Independent Fun Guide by Eureka Springs Independent

Vol. 1 No. 4

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 editor@independentfunguide.com. Chief Whipping Post C.D. White Contributors Mary Flood Gwen Etheredge Art Director and D(sigh)n Perlinda Pettigrew-Owens Photographers Mary Flood Steven Foster Jerry Hinton Richard Quick Event submissions, reviews and contests editor@independentfunguide.com 479.253.6101 Advertising Sales Michael Owens | 479.659.1461 mowens72631@gmail.com Mary Flood | 479.981.3556 advertise.independent@gmail.com

t’s no secret that there’s nothing like the holidays in a town rich with Victorian history. Colder weather doesn’t mean there’s less to do in Eureka Springs, either, because we’re fired up for fun! Inside where it’s cozy and outside where it’s crisp, there are lots of good times to be had for the whole family. Thanksgiving treats, the Christmas Tour of Homes, visits and photos with St. Nick, elves hidden around town to surprise the kids, living Christmas windows downtown, the lighted Christmas parade, a candlelight tour of historic homes, a Sweet Treats Cookie tour, a Christmas Tree Forest, a holiday extravaganza national dance competition and holiday concerts in the auditorium – and shopping, shopping, shopping for Christmas will keep you busy. Add in a spa day, some fine dining and a comfy, warm lodging and you’re all set for making memories. It’s the perfect time to explore Eureka Springs’ hidden gems, too. Stay for Thanksgiving and come back for Christmas! Find out for yourself why Eureka Springs is called the ...

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

Please RECYCLE

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Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

Extraordinary

(Holiday)

Escape.

Here’s where to start

K K K K K K

Ready, set, GO...

Events at a glance 4 Comfort Food 6 Sisters Cafe 7 Five reasons not to come back 10 Pet page 11 Map 12 Victorian Eureka Springs 14 Eureka’s hidden gems 15 Dining suggestions 16 & 17 Nightlife 18 Cookie tour 20 Dance Extravaganza 21 Be a local 22

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!

What’s with all these turkeys?

And what’s that thing?

Since we had some overachievers counting pumpkins last month, we’re switching to turkeys in honor of the holidays. Find each turkey symbol appearing in this issue and win two tickets to a great show in Eureka Springs. When you think you’ve spotted them all, hand someone a cell phone or camera and have them snap you holding this issue. Email the pic and the number of turkeys you counted to editor@independentfunguide. ll... a com and you could take your place m or s in the annals of careful counters. Or observant people. Or something. At least you’ll get tickets.

BIG

They can look like this or they can look like the Mona Lisa. QR (Quick Response) codes have come a long way since someone first invented the app that allows you to scan them with a phone. The QR codes in the Fun Guide will take you to websites, restaurant menus and more, so have fun scanning. By the way, if you’re shy about meeting people you can have a QR code printed on a T-shirt so passersby can simply aim their phones at the code and go right to your website or Facebook page for important personal information.

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

Events

at a glance

Take in all the events and enjoy the ambiance around town with Victorian carolers, gifts for kids, elf-finding fun, hot chocolate and cider – holiday activity never ends in Eureka Springs

Nov. 3as0

NOVEMBER

Christm Parade

23 Santa in the Park. Santa and his elves will arrive at 5 p.m. and will pass out goodies to the kids as he makes his list for the “Big Day.” Come out and join us! www. eurekaspringschamber.com 23 – 25 ESSA Fall Art and Craft Show and Sale. (479) 253-5384. Inn of the Ozarks. 30 • E ureka Springs Christmas Parade – A Silver Screen Christmas! Grand Marshal Barry Williams (Greg Brady from The Brady Bunch). Floats, walkers, bands and thousands of lights. Downtown Eureka Springs, 6 p.mwww.eurekaspringschamber. com • Holiday Prize Giveaway! Register during the parade to win more than $500 in shopping vouchers and prizes to be given out in Basin Spring Park immediately following the parade. Volunteers will be on the parade route and in the park helping guests enter for a chance to win. Shopping vouchers can be used just like cash at participating merchants.

DECEMBER 1 • Li ving Windows Displays. Stroll and enjoy animated windows with live actors downtown from 4 – 6 p.m. • H oliday Spectacular Talent On Parade dance competition, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. at the Auditorium. Free admission. Dance groups and soloists from around the U.S. compete in all age groups in holiday music, ballet, lyrical, hip hop, jazz, character, modern and other dance categories.

