Conway, Arkansas is a fantastic family-friendly destination located just 30 miles northwest of Little Rock. With attractions that cater to all ages, there is plenty to see and do in Conway that will keep everyone entertained. From unique museums and parks to fun activities on the water, Conway offers a variety of family-friendly options. Here are 10 top things to do with family in Conway, Arkansas.
Nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River, Conway is a charming Southern city with a historic downtown and natural wonders just waiting to be explored. Home to over 60,000 residents, Conway has a welcoming small-town vibe with a diverse selection of attractions, parks, and events perfect for families. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just spending quality time together, Conway delivers memorable experiences the whole family can enjoy. Read on for our top picks of family-friendly activities in this hidden Arkansas gem.
Visit the Conway Corp Park and Splash Valley Water Park
Combine fun in the sun with fascinating history at Conway Corp Park. Sprawling over 250 acres alongside the Arkansas River, this gorgeous park offers something for everyone. Explore 1.5 miles of trails winding through forests and wetlands, spotting native plants and wildlife. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from the concession stand and glide down the calm river waters. But the main attraction is Splash Valley Water Park, home to 15 water slides, a lazy river, spraygrounds, and more. Curl down twisting tube slides, get drenched on body slides, or simply relax in the current of the river. With its abundance of activities, this park is a sure bet to keep kids entertained all day long.
For those wanting to learn more about Conway’s origins, check out the Mollie Stevens Wetlands Education Center near the park entrance. Interactive exhibits highlight the local environment and animals while teaching about conservation. It’s a fun way for families to discover Arkansas ecology. Afterwards, picnic at one of the many covered pavilions dotting the park grounds. With so much to explore both on land and in the water, Conway Corp Park is undoubtedly one of the top places for families to spend the day.
Go to the Riley-Hickingbotham Library and Nature Center
Located within scenic Riverfront Park, the Riley-Hickingbotham Library and Nature Center is an educational oasis. Wander the library’s three floors filled with books, computers, and an activities room—perfect for passing a rainy day indoors. Then head outside to the adjacent nature center and 22-acre wildlife preserve. Over a mile of trails wind through forests and wetlands alive with native birds, butterflies, frogs and more. Follow educational signage to spot wildlife and learn about the diverse plant species that call this place home. Families can also participate in the various educational programs held at the nature center, from stargazing parties to ecology lessons.
A special feature is the boardwalk winding its way over a cypress swamp. Impressive bald cypress trees tower over still waters teaming with aquatic life just below. It’s a rare chance to experience the natural wonders of an Arkansas swamp up close. Families will marvel at the unique ecosystem while enjoying a leisurely stroll. Afterwards, relax in Riverfront Park’s enormous grassy areas perfect for picnicking or tossing around a frisbee. With its blend of nature, learning and recreation, the Riley-Hickingbotham Library and Nature Center provides families a memorable way to spend an afternoon in Conway.
Check Out the Old Conway Town House Museum
Step back in time at the Old Conway Town House Museum, located in a historic 1868 building in the heart of downtown. Gaze upon exhibits documenting Conway’s early Native American settlements and rise as a prosperous cotton trade town. Artifacts, photos and interactive displays bring the city’s colorful past alive. Kids will be enthralled encountering what daily life was like long ago. Curiosity about bygone eras will be piqued throughout the self-guided tour. Adding to the appeal, the museum hosts special hands-on activities, from period dress-up sessions to craft workshops using materials from the 1860s.
On the adjacent grounds, families can explore the working blacksmith shop and gardens planted with heirloom varieties. Living history presenters demonstrate blacksmithing techniques using the same methods practiced over 150 years ago. Combining education and entertainment, the Old Conway Town House Museum provides a memorable way for families to bond while learning about Arkansas’ intriguing story. With its downtown location near shops, restaurants and public art, the museum also serves as a fine starting point for a full day of discovering Conway’s charms.
Visit the Hendrix College Campus
Nestled in a picturesque residential neighborhood, the Hendrix College campus is a scenic spot perfect for an afternoon stroll. Founded in 1876, the historic campus exudes a quaint collegiate charm enhanced by Spanish mission-style architecture. Wander among manicured lawns, flower gardens and century-old oak trees while taking in noteworthy structures like Hulen Hall and the Fausett Building. Kids will enjoy spotting the resident peacocks strutting their extravagant plumage. Along the way, stop to picnic in Hendrix Park before exploring the campus’ cultural offerings.
In addition to its natural beauty and architecture, the Hendrix College campus is renowned for its innovative arts programming. Families can catch student and professional performances at the magnificent Horace Jones Science Hall Theater. Wander galleries housing rotating exhibits by local and international artists. Throughout the school year, various concerts, plays, festivals and more take place—ensuring something culturally enriching is always happening. By wandering the Hendrix College campus, families experience history, nature and arts all in one scenic locale.
