Known as the City of Colleges — or the City of Roundabouts, depending on how one looks at it — Conway offers much to do in a wholesome, family-friendly environment. Not only do the city’s three colleges provide endless opportunities for engagement, but Conway also has a thriving parks department and plenty of fun local businesses dedicated to unique goods or entertainment offerings. Read on to discover just how much there is to do.
Action Jack’s Family Fun & Entertainment
There are all kinds of fun activities at Action Jack’s Family Fun & Entertainment, Conway’s largest arcade. In addition to more than 50 different arcade games, the establishment offers laser tag and Gel Blaster miniature paintball. Children 5 and older can participate in the escape room, although visitors younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and those older than 16 can participate in axe-throwing.
Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre
Arkansas’ only Shakespeare company, Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre, is based in Conway and originally performed at the University of Central Arkansas, although now patrons can attend shows and events at various locations across the city. The company was founded in 2006 and was known for producing the Arkansas Shakespeare Festival during the summer. While the number of productions has dwindled, the company still performs occasionally.
Baum Gallery of Fine Art
Situated on the University of Central Arkansas campus, the Baum Gallery of Fine Art is an educational art museum that hosts national and international touring exhibitions, juried student shows, and other exhibits that facilitate the exploration of visual art. The gallery is open to the community, as well as students and faculty. Check the gallery website frequently for information about the latest exhibits.
Beaverfork Lake Park
Take a dip at Beaverfork Lake Park, which was originally created in 1956 as a source of drinking water but today exists primarily for recreational purposes. Popular among anglers and boaters, the lake offers a swim beach, a sand volleyball court, a disc golf course and a playground, along with a baseball field, picnic tables and pavilions. The lake is also home to the historic Springfield-Des Arc Bridge.
Action Jack’s Family Fun & Entertainment
Bell Urban Farm
A Certified Naturally Grown farm, Bell Urban Farm grows plants and flowers using organic, sustainable methods. Folks can stock up on all manner of locally sourced groceries at The Farmstand, which offers seasonal produce; locally produced meat, honey, cheese and eggs; and crafts made by local artisans. Sign up for the seasonal farm box program to get fresh fruits and veggies by subscription.
Cadron Settlement Park
Adventure through history at Cadron Settlement Park. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the area witnessed the Trail of Tears during the 1830s, served as a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route during the 1850s and was a Confederate base during the early years of the Civil War. Visitors can see the Cadron Blockhouse, a replica of a late 18th-century gathering space, and explore a dense system of trails.
Central Arkansas Collective Gallery
Thirteen artists make up the 13 voices at Central Arkansas Collective Gallery. Offering a wide range of artwork, from paintings and mixed media to sculpture and more, the gallery is free and open to the public every day except Sunday. With new exhibits introduced monthly, there is always something new to see, and the gallery often features guest artists who bring a new perspective to the core group.
Cinemark Towne Centre and XD
Fancy a movie? Cinemark Town Centre and XD has all the comforts film fans expect and shows the latest and greatest blockbuster hits. The theater is conveniently located near several restaurants, so there are lots of options for places to dine before or after the movie, and being in a shopping center provides an ideal opportunity to squeeze in some browsing before the show starts.
Climb Conway
Geared toward both new and experienced climbers, Climb Conway is a modern bouldering gym that seeks to ignite a lifelong interest in climbing. Offering 4,000 square feet of Walltopia climbing walls and the latest training and exercise equipment, including an LED-illuminated tension board, every aspect of the facility is designed to promote a fun climbing experience. The establishment also offers youth programming and is available for birthday parties.
Conway Community Center
One of the coolest places to swim in Conway, Conway Community Center offers an outdoor aquatic center with a children’s play area, water slides, a lazy river and more. There is also an indoor competition pool and indoor leisure pool, as well as volleyball courts, pickleball courts and a fitness center. The facility boasts a generous concessions menu, along with an on-site cafe, and the center offers swim classes for all ages.