Dec. 1&8

Living Window Displays

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Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

www.talentonparade.com • 30th A nnual Christmas Tour of Homes: Upstairs, Downstairs and all Around the Town. Self-guided tour of Eureka’s Victorian homes on Main and Spring Streets from 3 – 8 p.m., presented by the Preservation Society. Refreshments at Penn Memorial Baptist Church with 100 Year Celebration of costumed characters from stained glass windows. $15 until day of tour, then $20. • Tree Lighting Ceremony at Crescent Hotel – At 6 p.m. 30 trees in a Christmas Tree Forest will spring

to bright life and illuminate the top of Crescent Mountain! Trees will remain lit throughout Christmas. • P hotos with Santa in Basin Spring Park, Mrs. Claus’s Letter Writing Station (all letters will be answered!) and S’mores Station – 2 – 4 p.m. Mrs. Claus will help children write letters to Santa and place them in the Big Red Mailbox to be answered by the Big Guy in Red. Enjoy the roving choir of carolers, too. • H idden Elves Downtown – for children. Eureka Springs cheerleaders dressed as elves are hiding downtown with prizes. Find the elves and win prizes from 2 –4 p.m. Get maps and clues in Basin Park, and enjoy the Eureka Springs High School Carolers. 1-31 Eureka Springs’ Christmas Forest at Crescent Hotel – illuminated with Christmas trees decorated by local charities as a fundraiser for each. Visitors can stroll and vote for the best! Admission is free. www.crescenthotel.com. 2 – 5 Christmas at the Crescent Hotel – Brunch with Santa, dinner theatre, concerts, free movies and more. See www.crescent-hotel.com for complete schedule.

Dec.1

30th l Annua f Tour o s Home

Dec. 8

Ozarks Chorale Holidays in the Hills

Dec. 1n 5

6 46th Annual St. James Episcopal Church Silver Tea at the Crescent Hotel’s Crystal Dining Room 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. to benefit the Eureka Springs School of the Arts. Sweet treats, sandwiches, cookies, beverages and entertainment. Admission by donation. (479) 253-8610. 8 • O zarks Chorale Holidays in the Hills 7 p.m. at Auditorium, $10 at the door. Students free. • S anta in the Park, Mrs. Claus’s Letter Station, S’mores Station and carolers. Photos with Santa are offered for a small donation to Eureka Springs Downtown Network. Prizes will also be given to those who find the Big Red Presents hidden downtown. 10 boxes boast codes, bring those back to Basin Spring Park and be eligible to win gift certificates for area retailers. All activities are 2 – 4 p.m. • Li ving Windows sparkle downtown from 4 – 6 p.m. • 6 th Annual Sweet Treats Cookie Tour. A self guided tour (1 – 6 p.m.) of 9 Bed and Breakfast inns serving

sweet treats, each with recipes to add to your collection.. Tickets limited, $20. www.allianceofbetterbandbs.com • S ip and Shop downtown at participating merchants. Holiday Open House at participating retailers. Snacks and holiday libations, 4 – 6 p.m. Maps at Basin Park and Eureka Springs Chamber. Shop, sip and save on deals offered at each location. • H oliday Village Stroll, 5 – 7 p.m. at Pine Mountain Village’s Victorian-style shops decked out for the holidays. Shops open late with seasonal snacks. Santa will be there for the kids! • 2nd Saturday Gallery Stroll throughout downtown. 6 – 8 p.m. www.artofeureka.com. • C hristmas Lighting Contest – Bling in the Springs. Judging takes place tonight throughout Eureka Springs, residential and commercial. Be sure to take a ride around town and see the lights! 9 Carroll County Community Orchestra Christmas Program in

city auditorium, 2:30 p.m. (doors open 1:30)

Joh ks w T o-Hawas m t s ri Ch Concert

13 Eureka Springs High School Christmas concert in auditorium 7:30 p.m. (Doors open 7 p.m.) 15 John Two-Hawks 9th Annual Christmas Concert “Celebrating the Magic of this Sacred Season” with Gravette Jr. High School Choir. City auditorium 7 p.m. Tickets $20 at the door, $15 in advance (online only – buy two get one free), kids 15 and under free. GRAMMY® and Emmy nominated, recording artist and bona fide Native American flute music visionary and pioneer. (479) 2535826. johntwohawks.com.

• J azz Funeral – New Orleans style. Join in an authentic New Orleans Funeral to celebrate the end of the Mayan Calendar. Parade, pub crawl, wailing contest, Viking funeral (and a resurrection!) www.jazzfuneral. danellis.net or jazzfuneeral.blogspot. com.

18 Eureka Springs Elementary Christmas show at the Auditorium 7 p.m. (Doors open 6:30)

21 • H ome For The Holidays – fine local musicians entertain at the Auditorium. (Tentative – see www. theaud.org)

Free Parking! Enjoy events and shopping from December 1 - 31 for two hours of free parking at meters.

8 Decc.ond

Se day r Satu lery Gal ll Stro

Photo by Jerry hinton

Photo by DaviD Frank DemPsey

1 Deca.z2z

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

J l Funera

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...

ou i t e d p m ... licious ... y mouthwatering ...scru m

Photos by mary FlooD

By Mary Flood

hh, ‘tis the season for – comfort food. And there’s plenty of it to go around in Eureka Springs’ award-winning restaurants. From a steaming bowl of chili at Bubba’s (and many other places) to the garlic mashed potatoes at Local Flavor, there’s a plethora of palate pleasing, appetite easing dishes to warm the cockles of your taste buds. No matter what your ethnic dining preferences may be, you’ll find something truly satisfying. There are Samosas, a pyramid of potatoes, peas, onions and carrots with a touch of curry in a crispy pastry wrap at the New Delhi Café; there’s Bangers and Mash, a plate heaping with mashed potatoes and grilled onions surrounded by two huge bangers (sausages) at the Pied Piper; killer cream of asparagus soup at the Grande Taverne; meatloaf or smothered pork chops at Sisters’ Café; and Grandma’s Beans and Cornbread serves soul satisfying … well you guessed it. When the months get colder, we pile on the layers and go out in search for layers of flavor. In Eureka, comfort is king, and every restaurant has something to bring to the table. If you’re in the mood for a down home lumberjack style breakfast, you can take on a buffet at Forest Hill or stop in a diner like Pancakes or Café

