Hop on the Eureka Springs trolley and see the town in a new way. With four fixed routes and over 115 stops, you can get where you need to go and leave the driving to someone else. Open-air trams are the perfect way to see the town now that the warmer weather and spring season are here. With so many places in the downtown area to hop on, rest your feet on the Eureka Springs Trolley on your next outing.
Transportation has changed over the years in Eureka Springs. In 1891, the town had just ten streetcars. When automobiles came about in the 1920’s the need for a transit system went away. It wasn’t until 1978 that the Eureka Springs trolley came back into place.
Because the parking around town is limited and goes quickly, riding the trolley is a great way to get where you need to go and it’s easy. If you are staying at one of the area B&B’s or hotels, there is a trolley stop within walking distance. Parking can be done at the Eureka Springs Transit and Welcome Center and the Planer Hill Park and Ride Center. All day parking is just $5.00. If an all-day adult trolley pass is purchased, a $3.00 discount will be given for parking.
The Eureka Springs Trolley is open on Friday’s and Saturday’s in April. Starting on May 1st, the trolleys will be running daily through October 31st. Tram tours begin at the Eureka Springs Welcome Center. The narrated tours last two hours and include two stops: the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Grotto Spring. Adult tickets for the narrated ride are $15.00 and children under 12 are $7.00. The tours are informative and give information about the town’s unique architecture and the history of the town. If riding one of the open-air trams, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather as it could be cool on the ride.
There are four fixed routes that go all around town. The Red Route services a 3.3 mile loop through the Historic District. This route takes about 20 minutes to travel. The Blue Route travels to the east side of town and turns around counter-clockwise. This route is 8 miles long and can take 25 minutes to travel. The Yellow Route also travels to the east side of town but makes a clockwise loop. This route is 7 miles long. The Purple Route goes along Hwy 62 to the city limits. This is the route for passengers looking to visit The Thorncrown Chapel and Lake Leatherwood City Park. Total travel time for the Purple Route is about 15 minutes. All trolleys are equipped with lifts for passengers who cannot use the stairs.
Fares for the 2015 season include a variety of options. An adult all-day pass is $6.00. A two-day pass for adults is $10.00. A one ride pass is just $4.00 and only $2.00 for children ages 7 through 11. There is an option to buy a 30-day pass. The price for the 30-day pass varies for senior citizens, disabled with Medicare, students, and the general public.
For a stay in one of the town’s unique bed and breakfasts, be sure to check out Queen Anne Victorian style mansion Arsenic & Old Lace. There are five guest rooms each complete with seasonal fireplace and private bathroom. A complimentary, gourmet breakfast is served each morning to ensure the proper start to a busy day exploring the town. Reservations book quickly so be sure to secure a room soon. We are happy to help, just call 479-253-5454.
Photo courtesy of donireewalker