Conway Community Center | Credit: Conway Area Chamber of Commerce
Conway’s PetSafe Dog Park
Even Fido has a place to play at Conway’s PetSafe Dog Park. Situated on Acorn Kid Loop behind Don Owens Sports Complex, the park provides plenty of space for dogs to burn off energy and interact with other canines in a safe, controlled environment. Open daily from dawn to dusk, the park offers a fun time for dogs 6 months and older who have a current rabies vaccination.
Conway Family Bowl
Slip on some slick shoes and boogie down to an alley at Conway Family Bowl. Open seven days a week, the facility offers 24 lanes with automatic scoring and bumper systems, as well as a family-friendly arcade. The establishment offers money-saving specials throughout the week, and family glow time with glow lights from noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Bowlers can also participate in leagues and tournaments for every skill level.
Conway Public Library
First opened as a city library in 1935, Conway Public Library is now the headquarters of the Faulkner-Van Buren Regional Library System. In addition to books and resources, the library hosts a wide variety of fun events for all ages and interests. Just a few of the many activities include yoga, tai chi, zen coloring for adults and yarnaholics. There are also art shows, story time for kiddoes, community support groups and more.
Conway Symphony Orchestra
Founded during the early 1980s, the Conway Symphony Orchestra works to provide inspired classical music experiences to central Arkansas through performances and education. Originally a joint project of Hendrix College and the University of Central Arkansas, the organization offers a rich season of concerts, as well as music outreach such as CSO in the Classroom and CSO on the Go on-site performances.
Conway Tennis Center
Whether one is a seasoned tennis pro or a curious beginner, Conway Tennis Center provides an enjoyable experience to all practitioners of the sport. With eight outdoor courts and a tennis shop, the facility offers private, semi-private and group lessons, a wide range of junior classes and camps, and adult leagues for those hoping to take their game to the next level. There is perhaps no better place to satisfy one’s craving for tennis.
Cycling Routes
There is no shortage of cycling opportunities in Conway. Popular community routes include the Stone Dam Creek Trail, Tucker Creek Trail (also known as the Kinley Trail) and Downtown-Old Town Route, and there are longer road routes for those looking for a lengthier ride. Mountain bikers can try out the Bunny Slope, Enders Fault in nearby Woolly Hollow State Park and the trail at Cadron Settlement Park. There are also a number of gravel routes.
Stoby’s Breakfast
Dining
Talk to most anyone about Conway, and they are sure to mention a favorite local restaurant, tested by time and seasoned with age. Those establishments include Mike’s Place, Stoby’s Restaurant, Bob’s Grill and several others. However, it seems there is always a new restaurant opening in the city. Those looking to try something new can check out El Fuego Mexican Grill, Chicago Flamin Grill or Rotolo’s Craft & Crust.
Faulkner County Museum
Housed in a historic 1896 jail, the Faulkner County Museum provides a window into local history and serves as a fantastic resource for those looking to research genealogy. The museum offers six major types of collections, including archival and documentary materials, art by county artists, a teaching collection, an image collection, a research and reference collection, and a collection of historic and prehistoric objects.
Faulkner County Saddle Club
Saddle up at the Faulkner County Saddle Club. The monthly membership meetings at Horse Power Equine Rehab & Fitness provide riders with a chance to connect with other horse enthusiasts and include open ride time. A member of the Arkansas Valley Horse Show Association, the saddle club also offers an opportunity to attend and participate in horse shows at the Perry County Fairgrounds in Perryville.
Fifth Avenue Park
The summer is all about splash pads, and families can find one of the best in Conway at Fifth Avenue Park. The park includes basketball and pickleball facilities, as well. There are also plenty of amenities, including pavilions, a large playground, restrooms, picnic tables and grills. The park was created in 1966, after the Halter family donated 10 acres of land near the newly completed Interstate 40 for the purpose.
