Table of Contents
Introduction to Conway, Arkansas (Conway Arkansas Travel Guide)
Conway, Arkansas, stands as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends small-town charm with big-city amenities. Known as the “City of Colleges,” this vibrant community of over 60,000 residents is located approximately 30 miles northwest of Little Rock along Interstate 40. Home to three prominent universities – the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College, and Central Baptist College – Conway has earned its reputation as one of the fastest-growing cities in Arkansas.
In Conway, visitors discover a place where history mingles with innovation and where the spirit of community intertwines with the excitement of exploration. The city offers an impressive array of activities, from outdoor adventures on pristine lakes to cultural experiences in world-class galleries and theaters.
Historical Significance of Conway Arkansas
Founding and Early Development
Conway’s history begins in the years following the Civil War when Asa P. Robinson, chief engineer for the Little Rock-Fort Smith Railroad (now Union Pacific), founded the city in 1871. Robinson received a square mile tract of land near the old settlement of Cadron as part of his compensation and laid out a town site around the railroad depot, naming it “Conway Station” in honor of a famous Arkansas family.
The city was officially incorporated in October 1875 as simply “Conway,” named for the Conway family that included Arkansas’s first elected governor, James Sevier Conway. Despite being founded as a railroad town, Conway’s growth was shaped by both transportation and education from its earliest days.
German Immigration and Cultural Influence
A significant chapter in Conway’s history involves Father Joseph Strub, a Roman Catholic priest who arrived in 1878 and convinced the railroad to deed 200,000 acres to establish the St. Joseph Colony. This land deal attracted German immigrants at 20 cents per acre, and by 1889, over 100 German families had settled in Conway, giving the town many of its distinctively German street and business names.
Civil War Heritage and Conway Area History
Regional Civil War Impact
While Conway itself was not founded until after the Civil War, the surrounding area saw significant military activity. By the dawn of the Civil War in 1861, the area around present-day Conway was divided in sentiment. Many locals joined the Confederate Tenth Arkansas Infantry, organized at Springfield and consisting mainly of farmers from Conway County (which then included present-day Faulkner County).
The unit was later reconstituted under Colonel Allen R. Witt as a guerrilla cavalry unit charged with breaking Federal occupation of Arkansas. Though the sparsely populated area saw guerrilla activity on both sides, no major battles were fought in the immediate Conway region due to its limited strategic importance.
Conway Confederate Monument
The Conway Confederate Monument, erected in 1925 by the Robert E. Lee Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, stands on the Faulkner County Courthouse grounds. This 16-foot obelisk honors the county’s men who served in the Confederate army and was dedicated on October 18, 1925, with a ceremony attended by a large audience.
Top Attractions in Conway Arkansas
Historic Downtown Conway
Downtown Conway serves as the heart of the city’s economy, where government, education, business, and entertainment intersect. This vibrant area features over 30 shops ranging from antique dealers to fashion outlets and jewelry stores. The downtown district offers award-winning restaurants, from hearty Italian cuisine to sizzling Mexican favorites.
Visitors can explore the charming mix of old and new businesses, including antique shops, high-fashion boutiques, and specialty stores. The area regularly hosts events including monthly Art Walks, seasonal farmers markets, and holiday celebrations.
University Campuses and Cultural Venues
The University of Central Arkansas campus offers multiple attractions for visitors, including the Baum Gallery, which features exhibitions by university and traveling artists. The Reynolds Performance Hall, a 1,200-seat venue, hosts UCA Public Appearances with Broadway-level plays, concerts, and speaker series throughout the year.792
Hendrix College contributes significantly to Conway’s cultural scene through Hendrix Special Events, offering free performances to the campus community and public. The college is also home to the Windgate Museum of Art, which brings 6-10 diverse exhibitions annually.
Faulkner County Museum
Located in the historic old jail, the Faulkner County Museum features Native American collections and early settler artifacts. This museum is featured on the Arkansas History and Heritage Trail, offering visitors insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Cadron Settlement Park
Cadron Settlement Park is a National Historic Site that includes a restored blockhouse, Cherokee Trail of Tears memorial, and interpretive signage. The park features hiking trails with historic markers and served as a Trail of Tears stopover in 1834 when several hundred Cherokee were stranded due to low water in the Arkansas River.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
Lake Conway
Lake Conway spans 6,700 acres and is the largest man-made Game and Fish Commission lake in the United States. This massive lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for bluegill, bream, largemouth bass, white bass, catfish, and crappie. The lake features several free public launch areas maintained by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, with boat rentals available at commercial docks.
Beaverfork Lake and Park
Beaverfork Lake provides excellent water recreation and fishing opportunities in a more intimate 960-acre setting. The park features a swimming area, picnic facilities with grills, two pavilions, a playground, and sanded volleyball courts. Additional amenities include a lighted softball field and boat launch ramp with user fees
Hiking and Nature Trails
Conway offers extensive bike and walking trails throughout the city, including road and gravel routes for all skill levels. Cadron Settlement Park provides miles of hiking trails with historic markers, while other parks throughout the city offer various outdoor recreational opportunities.
