How to Explore the Colorful Art Galleries of Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs is a hidden gem nestled in the sprawling expanse of the Ozarks. There’s a unique, eclectic mix to the culture here, something that is reflected in very streets of downtown. As you walk along, you may walk by colorful stairs, hear strains of music playing in Basin Spring Park, and pass by shops selling local art. If you’d like to explore the art scene in Eureka Springs, art galleries, museums, and shops dedicated to artisans are fantastic places to start. And, if you’re looking to explore other aspects of Eureka Springs, take advantage of our free Vacation Guide!
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
About an hour outside of Eureka Springs, you will discover a one-of-a-kind museum: Crystal Bridges. The mission of Crystal Bridges is “to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature,” and this is evident from its exhibitions to the very structure of the museum. Two ponds surround the beautiful building that is a work of art in itself, designed by Moshe Safdie.
The Crystal Bridges Museum features exhibitions of American art that range from masterworks to more obscure works, from the colonial era to today. There are both rotating permanent exhibitions and temporary exhibitions, boasting work from such luminaries as Audubon, Sargent, Rothko, Pollock, O’Keeffe, Rockwell, Hopper—the list streches on and on. If you’d like to get an idea of everything you can see here, Crystal Bridges lists its current extensive collection as well as upcoming exhibitions online via its eMuseum.
In addition to museum exhibits, you can dine at the restaurant that overlooks the ponds, visit the library whose collection spans over 50,000 volumes, peruse the museum store, marvel at the sculpture garden, or walk the nature trails that meander through the museum’s 120 acres. The Bachman-Wilson House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is also on site.
General admission to Crystal Bridges is completely free! For general information like hours of operation, accessibility, and more, visit their website.
Art Galleries in Eureka Springs
Another way to explore art in Eureka Springs is to visit the local galleries. You’ll find them nestled along Spring Street amongst the gift shops and restaurants of downtown and elsewhere in Eureka Springs. Regardless of which you visit, you will find eclectic places that collect a range of work from artists near and far.
Zarks Gallery | (479) 253-2626
You’ll find local art from Arkansas in addition to work from renowned artists like Craig Davison and Tim Cotterill at Zarks Gallery. There are also regular artist receptions and events held at this gallery that is an important component of the art scene in Eureka Springs.
Dreamweavers | (479) 363-6716
Dreamweavers is a gift and furniture store with a twist—its goods are made by artisans.
Keels Creek Winery and Art Gallery | (479) 253-9463
You can taste boutique local wines while you enjoy the art in the gallery at Keels Creek Winery and Art Gallery.
Wilson & Wilson Folk Art Company | (479) 253-5105
Showcases the art of Blakeley and Sylvia Wilson.
Events in Eureka Springs
Another place you will find art in Eureka Springs is through the various events that occur throughout the year. This includes shows at local theaters, concerts, and various festivals. To see an ongoing events calendar, check out the Eureka Springs website. Our Vacation Guide is also a great resource for discovering popular annual events!
Relax in a Beaver Lake Cottage
After a day of exploring the art galleries and shops of Eureka Springs, return to reflect in a tranquil Beaver Lake Cottage. Each of our suites and cottages enjoy lovely views of deep blue Beaver Lake through glass-fronts and from cozy, secluded decks. Unwind in a luxurious Jacuzzi after a day of exploring the town, and stargaze outside as you curl up with a glass of wine. It’s the perfect end to a day spent among the Ozarks.
Be sure to browse all our options before you book your stay—you don’t want to miss out on any of the extra amenities that some come with! Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you might have. We would love to be your choice of lodgings for your stay in Northwest Arkansas.
