Eureka Springs knows how to celebrate Christmas. Historic buildings sparkle with holiday lights, downtown shops dress their windows for the season, and festive events fill the calendar. This December, there’s an especially inviting way to experience the town’s holiday hospitality: Christmas at the Inns 2026.

On Saturday, December 12, visitors can step inside some of Eureka Springs’ most charming inns, bed and breakfasts, and historic hotels during a special afternoon tour. We’re delighted to announce that 5 Ojo is one of the participating properties, and we look forward to welcoming visitors through our doors.

Better yet, why not make a weekend of it? Book a stay at 5 Ojo, enjoy the Christmas at the Inns tour, and discover the many holiday traditions that make December such a wonderful time to visit Eureka Springs.

Experience Christmas at the Inns 2026

Presented by the Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce, Christmas at the Inns: A Hearth & Hospitality Tour of Eureka Springs takes place Saturday, December 12, from 1pm to 5pm.

This self-guided holiday tour invites guests to explore six participating lodging properties, each decorated for the Christmas season. From historic architecture to festive decorations, every stop offers a different glimpse of the town’s character and hospitality.

Participating properties include the 1886 Crescent Hotel, 1908 Ridgeway House, Tower House Inn, 5 Ojo, Rock Cottage Gardens, and Heartstone Inn.

Tickets are $30 per person. When purchasing tickets, guests select one of three designated starting locations: the Crescent Hotel, Tower House Inn, or Heartstone Inn. After checking in and receiving a tour pass and map, visitors can explore all participating properties at their own pace.

Tickets also include a trolley pass and parking at the Planer Hill Park & Ride, making it easier to travel between stops.

Visit the official Christmas at the Inns event page for tickets and additional information.

Please note that Christmas at the Inns is separate from the Eureka Springs Preservation Society’s annual Christmas Tour of Homes, which takes place December 5, 2026.

Make 5 Ojo Your Holiday Home Away From Home

There’s something especially appealing about staying in a historic Eureka Springs inn during the Christmas season. At 5 Ojo, you can experience the town’s holiday atmosphere while enjoying the comfort and hospitality of a traditional bed and breakfast.

Start your morning with a freshly prepared breakfast before setting out to explore the shops, galleries, and decorated streets of downtown Eureka Springs. On Saturday afternoon, join the Christmas at the Inns tour and see how other local lodging properties celebrate the season.

As a participating inn, 5 Ojo is both your home base for the weekend and one of the tour’s featured stops.

After an afternoon of sightseeing, return to your comfortable room or cottage and enjoy a relaxing evening. With so much happening around town, there’s every reason to turn the tour into a full holiday getaway.

More Christmas Events in Eureka Springs

Christmas at the Inns is the centerpiece of a particularly festive December weekend, but it’s far from the only holiday activity worth planning around.

On Friday, December 11, the Hot Cocoa & Cookie Crawl invites visitors to explore downtown shops while sampling seasonal treats from 5pm to 7pm. Later that evening, the Home for the Holidays concert brings local musicians together at the historic Auditorium for a celebration of holiday music.

Saturday, December 12, offers even more to enjoy. After touring the inns, head downtown for Holiday Living Windows, from 5pm to 7pm. Storefront displays come alive with costumed characters and festive scenes, transforming an evening of window-shopping into a holiday experience.

Visitors arriving earlier in December can also enjoy the Christmas Parade of Lights on December 4 and, as mentioned above, the Christmas Tour of Homes on December 5. Throughout the season, holiday decorations, illuminated trees, and the historic downtown setting add to the festive atmosphere.

And that’s not all! Get details on these Eureka Springs holiday events and more at www.visiteurekasprings.com.

Book Your Christmas Getaway at 5 Ojo

Christmas at the Inns offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the hospitality and history that make Eureka Springs special. Whether you’re returning to town for a favorite holiday tradition or discovering it for the first time, December 12 promises a memorable afternoon.

