ESI Fun Guide by Eureka Springs Independent

Independent FUN GUIDE

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Welcome to Eureka Springs!

is all about fun and it’s actually a guide! What to do, where to go, how to get there and how to plan a day in order to get it all in – packed into one publication you can keep in your car or hotel room and consult about how to make the most of your time in Eureka Springs. Story ideas and information for Independent Fun Guide can be emailed to newsdesk@eurekaspringsindependent.com. Chief Whipping Post C.D. White Associate Editor Beth Barlett Art Director and D(sigh)n Perlinda Pettigrew-Owens

Photo by Jeremy mason mcGraw – eurekaPostcards.com

Photographers Jeremy Mason McGraw Jerry Hinton Purdy Art Co. Steven Foster

Advertising Sales Michael Owens | 479.659.1461 mowens72631@gmail.com Angie Taylor | 479.981.0125 anjeanettetaylor@yahoo.com

e’re happy to bring you the premier issue of the Eureka Springs Independent Fun Guide. We love seeing people have fun in our dazzling little city, and we know your time here will be full of surprises and happy memories. But now that you’re here, what’s there to do? That’s easy. Just turn the pages of this Fun Guide and get ready to plan an adventure tailored just for you. There are things to do as a family, as a couple or just on a getaway day by yourself. Rent a canoe, ride a horse, go paddle boating, visit attractions, have a massage, go dancing, attend a concert, watch a parade, race a Go-Kart, play putt putt golf, go antiquing, try water skiing, rent a bike, see a show, visit art galleries, take a carriage ride, amble through town with a camera, take a class, see lions and tigers up close, pack a picnic, go camping, catch a fish, take in some history on a comfy van tour, rent a scooter or bicycle, visit historic sites, go on a springs trek, go geocaching, eat your way through town at some fabulous restaurants – or even get married. Whatever you love to do, doing it in Eureka Springs will be more fun. +

Advertising Deadline is approximately the 2nd of each month. Independent Fun Guide is a special publication to Eureka Springs Independent and is published 11 times a year by Sewell Communications, LLC

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Please RECYCLE

Independent FUN GUIDE

Here’s where to start

pen seven days a week, the Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce Visitors’ Center is located in Pine Mountain Village on 62E just a minute or two from downtown. Racks of brochures and publications as well as maps and posters are on hand to make sure you get the latest information on places to stay, eat and visit. You’ll also find information on art galleries, attractions, events, restaurants, shopping, real estate and wedding services. Friendly staff will be able to help you with tickets to shows, direct you to points of interest, and are always happy to make a phone call to get any information that’s not already in print at your fingertips. Start your visit in the media room with a brief film on the history of Eureka Springs and you’re ready to plan your adventure! +

Ready, set, GO... Events at a glance Fun Tour of the Springs Let’s Get Local Last BLAST Top 5 reasons to stay away Say “I Do” Map 4

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5 6 8 9 10 11 12

Fun makes a SPLASH Family friendly means Fido Dining suggestions The Aud & Nightlife What to do on 62 Tweet something & get pinned

14 15 16 & 17 18 & 19 20 23

Events at a glance

Antique Auto Festival Sept. 7 & 8

Bluegrass Weekend Aug. 17-19

When’s the parade? Saturday: 11 a.m.

When’s the music? Friday: 5:30-8:30 p.m. in Basin Spring Park Saturday: 1-7 p.m. in Basin Spring Park Saturday: 7:30 at the City Auditorium, Headliner show: Dread Clampit and Folk Soul Revival Sunday: 1-5 p.m. in Basin Spring Park

Where will the parade go? The parade will leave Pine Mountain Village, head west on Hwy 62 to the intersection by the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks, follow the Historic Loop around and down to Spring Street, and end on Main Street.

Is it free? All music in Basin Spring Park is free. There is a charge to attend the headliner show. Where do I get more info? www.theaud.org

VW Weekend August 24-26 When’s the parade? Saturday: around 2 to 3 p.m.

Where will the parade go? From the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks through the Historic Loop, down to Spring Street and out on Main Street. Is there a car show? Saturday: 8 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m. Free to the public. Who do I call for more info? Call the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks at (479) 253-9768.

Banjo Rally Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Where’s the music? Wednesday: 6 p.m., Bear Mountain Riding Stables, Hwy 62 West. There will be BBQ available. Friday: Noon-2 p.m., Holiday Island Friday: 7 p.m. Evening show at Best Western Inn of the Ozarks, tickets required. Saturday: 1-3 p.m., Basin Spring Park Saturday: 7 p.m. Evening Show at Best Western Inn of the Ozarks, tickets required. Where can I get more info? Visit www.banjorally.org.

