April 12, 2022
EUREKA SPRINGS TRAM TOUR
137 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
“See and learn about Eureka Springs, up close and personal on our open-air, trolley style trams. Each tour is fully narrated by a fun, knowledgeable local guide.” - tripadvisor.com
I’ll admit, there were two reason I came to Eureka Springs. First, it was on the way to Iowa from Little Rock, and second, the KOA campground had an opening. I had no idea what a beautiful area I would find, nor did I realize how much there would be to do, therefore I didn’t do much pre-planning before arriving for my stay. Were I to do this again, the first thing I would do upon arrival in Eureka Springs would be to take the Tram Tour of the town, instead of one of the last days.
The town is built a long time ago on the side of a mountain, therefore the streets are narrow and winding. The tour guide told us there was not a single perpendicular intersection in the town, and I believe it. Having driven on some of the streets I knew if I wanted to take in some of the sights I would have to let someone else do the driving. Thankfully, there was this tram tour.
The hour-long narrated tour took us through the heart of the town. We went by houses, inns, springs, and part of the business district, all the while the tour guide regaled us with stories and details about many of the places along the way. The tour brochure advertised a stop at the Crescent Hotel and Spa, and while we did stop, we were not allowed to get off and go inside and was indicated in the brochure, though we were encouraged to go back on our own. We did stop at the Grotto Spring, where were able to stretch our legs and do a little exploring.
The tour was a great way to learn about the history of the tow and see some of the unique sites while being thoroughly entertained.
Tour guide called this the "Witch House" and indicated several people have put the face of a witch on the wall at Halloween time.
Guide was telling us about the old filling station that had been converted to a bed-and-breakfast. Didn't think much of it until he mentioned the door handles made of nozzles from the gas pumps.
Nothing spectacular, I just like the railing around the porch.
The Crescent Park Hotel. Was at one time a hospital with an "insane asylum." Rumor has it the hotel is haunted.
A house designed by E. Fay Jones, who also designed the Thorncrown Chapel on the outskirts of the town. Jones was an apprentice under Frank Lloyd Wright.
The Grotto Spring.
Inside the Grotto Spring (which no longer is an active spring).
Owner of house on right discovered his neighbor had built 10 feet over the property line. The remedy: cut 10 feet off the red garage.
One of the other springs in the town.
A third spring.
If you look closely you can see the running water in this spring.
One of the oldest businesses in town.
Another spring, up above the band shell.