Eureka Springs-10 Romantic Things to Do

Posted on February 6, 2012 by rachael

February is celebrated with Valentine’s Day but that doesn’t mean you can’t do something romantic anytime. One of the most romantic places is Eureka Springs. Here is a quick list of 10 romantic things to do.

1.    Watch Eagles Soar. Open waters and high bluffs of the lakes and rivers make it the perfect home eagles. Take an eagle cruise with an Arkansas State Park interpreter and don’t forget your binoculars and camera. See the Official Calendar of Events for Eureka Springs for dates and times.

2.   Run or walk Eureka Springs trails together. Eureka Springs is nestled in the Ozark Mountains and surrounded by trails that range from easy to challenging. Marvel at the stonework and intricate gingerbread ornamenting Eureka Springs’ historic architecture. Spot interesting moss covered rock formations or rest under cliff shelters. Walk along free running mountain streams and discover hidden springs.

3.    Take a scenic drive with your sweetheart along the Arkansas Art Trail. Find other great outdoor trails in the Greater Eureka Springs Region.

4.    Relax and enjoy Eureka Springs’ Destination Spas. What is a destination spa? Discover why couples getaway to Eureka Springs for spa vacations.

5.    Dance the night away at the Eureka Springs Valentine’s Day Ball.

6.    Find inspiration at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

7.    They say the “way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Join Karen Gros for some French Cooking demonstration and tasting. See dates and times on the Calendar of Events for the Greater Eureka Springs Region.

8.   Celebrate life with Eureka Gras Mardi Gras. Join the second line, attend a ball, see tastefully risqué art shows…you will want to stay over to enjoy all of the festivities. Many Eureka Springs Lodging and Bed and Breakfasts run Mardi Gra specials in February.

9.    The language of love has many dialects. Meet in the Eureka Springs Carnegie Library for the Foreign Film Festival. See the Official Eureka Springs Calendar of Events for dates. Find your favorite Eureka Springs restaurant for dinner or dessert after the movie.

10.    What says romance better than chocolate? Attend the Eureka Springs Chocolate Lover’s Festival. See the Official Calendar of Events for times and dates.

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Mardi Gras – Eureka Gras a Eureka Springs Tradition

Posted on January 20, 2012 by rachael

There is a place where colorful masks of feathers, fantastic outfits, mounds of beads and tons of fun can be found everyday…Eureka Springs. It is a wonderful, fantasy filled playground for tourists and residents all year long but a very special place during Mardi Gras.

Eureka Springs first Mardi Gras was held in 1907. Today, opulent balls, over-the-top parades, feasts of food and jazz, risqué art shows, second line bar crawls, and the largest King Cake in the state happen in this quirky little town every year. Visit Eureka Springs in January and February for the throws, balls and fun.

The Throws
Throwing trinkets to the crowds during Mardi Gras parades is a tradition that began in the 1800’s and continues to this day. Like in New Orleans, beads and trinkets fly from floats and balconies of Eureka Springs. Join the fun and cry out with the rest of parade-goers who are pleading for throws ,”Throw me something, Mister!”

Watch the daytime Eureka Gras Parade wind through historic downtown Eureka Springs. In 2012, Eureka celebrates with an additional Lights & Sound Nite Parade.

The Balls
Mardi Gras masked balls include the revealing of the reigning King and Queen of the Krewe. Historically, much symbolism and pageantry accompany the balls which are exclusive. Attendance at the older and more aristocratic balls is historically open “by invitation only.”

Eureka Gras Mardi Gras features three primary balls. Tickets are available for the Hookers & Jokers Ball (Inn of the Ozarks) and the Beaux Arts Ball (Basin Park Hotel). The Coronation Royalty Ball, held in the famous Crescent Hotel’s Crystal Dining Room, is open by invitation only.

The Fun
Toast the night away as you accompany the Krewe of Krazo on the Second Line Krawl. There is no better way to see Eureka Springs nightlife.

View tastefully risqué art created by local Eureka Springs artists at Arti Gras. Attend the artists’ reception…complete with costumery and foolery.

What is a Krewe?
Krewes are the masking and parading clubs (or social organizations) that host the parades and balls. The ranking structure of a Mardi Gras Krewe is a parody of royalty: King, Queen, Dukes, Knights and Captains. The Krewe of Krazo, began with New Orleans native Dan Ellis in 2006.

