The history is rich in Arkansas. Many family businesses can trace their previous owners throughout the decades and see the up-kept tradition and added flair each new generation brings. The particular business we're looking at today had lost its original family owners, but the iconic motel has recently been brought back to life by the third generation. Let's look at the new face and old story of the Joy Motel.
Please note, Joy Motel has permanently closed.
The Joy Motel opened in 1929 as Eureka Springs' original motor motel.
Ray Freeman and later his son, Charles, were both mayors of Eureka Springs. In addition to holding office, Ray's other contributions included multiple recreational pursuits. He leased Lake Leatherwood, operated cabins on the White River, and opened Onyx Cave as an attraction.
Most interesting is his feud with Norman Baker (yes, the same Baker that killed his patients and currently haunts the Crescent Hotel). The Freeman family warned others to stay away from Baker's cancer "treatments." This infuriated Baker to the point of writing an open letter which was published in the local newspaper in 1939. In the letter, he accused Freeman of lacking integrity and damaging Eureka Springs' economy. Needless to say, the feud ended once Baker was found guilty for (some) of his crimes.
Besides being the second motel ever built in town, Joy also held the distinction of having the first and largest pool. It was the only pool available to the public as well as guests.
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Joy was recently brought back to the motel after the Freeman grandson, Tim, bought the motel in mid-2017.
Tim Freeman has an extensive background in hotel management and fond memories of growing up around Joy. The motel couldn't have a more fitting new owner.
The renovations of the motel's rooms are nearly complete but Tim isn't stopping there.
He wants the new image of the motel to be targeted towards any traveler interested in Eureka Springs' outdoor recreation. Besides being centrally located to the different local outdoor adventures (like the nearby zip line), the motel will soon have its own climbing wall.
Freeman also plans to utilize the family's 1910 homestead.
After Ray and Chloe had departed, the family house was only used for storage. Tim plans on renovating the house to be a gathering space for guests. Within the coming year, the revamped house should have food and bar services.
The Joy Motel is now back in business as the Wanderoo Lodge.
Although the motel has a new name and face, Tim is dedicated to preserving the nostalgia and history of the location. Folks will be reminded of their early stays at the Joy Motel as soon as they pull into the new Wanderoo and see the Joy's iconic neon sign still standing.
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Experience the new chapter for this beloved motel during your next trip to Eureka Springs.
I don't know about you, but I’m so excited about the holiday season. And it’s the most wonderful time of the year, ALL YEAR, at The Candy Cane Lane, a Christmas-themed Airbnb in Arkansas. That’s right! You can escape the real world and experience the magic of the Christmas season any time of year. All it takes is a visit to The Candy Cane Lane. Come with me to explore this adorable rental that will trigger the spirit of the season in the most magical way.
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You’ll have a holly jolly time when staying at The Candy Cane Lane in Prairie Grove.
Some might even say that there’s a tad too much décor – and that’s the point! It’s supposed to be delightfully tacky.
More specifically, it's made to look as if "your black-sheep uncle drank too much special eggnog and threw up vintage Christmas decorations all over this trailer."
The decorations aren’t the only features that help guests get into the holiday spirit, though. There’s also a typewriter for composing letters to Santa as well as a collection of classic Christmas movies and albums.
A stocking-adorned fireplace only adds to the seasonal vibes.
With a sofa that folds out into a full bed and two twin sofa beds, The Candy Cane Lane sleeps four guests.
It doesn’t have a bathroom or kitchen. However, both are just steps away, and that’s because The Candy Cane Lane Airbnb is part of Flamingo Springs, a 1950s Palm Springs-inspired trailer resort. The 50-acre wooded resort features six themed vintage travel trailers.
To learn more, including availability and rates, visit The Candy Cane Lane Airbnb listing. Just make sure you book early! This themed vacation rental is quite popular.
So, did you know about this themed Airbnb in Arkansas? Have you ever stayed overnight at this Christmas Airbnb in Arkansas? If so, what do you think? Let me know!
While staying at this Airstream Airbnb in Arkansas is just one of the many ways to enjoy the winter in our great state, there are dozens of other activities you don't want to miss. Check out this list featuring several of our favorite Arkansas winter activities.
An Arkansas escape can be whatever you need, whether it's an indulgent mansion slumber or a simple tent under the stars. If you've settled on a beautiful cabin in the woods, then this is the article for you. Soak in the views and feel restored by staying at one of these accommodations, which we think are easily the best cabins in Arkansas:
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Affordable Cabins in Arkansas
If you think finding a cabin in Arkansas that has all your wish list items is difficult -- or expensive -- you'll be pleased to discover the following accommodations. These affordable cabins in Arkansas offer wonderful experiences to fit any kind of budget.
The interior of this cabin is gorgeous, but we're pretty positive you'll be spending most of your time outdoors. The Cozy Cabin has a stunning deck that's perfect for family BBQ nights. Splash in the hot tub while plotting out your next excursion. The creek you can see from the hot tub connects to the Arkansas River and state parks like Mt. Nebo and Mt. Magazine are close by as well! Plan with your fam at this cozy cabin rental in Arkansas!
Located on Lake Hamilton near Hot Springs National Park, this cabin resort boasts numerous waterfront accommodations at shockingly affordable price points. Cabin #9, seen here, is a two-bedroom home that sleeps up to six and includes ample indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Your inner child will be thanking you after you book a stay at this awesome treehouse in Arkansas. After all, how often do you get to sleep in a treehouse as an adult? It’s hard to top this unique rental, that’s for sure. You’ll have beautiful treetop views from just about every room in the cabin, and down below, a fire pit with chairs is waiting for you to tell ghost stores and make s’mores.
