Perched on the crest of West Mountain above the Victorian village, the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa is Eureka Springs’ most storied landmark — a grand stone hotel famous both for its old-world elegance and for its reputation as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.” Whether you come for the history, the ghost tours, the mountaintop views, or a stay, the Crescent is a can’t-miss piece of Eureka Springs.
A Storied History
Built in 1886 of native limestone in a mix of French Renaissance and Richardsonian Romanesque styles, the Crescent opened as a luxury resort in the golden age of Eureka Springs’ healing-springs tourism. Its later chapters are the stuff of legend — including a notorious 1930s stint as a fraudulent “cancer-curing” hospital run by con man Norman Baker — which fuels the hotel’s enduring ghost stories. Beautifully restored, it’s now both a working historic hotel and one of the region’s top attractions.
Ghost Tours & Things to Do
- Ghost tours — the hotel’s famous nightly tours explore its haunted history and are among the most popular experiences in Eureka Springs (reservations recommended).
- Views & grounds — the mountaintop setting offers sweeping Ozark views; the gardens and historic lobby are worth a wander even if you’re not staying.
- Dining & spa — there’s a rooftop restaurant/bar and a full spa on site (see the official site for current hours and menus).
- Weddings & events — a popular venue for weddings and special occasions.
For room reservations, tour tickets, dining hours, and event booking, see the official Crescent Hotel website. For more places to eat and drink around Eureka Springs, browse NWA Food and NWA Brew.
Good to Know
- Getting there: The hotel runs along the Eureka Springs trolley route, and there’s on-site parking — handy given the town’s steep, winding streets.
- Best for: History and architecture fans, ghost-tour thrill-seekers, couples, and anyone wanting a great view of town.
- Even if you don’t stay: The lobby, grounds, tours, and rooftop are open to visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Crescent Hotel called haunted?
The 1886 Crescent Hotel is widely billed as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” a reputation rooted in its dramatic history — including a 1930s period as a fraudulent cancer hospital. It runs popular nightly ghost tours.
Can you visit the Crescent Hotel without staying there?
Yes. The lobby, grounds, ghost tours, spa, and rooftop restaurant/bar are open to visitors, not just overnight guests.
How old is the Crescent Hotel?
It opened in 1886 and is built of native limestone in French Renaissance and Richardsonian Romanesque styles, high on West Mountain above Eureka Springs.
Location & Directions
- Address: 75 Prospect Ave, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
- Official site: crescent-hotel.com
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