4 Fun Summer Day Trips near Conway

Summer is coming to an end. There are only a few weeks left before the kids go back to school and the care-free, heat-laden (but thankfully not too hot this year) July days are behind us. While the upcoming school year may be a welcome relief for parents, we would guess that they would also like to finish the summer strong. Perhaps a few more adventurous days are in store for this summer — days to have fun and make memories that will live on for years to come. We’ve put together a list of four fun destinations which are just a short drive away from Conway and which will be enjoyable for kids and adults alike. Check out the places on this list and make the finale of summer 2021 one to remember!

1. Cliff Jumping at Greers Ferry Lake

There comes a day in the summer when the neighborhood swimming pool no longer cuts it. Yet, as the weather continues to heat up, you’re still looking for a fun way to escape the heat and entertain the kids. That’s where the Dam Site on Greers Ferry Lake comes into play. This public access point features an artificial beach to lay out and catch a tan as well as numerous cliffs which are perfect for diving. The cliffs vary in height from 4 feet to 40 feet, giving options to kids of all ages. The cliffs all plunge divers into deep water, so there is little need to worry about hitting the bottom. The cliffs at Greers Ferry are an Arkansas summertime tradition. Continue in that tradition this summer with a quick and fun day trip.

 

2. Explore the trails at Petit Jean

Another Arkansas tradition is Petit Jean mountain. The beautiful plateau features a unique mountaintop ecosystem, offering Arkansans the opportunity to adventure along trails and explore all the Natural State has to offer. While the Cedar Falls Trail might be the most travelled, there are plenty of other trails and activities on the mountain which families can enjoy. The Bear Cave Trail is a short one which takes hikers through rock shelters and narrow passageways. The Rock House Cave Trail brings hikers past unique turtle-shell rock formations and to a cave with 500-year-old Native American drawings. We would recommend the Cedar Falls Trail to those who have older children, but it may be too long and strenuous for small kids. The other two trails would be perfect for them.

 

3. Check out the view at Flatside Pinnacle

Flatside Pinnacle is a lesser-known trail and lookout in the Ouachita Mountains just south of Conway. A short trip on dirt roads (watch out for rainy weather and mud) takes you to the trailhead (click here for location). Then, a short ten-minute hike takes you to a beautiful lookout point. Bring a hammock or sit on the rocks and enjoy the view. If you’re a bit more adventurous, make the hike at sunset and take a cautious drive home in the dark. This spot is lesser-known than the others, but it certainly worth checking out before the summer is over.

 

4. Enjoy city life in the Little Rock River Market

What could be more fun than making the short trip down to Little Rock to enjoy a morning with the kids in the River Market? While the Museum of Discovery is currently closed due to a pipe burst, there are plenty of other things to do! Visit the Clinton Presidential Library and sit behind a replica of the President’s desk. Go to the Central Arkansas Nature Center to see what kind of fish live in the Arkansas River. Then take one of the pedestrian bridges across the river to North Little Rock and enjoy a tour of the USS Razorback Submarine. Finish your day off with a tasty meal in the River Market Food Hall. While it may not be as outdoorsy as the other options on this list, a day out in the River Market is fun for kids and adults alike.

 

Summer is short. Make the most of it!
Parents don’t have much time left to spend with their kids this summer, so make the most of it! Get out and explore all the things the Conway region has to offer. If you need a vehicle to accompany you on the way, stop by Chris Crain Hyundai to check our family-friendly and adventurous SUVs. We’d be happy to help you get the most out of the rest of your summer.

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