Flashback Pinball Arcade
Offering the biggest and, by its own account, “most extraordinary” pinball arcade in Arkansas, Flashback Pinball Arcade is the place to be a pinball wizard in Conway. The collection of more than 50 vintage pinball games includes KISS, Star Trek, Spider-Man, Dolly Parton and Eight Ball. There are also more than 20 arcade games, including Pac-Man, Space Invaders and NBA Jam. The facility is available for birthday parties and private events.
Full Moon Records
Full Moon Records is more than a record store; it is a gathering place for all music lovers in Conway. Not only can visitors buy, sell and trade records, but the shop doubles as a music venue, providing a place for local and touring acts to play. The establishment’s mission is to “create a vibrant community hub where music lovers can connect, discover and celebrate sound in all its forms.”
Gibson’s Cat Cafe
The drinks are only part of the attraction at Gibson’s Cat Cafe, where fans of felines can bond with some sweet kitties while sipping on a cup of joe. The cats are adoptable — a plus for those looking to take home a new furry friend — but guests are welcome to simply relax and play with the animals. The cafe hosts a variety of special events that make for a fun time, from kitty yoga to kitty bingo.
Gibson’s Cat Café
Glazin Pottery Painting Studio
Itching to dig into some clay? Glazin Pottery Painting Studio invites visitors to unleash their creativity at the paint-your-own-pottery space. During open studio, groups of fewer than seven can select a piece and get painting with no appointment. The studio also offers pottery painting and clay parties, in addition to hosting a wide variety of classes for those who want to try their hand at the wheel.
Golf
There are plenty of places to golf in Conway. Conway Country Club provides 18 holes across 90 scenic acres, while Centennial Valley Country Club provides five different sets of tee areas and numerous other amenities. There is also Nutters Chapel Golf & Country Club, an 18-hole, championship golf course stretched across 131 acres, and Arkansas Golf Center, which provides club fittings, golf lessons and a driving range.
Gray Beard Forge
A nonprofit martial arts and fitness gym in Conway, Gray Beard Forge is so much more than a place to learn self-defense. The organization works to foster community by facilitating connections between veterans, first responders and supporters to overcome life’s challenges while becoming more physically, mentally and spiritually fit. Gray Beard Forge offers Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, mixed martial arts and fitness classes.
Kings Live Music
A rite of passage among members of the Arkansas music scene, playing at Kings Live Music is a signal that one has achieved at least some local renown, and first-time guests to the establishment quickly become regulars after they experience the stellar jams, top-notch bar and friendly atmosphere. In addition to drinks, the bar has a respectable food menu that includes pizza, Kings Wings and Southwest egg rolls.
Kinley Trail
The original walking/biking trail in Conway, Kinley Trail provides a scenic, paved trail of about 3 miles following Tucker Creek from Tyler Street to Hogan Lane. The trail is named for former Mayor Dave Kinley, who helped start the city’s trail system during the 1990s. Tucker Creek was named after Frank Tucker, a rural mail carrier, farmer and well-respected Faulkner County resident during the early 20th century.
Laurel Park
As one of Conway’s oldest parks, Laurel Park is a go-to destination for families seeking a day of fun. Stretching across 26 acres, the park offers plenty of green, open space and a 7/10-mile jogging track, but what really pleases the kiddoes is a well-appointed playground, splash pad and sound garden with musical instruments young visitors can play. Other amenities include picnic tables and grills, restrooms, and pavilions.
Longshot Lounge Golf Club
Love golf but hate the heat? Take a swing at Longshot Lounge Golf Club, which offers five Trackman simulator bays indoors. The establishment provides rental gear from brands such as Cleveland and Srixon, and there is soon to be a bar and grill, allowing patrons to grab a bite in between puts. Play by the hour, rent a bay for parties or events, or even hop on a tournament to take the game to the next level.
Maly’s Entertainment
There is lots of fun to be had at Maly’s Entertainment. The 57,000-square-foot facility offers bowling, hyper bowling, an arcade, laser tag and pool tables. There are also rooms that can be rented for parties and events. The sports grill serves up a tasty selection of burgers, wings, flatbreads, sandwiches and more, including the house specialty, Maly’s Jambalaya. Be sure to check out trivia night.