When will the Bank Robbery Re-enactment be? Saturday: Immediately after the parade, probably around 11:45 a.m. or noon. What is the Bank Robbery Re-enactment? It commemorates the one and only time a gang of crooks tried to knock over the local bank: Sept. 27, 1922. In a time when daylight bank robberies were all the rage, this one didn’t go far. Three of the five would-be robbers were killed by local residents packing their own heat. The other two were captured and sent to prison. News of the incident spread far and wide, and newspapers even had the local businessmen pose with the wrecked getaway car. Where else can we see the antique cars? Friday: Noon-6:00 p.m., registration and judging at Pine Mountain Village on Hwy 62 Saturday: Registration and judging at Pine Mountain Village, 8 a.m.-10 a.m. and following the parade. Also, cars will be parked downtown immediately after the parade until 3 p.m. Is there a charge? The parade and car show is free to the viewing public. There’s only a charge if you want to register a car and participate. When’s the Woodcarving Festival? Saturday: Pine Mountain Village, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. So it takes place during the Antique Auto Festival? Yes, if you’re going to see the cars, stop by the woodcarvers’ booths and watch them work. Buy a little something. Make an artist happy.

Gallery Stroll Sept. 8 When is it? 6-9 p.m., downtown What is it? A great chance to meet gallery owners and artists and show a little love to the local art community. Or a lot of love. Depends on how much art you want to take home.

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

Take a

Fun Tour of the Springs

f you’re new to Eureka Springs, one of the questions you’ll eventually ask is “How did the city get its name?” The first part relates to the second part; in 1879, someone did say “Eureka! I found it!” What they found was the same thing a lot of other folks already knew: this area sparkles with natural cold water springs, and many people believed these springs had healing properties. That’s why, before the Internet and WebMD, thousands of people flocked to our brand new city and scooped up, bathed in and bottled the water reportedly responsible for many cures. Some of the springs were named for the particular properties they carried, such as Sweet Spring for the taste, or Magnetic Spring because the surrounding rocks had some magnetic properties. There are dozens of springs within the city limits, but our tour will focus on the ones open, available or on city property. The first leg of our spring tour takes us out of the city limits on Highway 62 West, about 15 minutes from town, to Blue Spring. This spring is the biggest spring in the area, hands down. More than 30 million gallons of cold water rush from the earth each day, creating a gorgeous lagoon. This spring was a camping spot and sacred site for centuries for Native Americans, and was also a stop on the Trail of Tears, the forced relocation of Native Americans in 1839. There’s also ancient history under the bluffs near the spring; archeological digs have unearthed fragments and artifacts that can be traced back to 8,000 B.C. Blue Spring is the central gem of the Blue Spring Heritage Center attraction, which also includes acres of seasonal gardens, a historical film and more; there is an admission charge, but it’s well worth it. You can easily spend a morning at Blue Spring, then drop by Angler’s Restaurant for lunch on your way back into town to see the rest of our featured springs. As you come back into town, you’ll see the intersection of Historic Loop and 62 by the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks. Make a left at the intersection, and take a postlunch shopping stop at Vintage Cargo before continuing around the loop. You’ll pass many lovely Victorian homes and artist studios on the way up to the Crescent Hotel. Make a left before the hotel parking lot and continue your drive down the hill; you’ll soon pass the Writers’ Colony at Dairy Hollow on your left, and within a few yards you’ll see Grotto Spring on the right. This spring is located in the back of a little cave, and it has a bit of a dark Victorian/ Gothic vibe. It’s very popular for weddings, and sometimes if you drive past at dusk, you’ll see candles burning inside. Don’t worry, there’s nothing nefarious happening in there, sometimes people just like a bit of genuine Victorian

Independent FUN GUIDE

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Photo by steven Foster

Sweet Spring

Harding Spring

atmosphere, and it’s very romantic. You’re now on Spring Street, so continue on past some of the oldest Victorian homes in the downtown area; this is a residential section filled with private homes, bed and breakfasts and cottages, and it’s one of the most photographed parts of town. Within a half-mile, you’ll find Crescent Spring on your right, just a stone’s throw from the Carnegie Public Library. (Don’t worry, we don’t throw stones at our library. We looooooove our library, especially since it’s one of the last Andrew Carnegie-built, historic libraries in the state.) Crescent Spring is covered by a lovely gazebo topped with copper. There are parking spots nearby, so feel free to stop and explore the gazebo and tiny park surrounding it. This spring may look small, but at one time, it supplied the water to the Crescent Hotel, hence the name. You can still find old pictures of pipes running up the hill to the hotel, which was built in 1886. Those pictures can be viewed at