We’d love to welcome you to 5 Ojo for the festivities. Reserve your room or cottage for the December 11–13 weekend, purchase your Christmas at the Inns tickets, and make this holiday season one to remember in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

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Autumn brings crisp air, changing leaves, and beautiful scenery to the Ozarks. It is also a wonderful time to slow down and explore some of the natural and historic attractions surrounding Eureka Springs. Blue Spring Heritage Center offers both in one peaceful destination.

Located just a short drive from 5 Ojo, Blue Spring Heritage Center encompasses 33 acres of gardens, walking paths, historic sites, and, of course, the remarkable Blue Spring itself. The spring pours approximately 38 million gallons of clear water into its lagoon every day, creating one of the area’s most striking natural sights.

Add the colors and comfortable temperatures of fall, and a visit to Blue Spring Heritage Center makes an easy addition to an autumn getaway at 5 Ojo.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Blue Spring Heritage Center

The centerpiece of the property is Blue Spring, whose clear blue-green water provides a beautiful contrast to the surrounding landscape. Water from the spring fills a trout-filled lagoon before continuing toward the nearby White River.

More than a mile of paths and trails wind through the property, inviting visitors to explore at their own pace. Along the way, you’ll encounter native plants, woodland scenery, and several distinctive garden areas.

The Medicine Wheel Garden features plants traditionally valued for healing and other purposes, while the Three Sisters Garden highlights the complementary planting of corn, beans, and squash. Woodland Gardens showcase plants at home in the Ozarks beneath the native tree canopy.

In fall, the surrounding hardwood forest adds another layer of color to the already picturesque setting. Bring comfortable walking shoes and allow yourself time to wander rather than rush from one attraction to the next.

Thousands of Years of History

Blue Spring is much more than a beautiful place. People have been drawn to the spring and nearby bluff shelter for thousands of years.

Archaeological excavations at the site uncovered evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. The historic bluff shelter was used by Indigenous peoples long before European settlement, and the spring later served as a stopping place for Cherokee people during their forced removal along the Trail of Tears.

Visitors can learn more about this long history through interpretive displays and films at the Visitor Center, along with signs throughout the grounds. Remnants of the site’s later history, including its connection to an early mill, add another chapter to the story.

Together, these layers of history make Blue Spring Heritage Center a place to experience thoughtfully, not simply another scenic stop.

Enjoy Fall in Eureka Springs

Blue Spring Heritage Center pairs especially well with a fall visit to Eureka Springs. Cooler weather makes exploring the grounds comfortable, while the changing foliage adds seasonal color to the gardens, trails, and spring.

After your excursion, return to 5 Ojo and continue enjoying the season from our peaceful historic inn. Start your day with a freshly prepared breakfast, explore Blue Spring and the surrounding Ozarks, then come home to a comfortable room or cottage.

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to experience northwest Arkansas. Book your stay at 5 Ojo and make Blue Spring Heritage Center part of your Eureka Springs autumn getaway.

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Eureka Springs is a wonderfully unusual town to explore. Victorian homes cling to steep hillsides, winding streets lead to hidden springs, and historic buildings appear around seemingly every corner. All that character is part of the fun, but the hills, narrow streets, and limited downtown parking can also make sightseeing a little challenging.

Luckily, you don’t have to navigate it all behind the wheel. Eureka Springs trolley tours and sightseeing options offer several ways to discover the city while leaving much of the driving, parking, and navigating to someone else.

Best of all, guests at 5 Ojo have an advantage before they even leave the inn. We’re an official stop on the Eureka Springs trolley system, and guests can purchase one-day or two-day trolley passes during their stay.

Ride the Eureka Springs Trolley

The Eureka Springs Transit System is more transportation than tour, but it’s also one of the easiest ways to experience the city. Several color-coded routes connect downtown with lodging, restaurants, and popular attractions around town.

Simply hop aboard, ride to your destination, explore at your own pace, then catch another trolley when you’re ready to move on. It’s especially convenient during busy weekends when downtown parking can be difficult to find.

