4 Great Day Trips to Take From Conway, AR

Known for family recreation locations, educational resources, and a booming economic picture, Conway, Arkansas is a must-see stop in Faulkner County. It has been dubbed the “City of Colleges” due to its close proximity to three different institutions of higher learning and additional trade schools. As much as there is to do in Conway, though, there’s also some great day trips to consider.

4 Great Day Trips to Take From Conway, AR

1. Cadron Settlement Park

History meets outdoor beauty in Cadron Settlement Park. Beautiful walkways and trails are available for those who enjoy outdoor adventure. Located on the water, Cadron Park offers a boat ramp and numerous picnic areas for visitors to spend the day. There are rentable pavilions and a disc golf park available as well.

Cadron Settlement Park is not all about outdoor adventure and sports. Education matters here, too. There is an exhibit on-premises devoted to telling the history of the Trail of Tears. Beautiful paintings explain the location’s deep roots focusing on representations of both Native Americans and pioneers.

2. Thunder Road Grand Prix

Thunder Road Grand Prix is a fun and active place in the city, It offers customers the chance to put the pedal to the metal at their outdoor go-kart track. Teams or individuals can race around the course for bragging rights and fun rewards. The venue also houses an interactive arcade where customers can grab a bite to eat and take their chances on winning some fun prizes.

3. The Faulkner County Museum

Whether resident or visitor, a stop by the Faulkner County Museum should also be something you mark off your checklist. The museum was funded and founded by city officials and community members who wanted to share the history of their city in an engaging and educational way. Visitors to the museum will find exhibits, artifacts, and reading materials focused on the evolution of the city and the generations of people that inhabited the land nearby.

4. Jack’s Ultra Sports

If action and adventure are more your speed, be sure to check out Jack’s Ultra Sports. This indoor venue boasts an amazing array of activities. The laser tag section of the building allows players ages eight years and up to have some fun via low-impact paintball games. In addition, the facility has an arcade section with numerous games and even a laser tag course! Whether visiting for a day or staying for a while, a visit to Jack’s is a must!

In a city where adventure, nature, and education are encompassed in one amazing spot, it is no wonder that visitors fall in love with this region. If you are visiting, be sure to check out all of these locales and some of the area shops as well. Make this suburban city home to your next adventure or your next vehicle purchase when you visit us at Crain Buick GMC! At Crain, our team of automotive professionals and sales agents are ready to get you on the road so be sure to call or stop by today!


5 Signs It’s Time for a GMC Service Appointment

Your GMC is a powerful vehicle, and it can take nearly anything you can dish out. But like any car on the road, GMCs need some tender loving care at times. How do you know if it’s time for a GMC service?

5 Signs It’s Time for a GMC Service Appointment

The Calendar Says So

The most basic services need to be done regularly to ensure your vehicle is always there for you when you need it to be. The precise timing that’s right for your vehicle will depend on how old it is, how you drive, where you drive, and what kind of oil you’re using.

Generally, you’ll want to get service every 7,500 miles. Every third one of these 7,500-mile services is a bit more extensive, with every sixth including a very comprehensive full service. If you regularly drive in extreme conditions or spend a lot of time idling, however, it’s a good idea to get checked out more often.

You’re Contemplating a Big Trip

Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother’s house we go, right? That epic holiday trek won’t be as fun if you have any car trouble along the way, so be sure to have professionals check out your GMC thoroughly before you take it on a 1,000-mile journey in winter weather! This is especially important if you are between regular service appointments and it’s been a while since the engine had a going-over.

Something Doesn’t Feel Right

You’e behind the wheel all the time, and you know what your vehicle should feel like. Is it starting to feel sluggish or slow off the mark? Does it take longer to get it started? Do you feel a shimmy or shake when you reach a certain speed or feel like the wheel is pulling? When you brake, do the brakes feel mushy? If somethjing doesn’t feel right, sschedule a service right away.