Kings Live Music | Credit: Kurt Jones Photography
Martin Luther King Jr. Square
Take a moment to honor one of the most prominent voices of the Civil Rights Movement and African American families who once lived and worked in the area at Martin Luther King Jr. Square. Built on a former scrapyard in what was once the local Black business district, the square plays an important role in flood control downtown and offers a peaceful retreat filled with plants, ponds and pathways.
McGee Center
Looking for a place to shoot some hoops or try a new skate trick? Maybe it is raining outside, and a walk on an indoor track is just what the doctor ordered. All that and more awaits visitors to McGee Center, situated in a former armory. Other amenities include volleyball and racquetball. The center is named after the late Joe B. McGee, a journalist and civic leader who helped organize the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.
Pages & Ink
The first bookstore in Arkansas dedicated to romance fiction, Pages & Ink is a must-visit for those who love love. In addition to the books — and a book box subscription for those who want to always have a new read on hand — Pages & Ink offers book-themed gifts, custom candles and a make-your-own-candle bar. There is also a book club and a number of signings, pop-ups, workshops and other events.
Pickles Gap Village
On the outskirts of Conway is a family tradition like no other. First opened in 1966 and reopened in 2021, Pickles Gap Village offers a collection of shops in a folksy atmosphere that both children and adults can enjoy. Offering goods ranging from coffee to clothing, shops include Doc’s Coffee & Creamery, The Rustic Jewel, Pickle Patch Trading Post, Arkansas Knife Shop, Bean’s Books and Gleam Art Gallery.
Red Curtain Theatre
For an engaging evening out, look no further than Red Curtain Theatre. The theater offers programs by children, teens and community members. In addition to a jam-packed lineup of fun performances, the theater offers a studio with group and individual classes for dance, acting, voice and more. Check out Y!kes Improv at Red Curtain Theater for a truly hilarious outing, or catch one of the Rendezvous cabaret shows.
Reynolds Performance Hall
Situated on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas, Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall hosts many noteworthy performances. Not only are there family-friendly plays and musicals, but the venue has also seen a number of memorable bands, musicians, stand-up comedians and more. The 1,200-seat, state-of-the-art theater first opened in 2000 with an appearance by Ray Charles.
Simon Park | Credit: City of Conway
Rogers Plaza
Welcoming visitors to historic downtown Conway, Rogers Plaza is known for its eye-catching fountain and archway. The plaza is the home of numerous community events, most notably Conway’s over-the-top Christmas display. Previously part of the Earl Rogers Co. NAPA auto parts store, the plaza opened in 2014 on land donated to the city by the Earl and Mary Louise Rogers family.
Roll & Play
Enjoy the best of all worlds at Roll & Play, a community hub that pairs handcrafted food and drinks with board games, card games and role play games. With a full schedule of tournaments, campaigns and other events, there is always something to do, whether for date night or a family night out. The menu is varied and includes such themed sandwiches as the Attack on Turkin, Gundam Grilled Cheese and Ham Solo.
Share the Love Kidsclub
Offering a 3,000-square-foot indoor playground and a selection of food and drinks — including Loblolly Ice Cream — Share the Love Kidsclub is a great place to be a kid. In addition to the play area, the establishment hosts birthday parties and offers a balloon bar and mascot rentals. Family memberships are available.
Shopping
There is no shortage of one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique stores and galleries in Conway. Jennifer’s Antiques is a local favorite for those hoping to find unusual goods, while America Jane Vintage is sure to offer a new outfit or three. Yours Truly Consignment has been one of Conway’s hottest shops for more than 25 years. Other boutique gems can be found just by taking a walk around the downtown area.