For 5 Ojo guests, there’s no need to drive to a park-and-ride lot to get started. With the inn located directly on the Red Route, your Eureka Springs adventure can begin right outside our door.

Discover Eureka Springs on a Historic Tram Tour

Want the scenery with a little more storytelling? Eureka Springs Tram Tours provide a narrated introduction to the city aboard open-air trams.

The approximately 90-minute experience passes hundreds of historic homes and buildings while sharing stories about Eureka Springs and the natural springs that first drew visitors here. The tour also makes stops at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church and Harding Spring, giving passengers opportunities for a closer look.

During the 2026 season, tours depart daily at 1pm and 3pm from May through October, with more limited schedules in spring and November. The trams are ADA equipped.

Take a Deeper Dive with a Guided Tour

If you’d like to dig deeper into Eureka Springs history, you have options.

Hidden Eureka: A Downtown Walking Tour departs from Basin Spring Park and explores the springs, Victorian streets, public art, local characters, and remnants of the city’s fascinating underground. The 75 to 90-minute walking tour currently runs daily at 4pm.

Prefer to save your legs for shopping? Eureka Rocket offers private golf-cart tours through the city’s famously hilly streets. Its Historic Tour explores Eureka Springs’ architecture, colorful characters, and the “magic water” that helped create the town. Self-guided audio tours are also available if you’d rather explore in your own car.

Make 5 Ojo Your Eureka Springs Home Base

However you choose to explore, a stay at 5 Ojo makes getting around simple. Start your morning with our freshly prepared breakfast, step outside to catch the trolley, and spend the day discovering what makes Eureka Springs unlike anywhere else.

Then leave the driving to someone else and start planning your Eureka Springs getaway today!

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Traveling with dietary restrictions can add another layer of planning to any vacation. For gluten-free travelers, even something as simple as breakfast can require checking menus, asking questions, and considering how food is prepared. At 5 Ojo, we want breakfast to be one less thing you have to worry about during your Eureka Springs getaway.

Guests of 5 Ojo are encouraged to let us know about dietary restrictions before their stay. Advance notice allows us to modify our freshly prepared breakfasts to accommodate gluten-free diets and other dietary needs. That means you can still enjoy the complete bed and breakfast experience rather than settling for a packaged snack or limited substitute.

Enjoy a Gluten-Free Breakfast in Eureka Springs

Every morning at 5 Ojo begins with a freshly prepared, made-from-scratch breakfast. Depending on the day’s menu, gluten-free guests may enjoy favorites such as fresh fruit parfaits with gluten-free granola, vegetable frittatas, herbed egg soufflés, breakfast tacos with gluten-free tortillas, crispy breakfast potatoes, fresh fruit, house-made salsas, and gluten-free versions of many of our baked specialties.

If you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, food allergies, or other dietary restrictions, please let us know when making your reservation. Advance notice allows us to plan your breakfast carefully and make appropriate modifications.

Our kitchen is not a dedicated gluten-free facility, so we cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free environment. However, we take dietary requests seriously and make every reasonable effort to accommodate our guests and minimize the possibility of cross-contact.

Gluten-Free Dining Throughout Eureka Springs

Once breakfast is covered, you’ll find plenty of options for lunch and dinner around Eureka Springs. While most local restaurants are not dedicated gluten-free establishments, many offer gluten-free menu items or can accommodate dietary restrictions.

Many first-time visitors are surprised to discover that Eureka Springs offers far more gluten-free dining options than you might expect from a small mountain town, making it an especially appealing destination for travelers who need, or simply prefer, to eat gluten free.

Local favorites offering gluten-free selections include Red’s Pizza, Local Flavor Cafe, Sparky’s Roadhouse Cafe, So Good Kitchen, Pauly’s Burgers, Bubba’s Barbeque, The Grotto, Sauced BBQ, Ermilio’s Italian Restaurant, Mud Street Cafe, Thai House Restaurant, MEI Li Cuisine and Disco’s Grill Food Truck.

Planning a special dinner? Le Stick Nouveau can accommodate gluten-free and other dietary restrictions with at least 24 hours’ notice.

