Arkansas Vineyards are Fun Getaway Destinations

Arkansas is the largest and oldest wine-producing state in the South. While it has plenty of old growth vines producing wines for fourth and fifth generation-run wineries, there are some budding vineyards taking hold in the industry as well. All of The Natural State wineries offer tasting rooms and some have free tours and special events. Just follow the Arkansas Wine Trail for scenic views and tasty fun. You’ll find plenty of unique lodging too.

A majority of the vineyards are located in Altus and Wiederkehr Village, an area often referred to as Arkansas Wine Country. Don’t miss dining at Weinkeller Restaurant at Wiederkerhr Wine Cellars. Weinkeller serves excellent Swiss and other European specialties in charming, candlelit surroundings. The original wine cellar, hand-dug by Johann Andreas Wiederkehr in 1880, was converted to house the Weinkeller in 1967. The restaurant is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and for years has been voted “Most Romantic” and “Best Ethnic” by the readers of Arkansas Times magazine.

Eureka Springs offers wellness, art, food and nature

If you’re looking to treat yourself or someone else, look no further than Eureka Springs for spas, wellness and relaxation. It’s a great getaway for couples or groups of friends.

This town is full of unique spas, so plan for a full day of pampering.

Choose from day spas such as the Eureka Massage Center, which can accommodate individuals, couples and groups. You’ll also find individuals who have been in practice for decades offering services.

Or, go with a resort spa like the surprisingly modern facilities at the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa or the 1905 Basin Park Hotel.

There are landmark spas as well. The Palace Bath House dates back to 1901. Still in full operation, you can enjoy unique treatments such as a mineral bath in the original claw foot tubs and a Eucalyptus steam treatment in a wooden barrel steam cabinet, just as travelers did at the turn of the century. The Palace Hotel is quite luxurious as well. The Grand Central Hotel Spa is another elegant property offering an 1880s atmosphere with its carefully restored Victorian ambiance.

It’s not just the abundance of spas that makes this town so great as a rejuvenating getaway. It’s also the abundant natural springs, mountain setting, Victorian architecture and superb restaurants.

Eureka Springs was founded on the healing properties of its many mineral rich springs. While you can’t get in them, you can still enjoy visiting the scenic spring spots.

You can also unwind at restaurants with fine wine and spirits and decadent entrees or healthy, locally-grown ingredients. Or, rejuvenate your spirit and creative juices by exploring the fine art galleries throughout town.

Lodging options in Eureka Springs run the gamut from historic hotels and motels to cabins, B&Bs and treehouses. Walk the streets of the historic downtown for boutiques, gift shops and restaurants galore. Victorian architecture is as delightful as the Ozark Mountain scenery. Other fun includes Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (consider the Zulu tent lodging), the Great Passion Play, Blue Spring Heritage Center, and plenty of city parks with hiking and mountain biking trails. Beaver Lake and the White River are other options for a balance of outdoor fun and relaxation.

Eureka is definitely the full package for treating yourself.
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Leah DiPietro, Deputy Director, Division of Tourism, [email protected]
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