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    Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Where Halloweentown Comes To Life

    Surrounded by lush forests, countryside, and lakes, Eureka Springs is a haven for nature lovers.

    As Told to Buzzy
    by As Told to Buzzy

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    This article was written collaboratively by Nicholson Ogilvie + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant.

    Have you ever wanted to step into Halloweentown and truly experience the magic? Look no further than Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This cool young small town, nestled in the Ozarks, will transport you to a world of Victorian architecture, winding streets, and, of course, spooky vibes.

    A closeup of one of Eureka Spring's winding streets and a Victorian building
    Dlewis33 / Getty Images

    Flatiron Flats, inspired by the more famous version in New York City, is the central structure in downtown Eureka Springs at 25 Spring Street. Built in 1880, the building contains shops and a few hotel rooms in this artsy, touristy north Arkansas town.

    Here are the top reasons why Eureka Springs needs to be on your travel radar:

    1. Haunted History.

    The back of the Crescent Hotel which sits on a hill
    Larrybraunphotography.com / Getty Images

    Eureka Springs has a long and fascinating past, complete with ghost stories and legends. But the crown jewel of spooky experiences is the Crescent Hotel, known as the most haunted hotel in America. Take a ghost tour, explore the history of the building, and maybe even meet a ghost or two.



    2. Artistic Community.

    Eureka Springs attracts a diverse and vibrant arts community. Art galleries, music events, and theaters can be found on every corner. The town's May Festival of the Arts is a must-see event with art exhibits, workshops, and performances.

    3. Oddball shopping galore.

    A street in Eureka Springs lined with various shops. One of the signs that says "VooDoo" above a storefront features a skull in a top hat
    Larrybraunphotography.com / Getty Images

    Goodbye, mall fashion; hello, vintage and steampunk-inspired dreamland. The shopping scene in Eureka Springs is the perfect balance of eccentricity and nostalgia. If you've ever wanted to dress like a 19th-century Victorian ghost with a penchant for retro sunglasses, this is the place for you.



    4. Foodie Heaven.

    Eureka Springs has a surprising culinary scene, offering an array of unique and flavorful cuisine. From farm-to-table fare to southern comfort food, there's something for every taste. Check out Local Flavor, a farm-to-table restaurant with a modern twist, or Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave, a cozy spot nestled in a cave.


    5. The Great Outdoors.

    An overhead view of Eureka Springs and the surrounding lush woods in the Fall
    Jeremymasonmcgraw.com / Getty Images

    Surrounded by lush forests, countryside, and lakes, Eureka Springs is a haven for nature lovers. Hike the trails, go on a horseback ride, or kayak the rivers. The changing seasons only add to the town's charm, making it a year-round destination.

    So there you have it. Eureka Springs might not be a hop, skip, and a jump away from the nearest city, but the journey is as magical as the destination itself. Trust me, getting there is half the fun. And really, what's a little road trip between friends when the payoff is this amazing?

    6. Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 🌴✈️