Things To Do
in Conway
Conway is a growing city in Faulkner County, Arkansas, just north of Little Rock. It is home to the University of Central Arkansas, which gives the town a lively, student-friendly energy alongside family-oriented neighborhoods. The downtown area features brick storefronts, local shops, and welcoming cafés that invite strolls along tree-lined streets.
Surrounded by lakes and greenways, Conway serves as a convenient base for exploring central Arkansas while retaining a small-town charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area of Conway, where charming boutiques and coffee shops await. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee at a local café while soaking in the morning atmosphere. Don't forget to explore the Conway Mural Project, which showcases stunning artworks that narrate the town's rich history.
After lunch at a quaint bistro, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic pathways of the Arkansas River. Visit the Faulkner County Museum to get a glimpse into the area's history through engaging exhibits. Capture beautiful photos of the historic buildings that line the streets, reflecting the town's architectural charm.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to indulge in some delicious Southern cuisine. Enjoy live music at one of the nearby venues, where talented local artists perform in a cozy atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk by the river, watching the reflections of the lights on the water.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk around Beaverfork Lake, where the serene environment sets a peaceful tone. The early morning light creates a magical atmosphere as you enjoy the sounds of nature and the sight of birds awakening. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy as you take in the scenic views of the water.
After your nature walk, spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake, experiencing the beauty of the surroundings from a different perspective. Alternatively, relax on the beach area, soaking up the sun and enjoying a good book. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing in the well-stocked waters.
As the day winds down, gather around a fire pit at one of the lakeside campsites for a cozy evening. Roast marshmallows and share stories with friends or family, under a blanket of stars. The tranquil atmosphere of Beaverfork Lake provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two | $25-50 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, small-town atmosphere with university energy
- Access to lakes, parks, and nature for easy weekend trips
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Greater reliance on driving for many destinations around the area
Places to Visit in Conway
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red-brick campus building with classic architecture and green lawns, ideal for long-exposure shots at dusk.
Colorful storefronts, brick streets, and vintage signage provide charming urban backdrops for street photography.
Waterfront views at sunrise or sunset with reflections and birds in flight; a tranquil spot for landscape photos.
Historic trails along the Cadron River with natural scenery and seasonal wildlife accents for nature photography.
Scenic river views and forested trails offering varied angles for nature and travel photography.
Food in Conway
Conway Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Golden-fried catfish served with fries, hush puppies, and tartar sauce; a river-town staple often found in local diners.
Must-Try!
Smoky pulled pork on a bun with slaw and BBQ sauce; a common crowd-pleaser at casual eateries.
Comfort-food chicken stew with soft dumplings, a Southern classic found on many comfort-food menus.
Crispy green tomato slices with a tangy remoulade; a popular starter or side in Southern cafés.
Fluffy biscuits topped with sausage gravy, a quintessential Arkansas breakfast staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in downtown Conway offering fresh produce, baked goods, jams, and homemade snacks on market days.
Seasonal food trucks and pop-up vendors near campus and downtown streets offering quick bites and diverse flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite, greet people with a friendly hello, and say please and thank you. Small-town friendliness is appreciated in Conway.
Safety
Tipping in Conway
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% is customary before tax. For personal service or delivery, similar tipping is appreciated. Some fast-casual spots may not expect tips, but leaving some change or rounding up is common practice.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments. Cash is widely accepted, and many venues support contactless payments; always have a card or cash as backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms possible. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening hours.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage—great for outdoor walks and photography. Expect some rainy days but generally comfortable.
Mild to cool temperatures with occasional cold snaps. Snow is uncommon but possible; layering is recommended.
Moderate temps with chance of storms. Blooming trees and flowers create excellent outdoor photography opportunities.
Conway at Night
Hiking in Conway
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive away with scenic overlooks, forested trails, and varying levels of hiking difficulty.
Accessible trails near Conway offering easy to moderate hikes with river views and wildlife opportunities.
Outside Conway but within a reasonable day trip; features several hiking trails and a prominent summit overlook.
Airports
How to reach Conway by plane.
The closest major airport offering domestic flights; about a 35–45 minute drive from Conway depending on traffic.
A secondary option farther west, with limited domestic routes and a longer drive from Conway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A university town presence with a sizable student population from the University of Central Arkansas, balanced by local families and long-time residents.
Conway hosts a primarily White population with growing African American and Hispanic communities, reflecting the university’s diverse student body and regional demographics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Highly popular at high schools and college level (notably UCA Bears), with community events and game days weaving into local culture.
A staple in schools and recreational leagues; community gyms host games and pickup play.
Local leagues and school teams are active in spring, with parks offering facilities for casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Conway.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Conway eateries offer veggie burgers, salads, veggie entrees, and sides. When dining out, ask about sauces and cross-contamination, and consider vegetarian-friendly cafés in downtown areas.