Independent FUN GUIDE

Main Street. The Roadhouse Restaurant on US 62E, is known for burgers and ribs. They also serve a menu of hearty breakfasts until 2 p.m. – a favorite around town. And on a cold morning when you need a rib-sticking, tummy filling meal for a day of holiday shopping or sight seeing, their “Captain America” will set you right. Served with steak, your choice of eggs, homefries, a choice of biscuits and gravy, toast or pancakes, this meal is sure to inspire a walk. (Or a nap.) If it’s soup you’re in the mood for, there are many places around town to get a bowl of tasty vegetable soup, chowder or bisque. Yes, you can get grilled cheese and tomato soup here! The Simply Scrumptious Tea Room offers many choices – including a cilantro soup that’s just too delicious. If you’re really looking to warm up, KJ’s Caribe, 309 W. Van Buren, has Aztec Corn Goddess Soup made from scratch with all natural ingredients and a spicy kick. When paired with the jalapeño pie it becomes becomes a meal that will leave you rubbing your tummy and saying, “Ahhh…” Sometimes we just want pasta, and Devito’s and Ermilio’s are Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

both great places to enjoy generous servings of Italian favorites. At Café Amore, located on highway 62 across from the Pine Mountain Village, the spaghetti and meatballs are made fresh and served up in a bowl as big as your head. It very well may be the only meal you need that day! The lasagna will bring you back again, believe us. And they supposedly have the best balls in town. Local Flavor and Rogue’s Manor also have steak choices with an upscale atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or meeting with friends. If it’s fried chicken you’re in the mood for, head on down to Myrtie Mae’s, located inside the Best Western inn of the Ozarks at 207 West Van Buren. It’s a known fact they have the best fried chicken in town and the largest salad bar.

Eureka’s Hidden Gems:

Sisters Café N

estled in an historic home located off US 62W (W. Van Buren), Sisters Cafe at 55 Alamo St. serves up healthy portions of down-home cooking that rivals Grandma’s. Owned and operated by twin sisters, Jeanette and Joette, from Memphis, Tenn., the small dining room at Sisters Cafe is one place you can feel like you’re eating at home away from home. “When you’re on vacation, sometimes you get tired of fast food, fried stuff and sandwiches and you want some real food. We’ve got that,” says Jeanette. Jeanette and Joette happily serve up warm hospitality and conversation along with tastes of home. Jeanette does the cooking while Joette greets and serves the customers. “I peel the potatoes, too,” Joette adds. Working out of a kitchen that looks like mama’s, they prepare four or five entrees a day served with two choices of at least ten different sides like mashed potatoes and gravy, collard greens, squash, peas, sweet potatoes, cheesy broccoli and macaroni and cheese. Entrees include comfort foods like chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, turkey and dressing and smothered pork chops so tender you can cut them with a spoon. Everything is made from scratch. Entrees and sides are rotated for variety and change with the seasons. Freshness

By Mary Flood

is the key to their kitchen. Glutenfree meals are usually offered, and all vegetable sides are 100% vegetarian friendly as no animal fat is used in their preparation. Pricing is affordable, with meals under $10 a plate. Portions are hearty but not overloaded, and there’s always a little room for dessert. Jeanette squeezes every lemon by hand for her unbelievably perfect lemon icebox pie. The filling is so remarkably tangy and refreshing they also serve it as a pudding. There’s usually something chocolate available and the girls often get creative - like a recent half-banana-cake-half-brownie cake, for instance. The sisters have worked hard at creating a pleasurable down home dining experience in a homey atmosphere with good service and fresh, quality food. When asked what they like most about running their restaurant, the sisters immediately mention the nice comments and letters they receive from their guests. “And hearing how many people say our food tastes like grandmother’s and mother’s cooking. We love that,” Joette adds. The Urban Spoon rates Sisters Cafe at 92% - and you can call and find out what’s for dinner at (479) 253-5418. Sisters Cafe is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 8 p.m. - or, according to Joette, “until we sell out.”

Twins Joette (left) and Jeanette’s favorite picture. Joette boasts of being the older sister by 15 minutes – and she was the only one mom and dad were expecting! “I was a complete surprise,” said Jeanette. What isn’t a surprise is how much customers love her down home cooking.

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

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Mid Nov.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mid Dec. 2012

“H e y, wh at w a s t h at?”