Grotto Spring the library next door, which has lots of history to explore, and you can also buy books and pamphlets about the town to learn more. To the right of Crescent Spring is a steep stairway connecting to a path up the hill; you can follow this path above the homes and come out on Crescent Drive. Turn right and hike up the hill, and you’ll find St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, the only church you enter through the bell tower. Just past the church on the right is the famed Crescent Hotel, widely believed to be haunted. Want to find out for sure? Try one of their Ghost Tours and see. Back at Crescent Spring, you have a choice: stay parked and walk to the other springs along Spring Street, or hop in the car for a drive-by and come back to visit each one later. Your choice, but we always prefer to hoof it around town when possible. Frankly, that’s probably a big part of the historic cures, just getting some exercise and fresh air. Continue along Spring Street and you’ll see more Victorian homes and B&Bs, including the Piedmont House, the oldest continually-operating inn in the city. Just around the corner you’ll find Adventure Mountain Outfitters, a great place to stop for bicycle and other outdoor gear, and cattycornered from that you’ll see Harding Spring on the right. You can actually see the spring flow from the cliff itself. This spring is a lovely spot for a catered picnic from a downtown restaurant, or just to meditate and listen to the world around you. Walk up to the right of the spring and you’ll see a staircase; this connects to a walking path through the old Spring Reservation, set aside in the 1800s, and the path ends by Sweet Spring. If you take this path, make sure you’re wearing appropriate shoes, because this one can be a little rugged at times. If you would rather save the hike for later, walk back down to the spring and follow Spring Street past the historic Palace Hotel and Spa, several shops and some fascinating houses built on the tops of precarious-looking stone ledges. Don’t worry, they’ve been there for more than 100 years, they’re not going to slip down the hill any time soon. Within a block, you’ll find Rogue’s Manor restaurant and on the other side, Sweet Spring. This spring was once a very popular spot for sweethearts to meet and even marry. Take a rest on one of the benches, or go up the steps to the right of the spring for a nifty bird’s eye view of the street. The steps continue up the hill and connect to the Reservation path mentioned earlier. You can take the path back to your car if you’re walking, or come back and enjoy the hiking paths after a little shopping. After all, you are in historic downtown Eureka Springs, and the only thing better than a historic cure from a cold spring is a little retail therapy. +

Photo by steven Foster

Crescent Spring Photo by steven Foster

Blue Spring

Photo by Jeremy mason mcGraw – eurekaPostcards.com

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

Be an honorary local and come play with us!

ave some fun downtown and celebrate Eureka Springs like a local on Thursday nights. Visit the Chamber of Commerce and participating lodgings at any time, or the Thursday Farmers’ Market at Pine Mountain Village and ask for the Let’s Get Local tickets or event stickers that are your admission to good times. Each Thursday a different aspect of shopping, playing and dining will be showcased in Basin Park and at participating stores downtown. In the park, local vendors will have booths and prizes, live music and maps of where the deals for real locals and the “Locals for a Day” can be found. If eating out is more your style, we have you covered there too! Diners can ask participating locations for a Ticket to Win each time they dine out until September 20. Diners bring those tickets to the festivities in Basin Spring Park on Thursday nights to be entered for the Eat Like a Local mega prize: gift certificates for all of the participating locations! The more you eat out the more times you can enter. A winner will be chosen on September 20 at the last ‘Let’s Get Local’ event in Basin Spring Park. Contest is open to everyone who lives here or just dreams of moving here. Let’s Get Local Thursday evening events include: • August 23 – Health and Healing: an evening celebrating our Spa Town heritage. Local providers will be offering massage, consultations and a free boot camp exercise class. • August 30 – We Love Our Pets: in collaboration with the Good Shepherd Animal Shelter we will have an Adopt-a-Thon, Stupid Pet Tricks contest, Pet Portraits, groomers, trainers and more. Bring your puppies to play in the park during the Dog Days of Summer. • September 6 – Countdown to Christmas: We will highlight the holidays and the shopping experience in Eureka Springs. Looking for a gift for any occasion? Eureka Springs

has what you are looking for at more than 200 independent retail locations. Kids games, home organizers, gift products – all will be showcased in the park. • September 13 – All Sports! Get your game on and come play in Basin Spring Park. Eureka Springs is an active town filled with go carts, golf pros, biking, spring hikes, and more. Lace up your shoes, bring the kids and come play in the park! • September 20 – Food + Art: Celebrate the arts and the beauty of dining and shopping for food in Eureka Springs during this evening event featuring the band Swing and a Miss, a Sweet Potato Pie Contest, Food Art Contest, Drink and Draw in the Park – and more. The Eat Like a Local prize will be awarded at the end of the evening. Here’s your chance to find out where the locals eat, play, sip and shop so Let’s Get Local! More events, vendors and programming will be added as the weeks go on. Check for updates and where to get tickets and stickers at http://eurekaspringsdowntown.com. For more information contact the Eureka Springs Downtown Network at (479) 244-5074 or email director@eurekaspringsdowntown. com. +

Who knew putt putt golf could be so exciting? These three visitors from Washington, D.C., had a great time even after Jonathan Martin (right) lost one in the water hazard at Pig Trail Kart ‘n’ Golf on 62E. Jonathan, with friends Kelly Farrell (center) and Melissa “Under Par” Bouldin drove all the way from D.C. to enjoy a few days in town. Asked if it was worth the trip, Jonathan said, “At first, no. We were driving and driving through countryside wondering, ‘Where are we?’ But once we got here – awesome!” There will only be two on the drive back, however. Kelly is staying behind to begin a six-month internship at the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. Stop by and greet Kelly when you go to see the lions and tigers! + 8