Hendrix Creek Reserve serves as both a flood control measure and public recreation area, featuring walking trails and boardwalks with stunning views of streams, wildlife, and native vegetation.
Toad Suck Park
Toad Suck Park, located on the Arkansas River at Toad Suck Lock and Dam, provides excellent boating, fishing, and camping opportunities with scenic river views. This Army Corps of Engineers facility features RV camping, picnic areas, pavilions, playgrounds, and ball fields.
Cultural Attractions and Events
Toad Suck Daze Festival
Toad Suck Daze is the largest family festival in Arkansas, taking place the first weekend of May in downtown Conway each year. This free, family-friendly festival is famous for the World Champion Toad Races, fried food on a stick, and live entertainment. The festival derives its name from local folklore about steamboat crews who would “suck on the bottle ’til they swell up like toads” while waiting for proper water levels.
Conway Symphony Orchestra and Performing Arts
The Conway Symphony Orchestra performs a full season of high-quality professional concerts, including a free outdoor community concert, holiday performances, and children’s concerts. The city also hosts the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre, the state’s only professional Shakespeare company, bringing performers from around the country.
Art Galleries and Museums
Art on the Green operates as a 3,000-square-foot gallery showcasing works by internationally acclaimed artists in every medium. The Baum Gallery at UCA serves as an educational art museum, developing exhibitions and events that encourage interaction and discussion about visual art.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Conway’s dining scene has experienced significant growth, with over 150 restaurants offering everything from cozy coffee shops to upscale cuisine. The city provides diverse culinary options including international delights, family-friendly fare, and award-winning establishments.
Highly Recommended Restaurants
Mike’s Place continues as one of Conway’s most beloved restaurants, known for consistency and quality dishes like the thin-cut, honey-soy pork chop with Parmesan spinach. Bulgogi Korean BBQ has quickly risen to the upper echelon of Conway eateries, specializing in noodle and rice bowls with excellent sweet and spicy chicken wings.
Stoby’s remains synonymous with Conway dining, featuring a huge menu with famous cheese dip and bacon cheeseburgers. Other notable establishments include PattiCakes Bakery for desserts and baked goods, Fresh Donuts for exceptional pastries, and Rubis Mexican Food for authentic tacos with house-made flour tortillas.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Popular dining spots mentioned by locals include Pasta Grill, Pho Huyen, Streetside Creperie, Hog Pen BBQ, and Tacos 4 Life. The local food scene offers everything from traditional Southern cooking to international cuisine, reflecting the city’s diverse population and college influence.
Accommodation Options
Conway provides over 1,200 hotel rooms to accommodate visitors with varying tastes and budgets. The city offers comprehensive lodging options from modern chain hotels to unique local establishments.
Modern Hotels and Motels
Major hotel chains serve Conway with locations throughout the city, providing standard amenities like free WiFi, breakfast options, and outdoor pools. Many hotels cater specifically to visiting families and university guests, offering convenient locations near campus and major attractions.
Bed and Breakfasts
While specific bed and breakfast options in Conway are limited, the area offers charming accommodations that provide more personalized service than traditional hotels. These establishments typically feature unique character and local hospitality.
Extended Stay and Budget Options
Conway accommodates long-term visitors and budget-conscious travelers with various extended stay facilities and economical lodging choices throughout the city.
Shopping and Antiques
Antique Shops and Vintage Finds
Jennifer’s Antiques stands out as Conway’s premier antique destination, featuring quality antiques, collectibles, and vintage items in historic downtown. Visitors describe it as having “nice quality and variety of antiques, including furniture” with items from different eras. The shop occupies a large space with furniture, dinette sets, clocks, beds, dressers, and unique decorative items.
America Jane Vintage specializes in retro clothing from 1890 to 1990, offering visitors a step into the past with authentic period garments. Touch of Heaven Antique Mall provides a diverse collection of vintage and antique items for exploration.
Downtown Shopping District
The downtown area features more than 30 unique shops varying from antique dealers to fashion outlets and jewelry stores. This shopping district perfectly balances old and new, with businesses ranging from vintage finds to contemporary boutiques.
Local Crafts and Artisan Goods
The downtown Conway Farmers & Crafts Market operates Saturdays from May through October, featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors. This market provides excellent opportunities to support the local community while finding unique, handmade items.
Transportation and Getting Around
Driving to Conway Arkansas
Conway’s location along Interstate 40, approximately 30 miles from Little Rock, makes it easily accessible by car. The city serves as a convenient stop for travelers moving between Little Rock and Fort Smith or other western Arkansas destinations.