Because menus and preparation practices can change, guests with celiac disease, allergies, or significant sensitivities should always discuss their individual needs with restaurant staff before ordering.

Relax and Enjoy Your Eureka Springs Getaway

A Eureka Springs vacation should be about discovering our historic downtown, browsing shops, and exploring the beauty of the Ozarks, not constantly worrying about your next meal.

Start each morning with a satisfying gluten-free breakfast at 5 Ojo, then head out knowing you’ll find additional gluten-free dining choices throughout town. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or simply escaping to the Ozarks for a few days, we’ll do our best to make your stay comfortable, delicious, and memorable.

Just let us know about your dietary needs when booking, and we’ll take it from there.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free Dining in Eureka Springs

Does 5 Ojo offer gluten-free breakfasts?
Yes. 5 Ojo can modify its freshly prepared breakfasts for guests following a gluten-free diet. Please provide advance notice when making your reservation.

Is 5 Ojo’s kitchen completely gluten-free?
No. 5 Ojo does not operate a dedicated gluten-free kitchen and cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free environment. The inn does, however, make reasonable efforts to accommodate dietary needs and minimize cross-contact.

Is there a dedicated gluten-free restaurant in Eureka Springs?
Yes. Disco’s Grill is a dedicated gluten-free restaurant in Eureka Springs.

Do other Eureka Springs restaurants offer gluten-free food?
Yes. A number of Eureka Springs restaurants offer gluten-free menu items or accommodate dietary restrictions. Guests with celiac disease or food allergies should always discuss their individual needs with restaurant staff.

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When searching for things to do in Eureka Springs, AR, you’ll find everything from outdoor adventures to art galleries and live entertainment. Yet one of the area’s most meaningful experiences lies just minutes from 5 Ojo. A visit to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, a respected wildlife sanctuary near Eureka Springs, offers the chance to connect with animals while learning about the importance of ethical conservation.

Unlike traditional zoos or roadside attractions, Turpentine Creek exists to provide lifelong care for rescued exotic animals. The accredited sanctuary is home to tigers, lions, leopards, bears, and other wildlife rescued from neglect, private ownership, failed breeding operations, and other situations that placed their welfare at risk.

What Makes a True Sanctuary Different?

One of the most important things visitors learn at Turpentine Creek is what defines a true sanctuary. The Refuge does not buy, sell, breed, or trade animals. There are no cub-petting experiences or direct encounters with the residents. Instead, the focus is on providing safety, enrichment, and quality care for each animal for the rest of its life.

Every resident has a story, and every habitat reflects the organization’s commitment to treating wild animals with dignity and respect.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Tours at Turpentine Creek typically include a tram experience lasting about 45 to 60 minutes, giving guests the opportunity to observe the animals and learn more about their backgrounds. Visitors can also spend additional time exploring the Discovery Area, making it easy to turn a quick stop into a half-day outing.

Because animal welfare comes first, the animals are never encouraged or forced to be active for visitors. Big cats are often most energetic during the cooler morning and evening hours, particularly during the summer months. Spring and fall are especially pleasant times to visit, both for guests and many of the animals.

Make 5 Ojo Your Home Base for Exploring the Ozarks

A trip to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is more than another attraction on your itinerary. It’s an opportunity to better understand the realities of exotic animal ownership and support an organization making a difference every day.

After your visit, return to the comfort of 5 Ojo to relax, reflect, and plan your next Eureka Springs adventure. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or on your own, this unforgettable experience belongs on your Ozarks getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge a zoo?
No. Turpentine Creek is an accredited sanctuary that provides lifelong care for rescued exotic animals and does not buy, sell, breed, or trade wildlife.

How long does a visit take?
The tram tour typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes, although many guests choose to spend additional time in the Discovery Area.

When are the animals most active?
Many big cats are most active during the morning and evening, especially during warmer weather.

What is the best time of year to visit?
The Refuge can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall often offer comfortable weather and increased animal activity.

