Autumn in the Ozarks in one word can be described as breathtaking. As the warm temperatures of summer begin to drift away, cooler evenings and the changing leaves on the mountains are a welcome change of scenery. Fall in Eureka Springs is a feast for the eyes. Rich colors of the yellow Hickory, the orange Sassafrass, red Maples and purple Sweetgum trees bring travelers from all across the region to observe nature’s beauty. In addition to the scenery, Arkansas is host to many festivals and fall happenings that bring guests coming back year after year.
For a ride through the Ozarks like no other, Bikes, Blues and BBQ is an annual event held at the end of September. Known for having some of the most scenic rides, it’s a must for every motorcycle enthusiast. The weekend is filled with more than just motorcycle rides. Each year there is a barbeque contest, live music, a bike and car show and even a karaoke contest. The rally ends with a motorcycle parade through the fairgrounds.
Another annual event for the town is the Eureka Springs Corvette Weekend. Held the first weekend in October for the past 23 years, this event brings in well over 1,000 corvettes in attendance. This relaxed weekend is a time to enjoy the fall weather, the town of Eureka Springs with friends and converse with fellow corvette fanatics.
It wouldn’t be autumn without the celebration of Halloween. Eureka Springs is home to some of America’s most haunted hotels. When visiting Eureka Springs in October, be sure to check out the ghost tours, cemetery walks, trick or treating, Howl-O-Ween night at Turpentine Creek and even a zombie invasion through downtown.
When you think of the fall season, a trip to a corn maze and pumpkin patch is an absolute must for your family outing. Ozark Corn Maze, located in Cave Springs, is open each year from late September to early November. The 3.5 acre pumpkin patch offers a variety of sizes to choose from, ready to be picked and taken home. Kids will enjoy the cow train, hay maze, petting zoo, corn cannon and pony rides. Once you’ve picked your pumpkin and let the kids explore, grab a map and find your way through the eight acre corn maze. This year’s maze design is a farm theme with giant tractor.
Year after year, the Ozark Folk Festival returns to Eureka Springs bringing the town together to enjoy a weekend of music and dance. This year the festival celebrated its 66th year and remains the longest continually running folk festival in America. Each year festival attendees enjoy the Barefoot Ball, Queen’s Contest, Singer/Songwriter contest, Festival parade and long days of free music in the park. This event is not to be missed as it makes its way back each fall.
When planning your getaway to savor a weekend of autumn in the Ozarks, let Arsenic and Old Lace Bed and Breakfast set the scene for your serene weekend. This Queen Anne Victorian style bed and breakfast mansion is tucked away from the Historic District of Eureka Springs in the Ozark Mountains. After a restful night in one of the five elegant guest rooms, delight in a complimentary gourmet breakfast before heading out for a day on the town. For more information and to book a reservation, visit www.eurekaspringsromancebb.com.
Photo courtesy of Paul Martin
