Your Guide to Conway, SC: Dine, Shop & Play in this historic Rivertown!

Just 15 miles inland from Myrtle Beach, Conway, South Carolina, offers a charming escape with its scenic riverfront, historic downtown, and welcoming Southern hospitality.

Nestled along the picturesque Waccamaw River, Conway invites visitors to explore its oak-lined streets, enjoy local boutiques and cafes, and stroll the scenic Riverwalk for stunning waterfront views and relaxing dining spots. It’s the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern appeal, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a slower pace.

Beyond its beauty, Conway boasts a rich history that adds to its unique character. Historic landmarks, attractions and museums offer a glimpse into the town’s past, while vibrant seasonal decor and a thriving dining and shopping area make it worth a day trip from The Beach.

Here's a look at some our of favorite points of interest in the Conway area:

The Riverwalk is a scenic area along the black waters of Waccamaw River that is perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Along this promenade you'll find a variety of activities including historic markers, public artwork, a public park, a marina and one of the area's most beloved dining spots. 

Bonfire Taqueria, founded by well-known restauranteur and S.C. chef Ambassador Darren Smith, is a popular spot for delicious barbecue and southern classics with a twist. 

When the weather is nice, it’s hard to beat a lunch or dinner on Bonfire’s cozy outdoor porch overlooking the Waccamaw River.

Downtown Conway is a delightful blend of history, charm, and modern convenience, offering a walkable experience filled with hidden gems at every turn. Lined with moss-draped oak trees and scenic pocket parks, the downtown area invites visitors to explore its unique boutiques, specialty shops, and inviting eateries. 

During the day, The Trestle Bakery and Café is a favorite stop for fresh-baked pastries and comforting coffee, while Pickled Cucumber offers a classic Southern “meat and three” lunch spot.

Shoppers can enjoy browsing at Black Water Market and Papa’s General Store, both brimming with unique finds, from local artisan goods to charming home décor. The downtown area is also dotted with stylish boutiques that provide everything from trendy apparel to thoughtful gifts, ensuring visitors can take home a little piece of Conway charm.

As the sun sets, Downtown Conway comes alive with incredible dining options. Rivertown Bistro, known for its upscale Lowcountry cuisine, offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, while Whitaker's and Hop N' Wich serve up mouthwatering dishes perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends or family. 

Adding to the area's cultural appeal, the Theatre of the Republic hosts an array of top-notch performances, from Broadway-style musicals to community-driven productions. Whether you're catching a show after dinner or making it the highlight of your visit, the theater brings an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the heart of Conway.

While you are in Downtown Conway, visit Conway Glass, a locally owned glass making shop known for their glass blowing and stained glass. They offer classes for you to make your own creations. Stop by during the holidays and pick up a beautiful holiday ornament as the perfect souvenir from your trip.

Before you leave, don't forget to explore the area's vibrant crop of murals and public art. Throughout downtown you'll find pieces including Teal Alley (an homage to nearby Coastal Carolina Uniersity), the train mural in Kingston Park and the Conway Critters  — a series of fun small sculptures you and your kids can hunt. All of these spots and more are featured on the Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail, which rewards visitors for seeking out artwork along the Grand Strand.

The Horry County Museum was established to preserve the history and culture of Horry County through exhibits and events and is located in the 1905 Burroughs School. The Museum has an outstanding aquarium that contains aquatic life you’ll find in local rivers and lakes. It also hosts an annual quilt gala and displays other historic pieces from regional Native Americans to the Textile Era to early vacationers in Myrtle Beach.

Nearby, just north of downtown, you can find the L.W. Paul Living History Museum, a historic attraction designedso visitors can experience what everyday life was like on a farm in the early part of the 20th century. With interactive demonstrations of traditional farming techniques, household chores, and crafts, this working farm provides an immersive educational experience, showcasing the region's agricultural heritage in an engaging and family-friendly environment.

If just strolling the Riverwalk isn't enough and you’d like to explore nature up close, try a kayaking tour on the Waccamaw River with expert guides from Black River Outdoors.

Enjoy a peaceful journey through cypress-lined waterways teeming with wildlife — You may see an alligator or two, but don’t worry, they will leave you alone! Paddlers can explore the area's natural beauty while learning about the river’s rich ecosystem from experienced local guides, making it a perfect adventure for nature lovers of all skill levels.

The Thompson Farm and Nursery at Brickyard Plantation is one of the area's best rural attractions, offering the quintessential farm experience with barnyard friends for the little ones, a fun outdoor play area, pumpkin patches and corn mazes in the fall  and birthday parties all year-around. The Thompson Farm has plenty of activities for kids that both keep them busy and help them learn about farm history. Operated by the original family, the Thompson’s manage the farm and greenhouses while still celebrating the importance of farming for the past, present, and future.

Conway hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. The most notable festival is the Conway Riverfest, which is a celebration during the summer with kid-friendly activities and fireworks. There is also a weekly Farmer’s Market that runs throughout the summer in Downtown Conway that features fresh local produce.

Also, in recent years Conway has grown quite a reputation for going all out for the holidays. In addition to great, picture-worth decor and events for Valentine's Day, Christmas and others, Conway has made its mark as the area's premier destination for Halloween fun — with outstanding over-the-top decor throughout downtown, a month's worth of "spooky" events and even going as far as to rename the whole town Halloween, S.C., for the month of October.