Conway Travel Guide (Grand Strand/South Carolina/South/United States of America/North America)

Introduction to Conway

Located in the Grand Strand area of South Carolina, Conway is a charming town that boasts both cultural and natural attractions. Visitors can explore the town’s rich history at its museums and historic sites, take in the natural beauty of the area on hiking and biking trails, and enjoy exciting outdoor adventures. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Conway has to offer visitors to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Conway

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Horry County Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Horry County at this museum, which features exhibits on Native American artifacts, the Civil War, and more.
Kingston Presbyterian Church Cemetery: Take a walk through history at this historic cemetery, which dates back to the late 1700s and features graves of Revolutionary War soldiers and other notable figures.
Conway Riverwalk: Stroll along the Waccamaw River and take in the charming historic buildings that line the walkway.

Natural Attractions of Conway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge: This expansive refuge is a must-visit for nature lovers, with hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and abundant wildlife, including migratory birds and alligators.
Conway’s Riverwalk Trail: This scenic riverfront trail is perfect for hiking or biking and offers stunning views of the Waccamaw River.
Waties Island: Take a short boat ride to this undeveloped island, where you can enjoy a quiet day on the beach and explore the island’s ecosystems, including salt marshes and maritime forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Conway

In addition to the Riverwalk Trail, Conway has a number of other hiking and biking routes that showcase the natural beauty of the area. The Waccamaw Neck Bikeway is a 18-mile trail that offers scenic views of the Waccamaw River and passes through both Conway and nearby Myrtle Beach. Other great options include the Horry County Bike and Run Park and the Medieval Drive Bike Path.

Best Things to Do in Conway: Activities and Tours

Conway Ghost Walk: Learn about Conway’s spooky past on this guided walking tour, which takes you through the town’s historic streets and buildings and includes plenty of ghost stories.
Boat Tour of the Waccamaw River: Take a relaxing boat ride down the Waccamaw River and learn about the area’s history and ecology from knowledgeable guides.
Conway Farmers Market: Browse fresh produce and handmade goods at this popular farmers market, held every Saturday in downtown Conway.

Week-Long Itinerary for Conway

Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5	Day 6	Day 7
Arrive	Horry County	Waccamaw	Waties	Conway	Riverwalk	Depart
	Museum	Neck Bikeway	Island	Ghost	Trail
				Walk

Food and Drink Scene of Conway

Must-Try Dishes

Shrimp and Grits: This classic Lowcountry dish is a must-try in Conway, with fresh local shrimp served over creamy grits.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Another Southern specialty, fried green tomatoes are a tasty and unique appetizer that can be found at many local restaurants.
BBQ: South Carolina is known for its BBQ, and Conway is no exception. Check out local spots like Pop Pop’s BBQ and Simply Southern Smokehouse for some of the best smoked meats in town.

Local Beverages

Sweet Tea: No trip to the South is complete without trying a glass of sweet tea, a refreshing and sweet iced tea that is a Southern staple.
Craft Beer: Check out Conway’s craft breweries, such as New South Brewing and Conway Glass Taproom, for a taste of the town’s local brews.

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

Conway Manor: This historic bed and breakfast is located just a short walk from the downtown area and offers comfortable accommodations in a charming setting.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms and plenty of amenities, including an outdoor pool and fitness center.
Hostel KC: A great budget option, this cozy hostel offers dorm-style rooms and communal areas for socializing and relaxing.

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

Sweetgrass Baskets: These traditional baskets are made by hand from sweetgrass and can be found at local markets and shops.
Local Artwork: Check out galleries like the Coastal Carolina University Gallery and the Art & Soul Gallery for unique artwork by local artists.
Boiled Peanuts: A classic Southern snack, boiled peanuts can be found at roadside stands and local markets throughout the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Conway

Southern hospitality is alive and well in Conway, and visitors can expect a warm welcome and friendly locals throughout their stay. It’s also worth noting that the area has a rich history and culture, with strong ties to the Gullah Geechee people, who are known for their unique language and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Conway

The best time to visit Conway is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the crowds are thinner. Summer can be hot and humid, but it’s also when many of the area’s festivals and events take place, so it’s a good time to visit for those who don’t mind the heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Conway

Do:

Do take the time to explore the historic downtown area, with its charming shops and restaurants.
Do try some of the local seafood, which is some of the freshest and tastiest around.
Do take advantage of the area’s outdoor activities, from hiking to kayaking to fishing.

Don’t:

Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent, as the area can be quite warm and buggy.
Don’t expect too much in terms of nightlife, as Conway is more of a laid-back, family-friendly town.
Don’t leave without trying some of the local BBQ, which is a staple in this part of the country.

Safety and Health

Safety in Conway

Overall, Conway is a safe and friendly town, but visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Be sure to lock car doors and keep valuables out of sight, especially in tourist areas.

Health in Conway

There are no major health concerns in Conway, but visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from insect bites and sunburn, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Conway: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Conway

The closest airport to Conway is Myrtle Beach International Airport, which is located about 16 miles away. Other nearby airports include Wilmington International Airport and Charleston International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Conway

The closest bus station to Conway is located in nearby Myrtle Beach, with Greyhound buses and local shuttles offering transportation between the two towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Conway, with major highways like I-95 and US-17 providing easy access to the town. Rental cars are available at the airport and in nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Conway

Many of Conway’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other, and the town also has a reliable public transit system, with buses and shuttles that run throughout the area. Visitors can also rent bikes or cars to explore more of the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Conway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Myrtle Beach: Just a short drive away, Myrtle Beach is known for its sandy beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and lively nightlife.
Charleston: This historic city is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers, with beautiful buildings and landmarks dating back to the colonial era.
Wilmington: Head north to Wilmington, North Carolina, to explore this charming coastal town, which is known for its historic district and local breweries.

Conclusion

Conway, South Carolina, may be a small town, but it’s packed with culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-packed vacation, you’ll find plenty to do and see in this charming town.

Conway Image Gallery

Historic downtown, Conway, South Carolina (18 November 2006)

Conway Marina