Eureka Springs is one of the smaller incorporated towns in Northwest Arkansas, but it is a standout when it comes to unique retails establishments, tourist attractions and restaurants. Recently six local businesses received Best of Northwest Arkansas awards in a competition sponsored by the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette.
Businesses were nominated in nine categories in an event that generated 634,000 votes.
“There were eighty plus stores just in my group of specialty shops alone,” Troy Johnson, co-owner of Fresh Harvest in Eureka Springs and Rogers, said. “Twisted Taco, Gotahold Brewery, Arsenic and Old Lace Bed & Breakfast Inn, Ozark Mountain Ziplines, Three Birds Café and Fresh Harvest all won awards. This says a lot about these businesses because it’s a nomination process, and then these businesses are voted on by residents of NWA.”
Fresh Harvest won Best Specialty Shop in NWA for the third year in a row and Best Place to Buy a Gift for the 2nd year in a row. Fresh Harvest is a premier provider of ultra-premium extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars and gourmet goods. Founded by Johnson and Steve Ketchersid in October 2012, Johnson said their company embodies a commitment to quality, authenticity and sustainability.
“At Fresh Harvest, we believe in the power of pure, authentic food,” Johnson said. “Our stringent sourcing criteria ensure that we only offer products that meet our high standards for quality, taste and nutritional value. We are committed to sustainability and ethical practices partnering with suppliers who share our vision for a healthier planet and community. Our knowledgeable staff educate visitors on the nuances of our oils and vinegars, offering tastings and recommendations tailored to individual preferences. Beyond our physical locations, we maintain a robust online presence, offering our products through our website alongside resources such as recipes, tips, and pairing guides. We also actively participate in community events and initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to health, wellness, and culinary education.”
Arsenic and Old Lace Bed & Breakfast Inn won three awards: Gold for Bed and Breakfast, Silver for Romantic Getaway and Bronze for Hotel and Lodging. Innkeepers Rob and Brenda Fryman operate the historic establishment on Hillside.
“It is the attention to detail that separates us from other lodging options,” Rob said. “Our Old-World Victorian style having a mix of modern decor and amenities sets us apart. We offer unique three-course breakfasts daily along with afternoon treats with additional special touches upon arrival that our guests love.”
Gotahold Brewing, owned by Dave and Wendy Reese Hartmann, won a Silver in Best Brewery and Silver in Best Beer Selection. The couple has a vision to have share-worthy beer and positively memorable experiences while doing good for the planet, its people and our community.
“We strive to have a diverse portfolio of beers along with a cider and kombucha made in-house,” Wendy said. “For those who are unfamiliar with the styles we offer, our team is trained to educate and assist in finding just the right drink. Whenever we can, we like to greet people at the door and let them know where all the essential elements of the building are located. We are not only team members of Gotahold, we’re ambassadors for Eureka Springs, NWA and Arkansas breweries. We love helping people craft a great experience while visiting Eureka Springs.”
Wendy said collaboration with other businesses and local nonprofits is their focus. They donate one percent of profits to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Carroll County, People Helping People and CCRiders. They support local artists by hosting 10-12 exhibits a year, and local music with a minimum of 60 shows a year with the majority performing their own music.
The outdoor beer forest is very popular.
“Nobody expects to see what they do when they walk out the taproom doors for the first time,” Wendy said. “Honestly, even after almost four years of operation, Dave and I are still wowed by the space. This year, we created a special space for children, dedicated level three of the beer forest to ages 16 and up, and added more games. We have live music every Saturday in the beer forest (weather permitting) from March through October. Even though we have music in the taproom in colder months or during inclement weather, it’s not quite the same. We’ve heard many times people say how much they love the beer forest, how relaxing and beautiful it is, and we agree.”
It is noteworthy that both Gotahold Brewery and the Twisted Taco, that received an award for best taco and is on the same premises, weren’t competing just with other local businesses. Gotahold was competing against at least 16 other breweries and all but one are located in areas with much larger populations.
Ozark Mountain Ziplines won a Gold for Best Outdoor Adventure and a Bronze for Best Family Attraction. Owners Robert and Joanna Nickell opened up the business in 2013. Joseph Nickell and his fiancé, Michaela Heintz, began managing the operation in 2022.
“We are the highest rated zipline tour in Arkansas with over 3000 five-star reviews across Google and Trip Advisor,” Joseph said. “We focus on perfecting the customer experience from the moment they call us to book to the moment they’re ziplining through the trees. Customer service and safety are a priority. Pair this with an exhilarating experience through the Ozarks with friendly tour guides and it is a recipe for the ultimate outdoor adventure. Our customers are fantastic and were very supportive during the voting process. We are very appreciative of their support. Many return every year to zipline with us.”
Joseph said Eureka Springs’ beauty can be seen in many ways, but they provide a thrilling and accessible approach to see the forest canopy, limestone cliffs, and panoramic views. It is similar to the NWA mountain biking experience, but without the physical exertion and niche skill set required to participate.
“The course is inspected daily and is designed from years of experience in the adventure course field,” Joseph said.
For 10 years, the business operated out of the building across from the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks. They are now located on Hwy. 187 close to the KOA campground.
“The advantage is that we are better located geographically to provide an enhanced zipline experience,” Joseph said. “The steep topography of our 66-acre property offers over 300 feet of vertical drop for 10 thrilling ziplines. The peak elevation of 1,470 feet has an amazing view to the west overlooking the White River Basin where it exits Beaver Lake. Sunsets are beautiful from the zipline.”
There is also a two-mile trail that allows for great zipline observation as well as other scenic views. The larger property also enabled them to add electric mountain bike rentals and offer gem mining.
Another local winner was Three Birds Café. The establishment on Highway 62 specializes in fresh, local and seasonal food and a delicious selection of fresh baked goods. It has both inside and outside dining.