Holiday Theater Show Times

see

Intrigue Theater

the

s t h g i s

instead of watching the roads while driving through them

This show with an illusionist and a medium takes guests back to the Victorian era where they will witness a series of inexplicable mysteries performed by a very talented and engaging couple – Sean-Paul and Juliane – in the beautiful, historic Gavioli Chapel. Shows on Dec. 1, 8, 15, 27-29 and 30 • 8 p.m. • 80 Mountain St. • (479) 244-7028 • www. intriguetheater.com (Use coupon code “funguide” and get 10% discount!)

Ozark Mountain Hoedown

elax on a trolley or experience life in the “past” lane on a Eureka Van Tour. You can even hire a carriage!

Trolleys run Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in November. In December, they run Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. On Saturday, Dec. 1, a special trolley will run between the Carnegie Library and Main Street from 5 – 8 p.m. Day passes are only $5 covering all routes. One-ride pass is $3. Children (7 – 11) $1. Route maps can be found at various downtown locations or at the Transit Center, 137 W. Van Buren (US 62W), or call 253-9572. Eureka Van Tours can be booked through the Chamber of Commerce (479) 2538737. Tour operator Michelle McDonald operates comfortable, heated/cooled vans leaving at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. from Pine Mountain Village. Special groups by appointment. The educational tours with occasional stops last approximately 2 ½ hours. Cost is $25 per person, $10 12 and younger. Olden Days Carriage can be found on N. Main Street (www. oldendayscarriageservices.com). Rides are 30 or 60 minutes and can be booked at (479) 981-1737 after 10 a.m. Walkups welcome. Availability will depend on the weather.

Shows every night except Tuesdays through December 7. Closed during inclement weather. Auction on Tuesday nights! 7:30 p.m. • 3140 East Van Buren (US 62E) • (800) 4682113 www.ozarkmoutainhoedown. com

Pine Mountain Theater Christmas Show

Thursday – Saturday through December 8 Closed Thanksgiving Day 7:30 p.m. • 2075 East Van Buren (US 62E) • (479) 253-9156 www.pinemountaintheater.com

Mark Wayne Christmas Show

Wednesday through Saturday Mark Wayne Theatre 7 p.m. • 4 Forest Park Drive, Holiday Island • (479) 363-6140 An intimate theater with great family fun!

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

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The only thing that changes is the weather. If you want to warm up in the winter, cool down in the summer, glaze over at fall colors or listen to the musical tree frogs in spring, that’s about all we have to offer.

Our auditorium is just too up-close and personal. The Aud only seats 990, so when you go to a concert – we’ve had Willie, Dwight Yoakum, Bill Cosby, Ani de Franco, Judy Collins, 100 international classical musicians on stage and 85 years of musicians’ musicians perform – you feel like you’re in the front few rows no matter where you sit. You don’t even need binoculars in the last row.

There are simply too many good artists here. They chose to live in a beautiful place where inspiration is part of the daily diet. But we don’t know any who can parallel park. Artists not only march to a different beat, they won’t even march. All they do is beautify our already gorgeous town and create stuff you just have to take home with you.

to Eureka Springs

Well, not exactly. Our chef-owned-and-operated restaurants have menu delights and daily specials that will make you wake up and yearn for great food no matter where you live. Like what? Oh, wild mushroom ravioli. Roasted New Zealand lamb with fresh rosemary. Trout Italiano. Prime rib with horseradish. Seared pork tenderloin in a bourbon mushroom cream sauce. Steak and eggs and hash browns at 10 p.m. Nothing fancy, just idle comfort food.

to come back

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

No one has a sense of humor. (That’s a joke.)

Inside, outside [don’t] leave me al ne!

By Rachel Brix

Good dog! You got to come to Eureka Springs with your owners – here are a few places to stay voted two paws up by visiting pets:

our dog might not listen to The Who, but he certainly listens to what his instincts tell him about the impending cold. Cold weather is coming, so help him out with these practical and important tips for wintery weather. According to the Partnership for Animal Welfare and countless animal experts and advocates, “The ideal situation for any dog is to be part of the family and live indoors, but some people, for various reasons, don’t bring their animals inside.” If this is true at your homestead, taking the following precautions will help you keep your dog healthy through the often cruellycold winter months. Adequate shelter should be provided at least a couple of inches off the ground; ideally 4-sided (with a flap to pass through) with enough room for the dog to stand up, turn around and lie down, but not so big it can’t help him make use of body heat. Stay away from towels and blankets – they retain water and can freeze: use Bed and Breakfast Inns: straw or shavings, which you can find at the feed store or even some Arsenic and Old Lace grocery stores. Dogs can get frostbite! Conversely, remember the sun Bridgeford House can do damage in the winter as well, so provide shade for your dog. And 5 Ojo remember: your dog will still require walks and play. Dogs can just as easily dehydrate in the winter as the summer if Hotels and Motels: they’ve no access to fresh water, so take care to make sure your dog’s 1905 Basin Park Hotel water does not freeze. If necessary, heated water bowls can be purchased Bavarian Inn from Petco and even Amazon.com for around $35. Remember to feed Best Western Eureka Inn your dog well; he needs extra calories during winter to keep warm. Best Western Inn of the Ozarks And, if your dog is an inside dog, keep a close eye on his skin/coat; Comfort Inn look for signs of dryness. Omega supplements can help ward off pesky 1886 Crescent Hotel flakes and other skin issues. Days Inn For more tips about “the backyard dog,” visit Grand Central Hotel & Spa www.paw-rescue.org/PAW/PETTIPS/DogTip_BackyardDogs.php 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