Independent FUN GUIDE

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Last

before Back to School

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Photo by Jer

emy

mason mcG

raw

– eurekaPos

tcards.co

he scent of new erasers and fresh notebooks is in the air: it’s almost time for school to begin! If you’re sneaking in one last getaway with the whole family before that homeroom bell rings, we can help with your last summer hurrah. Who can resist go-karts? No one, that’s who. The new Pig Trail Kart ‘n Golf, located on Hwy 62 East, will be the first stop on kids’ lists with go-karts for one or two passengers, more than 30 arcade games and mini-golf. There’s also a snack bar, and the facility even offers a party planning service for that ultimate birthday party or event. They’re also adding new attractions constantly, so check back with them on those quick day trips to see the latest fun. After a ride around the track, grab another thrill by scaling one of two former wildfire-spotting towers in town, both located on Hwy 62. These towers cost $1 per person to go up, and stairs take you 100 feet into the Ozark skyline. It’s not for the faint of heart, but you will get the ultimate photo bragging rights. Once used by the Arkansas Forestry Service, these towers at Pine Mountain Village and next to Razorback Gift Shop are a bit of interactive history and a great way to fully enjoy the surrounding hills. Once you’re on Hwy 62, head east and turn left toward the Great Passion Play. There’s so much to do on the Play grounds, from dinner theater to museums to the nighttime performance, but two things shouldn’t be missed: the Christ of the Ozarks statue and an exhibit of a piece of the Berlin Wall. Both are markers on faith and will truly have an effect on each member of the family. These two attractions are also free, enabling you to stretch those dollars and stay a few extra days in town. From the Great Passion Play, it’s a short drive to Hwy 23 North and the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway, where you can take a four-and-a-half-mile excursion on a real steam train, plus see several historic train cars. It’s a train lovers’ delight, especially when that whistle blows. Stay on 23 and head south to our next family destination, but first, why not stop for a bite at Sparky’s restaurant? They’re kid-friendly and have a varied menu for everyone from steak-lovers to vegetarians. After you’re re-energized from a good meal, continue on 23 South for about 15 minutes and you’ll come to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. You’ll say “hi” to lions, tigers, and yes, even bears, as you tour through the different areas of the refuge and learn each animal’s story. All of the animals at Turpentine Creek have been rescued, and each one has a fascinating and touching story. Have an extra afternoon? Head out to Cosmic Cavern, located near Berryville on Hwy 21. Kids of all ages enjoy exploring this particular cave of wonders, and they won’t even realize they’re learning something along the way. View delicate formations, learn about the rare Ozark Blind Cave Salamander, and catch a glimpse of bottomless lakes. There’s also a large gift shop and gemstone panning so kids can search for their own buried treasure, but they’ll take home more than just souvenirs of a great vacation: they’ll also take away some knowledge about trains, history, geology, and the animal kingdom. Those are the kind of back-to-school supplies you can find in Eureka Springs. + |

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mall. All we have are historic streets lined with locally-owned shops and galleries with wares and art you won’t find anywhere else in the country.

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Top reasons...

to stay away from Eureka Springs

Say “I Do” to a wedding in Eureka Springs

here are some years we host more weddings than we have residents. Besides being a memorable romantic setting, one reason Eureka Springs is second only to Las Vegas in numbers of weddings performed is that you can have it your way here. Be unique, be creative. Your wedding can be large, small, formal, casual, outdoors, indoors, beside a waterfall, in a waterfall, on horseback or even in a parade. Couples can get a marriage license at the courthouse after presenting a Social Security card and a photo ID. There’s no blood test or waiting period required. The Carroll County courthouse (253-8646) in Eureka Springs is open from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Your minister or officiant must be registered in the State of Arkansas. Other than that, the rest is up to you. There are several helpful planners, lodgings and services, including photographers, who can help you ahead of time or after you arrive in town. The 2012 Wedding Guide available at the Chamber of Commerce is the perfect place to find exactly what and whom you need to make your wedding memorable. Let the Honeymoon begin! (And don’t forget to book your first anniversary before you leave.) +

Photos by PurdyArtCo.Com

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

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Independent FUN GUIDE

Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

Fun makes a

SPLASH Photos by Jerry hinton

ummer is winding down; will you see it go while on dry land, or happily wave goodbye with shriveled fingers while leaving wet footprints across the beach? There’s still a few weeks left of prime summer activities like swimming, canoeing or boating, plus fall fun around the corner with hiking and fishing. Make a day of it along the waterways surrounding Eureka Springs. How many times have you been swimming this year? That’s not enough. Head out to Beaver Lake for one more glorious day of splashing and playing under the summer sun. Take Hwy 62 West for about fifteen minutes and you’ll see a left turn for Hwy 187, which will take you out to the lake. The Corps of Engineers operates Beaver Lake, and there’s a couple of different swimming spots near the Dam, both with picnic tables. The Dam Site Park also features a covered area and playground, perfect for a family day out. The swimming area is also marked with buoys, although the drought conditions this year may change the layout just a bit. Wear swim shoes if you’re a tenderfoot and can’t walk on lake rocks. Just past the dam is the North Side Park, a favorite of locals for years. The swimming is unmarked and at your own risk, but the bluffs are beautiful and there are picnic spots and restrooms nearby. If you’re looking to do more than just swim, you can dry off and take the Belle of the Ozarks cruise at Starkey Marina, a pontoon tour of the lake packed with history and fun. The headwaters of the White River are just below ... and who knows what you’ll see on the banks the Dam, and the cold, clear near the water. 14