Visit Riverfront Park and Amphitheater
Located along the Arkansas River just north of downtown Conway, Riverfront Park is among the city’s premier recreational and cultural attractions. Spanning over 100 acres, this expansive greenspace boasts amenities for visitors of all ages. Kids will adore exploring the playgrounds, zip lining through trees on the aerial challenge course, or walking among sculptures in the public art garden. Meanwhile, the walking trails invite leisurely strolls beside rippling waters. In warmer months, the park hosts outdoor movie nights, concerts and more.
But the true crown jewel is the 2,600-seat Riverfront Amphitheater. Perched riverside with Conway’s scenic skyline towering behind, this impressive outdoor venue stages a diverse lineup throughout the year. Families can enjoy major concerts, theatrical performances and classic films under the stars. Alternatively, the amphitheater serves as the perfect backdrop for community events like festivals and farmers markets. Between its natural scenery and wealth of activities, Riverfront Park is undoubtedly one of Conway’s most beloved family destinations.
Check Out the Riley Jazz Fest
Held annually in mid-April, the Riley Jazz Fest ushers in springtime with three days of world-class jazz performances. Named after native son and legendary musician Sunny Riley, the festival animates downtown Conway with live music, local artisans and revelry. Stroll among food trucks, craft vendors and activity booths lining Oak and Main Streets. Then catch award-winning jazz, blues, zydeco and Americana artists taking the stages. Past headliners include Gary Clark Jr., Boz Scaggs and Maceo Parker.
The festival delights all ages with family-friendly activities like instrument petting zoos, a youth jazz combo contest and more. And admission couldn’t be more affordable—just $10 for a full-access weekend badge. With its lively atmosphere and abundant entertainment options, the Riley Jazz Fest packs a big cultural punch given its small-town setting. Partake in the music, shopping and Southern hospitality for a memorable spring excursion easy on family budgets. By day’s end, all will have discovering the soulful side of Conway—and walk away foot-tappin’ for more!
Go Kayaking or Canoeing on the Arkansas River
To fully appreciate the scenic beauty of natural Arkansas, float Conway’s waterways. One of the top ways for families to experience the great outdoors is by renting kayaks or canoes from various spots along the Arkansas River. Conway Corp Park or Rainbow Paddle Sport Rentals offer equipment rental and shuttle services needed for self-guided trips. Paddle a few miles down the serene river, taking in verdant forest scenery and spotting birds and reptiles basking along shorelines. It’s a gentle way to bond with nature that both children and adults can enjoy side by side.
For a guided experience, book an excursion with Rainbow Paddle. Affable guides lead customisable tours ranging from mellow scenic paddles to adventure-filled family trips involving hikes and nature exploration. Alternatively, half-day trips set out from Devil’s Fork State Park—ideal for spotting the park’s scenic bluffs and waterfalls from the river. Paddling the lower Arkansas offers a refreshing respite from technology and an appreciation for Conway’s unspoiled ecosystems, rewarding family time together in truthfully beautiful surroundings.
Visit the Faulkner Performing Arts Center
Located on the University of Central Arkansas campus, the acclaimed Faulkner Performing Arts Center is a premier venue for live performances. Throughout the year, the 1,200-seat theater showcases Broadway musicals, dramas, concerts, dance productions and more. Past touring shows include Blue Man Group, Celtic Woman and Stomp. With many sittings appropriate for families, it’s a chance to introduce kids to cultural events in an accessible way. Show dates and child-friendly performances are posted well in advance, allowing planning around school schedules.
Before or after the show, picnic on the university’s lush grounds. Work up an appetite first by exploring UCA’s on-campus trails winding past ponds and greenery. For theatergoers of all ages, a night at the Faulkner PAC forms lasting memories and instills early appreciation for the arts at this premier Conway venue.
Visit Devil’s Den State Park
Occupying over 8,000 acres just 20 minutes west of Conway, Devil’s Den State Park contains some of Arkansas’ most magnificent scenery. For families seeking an immersive nature experience, the park delivers with an abundance of outdoor pursuits. Hike over 20 miles of trails winding among limestone bluffs and ravines, spotting native wildflowers and trees. Less strenuous routes lead to scenic overlooks offering eagle’s-eye views of the forested parklands below. Another popular activity is swimming, fishing or canoeing at one of three crystalline spring-fed lakes—perfect for picnicking too.
History and ecology buffs can learn more at the nature center, home to hands-on exhibits explaining the unique karst topography sculpting Devil’s Den. Guided cave tours are available for adventurous families, providing a rare glimpse underground into this unique geology. With its wealth of forest, waters and outdoor adventures, Devil’s Den delivers an unforgettable family nature immersion amid some of Arkansas’ most staggering landscapes.
Conclusion
Whether you’re interested in culture, history, nature or just family fun, Conway, Arkansas packs an abundance of memorable activities for all ages. From unique museums and vibrant festivals to scenic parks and outdoor adventures on the water, this Central Arkansas destination always has something new to discover.
With attractions catering to diverse interests, it’s easy for families to craft full days of bonding over shared experiences they’ll cherish for years to come. By putting these top 10 choices into your itinerary, you’re sure to make everlasting memories during your family trip to beautiful Conway.