Conway, Arkansas is a charming city located just 30 miles northwest of Little Rock in the heart of the natural state. With a population of around 65,000, Conway offers visitors the best of small-town Southern hospitality alongside an array of activities to keep you entertained.
Whether you enjoy adventures in nature, learning about history and culture, or just exploring scenic riverfront areas, Conway has something for everyone. Here are 10 of the top things to do during your visit to this Arkansas gem.
1. Visit Hendrix College and Downtown Conway
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is a private liberal arts college that serves as one of the cultural centers of Conway. Wander the beautiful historic campus and check out some of the impressive academic buildings. Afterwards, head to downtown Conway just a few blocks away.
Stroll along the brick streets and check out local shops, galleries, and eateries. Make sure to stop in at the Faulkner Performing Arts Center for concerts, plays, and other performances. Spend an afternoon exploring this charming college town.
2. Canoe or Kayak the Faulkner Lake Park & Greenway
Take advantage of Conway’s natural beauty by paddling along the scenic shoreline of Faulkner Lake. Both canoes and kayaks can be rented at the park daily from March through November.
Paddle a relaxing 3-mile route and keep an eye out for wildlife like great blue herons, bald eagles, and beavers. The park also has trails for hiking, biking, and fishing. It’s a lovely way to spend a few hours enjoying the outdoors.
3. Check Out The Riley-Hickingbotham Library and CALS Historical Center
Learn about Conway’s cultural history at these two institutions. The Central Arkansas Library System’s main branch holds an impressive collection of materials chronicling the history of Faulkner County.
Meanwhile, the CALS Historical Center focuses specifically on Conway and contains artifacts, documents, photographs, and more. Both offer changing exhibits that bring local history to life. Spend an afternoon browsing their archives and exhibits to gain insights into Conway’s past.
4. Visit Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Covering over 2,800 acres just 10 miles from downtown Conway, Pinnacle Mountain State Park is one of Arkansas’ most beautiful natural areas. Hike several trails of varying difficulties that wind through dense forest up to spectacular overlooks with panoramic views.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for the half-mile trail to the top of Pinnacle Mountain itself. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views stretching for miles. The park is also popular for camping, picnicking, mountain biking, and scenic drives.
5. Check Out Conway’s Murals
Public art murals have popped up all over Conway in recent years, transforming walls into colorful outdoor galleries. Download a free self-guided walking tour map from the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce website and set out to discover these unique pieces of art.
Subjects range from historical scenes to landscapes to whimsical motifs. Some top murals to seek out include one celebrating Conway’s Bicycling Culture on Oak Street and Hendrix alumnus Johnny Cash on Front Street. With over 30 murals in all, it’s a creative way to explore the city.
6. Go Shopping Along Oak Street
Oak Street is the main commercial drag running through downtown Conway. Stroll along this bustling thoroughfare taking in the shops and eateries. Browse locally-owned boutiques for unique gifts, vintage furnishings, and clothing. Stop in jewelers, bookstores, and craft supply shops too.
Be sure to browse the weekly farmers market held along Oak Street from April to October for fresh produce, beauty products, baked goods, and more. It’s a downtown destination perfect for one-of-a-kind finds and people watching.
7. Visit The Conway Corps o
f Engineers Oaks and Orchard Museum
Learn about Conway’s timber history at this small but informative museum located in the Ouachita National Forest. Guided tours take visitors through the forest and processing mill, showcasing how timber was harvested and packaged in the early 20th century.
Interactive displays shed light on how the lumber industry transformed Conway’s economy. Afterwards, stroll through the arboretum featuring native oak trees, fruit trees, and wildflowers. It’s an educational excursion for those interested in Arkansas’ timber past.
8. Go Antiquing Along Phenix Avenue
East of downtown, Phenix Avenue is home to a stretch of antique stores just begging to be browsed. Wander in and out of shops filled with vintage finds like furniture, glassware, records, clothing, toys, and more. Many establishments also carry gifts, repurposed goods, and artwork by local artisans.
You never know what treasures you might uncover. Take your time exploring the offerings and imagining each item’s history. Then stop for lunch at a local diner for a taste of classic Southern home cooking.
9. Check Out The Faulkner Performing Arts Center
In addition to housing art galleries and hosting live performances, this lovely converted church serves as a community arts hub. Stop by to catch a play, musical, dance show, or concert, many featuring talent from Hendrix College.
Exhibits in the galleries also rotate regularly, so there is usually something new to see. Events are usually free or low cost, so it’s an affordable way to support and enjoy local arts. Be sure to check their online calendar of upcoming events.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Arkansas River
Any visit to Conway should include a leisurely drive along the Arkansas River. Head east from downtown on Maumelle Blvd which hugs the riverbank for scenic vistas. Take in views of the wide blue waters winding through forests and farmland.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring over the current as well as herons fishing in shallow eddies. Consider stopping to stroll trails at Riverfront Park before circling back towards the city. It’s a relaxing countryside cruise showcasing Conway’s natural beauty.
With its scenic natural areas, wealth of local arts and culture, and charming small-town atmosphere, Conway has plenty to keep visitors entertained. Be sure to leave time to dine at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants serving Southern specialties. Whether you spend a day or a weekend, Conway is the perfect low-key getaway for those looking to soak up Arkansas hospitality.