Conway is the seventh largest city in Arkansas by population—that means it’s pretty small. Yet as part of the Little Rock Metropolitan area, and home to three post-secondary institutions, this “City of Colleges” has much more than size to recommend it. The city’s art scene thrives with the Conway Symphony Orchestra and Conway Community Arts Association performing throughout the year. The Arkansas Shakespear Company, based in Conway, holds an annual summer festival every June. Other annual events include the Toad Suck Daze—a weird name for an exciting three day festival in May that features live music, tasty food booths, craft vendors, and carnival rides—and EcoFest, a celebration of all things “green.” Conway is also known for its sport-fishing, as it’s home to the largest man-made Game and Fish Commission Lake in the United States. The Arkansas Crappie Masters is held in Conway every year.

With Central Baptist College, Hendrix College, and University of Central Arkansas all within city limits, students should have no trouble finding housing.

Conway Is divided into an east and west district by Donaghey Avenue. Most of the colleges sit downtown, near the intersection of Donaghey and College Avenue. The downtown area has undergone a renovation since 2000, with new retail, office, restaurant and residential construction all contributing to the revitalization of the historic district. 

Other historic neighborhoods include the Asa P. Robinson Historic District and the Hendrix Addition.

Many students find housing in Cross Point neighborhood just south of UCA’s campus along Hwy 60. This area boasts easy access to amenities, the regional airport, and, obviously, class.

Others look to the north side of town near the I-40 corridor. Access to Walmart and major transportation systems make this a favorite area for working students, particularly of Hendrix College which sits just to the south.