Something Doesn’t Sound Right

Sounds can be as important as a feeling, so pay attention to the sound of your GMC. Do you hear grinding, clicking, growling, rattling, or clunking? Have someone check it out before a tiny problem becomes a big one.

The Check Engine Light In On

We hate that light. All of us want to ignore it when we see it, but the truth is that it’s just as valuable as a little pain in the human body. If you’re just not quite feeling yourself, a visit to the doctor might turn up nothing at all: but it might also catch something serious while there’s still plenty of time to intervene, saving you time, money, stress, and pain.

That check engine light might be really minor, and that’s what we all hope for, but if it’s something bigger, you’ll save time, money, stress, and a lot of trouble down the line by getting it fixed fast.

You ask your GMC to be there for you whenever you need. Be there for your GMC by scheduling regular appointments to keep it in good shape. Visit us at Crain Buick GMC today to schedule your next service!


Compact Luxury SUV: The 2020 Buick Envision

Driving a larger car shouldn’t mean that you have to sacrifice what you want in other areas like comfort, performance, and style. The 2020 Buick Envision expertly combines outstanding elements in every one of these categories to create a fantastic driving experience. Here are some of the top reasons people are giving the 2020 Envision another look.

The 2020 Buick Envision Has Style for Miles

How your car looks on the road matters just as much as how it handles when you drive it. With a sleek exterior and stylish upgrades like low profile LED-enhanced taillamps, the Envision is the perfect picture of a larger car looking luxurious without even trying.

While some cars can look good on the inside, but can be disappointing once you sit behind the wheel, the 2020 Envision’s interior is as fantastic as its exterior. With thoughtfully designed front seats, an intuitively designed center console, and second-row amenities, it doesn’t matter where you sit in this car. You’re going to be in the lap of luxury every time you’re on the road.

Safety Features of the 2020 Envision

You never know what you’re going to face when you are on the road. That’s why Buick has carefully and proactively added a whole host of safety features to the 2020 Envision including several driver-assist technologies. From the ability to have a bird’s eye view of the entire road around you with surround vision, to forward collision alerts, to a side blind zone alert system, Buick is demonstrating how committed they are to keeping you safe when you’re behind the wheel.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

The 2020 Envision has an array of technological advancements that will have you wondering how you ever lived without it before. From a wireless charging station to a built-in hot spot, Buick helps you stay connected no matter where you are. It is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you can enjoy your music, podcasts, and other sources of entertainment when you’re not at home.

The 2020 Envision also comes with the option to add Buick connected services, which provides health updates on your car, access to diagnostics for your service technician and the remote vehicle start feature, depending on what level of access you purchase.

Enjoy the Buick Driving Experience

The Envision has intelligent all-wheel drive, which adjusts braking and torque power automatically so that you don’t have to worry about what kind of conditions you’re driving in. With smooth handling, a 9-speed transmission, and adaptive cruise control, you will be able to just sit back and enjoy driving rather than worrying about how your car will behave on the road.

In order to be more environmentally-friendly, Buick has added Start / Stop technology to the Envision. The car will automatically shut down under certain circumstances (like being at a traffic light), thereby reducing the amount of fuel emissions it’s responsible for. It will automatically restart when it’s time to accelerate, and performance is never an issue.

If you’re interested in the 2020 Envision from Buick, get in touch with Crain Buick GMC today to set up a test drive.


4 Reasons to Visit Cadron Settlement Park

Officially known as The Natural State, Arkansas has plenty to offer in terms of geography. Mountains, plateaus, rivers, forests, and bluffs attract locals and tourists alike. Tucked in among all this beauty is Cadron Settlement Park. This family-friendly spot is ideal for hikes, bike rides, and picnics. Why should you visit? To enjoy the closeness of nature, yes, but to also appreciate the deep sense of history that connects all of us.

4 Reasons to Visit Cadron Settlement Park

1. A Rich Story

Located near the intersection of Cadron Creek and the Arkansas River, Cadron is believed to have been a Native American village before 1541. In the early 1800s, French settlers established a fort in this spot and, in addition to hunting, enjoyed gambling, drinking, and jockeying.

The fort grew to 30 or 40 families, and by 1818, a town was laid out around a central square. But the town never managed to find success and was abandoned by 1831. Today, visitors of the park can enjoy a mural, historical markers, and interpretive signs that provide information about the settlement.

2. Cadron Blockhouse

John McElmurray, an early trader and settler, was one of three men who laid out the 1818 plans for Cadron. He also built a blockhouse that served as his residence, a fort, fur-trading business, and tavern.

In 1976, the Faulkner County Historical Society, Army Corps of Engineers, and Conway Chamber of Commerce created Cadron Settlement Park and erected a two-story replica of the blockhouse. Vandals later destroyed the structure, but it was rebuilt in 1998. The blockhouse remains a focal point of the park and allows a glimpse into early Arkansas life.

3. Trail of Tears

In 1834, a vessel of 700 Cherokees on their way to exile in what would eventually become Oklahoma was forced to dock in the deserted village of Cadron. Low water levels in the Arkansas River made the stop necessary, but it also allowed cholera to spread and claim at least 100 of the stranded passengers’ lives.

This tragedy, known as part of the Trail of Tears, is commemorated with a plaque in the park. It lists the names of all victims and draws a number of visitors who quietly pay their respects.

4. Enjoyment for Nature Enthusiasts

The hiking and mountain bike trails in Cadron are probably the park’s most well-known features. The park is 150 acres in total, and hiking affords lovely views from tall river bluffs. The trails are known for having some tight turns, an occasional bridge, and short but steep climbs, all of which can add a little interest to your adventure. Rocky sections can also pose an occasional challenge. In addition, the park contains picnic areas, a boat launching ramp, and a pavilion.

Cadron, recognized as a National Historic site, is sure to beckon you with its natural serenity and stories of long-ago settlers. The only question that remains is how will you and your family get to the park? Visit Crain Buick GMC of Conway, Arkansas, today, where your new car is waiting. We won’t rest until you’re completely satisfied with your purchase.


5 Fantastic Tech Features of the 2020 Buick Enclave

Looking for a vehicle that is stylish, family-sized, and comes with a lot of technology? Then you should check out the 2020 Buick Enclave! This car is designed to keep you relaxed and entertained while riding in luxury. With multiple cameras to keep you safe on the road, a QuietTuning technology to cancel road noise, and a Wi-Fi hotspot that can support several devices, this is the car that you want.

5 Tech Features of the 2020 Buick Enclave

Cameras and Alerts for Your Safety

The cameras of the Buick Enclave give you a bird’s eye view of your vehicle so you can see what is around you while you park or before you start driving. The forward collision alert system, lane change alert, and front pedestrian braking alert warn you of potential dangers in the road before they become an issue. If you ever find yourself in an accident, contact OnStar for help with just the push of a button.

Stylish Exterior

Got your hands full? The hands free power liftgate makes it easy to open the trunk with just your foot. You can open the power moonroof above your passengers and yourself to receive a view of the night sky should the stars come out. The winged LED headlamps illuminate the road at night and lets everyone know that you are a cut above the rest.

Comfortable Interior

The inside of the Buick Enclave is tailored to comfort and relaxation. With enough seats for seven people you can take the whole family anywhere. If you need space for storage, the Smart Slide feature allows you to slide the second row of seats forward to make more space. You can block out traffic noise thanks to the QuietTuning technology of the Buick Enclave. Finally, the in-vehicle air ionizer ensures fresh air throughout the vehicle for you and your passengers.

Connecting With Your Devices

The Buick Infotainment System allows you to listen to music, take calls, download apps for your vehicle all without the use of your hands. The Buick Enclave is also compatible with Apple devices so you can talk to Siri, and Android apps and devices. Finally, it has a built in Wi-Fi hotspot that supports up to seven devices that are 50 feet from the Buick.

Take On Road’s Greatest Challenges

Take on the toughest road conditions while riding in complete luxury. The five link suspension keeps your Buick Enclave stable on the road while minimizing the noise, giving you a smooth driving experience. The 3.6L V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission delivers a whopping 310 horsepower allowing you to go pretty far on the road. Depending on how you customize your Buick Enclave, it can tow up to 5,000 lbs.

You don’t have to pick between luxury and convenience because the Buick Enclave gives you both. If you are still unsure about whether the Buick Enclave is the right car for you, visit Crain Buick GMC to learn more about the Buick Enclave.


4 Incredible Safety Features of the 2020 GMC Terrain

The 2020 GMC Terrain has become one of the best all-around family vehicles on the market. One major reason for this is its stellar safety features that come standard.

4 Incredible Safety Features of the 2020 GMC Terrain

1. Intellibeam Headlamps on the 2020 GMC Terrain

One of the most important ways to stay safe on the road is to increase your visibility. But it can be difficult and distracting to find that high-beam switch while you are driving at night. GMC’s Intellibeam headlamps automatically turn on when they sense dark conditions.

The Intellibeam headlamps can also sense when there is a driver in front of you or coming towards you. In this case, the high-beams will turn off so that they don’t blind other drivers. This ultimately improves visibility for all drivers on the road and allows you to drive with confidence at night.

2. Forward Collision Alert

Forward Collision Alert is a heads up display that will help you know if you are too close to the vehicle ahead of you. This system is helpful in two ways. It can alert you if a vehicle suddenly brakes unexpectedly. As well, it can warn you if you have drifted too close to another car while driving.

The Forward Collision Alert is paired with the Following Distance Indicator to make for a powerful defense from forward collisions. The Following Distance Indicator tells you approximately how much of a gap there is between you and the car ahead of you. So there is no more guesswork when it comes to whether you are too close to the car ahead.  

3. Lane Keep Assist and Departure Warning

Due to stress or tiredness, a significant number of drivers every year cause crashes by drifting out of their lane inadvertently. Lane Keep Assist and Departure Warning are a pair of safety features that aim to keep you in the lines at all times.

With this system, your car will automatically steer you back into the lane if you do not indicate that you want to change lanes. It will warn you if you cross the divider into another lane, as well.

4. Automatic Emergency Braking and Front Pedestrian Braking

One of the most important safety features on the Terrain is its automatic braking. Automatic Emergency Braking can sense when a forward crash is likely and can apply the brakes to avoid or reduce the severity of a crash.

Front Pedestrian Braking is a similar system, but it aims to make the road safer for pedestrians. When you are going slow enough, and the system senses a pedestrian ahead, it will apply the brakes to avoid a potentially fatal accident.

When we are on the road, safety should be everyone’s number one priority. The GMC Terrain does its part by including a suite of safety features designed to make the road a safer place to be. Visit Crain Buick GMC to test drive a new GMC Terrain today.


4 Reasons to Test-Drive the 2020 Buick Encore

When Buick describes the 2020 Buick Encore, they like to say that it is sized to fit the way your life moves. When you experience all that this luxurious SUV has to offer, you will find it hard to disagree. The Buick Encore is an SUV that can handle anything you could throw at a typical SUV, from a drive around town to a trip to the backcountry.

4 Reasons to Test-Drive the 2020 Buick Encore

1. An Endless Interior

The Encore offers 48 cu. ft. of cargo space with its fold-flat front passenger seat and folding seats in the second row. If the mission is taking passengers instead, the Encore can comfortably seat five adults.

Other interior appointments include items such as keyless open and start that lets you enter and start the car all while your key fob remains in your purse or pocket. Buick QuietTuning technology that includes items like acoustic laminated glass and triple door seals means you are in for a powerful yet quiet ride.

2. Exterior Appointments That Turn Heads

With signature features like athletic hood lines and one-of-a-kind Buick lighting, this SUV is sure to stand out from the crowd. Add in features like a power moonroof, LED daytime running lamps, and 18-inch, 10-spoke aluminum wheels and it is easy to see why the Encore projects an air of luxury and performance.

3. Safety That Is Second to None

Wrap your passengers in safety with the 10 standard airbags offered on the Encore. With added safety features like side blind zone alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear vision camera, this advanced SUV can keep you safe no matter the driving mission.

When you combine all these features with Buick’s OnStar service, you will drive with the confidence of knowing that help is just the push of a button away. In addition, the system offers automatic crash response to make sure help is always on the way when you need it.

4. Technology That Is Built to Keep the World at Your Fingertips

The center of the Encore’s technological world is the Buick Infotainment System. This system includes features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The myBuick mobile app gives you instant access to all manner of information about your car such as real-time tire pressure and diagnostics about your car’s systems. If streaming in the car is your thing, an available 4G LTE Hotspot gives you and your passengers a quick and reliable connection. The system supports up to seven devices at once so passengers can surf while they ride.

With one look at the amazing Buick Encore you will soon see that this is an SUV that offers everything you would expect from an SUV, but also offers all the styling, safety, and convenience of a luxury sedan. To truly experience this amazing car, visit Crain Buick GMC today to test drive this cutting-edge SUV.


4 Top Features of the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

The Sierra is a pickup-truck made by GMC. The standard 1500 model is a popular choice for many because it manages to combine a luxurious interior with excellent mechanicals. The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 is available with a broad range of powertrain, cab, bed, and tech options. These options are packaged within a rugged, anabolic exterior that not only looks good but also helps provide class-leading crash protection.

4 Top Features of the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

1. Powerful Drivetrains

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 is available with a choice of five engines, three transmissions, and all-wheel drive. The base power plant is a 4.3 liter, 285 horsepower, direct injection, petrol V6 that makes 305-pound feet of torque. A six-speed automatic channels the power to the rear wheels, unless you opt for all-wheel drive. A 355hp horsepower V8 is next in line and can operate through a 6 or 8-speed gearbox.

A 2.7-liter inline-four is also available, churning out 310 horsepower and 348-pound feet of torque. This four-cylinder engine mates to an 8-speed automatic. A 6.2 liter V8 and a 3.0 liter Duramax six-cylinder diesel complete the lineup. The former is gas-powered and makes up to 420 horsepower. Both can be paired to the excellent 10-speed Allison transmission, and make an impressive 460-pound foot of torque.

2. Credible Off-Road Capability

While the Sierra 1500 isn’t built for rock crawling and extreme off-roading, it performs quite well on rough terrain. This is especially true for the specially built AT4 models. This trim adds an array of off-road goodies such as tow hooks, a standard four-wheel-drive system, a two-speed transfer case, and 18-inch wheels clad in mud-rated wheels.

A suspension lift kit is also included, adding two inches to the Rancho monotube dampers that come standard on the AT4. GMC’s Traction Select System is also available, allowing you to alter throttle response, transmission, stability control, and steering dynamics. Along with the four-wheel drive, an electronically locking rear differential and hill descent control help claw the GMC out of tricky terrain.

3. Impressive Towing and Hauling

When properly optioned, the 2020 Sierra 1500 can tow a maximum of 12,200 pounds. The same configuration also allows you to haul up to 2,240 pounds. It’s worth noting that if you want your Sierra to match these numbers, you’ll have to go for the all-wheel-drive models. A carbon fiber reinforced bed is also available, which is lighter and yet stronger than regular metal beds, maximizing carrying capacity.

4. Large, Practical Interior

Depending on how you equip your truck, it will have the capacity to carry between 3 and 6 passengers. The cabin is large and practical, providing enough legroom and headroom for all passengers. The dashboard is centered on the driver facing center console, which is adorned by ergonomic knobs, buttons, and controls.

The interior is classy and has ample cubby storage spaces. You will also have to contend with heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display (HUD), and a wide range of safety features.

In the past few years, pickup trucks have undergone a wonderful transition from basic utes to luxurious, capable, good-looking, brutes. The GMC Sierra has not been left behind, and its many innovative features help keep it ahead of the pack. Contact Crain Team Conway today to learn more.


5 Best Restaurants for Take-Out or Delivery in Conway, AR

Most folks know Conway, AR as a mConway cinnamon rollsedium-sized town with a giant heart. But did you also know the town boasts a large selection of great restaurants for take-out or delivery? They’re perfect for those busy days when the river is calling your name instead of the kitchen.

5 Best Restaurants for Take-Out or Delivery in Conway, AR

1. The Original Fried Pie Shop

What is a fried pie? Can you picture a crispy, golden-brown crust filled with piping hot filling. Now imagine you get a choice of savory or sweet. That’s right, you can order a meat pie for lunch and a chocolate pecan pie for dessert.

Just wait until you see how big these handheld pies are. They’re the very definition of decadence.

2. Mike’s Place

Mike’s Place is one of the top restaurants in Conway for good reason, their food is second to none. Take your pick-steaks, seafood, wood-fired pizzas- they do everything well.

The atmosphere of the place is amazing too, designed to invoke feelings of New Orleans during Mardi Gras. When grabbing your take-out, be sure to pause a moment and experience the Old World charm of the building. Then you can rush home and devour your gourmet meal!

3. Agape Asian Noodles

Are you in the mood for something lighter? Stop by this Asian cuisine eatery and grab some sushi to go. Sample the volcano roll and shrimp tempura roll, they are two of the most popular entrees.

Are you still hungry? Be sure to check out their array of noodle dishes. From Vietnamese style pho soup to Korean inspired cold noodles, you will feel like your passport has been stamped, and your stomach filled to the brim.

4. Stoby’s Restaurant

Stoby’s is an iconic restaurant in Conway. Known to locals as the yellow house on the corner, this eatery specializes in breakfast. Eggs Benedict, biscuits and gravy, and a concoction known as the Big Mess are hometown favorites.

But if there is one thing you must absolutely try, it’s the homemade cinnamon rolls. Gooey and warm, they arrive on your plate steaming hot from the oven. We dare you to only order one.

There’s another reason to love this place. Stoby’s allows guests to place their order online, minimizing wait times.

5. Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux

We’ll admit we don’t know how to pronounce the entire name correctly. But with fantastic Creole-style cooking, we don’t care. Popular dishes include blackened redfish tacos, voodoo shrimp and grits, and bayou pasta.

You might feel pretty full at this point, but let me leave you with four words- Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding.

Of course, enjoying all this delicious take-out requires one thing- a reliable car. If your vehicle is letting you down, consider ordering delivery from Crain Buick GMC. At Crain, we offer vehicle shopping online from the comfort of your own home, so you can leave the hard work to the experts. Contact Crain Buick GMC today and learn how they can help you enjoy the car buying process once more.


5 Great Parks in Conway, AR for Getting Outdoors

Out doors in Conway, AR

If you’re in Conway, AR and looking for exciting outdoor activities, look no further because these parks offer the best in outdoor fun. Running through the city is the Arkansas River, so many of these parks boast a variety of water activities. What makes these parks even better is that most of the amenities offered are completely free.

1. Beaverfork Lake Park

With 25 acres, there is no shortage of fun and activities at Beaverfork Lake Park. This park stands out among the rest with its swimming beach area, boat launch, fishing dock, and disc golf course. Along with these amazing amenities, the park also has two covered pavilions, a volleyball court, a playground, and a baseball field.


Continue reading