How far is Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge from 5 Ojo?
Turpentine Creek is located just minutes from 5 Ojo, making it an easy addition to your Eureka Springs itinerary.

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Searching for things to do in Eureka Springs, AR, this summer? One of the area’s most unique summer traditions is Opera in the Ozarks, a celebrated festival that combines world-class performances with the charm of the Ozark Mountains.

Opera in the Ozarks at Inspiration Point (OIO) has been a training ground for rising artists since 1950. Each year, selected performers join an intensive, 8-week program culminating in a summer festival of fully staged opera productions accompanied by a professional orchestra. The result is a surprisingly intimate and high-quality performance experience in the middle of the Ozarks.

The OIO’s Inspiration Point setting, near the top of Rock Candy Mountain, adds even more atmosphere. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozarks, audiences can enjoy exceptional music in a peaceful mountain environment. In fact, Inspiration Point’s stunning views are always worth a look, OIO or not.

Better yet, it’s all just 10 minutes from 5 Ojo!

Opera in the Ozarks 2026

OIO 2026 runs from June 26th through July 24th. The 2026 season features productions of The Marriage of Figaro, Candide, and Puccini’s Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi. 

The 2026 season builds on this foundation by presenting a compact but ambitious repertory, giving audiences the opportunity to experience both classic opera and operetta performed by rising talent in a highly focused summer program. Each production is fully staged and accompanied, reflecting the organization’s commitment to professional-caliber summer theater in the Ozarks.

Even if you are new to opera, the festival is approachable and enjoyable. The scenic Inspiration Point setting adds to the atmosphere, and performances are designed to welcome both longtime opera fans and first-time attendees. It is an ideal addition to a romantic weekend, anniversary trip, or summer getaway.

Learn more and acquire tickets at the OIO website.

Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR This Summer

Summer in Eureka Springs offers a cornucopia of fun and relaxation. Everything from hiking and shopping to live entertainment and art galleries. Adding Opera in the Ozarks 2026 to your itinerary is an excellent way to experience another side of the city’s creative culture.

Guests staying at 5 Ojo can easily enjoy both downtown Eureka Springs and evening performances at Inspiration Point. Spend the afternoon exploring local shops or trails, then relax with a memorable night of music before returning to the comfort of your room.

Whether you are an opera enthusiast or simply looking for unique things to do in Eureka Springs, this seasonal tradition is worth experiencing. Book your summer stay early and discover why Opera in the Ozarks continues to attract visitors from across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opera in the Ozarks

What is Opera in the Ozarks?
Opera in the Ozarks is a summer opera festival and professional training program held near Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

When is the 2026 Opera in the Ozarks season?
The 2026 season runs from June 26 through July 24.

What operas will be performed in 2026?
The 2026 lineup includes The Marriage of Figaro, Candide, and Puccini’s Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi.

Where should I stay for Opera in the Ozarks?
5 Ojo Inn Bed and Breakfast offers convenient access to both downtown Eureka Springs and Inspiration Point.

Is Opera in the Ozarks beginner-friendly?
Yes. Many visitors attend their first opera here because the atmosphere is welcoming and intimate.

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Looking for a fun and creative getaway that goes beyond simple sightseeing? How about enjoying art classes in Eureka Springs? Our artistic mountain town is known for its galleries and festivals, but visitors are also encouraged to take part with hands-on experiences.

Better yet, staying at 5 Ojo puts you within minutes of some of Eureka Springs’ best places to explore your creativity.

Discover Art Classes at ESSA

The Eureka Springs School of the Arts (ESSA) offers some of the most immersive art classes in Eureka Springs. Their workshop year is divided into two sessions: Spring/Summer (March through August) and Fall/Winter (September through December).

ESSA features classes in painting, ceramics, woodworking, jewelry making, and more. Workshops are led by skilled instructors and are open to beginners and experienced artists alike. You can plan your trip around a class or choose one during your stay.

ESSA also hosts seasonal events that add even more creative energy to your visit. Popular events include the Spring Studio Stroll, Hands On ESSA, and the ARTrageous Parade in downtown Eureka Springs.