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 Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

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ical r o t s Hi The useum M

Discover Victorian Eureka Springs Start Where it all Began

ow that leaves have fallen, it’s easier to see some of the more historic aspects of Eureka Springs: secret stair steps leading from one street to another, ancient limestone walls, otherwise hidden springs and buildings you’d never notice behind the leaves of summer. Before you stroll through the streets and shops, warm up where it all began at 95 South Main Street – home of the Eureka Springs Historical Museum – and discover the amazing legacy of our little village. After that, visit the Museum at the Bank of Eureka Springs a few steps along and across the street where another trip into the past awaits. At the other end of the Historic District, continue your journey into the past at the Carnegie Public Library to the conclusion of a fascinating history lesson.

The Historical Museum

ocated in the historic 1889 Calif House, the Museum houses a variety of permanent and changing

Independent FUN GUIDE

exhibits, preserving the history and art of this health resort town and its people. Learn how “this chaotic tent city of 10,000 souls exploded into a Victorian Health Spa with 54 luxurious hotels.” Discover the history of the springs and the “healing water” story of the founding of Eureka Springs. Long before Dr. Alvah Jackson was bottling the healing water from the Basin Spring as “Dr. Jackson’s Eye Water” in 1856, the Native Americans had known and used the power of the springs and considered the area to be sacred ground. There are also different exhibits to explore from early firefighting equipment to legendary artists and more. For instance, Sophia’s Parlor is a fully functioning replica of an early 20th Century parlor. The newly renovated Art Gallery showcases the works of early local artists from the early and mid-20th century. The upstairs level of the Museum is an Art Gallery of historical paintings by numerous artists who lived and painted in the region including Louis and Elsie Freund who

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

created the first art school in Eureka Springs. The museum has long been a place of research and study. In addition to discovering and preserving physical objects that relate to the history of Eureka Springs, the Historical Museum is dedicated to discovering and procuring various documents to memorialize the history of Eureka Springs and other towns, villages, townships, historic sites, buildings and landmarks situated in the Western District of Carroll County. Collections include preserved writings, documents, newspapers, periodicals, books, journals, and artistic representations that shed light on the fascinating history of the region, providing exciting material for anything from a term paper to a mystery novel. Self-guided tours are available daily. Hours are 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost is $5 adult, students up to 12th grade free. Group discounts for 10 or more. Reservations are required for this tour. ( 479) 253-9417 – Steven Sinclair, Museum Director.

Photos by steven Foster

Historic Bank of Eureka Springs (Cornerstone Bank) Museum

ot far from the Historical Museum, you’ll find the Bank of Eureka Springs at 70 South Main – 100 years old as of May 4! If bank building walls in town could talk, what a story they could tell! Be prepared to rest your boots on a pot-bellied stove as you’ll be surrounded by memorabilia dating back to the town’s founding in 1879. Step into a turn-of-the-20th century bank complete with brass tellers’ cages, candlestick telephones, and original safe that once actually stood in full view inside a window, the original wall clock and vault door, furniture, fixtures and equipment dating to 1912. The bank survived several panics, the Great Depression and two World Wars, and four major fires over a 10-year span in the 1880s and 1890s that wiped out almost all of downtown Eureka Springs. In 1946, it was the only bank remaining in Eureka Springs out of a half dozen or more started since the town’s founding in 1879. The Historic Downtown Branch

was constructed in 1966 reflecting the turn of the century atmosphere of the town. Having undergone two major expansions, the building still retains the Victorian theme. If former bank president and museum founder John Cross is on hand, you’re likely to get a private tour of unexpected proportions with lessons encompassing American history and Eureka Springs’ place in it. Phone (479) 253-8241.

The Carnegie Public Library

uring the early 1900s Andrew Carnegie was responsible for helping hundreds of communities establish public libraries by providing funds for the construction of library buildings. In 1910, a Board of Trustees was organized and plans for a building and proposed site were sent to Mr. Carnegie. He agreed to donate $12,500 and construction began. The original site for the stone structure was not suitable and the new site on Spring Street was a solid stone cliff. Eventually the site was excavated but because of delays, bad weather and the additional costs of excavation, Mr. Carnegie was repeatedly petitioned for additional funds to complete the project. Finally, Mr. Carnegie agreed to increase his donation by $3,000 and the Classical Revival-style building constructed of locally quarried stone was completed in 1912. Meanwhile, the city administration decided not to provide the $1,250 per year needed to operate the library. Memberships of $1 per year were sold, a librarian was hired and books and furniture were donated. The library survived those first difficult years but was forced to close during the winter of 1916 due to insufficient funds for fuel and staff. Because many residents wanted the library

and were willing to donate time and funds to insure its prosperity, its doors reopened and by 1921, the library was open six days a week. The Eureka Springs Carnegie Public Library is one of four Arkansas library buildings built with funding by Andrew Carnegie, and one of only two surviving as a library. Historical archives of photographs, letters and documents are also available for research. Eureka Springs Carnegie Public Library, 194 Spring Street, is open Monday – Saturday at 9 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and is open Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m. (479) 253-8754

gie arne ary C e Th ic Libr Publ

rew And gie e Carn Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

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OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT

GASKIN’S CABIN

DINING CAR

CRYSTAL DINING ROOM & DR. BAKER’S LOUNGE

New Delhi Café ERMILIO’S KABOB KAFE

ANGLER’S GRILL

GARDEN BISTRO

ROGUE’S MANOR

SQUID & WHALE

COTTAGE INN ROWDY BEAVER

DeVITO’S GRAND TAVERNE

BALCONY RESTAURANT

BAVARIAN INN CARIBE

MUD ST.