Most Eureka Springs Lodging offers Mardi Gras packages. Explore Eureka Springs cabins, hotels, and B&B’s. Many of the Eureka Gras Mardi Gras events happen in historic Downtown Eureka Springs. Filled with great restaurants, unique shopping and a very vibrant nightlife you might have trouble deciding what to do first. Visit the Eureka Springs Calendar of Events for a complete list of Mardi Gras events or visit the official site for Eureka Gras. Follow the Official Eureka Springs on Facebook for regular updates on Mardi Gras and other Eureka Springs Events and News or sign up for the EurekaSprings.com Newsletter.

Read about Eureka Gras 2011.
Tune in to The Eureka Springs Channel to see video from Eureka Springs. Watch the Coronation online!

The photos in this blog are by local photographer and Krewe member, Melodye Purdy of Purdy Art Co.

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Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art – Engaging with Art

Posted on January 16, 2012 by rachael
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art describes one of America’s newest art museums but don’t let the name fool you. The word ‘museum’ often conjures images of dim lighting, partially concealed dusty artifacts, or stuffy buildings where guests can look but cannot touch. Be prepared…your visit to Crystal Bridges Museum will change the way you think about museums. It is a place that encourages exploration and compels you to question what you think you know about art.
crystal bridges eureka springs

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is just a short, scenic drive from Eureka Springs.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opened in Northwest Arkansas in November of 2011. With more than 50,000 square feet of gallery space, the museum has a world class collection offering an overview of American art that includes masterworks by artists like Charles Wilson Peale, Asher B. Durand, Norman Rockwell, Thomas Hart Benton, Jenny Holzer, and Andy Warhol to name a few.
The collection is impressive on its own but the museum itself will surprise you. Artfully perched in a beautiful ravine created by Crystal Spring, the museum was designed by reknowned architect Moshe Safdie. It is a place of significance…a place where American art and Arkansas landscape merge for a unique experience.
Crystal Bridges Museum invites guests to do more than view art. Committed to education, the museum offers opportunities for guest to engage with art. Guests learn about art and history in entertaining ways through Crystal Bridges Museum’s Public Programs and one of a kind library. You may be wondering how someone engages with art…

James Turrell's the Way of Color. Turrell's Skyspace provides a view of the sky altered by stunning lighting effects that change with the light and weather conditions.

Learn more about Education programs at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or visit the Official Eureka Springs Calendar of Events and see what is happening during your visit. Discover more Things to Do in the Greater Eureka Springs Region. Be the first to receive news and specials for Eureka Springs and follow Eureka Springs Facebook or sign up for a monthly Eureka Springs newsletter.
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Eureka Springs Things to Do – Get Creative

Posted on January 11, 2012 by rachael

Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a picturesque town that inspires creativity. The quaint little mountain town has been recognized by American Style Magazine as a Top 25 Arts Destination.  It is a community that admires, creates, and encourages artistic expression and is most likely why Eureka Springs is home to dozens of art galleries and many nationally recognized artistic organizations like Opera in the Ozarks, CICA International Symphony Festival and others. The community’s commitment to artistic growth speaks for itself.

It is no wonder so many artists have found their inspiration in Eureka Springs. Tucked into the majestic Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is surrounded by pristine wilderness. Lush woodlands open up to crystal clear lakes and streams offering views that will take your breath away. In the center of it all, a modest but reputable art school is following through on their commitment to cultivate artistic expression through art education. Eureka Springs School of the Arts (ESSA) is connecting professional artists with students of all ages and abilities to encourage creativity in an environment of beauty.

ESSA offers classes in art April-November. Here is a sampling of art classes they offer:
Expressive Drawing

eureka springs artist weaving

Work by local Eureka Springs artist Eleanor Lux.

Antler Basketry
Stained Glass
Metalsmithing
Art & Craft Paper Beadmaking
Metal Sculpture
Acrylic Painting
Digital Photography
Fused Glass
Botanical Paining
Basketweaving
Blacksmithing

eureka springs woodworking

Work by Eureka Springs artist Keith Newton.

Raku Firing
Blown Glass
Plein Air Watercolor
Off Loom Weaving
Beginning Furniture Design
Wood Flutemaking
Children’s Book Illustration
Lampmaking
Cabinentmaking
Eco-Art
For a complete list of ESSA art workshops visit www.ESSA-Art.com.

eureka springs artist painting

Work by Eureka Springs artist Carol Peacock.