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water is very popular with fly fishermen, or you can rent a canoe from Riverview Resort or Spider Creek Resort and spend a few hours happily communing with nature without getting wet. Of course, if getting wet is the goal, drop by Butler’s C&J Sports for scuba gear, fishing equipment and all the essentials. Ready for a little history with your angling trip? Lake Leatherwood, also located on Hwy 62 just out of town, is one of the largest city parks in the country. Along with the 85-acre lake and 1,600 acres of parkland, there’s also the dam itself, a hand-cut limestone construction built as a result of the post-Depression WPA project. The entire park is on the National Register of Historic Places, but you can still enjoy conveniences like a paved boat ramp and handicapped-accessible canoe and kayak launch. There are even cabins available if you want to turn your day of fishing into a nature-happy weekend, plus a bait shop, boat rentals and miles of challenging trials for hikes and bikes. For more history, seek out the secluded Black Bass Lake, located in town along Hwy 62 West on Oil Springs Road. This park is quiet, beautiful and a perfect place for a stroll, picnic or hike. The hand-built dam used to be a reservoir for the town, but now it functions as the centerpiece of one of Eureka Springs’ most unspoiled parks. Take a fishing pole and enjoy the peace of fishing from the bank itself, or use the boat launch (approved for non-motorized craft only) and see the park from a new angle. Travel north of town and you’ll discover Holiday Island, a lovely community nestled along the banks of Table Rock Lake. Most of the lake reaches into Missouri, but our little corner of it is made even better with Holiday Island Marina, which offers boat rentals and everything else you need for a day on the lake. Don’t forget the fishing gear, because Table Rock Lake is well-known for bass fishing, whether you’re angling for largemouth bass or just want something for the dinner table rather than the wall. +

Family-friendly means Fido too!

ou can tell by the deer taking an occasional amble down the middle of the street or nibbling a rose bush in someone’s front yard that Eureka Springs is an animal-loving town. You’re even likely to see a dog or two outside a shop door patiently waiting for its owner or inside “helping” customers. There are resident cats who rule in a couple of business establishments as well. We do love our pets and we welcome your well-

behaved pets too, so bring them along. If Rover doesn’t like to stay alone while you’re out doing the town, check out the day care and day boarding facilities at Percy’s Pet Spa at 188 N. Main. While you have a day at the people spa, Daisy can do the same at Percy’s – from a soothing bath with natural shampoos to aromatherapy and a massage on an orthopedic mat. You’ll both come back to the hotel refreshed and hungry for kibbles.

Here are a few places to stay voted two paws up by visiting pets:

Bed and Breakfast Inns: Arsenic and Old Lace Bridgeford House 5 Ojo

Hotels and Motels:

1905 Basin Park Hotel Bavarian Inn Best Western Eureka Inn Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Comfort Inn 1886 Crescent Hotel Days Inn Grand Central Hotel & Spa Motel 62 Roadrunner Inn & Log Cabins Stonegate Inn Swiss Holiday Resort – Rodeway Inn

Cabins, Cottages and Suites:

Holiday Island Vacation Rentals Lake Leatherwood City Park Cabins Livingston Junction Cabooses & Depot Ozark Cabins & RV Pond Mountain Lodge and Resort Retreat at Sky Ridge Retreat-on-the-Green Rental Home Rose of Sharon Cottage Bear Mountain Log Cabins Beaver Dam Cottages Can-u-Canoe Riverview Cabins Cherokee Mountain Log Cabin Resort Dear Haven Rental Home Dinner Bell Ranch & Resort Eagle’s Nest Lodging Eureka Suites Sparky’s Guest House Spider Creek Resort Sugar Mountain Resort See p. 2

There are several more lodgings that allow some pets with prior arrangements. Please check with the Chamber of Commerce for a complete list: 1-800-6-EUREKA, (479) 253-8737 or www.eurekaspringschamber.com. And don’t forget to pick up a “Jerkalicious” chicken jerky treat made especially for dogs at Mary’s Jerky at 57 N. Main. (There’s some for people too – 10 flavors of gourmet beef jerky in fact!) +

Need a vet?

We hope you don’t, but there are several good veterinarians in the area. The one closest to town is the Animal Hospital of Eureka Springs on 23 S. A call to (479) 253-8923 will get the answers you need. There’s an emergency after hours number on the answering service, and Dr. Tony Pike will be happy to meet you if necessary. Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT

GASKIN’S CABIN

DINING CAR

CRYSTAL DINING ROOM & DR. BAKER’S LOUNGE

New Delhi Café ERMILIO’S

ANGLER’S GRILL

GARDEN BISTRO

ROGUE’S MANOR COTTAGE INN ROWDY BEAVER

DeVITO’S GRAND TAVERNE

BALCONY RESTAURANT

BAVARIAN INN

MUD ST.

