U.S. Route 65B: Harkrider Street – Conway – Arkansas

Traveling just two miles may not sound like much, but the stretch of U.S. Route 65 Business (US-65B) along Harkrider Street in Conway, Arkansas packs in more than you might expect. This segment starts at the southern edge of Conway at the interchange with Arkansas Highway 60 and heads north straight into the heart of town. Whether you’re using it as a local connector or just taking the scenic surface route instead of the interstate, Harkrider Street offers a nice little glimpse into the everyday life and rhythm of this central Arkansas city.

Beginning just north of the Highway 60 interchange, Harkrider Street cuts through an area with a mix of light industrial buildings and big-box commercial retail. You’ll pass auto shops, storage facilities, and a few fast-food spots that serve the local workforce. While it’s clearly a functional corridor, there’s something quintessentially Arkansas about it – relaxed traffic, wide lanes, and that transitional blend of town and country. For a traveler used to interstates and high-speed bypasses, this surface route feels more grounded and human-paced.

As we head north, Harkrider evolves into a more urban setting. The street enters Conway’s central business district near the Hendrix College campus, a private liberal arts institution that adds a bit of collegiate charm to the corridor. You’ll find sidewalks lined with trees, historic commercial buildings, and the occasional mural or art installation – Conway has a reputation for blending Southern charm with progressive touches. The drive ends at the junction with U.S. Route 64 (Oak Street), right in the heart of downtown. It’s a convenient crossroads with dining, shopping, and local culture all within walking distance. For such a short drive, this stretch of US-65B offers a surprising variety of scenery and context.

Note:  US-65B continues north with U.S. Route 64 from Oak Street to the Old Morrilton Highway, about 1/2 mile west of the Interstate 40 interchange.  That footage can be found on the US-64 video.

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