ESSA is an ambitious organization that partners with many respected organizations in the Eureka Springs community including the City of Eureka Springs, CICA Symphony, Opera in the Ozarks, EurekaSprings.com, Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce and more. With plans to achieve recognition as a Top Ten Creative Art Schools in the United States, ESSA is planning an expansion of both their facility and programming. Participation in great events like Re-Art in March, and the Mad Hatter Ball in October raises money for ESSA’s growth. To see these and other events, visit Eureka Springs’ Official Calendar of Events.

ESSA is supported in part by the Arkansas Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts. The school is located near Inspiration Point on Highway 62. A limited number of scholarships and work study positions are available. More information can be obtained by contacting ESSA directly at 479.253.5384. Reserve your space in art class right now and get creative!

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Spas in Eureka Springs Modernize Ancient Healing Traditions with Hot Stone Massage

Posted on January 9, 2012 by rachael

Small willow saplings gracefully arch above the ground forming a framework for the lodge. The fire tender brings five glowing stones to the center of lodge. A low, deep tone from the Water Drum sounds and the stones are covered with water. This is how an ancient ceremony to heal the mind, body and spirit begins.

A Crow sweat lodge. Photo from the Museum of the American Indian.

Throughout history, many cultures have used hot stones to heal the body. The Native American Sweat Lodge Ceremony described above, is just one of many ancient healing traditions found in recorded history. Today, hot stones are more likely to be found in a health spa than in a sweat lodge but the concept is similar. Hot stone massage is one of the newest trends in massage therapy and is highly sought after. This modern technique uses warmed stones in conjunction with massage therapy to promote relaxation and wellness.

Warm stones are placed along the body causing the body to relax. This allows the therapist to access the deepest parts of muscle tissue and release the toxins held there. Many believe that hot stones placed at key points on the body called meridians can also have positive emotional and even spiritual effects.

Hot stones placed on the meridians are thought to have positive effects.

LaStone and Origins of Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone therapy has firm roots in Native American traditions and was pioneered by a woman named Mary D. Nelson in the early 1990’s. Also known as geo-thermal-therapy or LaStone Therapy, stones of both hot and cold are used by specially trained therapists to elicit chemical and emotional responses from the body in ways that are believed to result in healing.

Hot Stone Massage Benefits
Massage therapy has proven to promote relaxation, relieve pain, ease tension and anxiety, stimulate the lymphatic system and cleanse the body of harmful toxins, reduce reoccurring muscle spasms and cramps, improve overall circulation, and produce a calming effect on the mind. Experience the physical and emotional benefits of a hot stone massage and spa for a day. Discover how to spa with a Spa Guide. Explore the spas of Eureka Springs. The following Eureka Springs spas offer hot stone massage: Healing Benefits, New Moon Spa, Serenity Spa, Spa at Grand Central.

See a complete list of Eureka Springs Spas. Find Great Spa Packages and book your Spa Vacation now!

Have you been to a destination spa? Read more about a destination spa experience at a Eureka Springs mountaintop spa resort.

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Arkansas Outdoors –Eureka Springs is a Winter Wonderland for Wildlife

Posted on January 4, 2012 by rachael

Winter in Greater Eureka Springs is one of the best times to enjoy the outdoors. One of the most popular winter outdoor activities is wildlife viewing. The Greater Eureka Springs Region is located in the Ozark Mountains. Surrounded by abundant lakes, rivers, streams and unspoiled wilderness, it is an ideal location for a variety of wildlife. People from across the country come to Eureka Springs to view bald eagle soar over Beaver Lake or to watch wild elk graze in the peaceful valleys of the Buffalo River National Park.

Bald Eagle Watching

eagle arkansas outdoor adventure

Eagles nest near Beaver Lake in Eureka Springs. Eagle cruises offer visitors a chance to see our nation's bird in flight.

Arkansas is a mecca for eagle watching and the Eureka Springs region is the center for this activity. This is because of the large open waters of Beaver Lake, Table Rock Lake and rivers like the White River and America’s first national river, the Buffalo River. Following their food supply, bald eagles move south as northern waters begin to freeze and arrive in Arkansas around October making the state their home until around February. Arkansas State Park Interpreter John Morrow shares, “some eagles are here year-round … and some are coming in from Canada and the far northern states.” There are estimated to be more than 1,700 eagles in Arkansas.