LOCAL FLAVOR The STONEHOUSE CAFE LUIGI MYRTIE MAE’S

PIED PIPER BUBBA’S BBQ

SIMPLY SCRUMPTIOUS

Simply Scrumptious Tea Room WAR EAGLE MILL RESTAURANT

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Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

AUTUMN BREEZE

AD &

RO PA CKIN N ’P GR CAKE IG AN ’S DM A’S CO R

McDONALD’S

SUBWAY SPARKY’S

CATFISH CABIN

MEI LI ASIAN CUISINE

GAZEBO

AN S

CASA COLINA

CAFE AMORE PIZZA HUT

FOREST HILL VILLAGE ICE CREAM THAI HOUSE

ROADHOUSE RESTAURANT

YES, IT’S ALL OF THEM!

ur favorite places to eat are as varied as our personalities here in Eureka Springs. From the New Delhi Cafe featuring mildly spiced Indian delicacies and hearty American fare to the always-fresh buffet at Myrtie Mae’s, everyone has a favorite go-to place for lunch and a special place to visit as a treat on a night out. When we said you can eat your way through Eureka Springs, we meant it! There are almost too many award-winning restaurants to count, and most of them have websites – so get your smart phone out and Google until you find something your taste buds are spring loaded for, because there’s no way we can choose for you.

Bon appetit!

Local Flavor

The Crystal Dining Room

Ermilio’s

The Stonehouse

Grand Taverne Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

In the

Aud

Photo by Jeremy mason mcGraw – eurekaPostcards.com

xperience a taste of the past in the Eureka Springs City Auditorium. Located on Main Street in downtown Eureka Springs, the Aud has hosted a myriad of musical talent. It began in 1928 with John Philip Sousa and his 67 piece band. Since that time many great talents have performed on the stage including B.B. King, Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Jefferson Starship, Dwight Yoakam, Arlo Guthrie, Buddy Guy and Bill Cosby. Here is what you can see at The Aud now. Most shows feature discounted tickets if you buy in advance at l iva t www.theaud.org s Fe Soul t s s a lk gra for Fo , show he e . t lu s : B open t 7 p.m d $25 8 t 1 n st ampit pen a $20 a u l o g e Au read C Doors ets ar – D vival. . Tickent. Re 0 p.m e ev 7:3 of th day

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But wait, there’s more!

When it comes to music, we host an abundance of talent, not only in the musicians who come here to play, but the local musicians as well. We celebrate that talent whenever we can. And that’s pretty often.

Basin Park and Inn of the Ozarks

he bandstand at Basin Spring Park offers free music Thursday through Sunday afternoons. It may be an award-winning blues band, a virtuoso fiddle player or a solo acoustic guitar. When there is a festival in town, the park is full of music the entire weekend. The August 17–19 Annual Bluegrass Weekend starts with free shows in Basin Park with Tulsa string band Grass Crack opening for the HillBenders. Come enjoy the music while we serve up the watermelon. Saturday will continue with free park acts all

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afternoon including Deadman Flats, Spring Street, the Buffalo City Ramblers, and Grass Crack back for a return set. Sunday wraps up with a Bluegrass Gospel show in the park from 1-5 with Glory Mountain and The Bushwhackers. Banjo Rally August 29 –

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September 1: Best Western Inn of the Ozarks – “Banjo music is like vitamins... if you don’t get enough you won’t feel good!” Banjo Rally International is tailored for players of 4-string plectrum and tenor banjos, but players of other acoustic instruments attend, perform and are always welcomed, including players of 5-string banjo, ukulele, mandolin, guitar, piano, tuba, string bass, stumpf fiddle, washboard and even a few front-line horns (clarinet, trombone and trumpet - usually played by those who also play banjo or other

string instruments). The skill level of players ranges from beginner to seasoned professional. Participants range in age from 10 to 95 years of age. There are shows on Friday and Saturday night followed by jam sessions. Jazz Eureka September 21 – 23: A Sinatra Tribute with Tom Tiratto & The Fayetteville Jazz Collective at The Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center- 7:30 p.m. Single tickets $15 advance, $20 door. Couples two for $25- advance online sales only at theAud.com. +

Nightlife and socializing

ubs are so plentiful in Ireland and so much a part of social life that when strangers hit it off and want to meet again for a chat, they don’t ask for a business card or a phone number, instead they ask “Where do

Pied Piper Pub/Cathouse Lounge, 82 Armstrong Street, is famous for their Reubens, Fish & Chips, Burgers, and Irish Dishes! The Corn Beef and Cabbage is just like Mrs. O’Mally’s. There is a full bar, cold beer, lots of parking, and friendly faces. Smoke free, full menu and live music on Friday and Saturday. Voulez Vous Lounge, 63 Spring Street, under the New Orleans Hotel, is a jazz lounge featuring a full menu, fresh takes on classic cocktails and live music in a nonsmoking atmosphere under the New Orleans Hotel. Everything is beautiful at the Vous! Smoke Free, full menu, live music, dancing and extensive drinks menu. “Very fun lounge to sit and enjoy the swanky surroundings and sip tastefully prepared fresh drinks! All your old time faves can be ordered and made to perfection by the well-educated mixologists at the bar. I will eagerly look forward to a return trip to enjoy the night shows!!” – TripAdvisor Review by EuroEri