Local Transportation Options
METRO Connect Conway provides microtransit service Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. This on-demand service costs $2 per ride per person and must be scheduled by calling 501-476-3761. The service boundaries closely mirror the city limits, providing comprehensive coverage for residents and visitors.
Conway Yellow Cab offers traditional taxi services throughout the city and surrounding areas. For longer distances, taxi service to Little Rock costs approximately $65-85 and takes about 32 minutes.
Accessibility Considerations
The Conway Transportation Department maintains approximately 365 miles of local roadways and 60 traffic signals. The department provides professional service to ensure safe, efficient transportation infrastructure for all residents and visitors.
Seasonal Considerations and Best Times to Visit
Spring in Conway
Spring represents an ideal time to visit Conway, with beautiful weather perfect for outdoor activities. The Toad Suck Daze festival in May provides the highlight of spring events, while pleasant temperatures make exploring lakes and parks particularly enjoyable.
Summer Activities and Considerations
Summer offers excellent opportunities for water sports, swimming, and fishing on Conway’s lakes. The longer days provide more time for outdoor exploration, though visitors should prepare for Arkansas’s warm, humid summer climate.
Fall Colors and Autumn Events
Fall brings beautiful foliage to Conway’s parks and natural areas, making it an excellent time for hiking and photography. The moderate temperatures create comfortable conditions for exploring downtown and attending cultural events.
Winter Visiting Opportunities
Winter provides quieter opportunities to explore Conway’s indoor attractions, museums, and cultural venues. The cooler weather offers comfortable conditions for walking downtown and visiting galleries, while holiday events add festive atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit to Conway Arkansas
Recommended Itineraries
Day One: Begin with breakfast at Fresh Donuts or PattiCakes Bakery, then explore historic downtown Conway and visit Jennifer’s Antiques. Lunch at Mike’s Place or Bulgogi Korean BBQ, followed by an afternoon at the Baum Gallery and University of Central Arkansas campus. End with dinner at one of downtown’s acclaimed restaurants.
Day Two: Start with outdoor activities at Lake Conway or Beaverfork Lake, including fishing, boating, or hiking. Visit Cadron Settlement Park for historical exploration and trail walking. Evening entertainment at Reynolds Performance Hall or Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre.
Day Three: Explore the Faulkner County Museum and Art on the Green gallery. Enjoy the downtown farmers market (if visiting on Saturday), then visit Hendrix College campus and Windgate Museum of Art.
Budget Considerations
Conway offers excellent value for visitors, with many free attractions including parks, hiking trails, and some cultural venues. Dining options span all price ranges, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Accommodation costs remain reasonable compared to larger metropolitan areas.
What to Pack and Bring
Visitors should pack according to season and planned activities. For outdoor adventures, bring comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing. Camera equipment is essential for capturing scenic lake views and historic downtown architecture. Fishing enthusiasts should verify licensing requirements and consider bringing their own equipment.
For additional trip planning resources and statewide Arkansas tourism information, visitors can access comprehensive guides and current event listings.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
Laurel Park serves as a hidden gem in downtown Conway, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River with paved walking and running paths. Pickles Gap Village, located just outside Conway, features cute shops and a fudge store that locals enthusiastically recommend.
The Hendrix Creek Reserve provides a peaceful escape with walking trails and boardwalks showcasing native wildlife and vegetation. This conservation area doubles as both flood control and recreational space, offering serene experiences away from busier attractions.
Local Traditions and Customs
Conway’s identity as the “City of Colleges” creates a unique cultural atmosphere where academic calendars influence community rhythms. The presence of three universities means the city experiences distinct seasonal changes with student populations, creating vibrant energy during academic years and quieter, more intimate atmospheres during breaks.
Monthly Art Walks represent a beloved local tradition, bringing together community members to explore galleries, meet artists, and enjoy downtown’s cultural offerings. These events embody Conway’s commitment to supporting local arts and fostering community connections.
Conclusion
The city’s strategic location, comprehensive attractions, and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for weekend getaways, extended vacations, or as a base for exploring central Arkansas.
Conway, Arkansas, offers visitors an exceptional blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that exemplifies the best of central Arkansas. From the expansive waters of Lake Conway to the intimate charm of historic downtown, this City of Colleges provides diverse experiences for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re drawn by outdoor adventures on pristine lakes, cultural enrichment at world-class galleries and theaters, or the simple pleasure of exploring antique shops and local eateries, Conway delivers authentic Arkansas hospitality with modern amenities. The city’s strategic location, comprehensive attractions, and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for weekend getaways, extended vacations, or as a base for exploring central Arkansas.
Plan your visit to Conway today and discover why this rapidly growing city continues to captivate visitors with its perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city opportunities. From the legendary Toad Suck Daze festival to quiet moments on scenic lake shores, Conway, Arkansas, promises memories that will last a lifetime.