While eagles typically choose remote locations to inhabit, Arkansas State Park Interpreters know where to look and offer Eagle Cruises during the winter months so visitors are more likely to see these majestic birds in flight. Check the Official Eureka Springs Calendar of Events to see when the next Eagle Cruise is offered and visit Hobbs State Park website to learn more.

The bald eagle is a symbol of American patriotism and freedom. Once endangered, today eagles are protected by legislation and due to conservation efforts and increased awareness, are making a strong comeback. Experience our nation’s bird in flight and book your Eagle Cruise today.

Elk Watching

elk arkansas outdoor adventure

Wild elk graze in the Buffalo River National Park near Eureka Springs.

Wild elk have been roaming the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas since the 1980’s when they were reintroduced for conservation. In the early 19th century, the Eastern elk filled the mountainous areas of Arkansas before becoming extinct. Today, the Rocky Mountain elk, also large herbivores, play the same important role in the Arkansas ecosystem.

Elk are the largest native mammal in Arkansas. Adult males weight close to 700 pounds and their antlers alone average 40 pounds. More than 500 elk live in the Buffalo River National Park in Boxley Valley near Ponca.

While watching for elk, be sure and look for a Royal bull, Imperial bull, or Monarch. How can you tell which is which? Count their antler points. (Royal has 6 points on each side, Imperial has 7 and Monarch has 8).

Outdoors in the Greater Eureka Springs Region
Arkansas State Parks located in the greater Eureka Springs region include Hobbs State Park Conservation Area and Withrow Springs. See a Arkansas State Park map to prepare for your visit. While in Arkansas, you won’t want to miss the Buffalo River National Park. It is the only National Park in Arkansas and was established around America’s First National River. Listed in National Geographic Magazine’s Top 10, it is one of America’s most under appreciated national parks but that doesn’t make it any less significant. You don’t even have to get back in your car to watch wildlife. White-tailed deer and wild birds make their home in the city limits of the mountain town of Eureka Springs. Take a walk around Black Bass Lake, Lake Leatherwood, or just around historic downtown Eureka Springs.

A winter vacation in the Greater Eureka Springs Region is an adventure trip.  Winter is without a doubt, one of the best times to enjoy the outdoors in the Natural State. Located in the Ozark Mountains, the Greater Eureka Springs Region has year round outdoor appeal. Relax in Eureka Springs cabins near beaver lake or enjoy cottages in the Victorian town of Eureka Springs. With so many things to see and experience, Arkansas is a winter wonderland.  Discover mountaintop resorts and great Eureka Springs lodging. Make a note of our ‘must see’ places to visit and plan your Arkansas adventure trip.

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New Years Resolutions…Eureka Springs Style

Posted on January 2, 2012 by rachael

Happy New Year! Starting a new year is exciting. There is a whole world of possibilities out there. With the New Year come resolutions. Here are the Top 5 New Year’s Resolutions:

Eureka Springs can help you keep your New Year's Resolutions.

1)    Take a trip.
2)    Be healthier.
3)    Enjoy the little things in life.
4)    Learn something.
5)    Save money.

Keeping your New Year’s resolution does not have to be painful. In fact, it can be fun. Here is an idea to help you check off the top 5 resolutions at once (just think, you will be ahead of the game for the next four years).

Take a trip … to Eureka Springs. Located in North Arkansas, Eureka Springs is just hours away.

Be healthier. Surrounded by pristine forests and flowing rivers, Eureka Springs is a year round source for outdoor adventure. Hike Eureka Springs trails of Lake Leatherwood and Black Bass Lake or just wonder through hilly streets of historic downtown Eureka Springs. Take care of yourself. Visit one of Eureka Springs spas. (Discover why people travel to spend time in a mountaintop destination spa.) Eating healthy is important and many Eureka Springs Restaurants are committed to preparing meats and produce that are locally grown.  Visit Ermilio’s, they prepare home-style Italian food from treasured family recipes. The Crystal Dining Room Restaurant serves War Eagle Brunch every Sunday. (Read more about War Eagle Mill.)