Flexible Experiences at Arkansas Adventure Art

Arkansas Adventure Art is another Eureka Springs art destination, offering a variety of fun and popular art classes. Offerings cover a range of mediums and welcomes all skill levels. Sign up and explore your creativity – you may even surprise yourself!

You say a class doesn’t fit your schedule? No problem. One of the most popular features at Arkansas Adventure Art is their daily open art table. Visitors can stop in, sit down, and start painting without any advance planning whatsoever. An exceptionally easy way to enjoy a creative moment during your trip. What fun!

Stay Close to Eureka Springs Art Experiences

Of course, choosing the right place to stay only makes your creative getaway even better. The award-winning privacy, comfort, and amenities of 5 Ojo are all just minutes from both ESSA and Arkansas Adventure Art. Spend your day enjoying art classes in Eureka Springs and return to a comfortable, relaxing space in the evening.

Whether you want a structured workshop or a spontaneous painting session, Eureka Springs offers the perfect setting. Book your stay at 5 Ojo and come unleash your creative side in the Ozarks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Art Classes in Eureka Springs

What types of classes are available in Eureka Springs?
You can find classes in painting, ceramics, woodworking, jewelry making, and mixed media.

Are the classes beginner-friendly?
Yes. Many classes are designed for beginners, while others suit more advanced artists.

Can I take a class without booking in advance?
Yes. Arkansas Adventure Art offers a daily open art table for drop-in visitors.

When are classes offered?
Classes are available year-round, with ESSA sessions running March–August and September–December.

Where should I stay in Eureka Springs?
Staying at 5 Ojo keeps you close to top art studios and downtown attractions.

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Travelers searching for memorable things to do in Eureka Springs quickly discover one attraction that stands apart: the The Great Passion Play. Performed in a scenic outdoor amphitheater in the Ozark Mountains, this powerful production has drawn millions of visitors since it first premiered in 1968. The attraction is widely recognized as the most attended outdoor Bible drama in the United States.

For many visitors, attending the Passion Play becomes the highlight of their Eureka Springs getaway.

One of the Most Unique Attractions in Eureka Springs

The Great Passion Play presents the story of the final days of Jesus Christ through an expansive live performance that combines theater, music, and dramatic staging. The production takes place on a massive outdoor set that stretches hundreds of feet across the hillside, allowing scenes to unfold across multiple locations at once.

More than a hundred cast members participate in the production each season, appearing in period costumes alongside live animals and large-scale set pieces that recreate ancient Jerusalem. As the sun sets and stage lighting fills the amphitheater, the story unfolds in a way that feels immersive and moving.

If you would like to see a preview before planning your visit, you can watch the official trailer.

More to See on the Passion Play Grounds

The Passion Play property offers several additional experiences that make it easy to spend an entire afternoon exploring before the evening performance.

One of the most recognizable landmarks is the towering Christ of the Ozarks statue, which stands 67 feet tall and overlooks the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the Sacred Arts Museum, the Bible Museum, and walking paths that wind through the scenic grounds.

Many guests arrive early to enjoy the peaceful setting, additional attractions, and views before the show begins.

While visiting Eureka Springs for the Passion Play, many travelers also explore scenic hiking trails, historic downtown shops, and other iconic landmarks like Thorncrown Chapel.

Stay Near the Passion Play at 5 Ojo Inn

After an inspiring evening at the play, returning to comfortable accommodations nearby makes the experience even better. Staying at 5 Ojo places visitors just minutes from the Passion Play grounds while also keeping them close to the restaurants, galleries, and historic streets of downtown Eureka Springs.

Guests at 5 Ojo Inn enjoy welcoming hospitality, comfortable rooms, and a homemade breakfast each morning before heading out to explore the Ozarks. Our convenient location makes it easy to experience the area’s top attractions while still enjoying a quiet place to relax after a full day of sightseeing.

