10 Fun Things To Do In and Near Conway, South Carolina (Horry County)
If you’re looking for a laid-back, small-town escape that’s still close to the beach,
Conway, South Carolina is a great pick. Tucked along the Waccamaw River in
Horry County, Conway has historic charm, river views, and easy access to Myrtle Beach—without the crowds and chaos.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting family nearby, or looking for a day away from the Grand Strand, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Conway, SC.
1. Stroll the Conway Riverwalk Along the Waccamaw River
If you only do one thing in Conway, make it the
Conway Riverwalk.
This wooden boardwalk curves along the peaceful
Waccamaw River, framed by big old trees and calm water. It’s an easy, flat walk, and you can take it at your own pace.
- Enjoy shady spots and benches to sit and watch the boats.
- Look for local wildlife—turtles, birds, and sometimes even gators in the distance.
- Stop by the small docks and overlooks for great photos.
In the early morning, it’s quiet and misty. In the evening, it’s a romantic place for a slow walk after dinner. It feels a world away from the busy beach, even though you’re only about 15–20 miles from Myrtle Beach.
2. Explore Historic Downtown Conway
Just steps from the Riverwalk,
Downtown Conway feels like a classic Southern small town—brick buildings, old oak trees, and friendly shop owners who actually talk to you.
You can:
- Wander through local boutiques and antique shops.
- Grab coffee or ice cream at a cozy café.
- Check out the historic buildings and old storefronts.
If you enjoy walkable downtowns with character more than big malls, Conway will make you happy. Parking is usually simple, and the whole area is easy to explore on foot.
3. Take a Riverboat Cruise or Guided Kayak Tour
Want to get out
on the water instead of just walking beside it?
Conway offers
riverboat cruises and
kayak tours on the Waccamaw River. These are great ways to see another side of Horry County’s natural beauty.
Depending on what you choose, you might:
- Drift past cypress trees with their roots in the water.
- Learn about local history and old river trade routes.
- Spot birds, turtles, and other wildlife.
If you’re nervous about paddling, pick a
guided tour—they’re usually beginner-friendly. If you prefer to just sit back and relax, a simple sightseeing riverboat cruise is a nice, no-sweat option.
4. Catch a Show at Theatre of the Republic
In a town this size, you might not expect live theater—but
Theatre of the Republic in downtown Conway proves otherwise.
This local theater puts on:
- Musicals and plays
- Comedy and special events
- Seasonal shows around the holidays
The space is cozy, so you feel close to the action. It’s a fun way to spend an evening after dinner downtown. If you’re planning a trip, check their schedule ahead of time to see what’s on stage while you’re in town.
5. Learn Local History at the Horry County Museum
If you’re curious about the area beyond the beach, stop by the
Horry County Museum in Conway.
Housed in a historic school building, this free museum covers:
- Local wildlife and natural history
- Native American history
- Civil War and regional history
- Everyday life in Horry County through the years
There’s even a large aquarium with native fish, which kids usually love. It’s a relaxed, easy stop—perfect for a hot afternoon or a rainy day.
6. Visit the L.W. Paul Living History Farm
Just a short drive from downtown, the
L.W. Paul Living History Farm is like stepping back in time to a 1900s Horry County farm.
Here, you can see how people lived and worked long before smartphones and air conditioning:
- Walk through an old farmhouse and barns.
- Watch demonstrations like grinding corn or making syrup (on certain days).
- Learn how local families grew food and took care of the land.
If you have kids—or if you’re just curious about how people used to live—it’s a down-to-earth, hands-on kind of place. It also ties in nicely with the Horry County Museum, since they’re both run by the same folks.
7. Take a Short Drive to Myrtle Beach (But Sleep in Conway)
One big advantage of staying in Conway? You’re close enough to
Myrtle Beach to enjoy it, but far enough away to escape the crowds when you’re done.
From downtown Conway, it’s roughly a 20–30 minute drive (depending on traffic) to:
- The famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
- Broadway at the Beach
- Mini golf, arcades, and family attractions
- The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel and oceanfront restaurants
A lot of visitors like to:
- Spend the day at the beach, then
- Drive back to Conway for a quieter dinner and a riverfront walk
It’s a nice balance: beach by day, small-town charm by night.
8. Eat Like a Local in Conway’s Restaurants
Food is a big part of any trip, and Conway has some great local spots that feel genuinely “small-town South Carolina,” not just touristy.
In and around downtown Conway, you’ll find:
- Southern comfort food—think fried chicken, mac and cheese, collards.
- BBQ joints with pulled pork and ribs.
- Riverside dining with views of the Waccamaw River.
- Cafés serving coffee, sandwiches, and homemade desserts.
If you’re used to chains and fast food, give the local places a try. Ask your server what they’d order—locals usually steer you toward the good stuff.
9. Discover Conway’s “Tree City” Charm and Public Art
Conway is known for its
tree-lined streets and old live oaks. Some of them are huge, with twisting branches that look like something out of a storybook.
As you walk or drive around town, look for:
- Large oak trees draped in Spanish moss.
- Small parks and green spaces perfect for a picnic.
- Murals and public art scattered around downtown.
If you enjoy simple pleasures—like sitting on a bench in the shade, watching people and cars go by—Conway makes it easy.
10. Join Local Events, Markets, and Festivals
Depending on when you visit, you might catch one of Conway’s
seasonal events or
farmers markets. These are great chances to feel like part of the community, even if you’re just in town for a few days.
Look out for:
- Downtown farmers markets with local produce and crafts.
- Holiday events like Christmas lights, parades, and tree lightings.
- Riverfront events and family-friendly activities during warmer months.
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking local Conway or Horry County event calendars. You might be surprised by what’s happening while you’re there.
Is Conway, South Carolina Worth a Visit?
If you like places with:
- Small-town charm
- Scenic river views
- Easy access to Myrtle Beach without staying right in the chaos
…then
yes, Conway is absolutely worth a stop.
It’s a great spot for:
- A quiet weekend getaway
- A base for exploring Horry County and the Grand Strand
- A day trip from Myrtle Beach when you’ve had enough sand and neon lights
You can fill your days with simple, memorable things—walking the Riverwalk, grabbing ice cream downtown, learning local history, and watching the sun set over the Waccamaw River.
Share Your Conway Experience
Have you ever walked the Conway Riverwalk or explored historic downtown? Do you prefer staying in Conway and day-tripping to Myrtle Beach, or the other way around?
I’d love to hear your thoughts.
- Comment below with your favorite things to do in Conway or anywhere in Horry County.
- If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a South Carolina trip.
Your stories and tips help other travelers discover new places—and they might even inspire someone’s next getaway to Conway, South Carolina.
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