Enjoy the little things in life. Being surrounded by nature has a way of putting things in perspective. Find enjoyment in the little things … attending a Eureka Springs parade … window shopping in Eureka Springs unique stores in the historic downtown… or sipping a warm cup of coffee from a balcony looking out over the mountain town. See what parades or events are happening on the Official Eureka Springs Calendar of Events.

Learn something. The entire town of Eureka Springs is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With so much history, you are bound to learn something you didn’t know. Discover the mysterious underground Eureka Springs with Downtown-N- Underground. Learn more about the plight of big cats in the United States with a visit to one of the largest big cat refuges in the world, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. Find what inspires you as you follow the Arkansas Art Trail and visit the newest world class art museum, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Cultivate creativity with a class at the Eureka Springs School of the Arts. You will understand why Eureka Springs was listed as a Top 25 Arts Destination by AmericanStyle Magazine. (See the ESSA workshop schedule for 2012.)

Save money. EurekaSprings.com has partnered with ReserveEureka.com to make sure our readers get the best vacation deals and Eureka Springs vacation packages and Eureka Springs lodging. Visit ReserveEureka.com and save money.  Happy travels and Happy New Year!

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What is a ghost? Find out during Eureka Springs ESP Weekend.

Posted on December 30, 2011 by rachael

He has a kind nature and authoritative tone. He speaks with skepticism and a hint of an English accent. His name is Keith Scales and he may be the last person you would expect to find directing ghost tours at the famous Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs.

The Crescent Hotel was built in 1886 and sits overlooking the Victorian village of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Widely acclaimed to be “America’s Most Haunted Hotel” the Crescent has a rich, recorded history.  You could call it a mecca for ghost hunters and serious paranormal investigators.

Much of the hotel’s haunted history stems from a period in the 1930’s when a man named Norman Baker acquired the Crescent Hotel and opened a hospital. He promised a non-surgical cure for cancer. Unfortunately, the Baker cure would not save the lives of many of his patients. Stemming from years of fights with the American Medical Association and numerous other issues, Baker would be judged a charlatan and end up in jail.

The Ghost Hunters of TAPS arrive at the Crescent Hotel to shoot a television segment.

The Crescent Hotel owes its reputation to historical documentation and in no small part to the televised investigations and aired stories on popular shows like the Scifi Channel’s TAPS and Biography Channel’s My Ghost Story. (Read the story behind the story of Biography Channel’s My Ghost Story.) The hotel also keeps a database of photos submitted by the guests who stay at the Crescent Hotel. See the ghost photos guests have submitted and read about the Crescent Hotel ghosts in the news. Visit America’s Most Haunted Hotel now.

Crescent Hotel ghost tours take people to the basement of the hotel and leads them back to the morgue, (built in the 1930’s and still intact). The history learned on the tour will make you wonder whether the medical methods used here were introduced before their time and based on unlocking the power of the human brain to heal or just nonsense? It is an area of investigation to this day.

America’s Most Haunted Hotel hosts such investigations every January during ESP Weekend. It is an opportunity for those who believe in paranormal activity to gain full and exclusive access to the most famous sites within the hotel. For those who have a curiosity, it is a chance to explore one of the country’s most intriguing historic structures and learn about current trends in parapsychological investigation. Whether ESP Weekend attendees come armed with a camera, video recorder, or more sophisticated scientific equipment, they all discover a thrilling and entertaining weekend.

Paranormal Science or Fiction?

Photo taken by guest of the hotel. The arrow points to what appears to be a face in the wall.

You only have to turn on the TV to realize pop culture’s fascination with the paranormal. From SciFi to Biography to the Travel Channel, each network has its own version of ghost hunters and psychics investigating legends and unexplained occurrences in front of the camera. This is more than just a passing fad.

Investigations into the paranormal began as early as 1886 and have consistently had a firm basis in science. Although a worldwide interest, prestigious American universities like Stanford and Duke began critical studies of ESP and psychokinesis in the laboratory using experiments to collect quantitative data using statistical approaches in their studies. In the 1960’s the established Parapsychological Association took a large step in advancing the field of parapsychology when it became affiliated with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the largest general scientific society in the world. Today, the University of Virginia’s Department of Psychiatric Medicine and the University of Arizona’s Vertias Laboratory as well as the Institute of Noetic Sciences are scientific leaders in the field of parapsychology which include studies in a number paranormal phenomenon, including but not limited to:
•   Telepathy: Transfer of information on thoughts or feelings between individuals by means other than the five classical senses.
•    Precognition: Perception of information about future places or events before they occur.
•    Clairvoyance: Obtaining information about places or events at remote locations, by means unknown to current science.
•    Psychokinesis: The ability of the mind to influence matter, time, space, or energy by means unknown to current science.
•    Near-death experiences: An experience reported by a person who nearly died, or who experienced clinical death and then revived.
•    Reincarnation: The rebirth of a soul or other non-physical aspect of human consciousness in a new physical body after death.
•    Apparitional experiences: Phenomena often attributed to ghosts and encountered in places a deceased individual is thought to have frequented, or in association with the person’s former belongings.