Simon Park
See one of the most photographed murals in Conway at Simon Park, home to the Grand Rising mural. The park, originally converted from a parking lot after a grocery store closing during the early 1990s, went unnamed until 2001, when it was named after the Simon family, which owned Simon’s Grocery & Bakery on Front Street for more than 50 years. The stage, Kris Allen Stage, was named after former Conway resident Kris Allen, who won “American Idol” in 2009.
Stone Dam Creek Trail
Stone Dam Creek Trail is a popular hiking and cycling trail that offers many scenic sites, including the namesake Stone Dam Creek, which runs from the University of Central Arkansas campus to Lake Conway. With trailheads at the campus and South German Lane, the trail offers a peaceful getaway that is somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of the city while providing an avenue for active transportation.
Toad Suck Adventure Park (outdoor mini golf)
TC’s Midtown Grill
One of the liveliest spots in Conway is TC’s Midtown Grill. Open throughout the week, the establishment is known for its food, drinks, pool tables and live music. Check out a variety of fun activities, from open mics to open jams, or catch a favorite local musician or touring artist. When it comes to food, the establishment is best known for its burgers, which come loaded with all the fixings and sizable patties.
Toad Suck Park
Take in striking views of the Arkansas River at Toad Suck Park. The unique name dates back to the early 1800s, when the water in the river would get very low, creating a “suck.” The spot was also a stop on the Trail of Tears and was once the site of a ferry and tavern. Today, the park offers nearly 50 well-appointed campsites with restrooms and showers, as well as a playground and a boat launch.
Toad Suck Adventure Park
Enjoy a timeless family pastime at Toad Suck Adventure Park. In addition to the Toad Suck Mini Golf outdoor course, the facility offers The Haunted Gold Rush Indoor Mini Golf, as well as gemstone mining with a dinosaur excavation station and geode break station. There is also a party room and The Railway Restaurant, which has an ample selection of quick bites. The facility is available to rent for fundraisers, family reunions and more.
UCA Bears
While Hendrix College and Central Baptist College each have athletic programs of their own, the University of Central Arkansas is the only one of the city’s three colleges to have a football program, and that brings in the Bears fans from near and far on game day. That is not to say that football is the only sport for which to don the purple and white, however. UCA is also known for baseball, softball and basketball.
Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park
Catch some air at Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park, which invites kids to jump, soar, race, climb and play as they navigate ball pits, tubes, trampolines, rock walls and other obstacles. Among the many experiences are a battle beam, dodgeball, bumper cars, a ropes course and the warrior course. Little ones are sure to get a good night’s sleep after a visit to Urban Air.
UCA Estes Stadium | Credit: Crafton Tull
Veterans Plaza
Honor those who have served at Veterans Plaza. Situated at Pompe Park, the plaza features a monument with flags from each military branch and for those missing in action or prisoners of war, as well as peaceful walking paths and seating areas for quiet reflection. Bisected by Tucker Creek, Pompe Park encompasses nearly 20 acres and offers a 1-mile bicycle flow trail on the west side of the creek.
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
When it comes time to watch the game, one of the best places to cheer on the team is Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux. Featuring big screens, cold beer and good food, the establishment is a popular watering hole that nearly always offers something to do. The Cajun-influenced menu includes wings, burgers, seafood and more. Check out bike night for a night of bike shows, bike washes, bike games, live DJ music, raffles and giveaways.
Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts
Situated at the University of Central Arkansas, the Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts provides visual arts, theater and music under one roof. In addition to housing an art gallery, creative quad and sculpture garden, the facility hosts events ranging from productions by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre and the Conway Symphony Orchestra to performances by the UCA music and theater departments.
Windgate Museum of Art
Providing a unique cultural experience at Hendrix College, Windgate Museum of Art offers a wide range of exhibitions, programs and experiential learning opportunities. Rotating exhibits reflect a wide array of content related not just to Hendrix but also to the broader central Arkansas community. In addition, the museum hosts a variety of free lectures and film screenings and is available for group and school tours.
Feature Photo Credit: Visit Conway
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