Conway Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and places to stay in Conway, Missouri with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Conway

Conway is a charming city located in Central Missouri, in the heartland of the United States. This small city has everything that a traveler would want - historical landmarks, breathtaking natural attractions, delightful food and drink scene, and warm locals.

In this travel guide to Conway, we will provide you with an exhaustive list of places to visit, things to do, and local customs so that you can make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Conway

Conway is a city that offers a broad range of experiences. Whether you are interested in history or outdoor adventures, you will find something that suits your interests in Conway. Here are some of the best attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Hubble Space Telescope Science Institute is one of the major highlights of Conway. The center offers visitors an immersive experience of space exploration and astronomy. Visitors can watch live demonstrations, attend workshops, and meet with experts in the field.

  • The Missouri State Capitol, located in Jefferson City, is a short drive away. The building is a magnificent piece of architecture that is worth exploring. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the state of Missouri.

  • The Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, located a few miles outside of the city, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This Civil War site has several trails and exhibits that showcase the war’s impact on the region.

Natural Attractions of Conway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Mark Twain National Forest is a beautiful natural attraction located outside of Conway. With its rolling hills and dense forests, it is an excellent place for hiking, fishing, and camping.

  • The Bennett Spring State Park is another notable natural attraction in the area. The park features several walking trails, horseback riding, and trout fishing opportunities.

  • The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. The area is also renowned for its limestone bluffs, caves, and clear springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Conway

Conway’s natural landscape offers several opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best trails in the region:

  • The Frisco Highline Trail is a 35-mile trail that runs from Bolivar to Springfield. The trail is used for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

  • The Ozark Trail is one of the most popular trails in the region. It is a 350-mile trail that runs through the Ozark Highlands of Missouri.

  • The Katy Trail State Park is a 237-mile trail that spans across Missouri. It is the ideal place for nature lovers who want to walk, bike, or jog.

Best Things to Do in Conway: Activities and Tours

Conway has several activities and tours that cater to a broad range of interests. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a guided tour of the Lake of the Ozarks. Visitors can take sightseeing cruises and explore the lake’s numerous coves and inlets.

  • Visit the Conway Amphitheater and check out the local arts and culture scene. The Amphitheater is home to music festivals, concerts, and theater performances.

  • Go fishing at Table Rock Lake. This beautiful lake offers several fishing opportunities for visitors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Conway

For visitors who are spending a week in Conway, here’s an itinerary to make the most of their trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Tour of the Missouri State Capitol
Day 2 Visit to Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Day 3 Hiking at the Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Day 4 Visit to the Hubble Space Telescope Science Institute
Day 5 Fishing at Table Rock Lake
Day 6 Biking on the Frisco Highline Trail
Day 7 Sightseeing Cruise on Lake of the Ozarks and visiting the Conway Amphitheater

Food and Drink Scene of Conway

Conway has a thriving food and drink scene, featuring both local and international cuisines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork steak - Missouri’s signature dish. It is a thick-cut pork loin that is grilled or fried to perfection.

  • Gooey butter cake - A sweet cake that originated in St. Louis. It is made with cream cheese, butter, and sugar, resulting in a gooey and buttery texture.

  • BBQ - Missouri’s BBQ is something that you should not miss out. St. Louis-style BBQ is famous, especially for its ribs.

Local Beverages

  • Missouri wine - The state has several wineries that produce excellent wine. The Augusta Wine Country has some of the most significant vineyards in the region.

  • Beer - Missouri is also well known for its craft beer scene. Some of the popular breweries include Boulevard Brewing Company, Urban Chestnut Brewing Company, and the Schlafly Beer.

Where to Stay in Conway: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Conway has several accommodation options for visitors. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious stay, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best options in the city:

  • Hampton Inn Conway - A four-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities. The hotel is located near several popular attractions in the city.

  • Econo Lodge Conway - An affordable hotel near the city’s center. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.

  • Conway’s Airbnb Scene - The city has several beautiful Airbnb homes that are perfect for visitors looking for a more authentic experience.

What to Buy in Conway: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Conway has a thriving arts and crafts scene. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Missouri wine - The state’s wine industry is booming, and several vineyards offer a taste of their premium Missouri wine. You can buy a bottle of wine as a souvenir.

  • Missouri-made crafts - Many local artists sell their creations, including pottery, jewelry, and woodwork.

  • Local food products - You can take home some of Missouri’s most famous food products, like BBQ sauce, Gooey butter cake, or apple butter.

Local Culture and Customs of Conway

Conway is a friendly city that welcomes visitors with open arms. The people of this city are proud of their heritage and culture. Visitors are expected to respect the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Conway

The best time to visit Conway is from April to October. The weather during this period is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Winters in Conway can be harsh, with snow and freezing temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Conway

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

  • Enjoy the natural beauty and attractions of Conway.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the local environment.

  • Disrespect or insult locals.

  • Ignore safety guidelines when hiking or visiting natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Conway

Conway is an extremely safe city with a low crime rate. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions and not leave any valuable items unattended.

Health in Conway

Conway has several healthcare facilities that offer medical attention to visitors. Visitors must take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites during certain times of the year.

Getting to Conway: Transportation Options and Logistics

Conway is well connected to several airports, bus stations, and highways. Here are some transportation options for visitors:

Airports Near Conway

  • Springfield-Branson National Airport - 34 miles from Conway.

  • Lambert-St. Louis International Airport - 153 miles from Conway.

Bus Stations Near Conway

  • Greyhound bus station - Located in Springfield, MO - 30 miles from Conway.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - Car rental is available in most airports and cities near Conway.

How to Get Around in Conway

The best way to get around Conway is by car. Visitors can also rent bicycles or take public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Conway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Conway is located near many popular destinations in Missouri. Here are some nearby excursions:

  • Springfield, MO - Thirty miles west of Conway, Springfield offers several exciting attractions like the Fantastic Caverns and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum.

  • Lake of the Ozarks - Lake of the Ozarks is a massive man-made lake that’s only a short drive from Conway. The lake has several coves and inlets for visitors to explore.

Conclusion

Conway is a charming city with a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature. Whether you are interested in hiking or trying local cuisine, there is something to do for everyone in this city. We hope that this travel guide to Conway will help you make the most of your trip to this beautiful city in Missouri.