The Man Behind Crescent’s ESP and Ghosts

Keith Scales, Director of the Crescent Hotel Ghost Tours and organizer of ESP Weekend in Eurkea Springs.

Keith Scales is the director of the wildly popular Crescent Hotel Ghost Tours. In fact Keith is the key to the Crescent Hotel’s ESP Weekend. “I love history and Shakespeare,” he confessed. A writer, actor and director, Keith moved from London to America when he was 26 years old. Passionate about Greek dramas and theater he found a home in the artistic town of Eureka Springs. His love of history makes him a valuable asset to the Crescent Hotel.

Relentless research of one of the Crescent Hotel’s famous owners, Dr. Norman Baker, led Keith to eventually write and act in the hotel’s newest attraction, Midnight Theater. Keith’s endlessly inquisitive (and skeptical) nature has landed him coordinating ESP Weekend for 2012. “Just because we can’t explain or understand something does not mean that it does not exist,” he answered when asked if he was a believer in ghosts. It is one of the most interesting preoccupations in human history…to explain the unexplained.

After leading a ghost tour to the morgue Keith extends an invitation, “come and spend a weekend at the Crescent.  Discover credible and rational explanations to the unexplained if you can.”

If you are intrigued by parapsychology and want to investigate one of America’s most reportedly active historic properties then consider attending ESP Weekend or visit AmericasMostHauntedHotel.com.

The 1886 Crescent Hotel, a member of the prestigious National Trust’s Historic Hotels of America, is also known as America’s Most Haunted Hotel. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you will enjoy the Crescent Hotel. This mountaintop resort hotel has a lot to offer as does the entire little mountain town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Check availability for ESP Weekend. Stay 1 night or 2 nights.

The Crescent Hotel offers nightly tours and ghost stories. Get ghost tours tickets and other great Eureka Springs attraction tickets online. Do you belong to an association or group? Bring your group or meeting to Eureka Springs, a unique place for conventions and meetings. Discover Eureka Springs lodging, restaurants, shopping and more on the Official Website for the Greater Eureka Springs Region.
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Eureka Springs in the Winter – 8 Great Things to See & Do

Posted on December 1, 2011 by rachael

Winter in a mountain town is exhilarating. The cool, crisp air and serene surroundings set the perfect tone for a Winter getaway.

Here are 8 Great Things to See & Do in the Ozark Mountain Town of Eureka Springs.

1)    Spend time in the Spa. Eureka Springs has world class spas and whether you prefer

Downtown Eureka Springs is full of restaurants, shopping, and historic trails.

Downtown Eureka Springs is full of restaurants, shopping, and historic trails.

a simple Swedish massage or one using hot stones, Eureka Springs Spas have highly trained technicians familiar with both traditional and new massage techniques. Duet massages allow you to enjoy total relaxation with your partner. Salon services like facials, manicures and pedicures give you that polish you want for the holidays. Read about one woman’s day in the spa and learn what makes a destination spa special.

2)    Rediscover the Springs. Meander through the picturesque mountain streets and visit more then 60 natural springs. Most of the springs run full during this time of year and each one is unique. Small pocket parks near the springs are decorated for the season and plaques share the history of the springs. After all, people have been visiting Eureka Springs for the springs for hundreds of years.

3)   Be Creative. Bring your camera. Eureka Springs makes amateurs look professional with abundant photo opportunities. If you are feeling extra creative, consider taking a class at the Eureka Springs School of the Arts or schedule to have your holiday or family photos taken with Melodye of Purdy Art Co. Find more creative things to do in Eureka Springs.

4)    Slow down and enjoy your food. Dine at one of your favorite (or soon will be your favorite) Eureka Springs restaurants. Enjoy amazing views in private seating instead of fighting the crowds and waiting in long lines. Try something new, take your time, enjoy the town and the company.

