Located in the geographic center of the state and about 30 miles northwest of Little Rock, the city of Conway, AR, is a great base to explore the urban and natural landmarks that Arkansas has to offer. If you are looking for nearby historical attractions you can visit alone, with your family, or with a group of friends, these are some great spots you should not miss while in the area.
1. Old State House Museum
One of the oldest state capitol buildings in the Southern United States is now home to a historical museum that attracts visitors from all over the state of Arkansas and beyond. Its permanent collection showcases battle flags, African American quilts, and art pottery. Located In the northern part of the Little Rock downtown area, this museum can be reached in about half an hour by car from the Conway city center, driving along route I-40.
The construction of the original state house was commissioned in 1833, and the building was inaugurated in 1842. After the end of the American Civil War, the building hosted numerous historical debates on voting rights and public education in Arkansas. In 1912, when the new capitol building was completed, the place was turned into a medical school. It was only in 1947 that it was designated as a museum, and in 1997, it became a National Historic Landmark.
2. Faulkner County Museum
Located in the heart of the Conway downtown area, the Faulkner County Museum is one of the main attractions in the city. Founded in 1992, this local history museum is housed in the building of the former Faulkner County Jail, a two-story masonry structure constructed in 1896. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum features a large permanent collection with historical artifacts, clothing, photos, and household items from the area.
If you have a short time to visit Conway or simply want to stay in the city center, the Faulkner County Museum is a place you should not miss. The place is staffed by about 20 local volunteers who organize guided tours and can tell you all about the history of the region and the significance of the building. Besides the permanent collection, this place also houses archival collections and a small library.
3. Springfield Bridge
Located in Beaverfork Lake Park, a little under five miles north of the Conway city center, the Springfield Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 and is the oldest documented highway bridge in the state of Arkansas. The structure was originally built across Cadron Creek in nearby Faulkner County but was transferred to its current location in 2017 to protect it from vandalism and fires.
Are you looking for a new or used car to go on road trips and explore these and other amazing historical landmarks? Stop by Crain Kia of Conway! Talk to one of our agents, learn about our convenient financing plans, and find a vehicle that suits the needs of you and your family.
Image via Pixabay.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
Categories
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.