LOCAL FLAVOR The STONEHOUSE CAFE LUIGI MYRTIE MAE’S

PIED PIPER

BUBBA’S BBQ

SISTERS CAFE

CASA COLINA

GAZEBO

SIMPLY SCRUMPTIOUS

AUTUMN BREEZE WAR EAGLE MILL RESTAURANT

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Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

SUBWAY SPARKY’S

RO CR CKIN A PA VING’ PIG N TH CAKS BA AI E’S KER HO US Y E

McDONALD’S

NEW DELHI

CAFE AMORE PIZZA HUT

CATFISH CABIN

FOREST HILL VILLAGE ICE CREAM GRANDMA’S CORNBREAD & BEANS

MEI LI ASIAN CUISINE

ROADHOUSE RESTAURANT

ASIAN Mei Li Cuisine

3094 E. Van Buren (US 62E) (479) 363-6678 Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. We delive r! Saturday 4 – 9 p.m. • Thai House

BBQ The Roadhouse 6837 US 62 E

(479) 363-0001

(1 mi. east of Passion Play Road)

Weeknights 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday & Saturday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Breakfast until 2 p.m.) www.theroadhouserestaurant.com • Bubba’s

• Rockin’ Pig

BAKERY/BREAKFAST Cravings Bakery & Blingery

2045 E. Van Buren (479) 363-2576 Sunday 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. We delive r! Monday Closed Tuesday – Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday & Saturday 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.

BUFFET

• Forest Hill

• Myrtie Mae’s

EUROPEAN

• Bavarian Inn

ECLECTIC EUREKAN

(American food, sometimes a regional twist)

Angler’s Grill

14581 US 62W (3 mi. west toward Beaver Lake) (479) 253-4404 Mon – Thu 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Fri – Sun 7:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Garden Bistro

119 N. Main (479) 253-1281 Lunch 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Dinner 5 p.m. – close Closed Tues & Wed www.eurekagardenbistro.com

New Delhi Café

2 N. Main (downtown) (479) 253-2525 Mon & Tue 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Wed – Sun 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. • Dr. Baker’s Bistro • Eureka Grill • Henri’s • Mud Street Café • Oasis • Rockin’ Pig • Rowdy Beaver Den • Squid and Whale

What are you hungry for? MEXICAN

ECLECTIC EUREKAN

(American food, sometimes a regional twist)

Casa Colina

Sparky’s Roadhouse Café

173 South Main (479) 363-6226 Mon., Thurs. & Fri. 4 – 8 p.m. Sat. – Sun. Lunch 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Dinner 4 – 9 p.m. www.casacolinagrill.com

147 E. Van Buren (479) 253-6001 Open Tue. – Sat. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

www.sparkysroadhouse.com

PIZZA

FINE DINING

• Café Amore

Cottage Inn

Pied Piper & Cathouse Lounge S. Main (82 Armstrong) (479) 363-9976 Open daily 11 a.m. – 12 Midnight year ‘round www. piedpiperpub.com

The Grand Taverne 37 North Main Street

• Chasers • The Lumberyard • Squid & Whale

(Located in the Grand Central Hotel)

CARIBBEAN/LATIN AMERICAN

Carry-Out Available

• Caribe Restaurante y Cantina

• Autumn Breeze • Crystal Dining Room • Eurekan Dining Car • Local Flavor • Rogue’s Manor • Simply Scrumptious

STEAKS

INDIAN

The Roadhouse 6837 US 62 E

New Delhi Café

(479) 363-0001

(1 mi. east of Passion Play Road)

Weeknights 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday & Saturday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Breakfast until 2 p.m.) www.theroadhouserestaurant.com

2 N. Main (downtown) (479) 253-2525 Mon & Tue 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Wed – Sun 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.

ITALIAN

Squid and Whale

37 Spring St/10 Center St. (479) 253-7147 Mon – Sat 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. Sun 11 a.m. – 12 Midnight www.squidandwhalepub.com

De Vito’s 5 Center St.

(Across from the Basin Park Hotel)

(479) 253-6807 Open daily except Wed. Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Dinner Open at 5 p.m. www.eureka-springs-usa.com/devito/

• Gaskin’s Cabin

WE DELIVER!

