If you are looking for a peaceful place to spend the afternoon, there is no place more beautiful than the Blue Spring Heritage Center. Just 5 miles west of Eureka Springs, this 33-acre historic site is just the place to stroll and take in all the beautiful scenery. The Blue Spring Heritage Center is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been a popular tourist destination since 1948. Formerly known as the Eureka Springs Gardens, the site changed to what it is currently known as, the Blue Spring Heritage Center in 2003 to put a focus on the areas rich history and culture.
The Center is open from 9:00am to 6:00pm daily through the 2nd Sunday in November. This spring season could not be a more special time to visit as the flowers and plants have started to bloom with a variety of color. There are over a mile of garden trails to walk, with historic signs displayed throughout giving historical information about the area. The Medicine Wheel Garden, which gets its name from the circular shape, is divided into four sections. This garden features healing herbs and native plants many of which were used in the practices of the American Indian nations. The design is meant to represent the cycles of life and the intimate connection of all living things. The Three Sisters Garden is home to a diverse group of plants. It is said that each crop in the garden is protected by one of the Three Sisters spirits. Another great spot to check out is the Woodland Gardens where paths lead through the natural forests.
If you plan on visiting in April, a few of the flowers in bloom are English Daisies, Bergenia, Bleeding Hearts, Forget Me Nots, Primula, Early Annuals and Pansies. Other plants during this season include Tulip bulbs, Daffodils, Flowering Almond Trees, Redbuds, Dogwoods, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Hellebore, Arabis, and Aubretia. Don’t forget to stop by the Visitor’s Center when visiting to view artifacts on display and view the exhibits telling the diverse history of the site where the Blue Spring Heritage Center is today. There is also a gift shop on site with items for the home and garden including pottery, crafts, books and artwork.
On your visit, enjoy a self-guided tour at your own pace or schedule a guided tour in the areas of ecotourism, Native American, and early settler culture or horticulture. The main focus of the Center is the gorgeous 500 feet deep spring which pours 38 million gallons of water into the lagoon daily. Admission to enter the Blue Spring Heritage Center is $9.75 for adults, $6.50 for ages 6 to 17 and children 5 and under are free. Group rates do apply for groups of 12 or more.
After a peaceful day spent at Blue Spring, we would love to be your resting spot for the evening here at Arsenic & Old Lace bed and breakfast. The five guest suites each provide a private bathroom and other amenities including a seasonal fireplace, whirlpool baths, and views of the grounds. You are sure to find your perfect room here at Arsenic & Old Lace. A complimentary, gourmet breakfast is served each morning to ensure your day gets off to a healthy and happy start. To secure your reservation, call us at 479-253-5454. We look forward to seeing you soon here in Eureka Springs.
Photo courtesy of Doug Wertman