Plan Your Eureka Springs Getaway

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of the Ozarks, The Great Passion Play offers an unforgettable experience and remains one of the most meaningful attractions in the region.

Pair the performance with a relaxing stay at 5 Ojo and you’ll discover why so many travelers include this inspiring event in their Eureka Springs tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Great Passion Play

When is the Great Passion Play performed in Eureka Springs?
The The Great Passion Play typically runs from late spring through fall, with performances scheduled several evenings each week.

How long is the Great Passion Play?
The outdoor drama usually runs about two hours and takes place in a scenic hillside amphitheater.

What other attractions are nearby?
Visitors can also see the Christ of the Ozarks statue and explore museums and walking paths located on the Passion Play grounds.

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Spring in the Ozarks is a special kind of beautiful with the greening of the landscape, mild temperatures, and the feeling that every winding road leads to a new view. Eureka Springs parks and trails make it easy to engage in outdoor adventure, and 5 Ojo makes the perfect home base: close to downtown, yet also near some of the area’s best trail systems!

Eureka Springs is known for its historic charm and wonderful festivals, but our outdoors are just as memorable. In spring, the Ozarks come alive with blooming trees and wildflowers, making hikes especially scenic. It’s also an ideal season for exploring as it precedes both the summer heat and its attendant peak crowds.

Returning to the comforts of 5 Ojo after a fun day outdoors is the perfect way to recharge. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just stretching your legs, a cozy stay at our Eureka Springs B&B pairs beautifully with your explorations.

Downtown Trails for Easy Walks

The Eureka Springs Trails System, located just minutes from your doorstep at 5 Ojo, connects a variety of parks and green spaces.

These in-town walking paths, including the Harmon Loop and Spring Garden Trails, offer a peaceful way to explore historic neighborhoods, shaded gardens, and the natural springs that have drawn visitors since the city’s founding in the 1850s.

Whether you’re seeking a gentle morning walk or a relaxed sunset ramble, these downtown trails combine history with beauty, while staying close to shops, restaurants, and historic streets.

Lake Leatherwood City Park: A Must-Visit Trail System

For a more immersive outdoor experience, head west to Lake Leatherwood City Park, one of Eureka Springs crown jewels.

This stunning 1,600-acre park, centered around an 85-acre spring-fed lake, boasts over 20 miles of shared-use trails that appeal to both hikers and mountain bikers. Trails like the scenic Beacham Trail, which loops the lake, and the rugged Miners Rock Trail, named for its towering natural landmark.

The park is also a great spot for a picnic, fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the water.

Black Bass Lake Trails: Scenic and Close to Town

Black Bass Lake is another favorite, local, outdoor destination.

This quieter and smaller but equally scenic park features a rewarding, 3-mile network of trails. Popular tracks like Standing Rock Trail and Bluff Trail highlight rocky bluff views and the peaceful lakeside scenery.

With a quiet lakeside feel and picnic areas tucked among the trees, Black Bass Lake is perfect for anyone seeking a relaxed outdoor escape close to town.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eureka Springs Parks & Trails

What are the best parks for hiking in Eureka Springs?
Lake Leatherwood City Park and Black Bass Lake are two of the top options for trail variety and scenery.

Are there easy trails near downtown Eureka Springs?
Yes – routes like Harmon Loop and Spring Garden Trail are great for casual walks.

Is spring a good time to hike in Eureka Springs?
Definitely. Spring brings comfortable weather, greenery, and wildflowers throughout the Ozarks.

Can you hike and bike on the same trails?
Many trails at Lake Leatherwood are shared-use, so hikers and mountain bikers may use the same routes.

Where should I stay for easy access to Eureka Springs parks and trails?
Staying at 5 Ojo keeps you close to downtown and within a short drive of the area’s top parks.

So go ahead: enjoy a pleasant hike just minutes from your room at 5 Ojo, Eureka Springs’ only 4-star, historic inn. We even have pocket trail maps for your use, available in our office/dining room.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, birder, or simply someone who enjoys a nice walk, Eureka Springs is the perfect destination.  Book your Eureka Springs getaway today!

