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Blue Spring Heritage Center: A Natural and Historical Oasis

Discover natural beauty and cultural history at Blue Spring Heritage Center in the Ozark Mountains near Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

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Blue Spring Heritage Center, near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a 33-acre site showcasing the natural beauty and cultural history of the Ozark region. The centerpiece is Blue Spring, which gushes 38 million gallons of water daily. Visitors can explore native gardens, historical exhibits, and a bluff shelter once inhabited by Native Americans.

A brief summary to Blue Spring Heritage Center

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the gardens.
  • Visit during the spring blooming season or fall for particularly beautiful scenery.
  • Check out the visitor center to view a film about the spring's history and see historical artifacts.
  • Consider visiting nearby attractions like Thorncrown Chapel and Lake Leatherwood.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Blue Spring Heritage Center is located at 1537 Co Rd 210, Eureka Springs, AR 72632. From Eureka Springs, head northwest on US-62 W for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto County Road 210 and follow the road for about 1 mile. Parking is available on-site and is generally free.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options to Blue Spring Heritage Center are limited. However, Greyhound and other regional bus services operate in Eureka Springs. From the bus station, use a local taxi service or rideshare app to reach Blue Spring Heritage Center. The fare may vary, but expect to pay around $10 to $15 for the ride.

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Discover more about Blue Spring Heritage Center

Nestled in the Ozark Mountains near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the Blue Spring Heritage Center offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The 33-acre site is home to Blue Spring, the largest spring in Northwest Arkansas, which pours 38 million gallons of water each day into a trout-filled lagoon. The spring's stunning blue color and the surrounding landscape create a serene and picturesque environment. The Heritage Center captures the rich history of the Ozark region, from prehistoric civilizations to early settlers and American Indian journeys. Archaeological research indicates that a rock shelter overlooking the spring was inhabited by early Native American hunters thousands of years ago. The bluff shelter is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its archaeological significance. The site also served as a stopping point on the Trail of Tears, a tragic chapter in American history. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including native gardens, a replica of an old mill powered by the spring, and a visitor center with historical exhibits and artifacts. Walking trails wind through the grounds, offering views of the spring, the lagoon, and the surrounding woodlands. The Medicine Wheel Garden, the Three Sisters Garden, and the Woodland Gardens showcase different aspects of native plants and their uses. The Blue Spring Heritage Center is open from mid-March through the second Sunday in November. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the history and culture of the Ozark region.

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