Located 15 miles inland from the Myrtle Beach oceanfront and The Breakers Resort, the charming river town of Conway, South Carolina, offers a range of shopping, dining and historic attractions that are perfect for a day trip from the beach. And adding to the town’s allure, you can check out the majority of downtown Conway’s top attractions on foot, as most of them are located just blocks from one another and within easy walking distance once you park your car.
So, if you’re looking for a change of scenery and some fun things to do during your next Myrtle Beach getaway, plan a stroll to some of these top spots on a day trip to downtown Conway:
Conway Riverwalk: This scenic and serene wooden pathway starting at the eastern end of 2nd Avenue takes visitors for a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Waccamaw River. Sights to take in during your walk along the famous blackwater river including rustic wooden buildings, marinas, bridges and an elegant inn, and a playground and multiple picnic tables make for great spots to take a break. An arboretum featuring a range of native trees and plants awaits at the trail’s end.
Theatre of the Republic: The large, lighted marquee at this 300-seat community theater located at 331 Main Street makes it easy to find. Opened as a movie theater in the 1940s (the 1947 film “The Foxes of Harrow” served as its premier presentation), the venue now plays host to quality, affordable theatrical productions featuring local talent. Upcoming plays include “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” “Hand to God,” “Red,” “Memphis” and “Mary Poppins Jr.”
Rivertown Bistro: Located just over a block off Main Street, this 3rd Avenue fine-dining restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring some of the best local ingredients available. The cozy and chic atmosphere serves as a fitting home to its Southern-tinged culinary creations, examples of which include fresh seafood, Lowcountry classics, Japanese-inspired dishes and homemade cheese. Favorite dishes include the Lowcountry Spring Rolls, the Butter Poached Lobster Tail and the Sesame Seared Tuna.
Coppers Restaurant: Found just over a block off Main Street at 201 Laurel Street, this restaurant serves Southern, home-style favorites at value prices, and guests can choose to visit the buffet or order off the menu. A wide selection of meats, veggies, salads and desserts is available, and diners’ favorites include the fried chicken and the mac & cheese.
Black Water Market: For those looking to incorporate some shopping into their downtown Conway stroll, this complex offers a number of retail shops along a corridor running from Laurel Street to Fourth Avenue (and featuring the largest mural exhibit in the area, courtesy of painter Ruth Cox). Homegrown shops here include Simply Sophia – A Children’s Boutique, The Haberdashery men’s clothing store, Shoe Obsession for women’s footwear, and Her Dashery for women’s clothing and accessories. While you’re there, be sure to ring the bell from the Black Maria, the 1900s-era train that used to chug down Main Street.
After your great day trip to historic downtown Conway, head back to the Atlantic oceanfront to enjoy the comfortable accommodations and wide-ranging amenities at The Breakers Resort. Book your Myrtle Beach getaway today — we’re looking forward to being your home away from home on the Grand Strand!