• Café Amore • Café Luigi • Geraldi’s • Ermilio’s

Mei Li Cuisine

MEXICAN La Familia

• Pizza Bar

PUB GRUB

450 W. Van Buren (Hwy. 62 West) (479) 253-5282 Serving Dinner Thurs.–Sun. 5–9 p.m. www.cottageinneurekaspgs.com

(479) 253-6756 Dinner Nightly 5-9 p.m. Lunch Thurs., Fri., Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. www.grandcentralresort.com

• Chelsea’s

120 E. Van Buren (479) 253-2939 Mon. – Fri. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. • Sat. – Sun. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

3094 E. Van Buren (US 62E) (479) 363-6678 Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. We delive r! Saturday 4 – 9 p.m. • Chelsea’s

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

i NIGHTLIFE and socializing m m m i i

f you appreciate a good choice of brew, wine or cocktails to go along with an evening of socializing, Eureka Springs has the place(s) just for you! Want a quiet corner for relaxing and conversation? We have it. Love to dance? You can do it here to DJs

Get in the Christmas Spirit(s) live music on Friday and Saturday. Kitchen open late.

Pied Piper Pub/Cathouse Lounge, 82 Armstrong Street, is

or live music. Crave pub grub? You’re in the right town! Some of our night spots allow children until a certain hour, some serve food (and really good food) late, some have awesome house specialties and all of them have the flavor of a place “where everybody knows your name.” ‘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 pairings, live music every Friday from 5–8 p.m. Smokey’s Firehouse Pub, 55 S. Main Street. Famous BBQ – infamous staff. Open at 11 a.m. until late. Full menu and full bar.

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

Eureka Live Underground & Eureka Patio, 35 N. Main

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! Dancing and extensive drinks menu so you can spend a night of it.

The StoneHouse, 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 18

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Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

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. Large patio for outdoor weather and big dance floor downstairs.

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 Bar & Grill, 75 S. Main Street. Dancing, DJ, smoke free. A big dance floor with great light and smoke effects. Rogue’s Manor, 124 Spring Street. Rogue’s Manor at Sweet Spring is a fine dining restaurant and lounge in the downtown Historic District with romantic overnight rooms for couples. Smoke free, full menu and extensive bar.

Rowdy Beaver Restaurant & Tavern, 417 W Van Buren. Good service, casual food in a fun

atmosphere. The tavern side has live music on the weekends and bike night on Thursday. 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.

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. 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. They offer a varied menu that includes American, Mexican and Seafood. There is no smoking, which means children are welcome until 9 p.m.

Chelsea’s Corner Cafe, 10

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.

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, open mic on Tuesdays and Drink & Draw on Wednesdays. Upstairs in the Cafe they serve pizza and much more! Sorry, no kids allowed.

The New Delhi Café & Patio,

2 N. Main. The New Delhi Café on Main Street has live music every weekend, offering a great mix of local and visiting bands. With three decks you can sit as close or far away as you like. This restaurant/ bar indoors is smoke free.

Rockin’ Pig Saloon, 2039C E Van Buren, in the Gaskin’s Switch shopping area is a full service dining, drinking and entertainment establishment. The menu includes pizza cooked to perfection in their Italian wood-fired oven, barbeque, ribs, steaks and sandwiches. They have eight beers on tap and a fully stocked bar. Biker friendly and non-smoking, kids are welcome. Kitchen open until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday through November.

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

Sweet Treats Cookie Tour

is for Christmas – and Cookies! Put the two together at the 6th Annual Bed and Breakfast Inns of Eureka Springs Holiday Cookie Tour on Saturday, Dec. 8, and get in the Christmas spirit with a wonderful tour of beautifully decorated inns, some delicious treats and a chance to win one of three $100 gift certificates. Mix in a good measure of happy company, garnish with an array of holiday treats and recipes to share and you have the perfect reason to buy a ticket. Visit nine different bed and breakfast inns, enjoy a sampling of their favorite cookie and candy recipes and get a stamp for the contest at each location. Hours are 1 – 6 p.m., tickets $20 per person or free when included in package deals found at allianceobetterbandbs. com. Only 250 tickets will be issued this year, and are available from any

Independent FUN GUIDE

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

participating inn. This is a self-guided tour (maps of all participating properties provided) so you can visit the inns and innkeepers at your leisure. All bed and breakfasts are on or close to trolley routes. Parking at each inn will be limited, so enjoy the city sights while you ride the trolley! Three entries will be drawn after the Sweet Treats Cookie Tour has ended. Winners will each receive a gift certificate for $100 toward a stay at any of the tour’s participating inns, valid until June 30, 2013. Participating inns include Heartstone Inn & Cottages, Red Bud Manor, Rock Cottage Inn, 5 Ojo Inn, Crescent Cottage Inn, Ridgeway House, Main Street Inn, Bridgeford House and Arsenic & Old Lace B & B Inn. For more information, phone (800) 656-6734 toll free or (479) 253-8916. Maps and details at www. allianceofbetterbanbs.com.