The Stone House, 89 S. Main Street. A bright new star is on the culinary horizon in the form of the Stone House. Billed as the place for ‘wine, cheese and conversation.’ “An extensive, cutting edge wine and beer list that will transport you to faraway lands,” says a Yelp review! Smoke free. Appetizer menu with wine parings, live piano every Friday from 5–8 p.m.

you do your drinkin’?” In town, here’s where we do ours – come join us! Most places have live music, some have great food and all have a friendly atmosphere. Photo by Jeremy mason mcGraw – eurekaPostcards.com

Smokey’s Firehouse Pub, 55 S. Main Street. Famous BBQ – infamous staff. Open at 11 a.m. until late. Full menu and full bar. Eureka Live Underground & Eureka Patio, 35 N.Main Street. New Ownership! A great place to hang out, dance and celebrate weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and more. Full menu, dancing, free pool and a full bar Henri’s Just One More, 19 1/2 Spring Street. The only Martini Bar and Grill in Eureka Springs. Great food, fabulous martinis and fun locals. Full menu and extensive bar. Lucky 7 Rooftop Billiards, Basin Park Hotel, 12 Spring Street. One of downtown’s favorite “21 and over” gathering spots. Located on the 6th floor of the 1905 Basin Park Hotel. Pool, great views, extensive bar. Eureka Paradise, 75 S. Main Street. Dancing, DJ, smoke free. A big dance floor with great light and smoke effects.

Rowdy Beaver Den, 45 Spring Street. Food, fun and extensive bar in a casual atmosphere. There is live music here on Friday and Saturday nights. There is also a Rowdy Beaver gift shop.

like. This restaurant/bar is smoke free. Brick-Fields is an award winning blues band from Eureka Springs and they have a Gospel Sunday Brunch from 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. every Sunday. You can even bring the kids.

Chelsea’s Corner Cafe, 10 Mountain Street. One of the area’s favorite pubs. Large selection of beers, full bar and excellent food contribute to the unique atmosphere. Live music every Friday and Saturday. SpringBilly is a local bluegrass band that plays every Monday. Upstairs in the Cafe they serve pizza and much more! Sorry, no kids allowed.

The Balcony Restaurant in Basin Park Hotel is another spot where the family can dine to live music. Thursday through Sunday evenings there is live acoustic music at 5 p.m., with noon shows added on Saturday and Sunday.

Rogue’s Manor, 124 Spring Street. Rogue’s Manor at Sweet Spring is a fine dining restaurant and lounge with romantic overnight rooms for couples in the downtown Historic District. Smoke free, full menu and extensive bar.

Squid and Whale Pub, 37 Spring Street. One of Northwest Arkansas’ top music venues. With entrances on Spring and Center Street, the Squid recruits talent from all over the country, there is a band there every weekend. In addition to the weekend entertainment, they feature a local band once a week for ‘Local Kine’ night and have an open jam on Thursdays that will blow you away.

Rowdy Beaver Restaurant & Tavern, 417 W Van Buren. The Rowdy Beaver started here in Eureka and has spawned 3 more in the surrounding area– Branson, Fayetteville and a branch downtown. They serve good, casual food in a fun atmosphere. The tavern side has live music on the weekends and bike night on Thursday.

Jack’s Center Stage, 37 Spring Street. This is a full service bar. Live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights with a variety of rock and blues. “Huge dance floor to dance the night away,” says a happy Trip Advisor reviewer. You can smoke here. There is karaoke on Thursdays and free pool on Wednesdays. +

The New Delhi Cafe & Patio, 2 N. Main. The New Delhi Café on Main Street has live music every weekend, offering a great mix and local and visiting bands. With three decks you can sit as close or far away as you

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What to do on Sixty-two

. S. 62 runs from Niagara Falls to El Paso. From either direction, it leads you straight into fun in Eureka Springs. Once you settle in and realize how much there is to do and see here, it may help to know that a well-planned three day weekend can take in just about everything there is to do and see – in town and out. A day in town just walking the Historic Loop and N. Main will bring you to fine art galleries, hotel spas, great restaurants, fantastic shopping and many surprises. It’s a photographer’s paradise and shopper’s dream – not to mention a sheer delight for art enthusiasts and foodies. Tired of walking? We suggest a carriage ride, tram tour or a comfy history lesson as you ride through town with Eureka Van Tours.

Stop at Adventure Mountain Outfitters to get your bike stuff

Photos by Jerry hinton

Photo by Jerry hinton

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Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

Photo by Jerry hinton

Saddle up or paddle up – Whether you ride a horse or a boat we have plenty of trails and lakes for your pleasure.

