of your stay.
Inside these cabins, you’ll find well-equipped kitchens, custom king-size beds, and private Jacuzzis. For those who fancy fishing, there’s a private, covered dock with a fish cleaning station. If you’re seeking a serene lakefront getaway, Beaver Lakefront Cabins provide an idyllic setting coupled with luxury accommodations.
5. Eureka Springs Hobbit Caves
- Unique lodging experience modeled after homes of Hobbits from J.R.R. Tolkien’s works—perfect for fantasy fans.
- Despite the rustic exterior, the inside is comfortable and luxurious with modern amenities.
- Each cave comes with a private patio and a Jacuzzi tub.
Stepping into the Eureka Springs Hobbit Caves is like stepping into Middle Earth itself. Modeled after the homes of Hobbits from J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, these unique accommodations are built into the hillside, offering an immersive, fantastical experience that fans of the franchise will love.
Despite the rustic exterior, the inside of the Hobbit Caves is replete with modern amenities and luxurious furnishings, offering a comfortable and enchanting stay. Each cave has a private patio, a Jacuzzi tub, and a view of the surrounding wooded area. This unique stay offers a perfect blend of fantasy and reality, sure to make your vacation unforgettable.
While Eureka Springs offers a plethora of unique accommodations, travelers might also be interested in exploring nearby areas. Check out these options in Bentonville or perhaps these choices in Fayetteville for a more extended stay in the region.
6. Pond Mountain Lodge and Resort
- Located on 130 acres of wildlife-filled woods, providing a peaceful retreat.
- Offers a variety of accommodations, all with unique views of the forest, pond, or mountains.
- Full resort amenities are available, including an outdoor pool.
Pond Mountain Lodge and Resort sits on 130 acres of wildlife-filled woods, providing a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from private suites to cabins, each offering unique views of the forest, the pond, or the mountains.
Despite its secluded setting, Pond Mountain Lodge and Resort offers all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury resort. The comfortable accommodations, the outdoor pool, and the breathtaking views make this resort an ideal place for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.
7. 1905 Basin Park Hotel
- Located in the heart of downtown Eureka Springs, offering a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences.
- Convenient access to local attractions, including the famous Basin Spring Park.
- Despite its historic nature, it offers modern amenities for a comfortable stay.
Located in the heart of downtown Eureka Springs, the 1905 Basin Park Hotel offers an experience filled with historic charm and modern conveniences. As one of the oldest hotels in the area, this building boasts a rich history, as seen in its original antique furnishings and the beautiful stone walls that tell a story of their own.
Don’t let the historical exterior fool you—inside, you’ll find modern amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. With its location in the town center, this hotel is perfect for those who wish to explore local attractions on foot, including the famous Basin Spring Park.
8. Hidden Valley Guest Ranch
- Offers a picturesque setting with hand-built log cabins providing a rustic, home-like atmosphere.
- Each cabin features an open floor plan with large windows for natural light and stunning views.
- Secluded, yet just a short drive from town, providing a balance of peace and exploration.
Hidden Valley Guest Ranch provides a picturesque setting for a peaceful retreat. Located just outside of Eureka Springs, this ranch offers hand-built log cabins that boast rustic charm and provide a cozy, home-like atmosphere nestled amongst the Ozark mountains.
Each cabin offers an open floor plan with plenty of space and large windows to let in natural light, providing stunning views of the surrounding nature. The secluded setting, coupled with the convenience of being just a short drive from town, makes Hidden Valley Guest Ranch a great choice for those looking for a balance of peace and exploration.
9. The Peabody House
- Located in the Historic District, offering a blend of antique charm and modern comforts.
- Each room is uniquely decorated with period pieces yet equipped with modern amenities like whirlpool tubs and private balconies.
- Offers a nostalgic journey into the past, enriching the vacation experience.
The Peabody House, located in the Historic District, is a charming Victorian-style accommodation that will transport you back in time. This Bed & Breakfast, built in the late 1800s, has preserved much of its original architectural beauty, offering a blend of antique charm and modern comforts.
Each room at The Peabody House is uniquely decorated with period pieces yet provides modern amenities like whirlpool tubs and private balconies. Staying at The Peabody House not only offers a comfortable stay but also a nostalgic journey into the past, making your vacation all the more memorable.
10. The Gilded Lily
- Located on a wooded hillside, a short walk from downtown Eureka Springs.
- Each room is uniquely decorated with antique furniture, offering an intimate, vintage environment.
- A delightful breakfast is served each morning in the beautifully restored dining room.
The Gilded Lily is a charming Bed & Breakfast nestled on a wooded hillside, a short walk from downtown Eureka Springs. Each room is individually decorated, offering a unique, intimate setting, with antique furniture adding a touch of vintage elegance to the overall experience.
Along with its cozy rooms, The Gilded Lily offers a delightful breakfast each morning, served in the beautifully restored dining room. If you are seeking a peaceful, homely environment with a touch of vintage elegance, then The Gilded Lily is your go-to place in Eureka Springs.
Final Words
Through my years as a hotelier, I have come to understand that it’s not just about the place—it’s about the story, the people, and the experiences. And in Eureka Springs, you’ll find a wealth of each. These ten unique accommodations, each with their own story and charm, are waiting to become a part of your Eureka Springs narrative.