Retirement Blog: Side Road to Eureka

Eureka Springs

Call it quaint, artsy, historical, maybe even homespun, but don't call it modern, or industrial, you'll upset the locals.

To visit Eureka Springs is to step back in time to a simpler, less complicated lifestyle. Never boring, the town is proud of it's history, it's charm, and it's way of life.

The streets are narrow, and follow the hill sides. Excavation for the buildings was by pick and shovel, and if there was a big rock in the way, you just built alongside it, around it, or on top of it.

Unique shops abound. Artists who sell their own creations are happy to demonstrate their talents. And yes, Jo even found a quilt shop.

Night life is where you find it. And there's plenty to find. When shops close at 5:00 pm, and most do, you have to find something to do. Restaurants, rowdy lounges, or quiet romatic eateries are everywhere.

The night we arrived we happened upon a special little bar and grill restaurant where the walleye was amazing. (Jo is doing a review)

Friendly people wave at you when you drive the narrow streets. And it seems there's a wedding reception going on somewhere at any given time. In fact, Eureka Springs is proud of it's reputation as a wedding destination.

And with all the lovely old Victorian bed and breakfasts, old historic grand hotels, and the like, it's no wonder.

For you Auburn, LSU and other "tiger" fans, there's a place where you can sleep with Tigers. (or close to them at least). Turpintine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a truly remarkably well managed facility for big cats that need refuge.

If your faith needs a little inspiration, the passion play at the top of one of the hills may be just what you need for renewal. A huge statue, Christ of the Ozarks, stands along side the passion play area. Actors leading camels crossed our path as we drove into the entrance.