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Are you dreaming of a cozy, intimate, and delightfully romantic Valentine’s Day? Stop dreaming and start planning for a Eureka Springs Valentine’s Day at 5 Ojo! Historic Eureka Springs is the perfect destination for romance and fun. Double down with accommodations at 5 Ojo and enjoy the perfect mix of comfort, privacy, and romantic add-ons to help you celebrate love in a truly memorable way.

Beautiful Eureka Springs is the perfect destination for lovers, no matter the season.  Best of all, 5 Ojo’s convenient location means you’re a short stroll from downtown and the best Eureka Springs has to offer.

Downtown is ideal for hand-in-hand wandering with historic architecture, art galleries, quirky shops, and cozy cafes. You’ll also find no end to the scenic spots around town. Hidden garden nooks, natural overlooks, springs, parks, and more that are absolutely perfect for a photo or quiet, shared moment.

We often say that there’s no end to the celebration in Eureka Springs and that holds true through Valentine’s season, as well. Eureka Springs Mardi Gras celebrations spill over into Valentine’s weekend with masquerade balls, colorful parades, and more. A lively way to celebrate the holiday if you love costumes, dancing, and energetic fun.

Intrigue Theater also gets into the act with two evenings of fun, blending illusion, storytelling, and mystery with romance. Paranormal Experiments – A Valentine’s Night in the Twilight Unknown is scheduled for Feb 13th, A MAGICAL Valentine’s Evening, for Valentine’s Day, the 14th.

Eureka Springs is also home to a variety of popular fine dining options. Intimate bistros and chef-driven restaurants where Valentine’s often includes candlelit tables and special, prix-fixe menus. Reservations are recommended, of course!

Eureka Springs Valentine’s Day Dining Experiences

Le Stick Nouveau – One of Eureka Springs’ most intimate fine-dining experiences, perfect for a date night. They often offer a special Valentine’s tasting menu with seasonal multi-course meals.

Grotto Wood Fired Grill and Wine Cave – A stylish, cozy setting with wood-fired cuisine and an extensive wine list. Great for a slightly upscale yet relaxed dinner.

Gaskins Cabin Steakhouse – A romantic steakhouse located just a short drive from downtown. Hearty steaks and Appalachian-inspired sides, excellent for that special, Valentine’s dinner.

Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking – Classic Italian fare in a warm, inviting and romantic atmosphere.

Rogue’s Manor – Historic restaurant space with innovative dishes. A good opti0n for couples who enjoy creative cuisine and ambiance.

Don’t forget, reservations on Valentine’s Day in Eureka Springs go quickly. In fact, many of the places listed above recommend booking weeks (or even months) in advance.

Romance and Relaxation at 5 Ojo

5 Ojo’s nine individually designed guest rooms and cottages offer a blend of historic charm and modern comforts that also lend themselves to romance.  Think jetted tubs, fireplaces, plush bedding, and serene garden views. Share a soak, curl up by the fire, or simply enjoy each other’s company away from everyday distractions.

Each morning, wake up to a full-service gourmet breakfast prepared onsite and served in the inn’s elegant dining room. Our thoughtfully crafted breakfasts provide the perfect start to your day, especially if you follow it up with a lazy cup of coffee or two.

We also offer a selection of add-ons and romantic touches that are ideal for Valentine’s Day – or any romantic getaway! These extras can be added during booking and make every moment feel special:

• Chocolate Covered Strawberries: A classic sweet treat for two.
• Locally Handmade Chocolates: A box of artisanal delights to savor together.
• Fresh Flower Bouquet: Seasonal blooms waiting in your room.
• Celebration or Cookie Cake: Perfect for toasting your love.
• Charcuterie Box: A selection of cheeses, meats, and snacks to nibble with wine.
• Couples Dance or Yoga Lessons: A fun and active way to connect.

We are happy to recommend local spas, romantic dinner spots, or any other details for your Valentine’s itinerary. Just let us know.

Happy Valentine’s Day from 5 Ojo!

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