The Most Iconic Arkansas Trip You Should Take This Summer Isn’t in the Car…It’s on This Historic Streetcar Ride

Full of charm and brimming with history, Eureka Springs is arguably one of the best small towns in Arkansas. It’s actually my favorite! Over 750,000 people visit every year to explore its unique beauty, eat mouthwatering food, and soak up the scenes of the architecturally stunning buildings. The best part? No car is needed here; instead, you can get to know the area by strolling through the historic downtown. 

But if you ask me, the best way to fully experience Eureka Springs is by riding the historic trolley and tram, especially in the summer. But don’t take my word for it; a past visitor raved, “If you want to actually see Eureka Springs, the tram tour is the only way.” So, if you’re planning a trip to our beloved town, don’t miss your chance to check out the iconic streetcars in Eureka Springs. They’re by far the most historic experiences in Arkansas.

If you find yourself in the Natural State in summer, you’ll know it can be pretty warm. Even with mountain towns like Eureka Springs, expect temperatures to soar into the 90s. And we all know that walking around in the heat isn’t always pleasant — at least, I don’t think so. Luckily, the streetcars in Eureka Springs are a great alternative to walking. 

Depending on how you would like to explore the town, you can choose between two means of transportation: the historic Eureka Springs Trolley or the Eureka Springs Tram. 

The first streetcars date back to the late 1890s when the trolleys were pulled by mules over rail lines. A few years later, the vehicles were upgraded with electric motors attached to overhead wires for power. With the rise of the automobile, the trolleys lost their appeal, and the operation was shut down in the 1920s for about 55 years. Fortunately, in 1978, the city brought back the iconic streetcars with upgraded rubber tires and a facility at the Eureka Springs Transit & Welcome Center as its base.

So, why should you ride the trolley? Well, it’s fun and part of Eureka Springs’s charm. If you’re a regular visitor and know all the sights, I’d recommend the trolley because parking is limited in town. The streetcars have over 100 stops spread across four color-coded routes, and not to mention, the ride is inexpensive at $6 for an all-day adult pass. Plus, the trolleys are air-conditioned, so you’ll escape the heat of walking around all day. Some of the stops include the Great Passion Play, Basin Spring Park, Thorncrown Chapel, Lake Leatherwood, and the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway Depot.

While the trolley is more like public transportation, the tram operates a 90-minute tour. If this is your first trip to Eureka Springs, this narrated sightseeing experience is perfect for you. With over 30 years of experience and guides from Joe Gunnels Tours, the tour takes you past hundreds of significant sites as well as the healing springs that made the town famous. 

Driving through the historic downtown and neighborhoods with Victorian-style homes, while hearing the history of this beloved town, is an unforgettable experience in Arkansas. Additionally, the guides are funny, friendly, and knowledgeable, making this top, family-friendly attraction well worth the time. It’s no wonder the tour won TripAdvisor’s Travelers' Choice Award.

You’ll have a comfortable seat in a breezy open-air vehicle with roll-up sides, allowing you to easily view the landmarks. Famous sights include the majestic 1886 Crescent Hotel, “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” and a stop at the beautiful Saint Elizabeth Catholic Church, built in 1904.

Tickets for these attractions can be purchased online or at the Welcome Center at 137 W. Van Buren, which is also the tram pickup/drop off location. Both the trolley and tram operate on limited seasonal schedules. However, the streetcars run daily during the warmer months from May to October. So, when the heat is on in the summer, don’t hesitate to ride one of these iconic streetcars in Eureka Springs. Not only can you see and learn everything about the town, but it certainly beats walking around in the heat.

Have you ever ridden the tram or trolley in Eureka Springs? If not, it’s time for you to experience them for yourself. Plus, the tram tour has a 50 percent money-back guarantee, so you know they’re standing on business.

If you want to see more of the town after your streetcar ride, read about some of the best things to do in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.