Eureka Springs - Little Switzerland

Eureka Springs is a quaint little town that looks very European - hence the name little Switzerland. It is a very popular tourist destination. I love to come here in the Fall especially to look at the foliage on the drive there. The big draw for me, anyway, is the old windy downtown with the cobblestone streets and shops. I have not spent much time in the newer part of Eureka Springs.

Quick Tips:

There are some good Italian restaurants, De Vito's is my favorite at 5 Center Street in the old downtown. There is also a permanent little shop that sells goodies that includes funnel cake that is a necessary stop right outside the store with the wooden Indian. The whole downtown is crammed full of shops. Basically the trip is built around shopping and eating.

Best Way To Get Around:

You pretty much have to walk. I do warn you that it is very steep in many places. There are many short cuts that involve going up what seems like endless steep steps. Older people or people who have problems walking a lot or have problems with stairs can take a tram tour of the old downtown. There are outdoor benches placed sporadically throughout downtown.

The Passion Play in Eureka Springs is definitely an experience that everyone who has not been to an outdoor Passion Play should check out. I have been to it twice, the second time I went I had forgotten how long the play was. Don't take small children or anyone with a short attention span, unless you bring pillows and blankets or something to entertain them. The play is 3.5 hours long, if my memory serves me correctly. It can get chilly at night, as well, so bring a blanket and a coat or jacket to make sure you don't get cold and something warm to sit on. The production is very well-done. It is definitely worth having seen it. It is a beautiful portrayal of the life of Christ.