5)    Steal some kisses. Take a short scenic walk with your favorite person on one of the many trails in Eureka. Take a carriage ride or meet at the fountain in Crescent Park. There are many opportunities to kiss when no one is looking. Go ahead, make some memories.

6)    Take an enriching hike. What does that mean? Well, Eureka Springs is a mountain town with a rich history. Hiking (or driving) around town reveals amazing architecture, art, and landscape. Read more about Eureka Springs outdoors and the Arkansas Art Trail. You will find that visiting Eureka Springs is enriching. Outdoor adventure is waiting for you.

7)   Get plenty of rest. During the winter season, most hotels , B&B’s a, cabins and lodging facilities offer deeply discounted pricing. That one-of-a-kind cottage, suite, or room with a Jacuzzi is likely available for a great deal. Vacation packages and last minute deals are always listed on ReserveEureka.com.

8)    Don’t do anything. This is an option. How often do you get away to just relax? No agendas, no schedules…just do what you want to do. Read a good book (if you didn’t bring one, a visit to Eureka Springs’ Carnegie Library can help you out. It is located in historic downtown Eureka Springs).

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Eureka Springs Spa: A mountaintop destination spa focused on the mind, body, and spirit.

Posted on November 21, 2011 by rachael

She walks in and soft notes of bergamot and peppermint are the first to greet her. The staff have been expecting her. She takes a seat on the couch next to the picture window overlooking the garden and they bring her favorite cup of herbal tea and a glass of oxygenated water for her to sip while she is waiting. Soon, her therapist will lead her back to the treatment room. A room bathed in diffused natural light, prepared with all of the necessary supplies… soft towels, crisp linens, a warm massage table…. Absolutely every detail has been looked after. You may be wondering, who is this celebrity?  Actually, she is a guest at The New Moon Spa & Salon in Eureka Springs.

spa destination new moon spa eureka springs

New Moon Spa is located in the palatial 1886 Crescent Hotel.

New Moon Spa & Salon is a mountaintop destination spa and with their smartly attentive staff, you don’t have to be a celebrity to be treated like one. The destination spa experience is not an ordinary one. Surrounded by the pristine Ozark Mountains and located in the 1886 Crescent Hotel, the New Moon staff are dedicated professionals providing customized services, individualized attention and education about their products and services.

The Spa
New Moon Spa & Salon offers a variety of spa services you would expect but what might surprise you is the level of skill their

Duet Massage Room at the New Moon Spa.

licensed therapists possess. New Moon massage therapist Amy Randolph shares that, “our therapists are highly skilled in a way that only comes with years of experience.” It is this experience and skill level that allows them to tailor the service to the needs of each guest. Every service is about the individual so communication is important.

Authors note: I had a massage (60 minutes) and aromatherapy wrap (60 minutes). Amy used the traditional Swedish massage technique for a full body massage but on my request, because I have been swimming 3+ days a week, Amy was able to focus and isolate the muscle groups that have been causing me discomfort.

Aveda aromas. New Moon uses Aveda products and subscribes to the Aveda philosophy.

For the massage and wrap, Amy helped me choose an Aveda personal blend aroma. Aromas have been clinically proven to affect mind and body. She explained that if you are feeling anxious you would not likely choose an aroma that has energizing qualities but you might if you were feeling sad. I chose the Key Element Fire Nature aroma for its soothing qualities. Leave it to Aveda to develop such a unique, beautiful aroma. I definitely recommend it.

For the wrap, Amy used special gloves to gently exfoliate the skin followed by a toning mist and my chosen Aveda personal oil blend. I was then wrapped in hot towels and…I have to be honest… for an undetermined period of time, I drifted off to sleep. It was an amazing experience and in the end, my skin was unbelievably soft.

After the services, Amy handed me a cup of water and reminded me how important it is to drink a lot of water after massage to cleanse the body. She also handed me a little skin care pamphlet noting which Aveda products she used. (New Moon has a great spa boutique featuring Aveda, Bare Minerals, and many other great products. By purchasing the same wonderful products used in your services you can continue your spa experience in your hotel room or at home.)

The Salon

The ultra modern interior of New Moon Salon.