HOLIDAY

Extravaganza While you’re having fun downtown on Dec. 1 ... don’t miss what’s happening all day in the auditorium!

f you love to watch dance, here’s a real holiday treat. For the first time, more than 100 different dance acts from around the country will be in Eureka Springs for the Talent on Parade Eureka Springs Holiday Extravaganza dance competition on Dec. 1 – and the show is free! Competition begins at 9 a.m. at the city auditorium and will end around 9 p.m. You’ll see age groups from toddler to adult dance in a range of categories – holiday, acro, ballet, pointe, lyrical, jazz, character, hip hop, contemporary,

folkloric, music theatre, open, pom pom, song & dance, spirit, tap, baton and even clogging! These top dancers from around the United States are competing in the first Talent on Parade event held in Eureka Springs. The competitions take place in more than 30 major metropolitan areas annually, so please drop in and welcome them to Eureka Springs, and enjoy a spectacular show. Watch as long as you wish and come back again all through the day. For more information – www.talentonparade.com.

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

“There’s magic in the clothes …”

Fun Guys and Gals – Twenty-four members of the Choctaw Nation recently made the trip from Durant, Oka., to enjoy two days in Eureka Springs. The Choctaw Casino has nine of these beautiful buses, which are available only to members of the Choctaw Nation who have fundraisers throughout the year to take trips around the U.S. We were happy to be ranked alongside the Grand Canyon as a desired fun spot! Photo by Jerry hinton

Be an honorary (Victorian) local this Christmas!

f you’re having a blast in Eureka Springs this holiday season, you Your sound track for and your family or group can make it even more fun by going Christmas the holidays: KESA caroling in Victorian dress. In a town Radio, 100.9 FM. where Santa, elves and costumed Tune in while visiting for easy carolers are already delighting people listening and holiday music, on the streets, you’ll fit right in! local weather, transit system Celebrations and Traditions in Pine announcements and details on Mountain Village on US 62E, just a all the happenings, events and fun things you won’t want to miss few doors down from the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, has more during your stay. than 2,000 items of rental clothing to get you gussied up for the day. (Proprietor Michelle McDonald can actually dress the whole town.) “Something happens when people put Want to know about your Eureka Springs experience. Send your comments, reviews and pictures of fun times in town to editor@independentfunguide.com. those clothes on,” she claims, “it’s like it ceases being a costume and people You just might be the Fun Guys of the month next month! really take on a character. I think there’s magic in the clothes.” Find out for yourself and make For Christmas. There are cozy places to stay and lots some Christmas magic this year. Do to celebrate right here during the holidays. The kids will something completely unexpected and want to visit Santa, of course – and why not plan a family bring some Christmas cheer to others, dinner where you’ll have a choice of amazing feasts without too. You never know who you’ll meet any cleanup? Be sure to pick up the next Fun Guide for all the details – or visit on the street. And while you’re dressed us online at www.independentfunguide.com. up, it’s the perfect time to create a great Christmas card for next year! (We’ll be

Inquiring minds …

Come back and see us

Independent FUN GUIDE

Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

looking for yours on Facebook.) To find out more about costuming and caroling – and taking a caroling van tour together – call Michelle at Celebrations and Traditions and Eureka Van Tours at (479) 981-1559. The shop is open Monday, and Wednesday through Friday, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., and just about any other time by appointment. … And have a Dickens of a Christmas!

Pumpkin M winner

Mary Wilmoth of Vian, Okla., correctly counted all 20 pumpkins in the last issue of the Fun Guide and won tickets to a great show for her return visit. “I picked up the [Fun Guide] at Alpine Liquor,” Mary wrote. “We had such a great time. I think the thing I love most about Eureka is the awesome people and all the tranquility of the incredible scenery. It always brings us back. Thanks again for the fun.” And thanks for counting pumpkins so many times, Mary!

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!

Are you the Fun Guy or Gal?

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 editor@independentfunguide.com.

Be here when you get home

Overachiever – We love people who tried to count all the pumpkins

but Ollie Oliver went over the top and counted 33 pumpkins when we only had 20 pumpkin symbols in the Fun Guide! Small wonder – he used to be an air traffic controller and was used to accounting for all those dots. Ollie explained, “We air controllers spent our most harrowing hours in the pumpkin patch. It manifested itself by often sequencing birds as well as aircraft – birds and airplanes look alike 10 miles away in a pair of binoculars. We even gave them a military nomenclature “B 1 RD.” It didn’t happen often and the other controllers razzed you about it for several weeks. This would probably be a little disconcerting to airline passengers if they knew we were controlling birds as well as their flight. Small wonder that I counted all known pumpkins. Twisted grey matter!” Ollie and spouse, Thel, are spending their golden years in Golden, Mo., with dogs Buddy & Marley. We thought he deserved a prize anyway!

Did you know you can spy on us via live cameras at www.eurekaspringswebcam.com? – And once you find out where the cameras are, you can wave to the folks back home while you’re here! (Just tell them to log on first.) When you get home, you can also watch replays of parades, balls and special events and see live webcasts at www.eurekaspringschannel.com.

Want more?

If you want more news from Eureka Springs, don’t forget to pick up a copy of the ES Independent or visit www.eurekaspringsindependent.com

Tweet something Tweet about your experience in Eureka Springs @ #ESFunGuide. We just might include your thoughts in our next publication. Mid Nov.–Mid Dec. 2012

Independent FUN GUIDE

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