Head west for adventure If you’re up for horseback riding, swimming, cycling, camping and fishing as well as taking in some attractions, head west on US 62 for a day the whole family can enjoy. A stop at Adventure Mountain Outfitters on Spring Street is in order if you need anything in the way of outfitting and gear for hiking, biking and floating. You can buy picnic food and supplies at Hart’s or stop and eat along the way. As you leave town you might have breakfast at Myrtie Mae’s in the Inn of the Ozarks on 62, gas up at Tad’s and drive a short distance to Pivot Rock Road. Turn right and drive to Pivot Rock to see a local natural wonder and walk breakfast off in a shaded woodsy setting. Back out on 62, you’ll come to the Razorback observation tower next to the Razorback Gift shop on your left. If you skipped a walk at Pivot Rock, a climb up the tower instead should do the trick. The view will be worth it. Next is a visit to the lovely Thorncrown Chapel. You can’t miss the entrance on your right. Coming up will be Hidden Valley Trail Rides on the left and Lake Leatherwood City Park on the right. If you planned a short day, there’s paddle boating, kayaking, canoeing, bike trails and great hiking/walking trails as well as picnic areas at Leatherwood. If you’re heading further out to Beaver Lake for the day, keep going until you come to Hwy. 187 and turn left at the RiverLake Outdoor Center Exxon. Hwy. 187 is a scenic drive that makes a horseshoe around Beaver Dam and comes back out further west on 62, so there’s no way to get lost. You’ll see C & J Sports, where scuba gear can be rented. Mundell Road will be on your left along the way – this is the turnoff for Starkey Marina and the Belle of the Ozarks guided boat tours on the lake. Continued on next page

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Continued from previous page

If your plans include fishing, don’t turn at the Exxon, but stay on 62 until the second left onto 187. Along the way will be Bear Mountain Riding Stables on your right, followed by Inspiration Point next to Castle Antiques and Velvet Otter Antiques. This is a great spot to pull off and take a picture from the lookout while the ladies browse the wares of days gone by. Before the second 187 turnoff from 62, you can stop for a fishing license at Riverview Resort just before the White River Bridge. After you cross the bridge, turn onto 187. Down the road you’ll see the Beaver Dam Store. Here you’ll find fishing guides and boats for hire – and we’ve heard stories about 30-pound stripers being caught on those trips. The store also sells fishing licenses. At the Beaver Lake swimming and picnic area there is a small per-car fee and fishing is also allowed from the shore. At day’s end, follow 187 back to 62 continuing in the direction you came in. That way, you’ll get all the sights along the entire scenic drive. If it happens to be near sunset, this is prime time for a stop at Inspiration Point with the camera. On your way back to town, stop at Angler’s Grill on the right for some great food.

Photo by rQuiCkPhotogrAPhy.Com

Opera is sung in Italian, French, Japanese and English during the sixweek season.

Photo by Jeremy mason mcGraw – eurekaPostcards.com

Photo by Jerry hinton

Blue Spring spews 38 million gallons of clean, happy water every 24 hours.

Thorncrown Chapel, an E. Fay Jones marvel

Heading East The next day, enjoy a trek along US 62 E. There are a host of places to eat as you leave town. And don’t miss the popular bakery, Cravings, in the Gaskins Switch strip mall. A stop at the Chamber of Commerce in Pine Mountain Village will set you up with information and tickets for two great shows: The Pine Mountain Jamboree and the Ozark Mountain Hoe-down as well as evening performances and a host of things to do during the day at the Great Passion Play. You can also rent a scooter, climb the lookout tower at Pine Mountain Village, sample some Arkansas wine and enjoy art at Keels Creek Winery and Gallery, shop along the way for antiques and collectibles and take a ride down Passion Play Road to see the Christ of the Ozarks Statue. Don’t forget to pick up brochures for Onyx Cave and Cosmic Cavern at the Chamber if you’re looking for a cool underground experience, or head out toward the King’s River and rent a canoe at Riverside Canoes for an enjoyable afternoon float trip. And make sure you head back into town soon enough to stop at all the places you missed on the way out! + 22

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Hey! Is that the guy who pinned you? Pine Mountain Jamboree.

Have you been pinned? Chamber President and CEO, Mike Bishop, sticks a pin in a map of the United States over the hometown of the most recent visitor. Even travelers from overseas are represented on notes tucked around the frame of the map, so be sure to take a look and make sure your city is represented. There’s always room for one more!

Want more of Eureka?

ou can keep tabs on Eureka Springs via live cameras at www.eurekaspringswebcam. com – and once you find out where the cameras are, you can wave to the folks back home! (Just tell them to log on first.) When you get back home, you can also watch replays of parades, balls and special events and see live webcasts at www.eurekaspringschannel.com. +

Share your fun!

ant to pass your experiences in Eureka Springs on to other travelers? Tell us where you went, what you saw and how you liked it. Include some fun pictures and perhaps you’ll be the Fun Guy, Fun Girl or Fun Group of the month in the next issue! Email your photos, comments and reviews to newsdesk@ eurekaspringsindependent.com. +

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Tweet about your experience in Eureka Springs @ #ESFunGuide. We just might include your thoughts in our next publication.

If you want more news from Eureka Springs, don’t forget to pick up a copy of the ES Independent. www.eurekaspringsindependent.com Mid Aug.-Mid Sept. 2012

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