With ultra-modern styling and pedicure chairs, you might think you were in a trendy metropolitan salon until you look out at the view. Big picture windows frame treetop mountain views. New Moon Spa & Salon offers nail, hair and makeup services with dedicated, professional attention. New Moon stylist Savannah Maloney explains, “continuing education is an important part of the job. New products and trends are emerging all of the time. To be an industry leader, New Moon is committed to continuing education well beyond anything required. We are serious about providing the best and latest products and style trends to our guests.”

Authors note: I had a deluxe pedicure (60 minutes) followed by a Bare Minerals makeup session (45 minutes). The salon has a positive, invigorating energy that is really quite distinct from the relaxing mood of the spa.

New Moon Spa & Salon pedicures incorporate massage, aromatherapy, earth friendly and high quality products with individualized attention. My pedicure started with the comfortable pedi chair and a beverage. I enjoyed a cup of black current hot tea sweetened with a little honey and gazed out the window as the last of the colorful fall leaves danced in the mountain breeze while my feet soaked in the warm, bubbly water. Savannah polished my feet smooth with a salt scrub they custom make in the salon every day. Aveda Foot Relief and Blue Oil followed by hot towels soften the skin and for a perfect polish, I chose OPI’s Rising Star.

Make-up session at New Moon Spa.

The make-up session was a completely new experience for me. I don’t wear a lot of make-up but I have heard a lot about Bare Minerals and was curious. The make-up session was so much fun. It was a great way to learn how to use Bare Minerals. Savannah talked me through the entire process. I prefer a natural look so she chose colors and products to enhance my natural features (my eyes!) while compensating for my skin type (normal to dry). From product and color choice, to latest trends, to application techniques for different occasions, she taught me everything I needed to know to do it on my own. In the end she provided me with a personalized info

My personal Bare Minerals sheet. New Moon Salon gives you this with a make-up session so you can recreate the look at home.

sheet making it easy to find and apply the products she used. I purchased the Light started kit which included the make-up and basic brushes.

The Destination
A destination spa vacation indulges the mind, body and spirit. It is a Destination…allowing you to rest, regroup…then reconnect with the people you care about and…recharge you for your inevitable return to real life.

New Moon Spa & Salon is the largest day spa and salon in Northwest Arkansas. A facility with all the services and equipment you would expect in a big city… in a serene, mountaintop resort. New Moon Spa & Salon is located on the Garden Level of the 1886 Crescent Hotel, a member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America.

Eureka Springs is a destination for relaxation and fun. Photo by local Eureka Springs photographer Edward C. Robison III. See more of Edward's photography at www.edwardcrobisoniii.com.

Discover the 1886 Crescent Hotel and New Moon Spa & Salon in the quaint Victorian Village of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Recognized as a Top 25 Arts Destination by American Style Magazine and one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations, Eureka Springs is considered a destination of choice by many and features pristine lakes, parks and trails; a vibrant cultural scene; a unique shopping district; and year round celebrations. See what is happening on the Official Calendar of Events for the Greater Eureka Springs Region.

Authors note: If you want to feel like a celebrity I highly recommend a visit to New Moon Spa & Salon. I am already looking forward to a trip with my husband and I plan on booking a couple’s massage. He is going to love it.

Bridal Studio at New Moon Spa & Salon. Great for girlfriend getaway days at the spa!

I am also thinking about planning a girlfriend getaway. New Moon Spa & Salon has ultra-modern pedi chairs and can accommodate 4 girls at a time. If the girls are up for a spa day, I can book the Bridal Studio, a private room adjacent to the spa, and order some drinks and snacks. We can take a lunch break between pampering. I figure we will need a day to recover from all of the shopping.

If you are thinking, “Hey, that is a good idea,” then contact Nicole. She has been with New Moon for years and will take great care of you. If you want to know what others are saying about New Moon Spa & Salon, read some of their client reviews. I will share a little tip Nicole gave me: the best deals are available through their online packages and weekday specials. Find New Moon on Facebook or visit their website www.newmoonspa.com. Because the Crescent Hotel is a destination for weddings, weekends fill up fast so I strongly recommend booking an advance appointment. New Moon’s mission is “To provide the highest quality experience for every guest, every service, every time” and they really do give you special treatment like hot neck wraps during your pedicure, hand massages during a haircut, and hot towel wraps following a massage at no extra charge.

Check out discounted Spa Vacation Packages now!

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