Morning: Depart Dallas early and head north on I-35E, enjoying the sunrise over the Lake Ray Hubbard shoreline. Make a quick coffee stop in Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of western heritage before continuing your journey.
Afternoon: After a scenic drive through the Ouachita National Forest, arrive at the Balcony Hotel Casino in Hot Springs, where you can check in and explore the gaming floor. Take a leisurely walk on the private balcony overlooking the city and the surrounding mountains.
Evening: Dine at the hotel’s steakhouse, then unwind with a nightcap at the casino lounge. If time permits, stroll through the historic downtown of Hot Springs and admire the illuminated bathhouse district.
Find HotelsMorning: After breakfast on your balcony, set out for the 2‑hour drive to Eureka Springs via AR‑7, known as the “Scenic Highway”. Stop at the iconic Thorncrown Chapel for a brief meditation and photo opportunity.
Afternoon: Arrive in the charming town of Eureka Springs and explore the Eureka Springs Historic District, with its Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and art galleries. Grab a light lunch at a local café overlooking the winding streets.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a hillside restaurant with views of the Ozarks, then take a twilight ghost walk through the historic downtown for a spooky yet fascinating experience.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, add a day to explore Hot Springs National Park and enjoy its thermal baths, or extend your stay in Eureka Springs to hike the nearby Ozark trails. To shorten the trip, skip the ghost walk and limit the downtown shopping to an hour, allowing you to return to Dallas the same evening.