Eureka Springs is a charming, eclectic town in the Ozark Mountains, so it’s only fitting that some of the attractions here are a bit quirky. One of those unique things to do is to visit Quigley’s Castle, known as the “Ozark’s strangest dwelling.” The historic house and gardens are now a museum where guests can learn more about the fun backstory and life of Mrs. Quigley who designed this home herself.
Quiqley’s Castle stands as a piece of artwork—covered in a jigsaw puzzle of rocks, stones, and agates that Elise Quigley had collected throughout her life, beginning at the young age of nine. She also requested when the home was built that four feet of earth be left from the living space and the walls, so that she could create an indoor garden. Inside the home, you’ll see a collection of family antiques and these beautiful stone walls. Outside. the garden grounds are lovely with outdoor sculptures and more than 400 varieties of flowers.
Before you start filling your itinerary with the most unique things to do in Eureka Springs, you’ll want to choose your lodging. Our romantic bed and breakfast happens to be one of the most comfortable and welcoming places to stay! With 750 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, our B&B is consistently ranked in the top three lodging properties in the area and we were just awarded Gold in the Bed and Breakfast category by Best of Northwest Arkansas. Book your room today!
Unique Things to Do in Eureka Springs: Quigley's Castle
This quirky house is located about four miles south of Eureka Springs. On a tour of Quigley’s Castle, you’ll begin in the gardens where Elise Quigley planted more than 400 varieties of perennials. The paths weave through the flowers by secluded benches, outdoor sculptures, and a lily pond.
Here are a few fun tidbits to know about a visit to Quigley’s Castle:
- The highlight of a tour of this property is, of course, Mrs. Quigley’s Castle itself. It’s the crown jewel and, in fact, is encrusted in stones, fossils, crystals, and arrowheads that Mrs. Quigley herself lovingly applied to the outside of the home. This process took her about three years to complete.
- Inside, another interesting part of the house is the feeling of the outside being in. Mrs. Quigley requested four feet of earth to remain between the walls, and she was able to plant a tropical garden indoors. These plants are more than 65 years old now.
- Don’t miss the “Butterfly Wall,” an impressive collection of common and rare butterfly species ensconced in a pretty arrangement. On a visit to Quigley’s Castle, you’ll likely be given a tour by the granddaughter of the famed woman herself.
More Unique Things to Do in Eureka Springs:
While Quigley’s Castle is a beautiful place for a quick visit, there are quite a few more quirky places to visit in Eureka Springs.
- Thorncrown Chapel: Discover this church of glass built deep in the woods of the Ozarks.
- Blue Springs Heritage Center: Explore the natural beauty of this clear springs, garden, and wooded area with trails.
- Opera in the Ozarks: If you’re visiting during the summer, head to this lovely theater experience where student singers get to shine on stage.
- The Onyx Cave: This area is known for its unique landscape, and a visit to the oldest show cave open to the public in Arkansas is a must!
- Ghost Tour at the Crescent Hotel: The area has a lot of fun haunted history, and this historic hotel is one of the best places to hear spooky stories.
Stay at our Elegant Bed and Breakfast in Eureka Springs
Our Eureka Springs Bed and Breakfast is the ideal place to stay in the Ozark Mountains. Our charming small town has everything you need to feel like you’re a world away from city living. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be immersed in the old-world elegance of our Victorian-style Inn, paired with just the right amount of modern touches and unparalleled hospitality. It’s the perfect destination after exploring the fun stops in Eureka Springs like Quigley’s Castle and beyond.
We offer just five private guest rooms, all with delightful en suite spa-like bathrooms. Our Inn is spacious, so you’ll often feel as though you have the whole place to yourself. Each room is designed to perfectly welcome couples or solo travelers. From luxurious appointments and big, comfy beds to plush blankets, linens, and robes, you’ll pampered and comfortable. The Patio Room is particularly beautiful come spring and summer, as sunlight filters through the ivy-covered patio.
Our kitchen comes to life each morning with delicate aromas of coffee and baked goods. Join us in our elegantly appointed dining room for a three-course meal of homemade goods, entrees, and fresh fruit. It’s the best way to start your day on any romantic getaway and adds one less element to figure out during your stay. We hope you’ll join us this spring and summer to explore the unique things to do in Eureka Springs! Book your room today!
