How to Have the Best Road Trip From Little Rock to Eureka Springs
Looking to make a weekend getaway and break out of your ordinary routine? A trip from Little Rock to Eureka Springs is the perfect solution! It takes around 3 and a half hours to drive the distance between the cities. This makes it an ideal length for a short road trip—long enough to get away, and short enough to not cause added stress.
Your Guide to the Journey From Little Rock to Eureka Springs
As you drive from Little Rock to Eureka Springs, you will be amazed by the spectacular beauty of the surrounding Ozark landscapes, no matter the route you choose. You don’t have to worry about inclines and cliff faces that will make you grip your steering wheel—the way from Little Rock to Arkansas is scenic and enjoyable.
There are three major routes you can take: via I40 W and AR-21 N, I40W and AR-23 N, or US-65 N. Arguably, the best course is via I40 W and AR-21 N.
DRIVE THROUGH THE OZARK NATIONAL FOREST ON THE I40W/AR-21 N ROUTE
The I40 W and AR-21 N route from Little Rock to Eureka Springs is quite scenic. The road curves around mountains and looks out across beautiful expanses of blue sky and forested peaks.
At a little over halfway, AR-21 N stretches through a portion of the Ozark National Forest, which is home to hundreds of different species of trees. Just after the forest, you can stretch your legs on the Lost Valley Trail in Ponca; it’s right off the road, and at about 2 miles long it is enough to shake off the stiffness without exhausting yourself.
The trail showcases many different examples of Arkansas beauty—along the way, you’ll cross a natural bridge and pass by high bluffs and walk through lovely woods. Once you’ve hiked about a mile, you’ll be treated to views of a waterfall and a cave with another smaller waterfall. While in the area, you may also catch sight of elk!
From Ponca, it’s about an hour to the distinctive Victorian buildings and dipping and rising streets of Eureka Springs.
With our Weekend Getaway package, you can arrive to a chilled beverage of choice and a prepped steak dinner for two waiting in the fridge. That way, you can ease into your vacation after a long drive! We also arrange several activities for you, including a massage and a romantic dinner.
Explore Eureka Springs
Once you arrive, you can start exploring all of the things to do in this one-of-a-kind city—no matter what time of year you visit. If you are looking for romantic things to do in Eureka Springs, be sure to take some time to visit the historic district, where you can stop in shops and rest at little natural springs along the way (once rumored to have healing properties).
Unique attractions surround this city: the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is home to big cats like lions and tigers, the glass Thorncrown Chapel hides in the nearby forest, and the Christ of the Ozarks stands at the Great Passion Play, gazing over Eureka Springs. There’s more to discover beyond these attractions; they are just a sample!
Relax in a Luxury Cottage
After a fun-filled day of exploring Eureka Springs, you’ll need to recharge somewhere, and Beaver Lake Cottages are the perfect solution! Our beautiful cottages are nestled in the forest and look out over the sparkling expanse of Beaver Lake. Your lodgings are private and intimate, providing a peaceful place for you to recharge. Whether you stay in a suite, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom cottage, each is outfitted with a luxurious king-sized bed and features a Jacuzzi for two.
Be sure to take a look at all our gorgeous accommodations before you book your stay in Eureka Springs—we look forward to having you!