Luxury Cabins in Arkansas
While we're all for saving a penny (or two) when planning a cabin getaway in Arkansas, sometimes, you want to go all in on a bucket-list kind of experience. Here are some luxury cabins in Arkansas you need to consider.
Natural beauty meets upscale modern comfort in this dog-friendly vacation rental cabin! Set on five wooded acres of hills with a stream, dog run, and fire pit, this 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath log cabin has everything you need! Unwind in the great room, game room, or out in the private hot tub after an exciting day of adventures. Nearby, Hot Springs National Park, Lake Hamilton, Garvan Woodland Gardens, and Ouachita National Forest offer unrivaled outdoor recreation.
Warning, you may never want to leave this luxury cabin in Eureka Springs once you settle in. From the Jacuzzi tub to the endless mountain views, this cabin is the stuff that dreams are made of.
When you want to enjoy the Ozark Mountains you may as well do it in style. This modern luxury cabin near Buffalo River is set on six private acres and is fully stocked with everything you'll need for a fantastic family vacation with plenty of posh extras to make you feel nice and pampered. The high-end amenities are nice, but the real treat is creating memories that last a lifetime - the gorgeous mountain views don't hurt either.
Romantic Cabins in Arkansas
Is there anything more romantic than a cozy cabin for two in the wilds of the Natural State? We sure don't think so! Here are some romantic cabins in Arkansas for a memorable getaway with your special person.
Size: This 1,088 sq. ft cabin has three bedrooms and one bathroom, and while it can accommodate up to six guests, we love it for a romantic couples' getaway!
Price: $208/night
Amenities: This secluded cabin boasts beautiful views and a private hot tub.
Surround yourself with nature by staying in the Lost Cabin at the Creek. The entire cabin is a gorgeous stay (for up to six) but the best view can be found from the hot tub. The cabin is a short stroll away from Lick Creek so your soak will include the serene green forest as well as the trickling current of the creek.
This historic log cabin was built in the 1920s and has been carefully restored to its glory days. The one-bedroom cabin is perfect for two people, and the lovely wrap-around deck gives you ample views of the lake. There’s even a boat ramp about 1/4 mile away if you want to bring your own boat to explore the lake.
https://www.vrbo.com/713458?dateless=true
Secluded Cabins in Arkansas
When you want to get away from it all in the wilds of the Natural State, you don't have to sacrifice comfort. Here are some secluded cabins in Arkansas sure to provide total R&R!
It's no secret that we have strong feelings about Jasper being the best tiny town in Arkansas but where do you decide to stay to find out? Try this secluded mountain cabin! The cabin comes with everything needed for a blissful weekend away: total seclusion, vast mountain views, a cozy outdoor hot tub, and comfortable amenities! Book for two or up to four at the Secluded Ozark Mountain Stay!
The Country Charm Cabins are a six-for-one inclusion. All six cabins have outdoor hot tubs but our favorite is at the Romance Log Cabin. With this cabin, you get the best of both worlds: an outdoor hot tub (and shower) with stunning forest views and a covered deck for extra protection against the elements! Peruse through the cabins to find the right fit for your next getaway.
You'll enjoy a beautiful woodsy getaway in this secluded glass cabin set on two private acres of woodland. It might feel like you are in the middle of nowhere but Eureka is only 10 minutes away for fun, food, and supplies. The four-season glass room is stunning with its massive walls of windows and skylights giving you a great view of the wildlife around you. It is our favorite spot to wake up with a cup of coffee or a steaming mug of hot cocoa. The cabin is beautifully appointed and set up just right for a relaxing getaway in Arkansas.
Cabins in Arkansas with Hot Tub
Soak up the good life when you stay in one of these cabins in Arkansas with a hot tub. Between the surrounding scenery and amazing amenities, you might never want to leave!
Nestled among a canopy of trees in the Ouachita Mountains and bordered by a creek, this romantic treehouse cabin is located only minutes from Bathhouse Row in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. You'll watch the sun come up over the mountain while rocking in your swing with a cup of coffee. At Sunrise Point Treehouse you’ll enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding mountains and a winter view of the creek, for a memorable and luxurious experience that's unrivaled.
There is something pretty special about this cozy river cabin that you'll notice as soon as you step into the warm and inviting interior. The rich wood and dreamy decor are perfectly set up for a romantic couple's getaway. If you enjoy hiking the Ozark, tubing down the Buffalo River, or simply hanging out in the hot tub gazing at the stars, this is one of the best cabin Airbnbs in Arkansas for rekindling a little romance.
This beautiful cabin in Hot Springs is perfect for anyone looking to unplug for a few days and enjoy the beautiful natural landscape. This cabin is tucked away within a nature preserve in the Ouachita Mountains, so you’ll feel a million miles away from everything. Of course, the cabin does have free WiFi, so you can still connect if you need to.
Which of these cozy cabins in Arkansas will be your next getaway? Share your favorites with us in the comments! And don't forget to tag your travel crew, too!
Once you've booked your ultimate getaway in one of the best cabins in Arkansas featured here, it's time to start planning your itinerary! Check out some of our favorite hiking trails in Arkansas, and be sure to peep our ultimate packing guide so you can be prepared.
