The earliest settlement of present-day Siloam Springs occurred in 1835 by Simon Sager. The 28 springs located along the local creek were named "Sager Creek" in his honor. In 1879, it was discovered that the local waters contained medicinal value, which led to the establishment of a summer resort in the area. In 1880, the plat for "Siloam City" was laid out and the town was incorporated in 1881 (as "Siloam Springs"). John Brown University was founded in Siloam Springs in 1919.
Siloam Springs maintains a variety of attractions including: