Are you looking for things to do in Hickory NC? Nestled in the lap of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina, Hickory is a charming city with a rich history and a plethora of activities to indulge in. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture aficionado, Hickory has something special in store for you. The city boasts of several scenic parks that offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
You can go hiking, biking, camping, or fishing in the Hickory Nut Gorge, which is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Moreover, you can explore fascinating museums such as the Hickory Aviation Museum and the Catawba Science Center to learn about the history and science of the region. Hickory also has a vibrant arts scene, with many art galleries, theaters, and music venues that showcase the creativity and talent of the local artists. In short, Hickory, NC, is an idyllic destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and entertainment.
Outdoor Activities and Parks
With its beautiful natural surroundings, Hickory is a great place for outdoor activities and enjoying nature. Some of the top parks and outdoor attractions include:
Lake Hickory
This 5,340 acre lake bordering Hickory is perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and more. Rent a pontoon boat or kayak and spend the day on the water. Stop by the Lake Hickory public access area off Highway 127 for swimming beaches and picnic areas. The lake is also lined with marinas and restaurants with lake views.
Catawba River
Flowing through Hickory, the Catawba River provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and standup paddle boarding. Head to boat launches at Rocky Ford Access or behind L.P. Frans Stadium to put in your own boat or rent one from a local outfitter. The river also has trails along it for walking and biking.
Henry Fork River
Known for its excellent fly fishing, the Henry Fork River runs along the northwest side of Hickory. Anglers can catch trout, smallmouth bass, and more. Public access points are available, but be sure to purchase a NC fishing license.
Catawba Falls
Located just south of Hickory off Highway 321, these breathtaking falls plunge over 100 feet into a pool below. Enjoy scenic views from observation decks or hike down to the base of the falls. The short but steep hike back up makes the falls a bit off the beaten path.
St. Stephens Park
Offering walking trails, baseball fields, tennis courts, and a playground, this large park located right in Hickory is a great place for hiking, picnicking, and letting the kids run free.
Geitner-Rotary Park
Another scenic park in Hickory, Geitner-Rotary features walking trails passing by a duck pond, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and restrooms. It’s a nice spot for taking a peaceful stroll in nature without leaving the city.
Catawba Science Center Trail
For a dose of science education during your nature walk, check out this .8 mile trail that winds behind the Catawba Science Center, with educational panels on the plants, animals, and geology of the area along the way.
Baker’s Mountain Park
Located just north of Hickory, this 630 acre park contains over 8 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails ranging from easy to difficult. The scenic trails meander through peaceful forests and offer nice views from Baker’s Mountain summit.
Museums and Historic Attractions
Hickory has several interesting museums covering subjects like art, history, science, and transportation. Step into the past by visiting these museums and historic sites:
Hickory History Museum
Housed in a restored 1909 post office, this museum contains exhibits detailing the history of Hickory from its start as a trading post settlement to becoming a booming furniture industry town. Historic artifacts, dioramas, interactive displays, and a gift shop.
Hickory Art Museum
View an impressive collection of American art including paintings, sculptures, and more at this modern art museum located atop a hill overlooking downtown. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits, events, and educational programs.
Catawba Science Center
With interactive science exhibits and an aquarium, this hands-on museum is great for kids and adults alike. Learn about physics, chemistry, earth science, biology, and more through fun exhibits and activities.
Hickory Tavern
Step back into the late 1700s at this historic reconstructed stagecoach stop and tavern. Costumed guides provide tours and demonstrations of early American life, cooking, and crafts. The tavern is an accurate recreation based on research into the original 1763 building.
Clement Geitner House
Built in 1841 and located in Geitner-Rotary Park, this historic home contains a museum displaying what life was like for early residents of Hickory. Period furnishings, clothing, and quilts help tell the story of the home’s original owners.
North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame
Race car enthusiasts will love this museum dedicated to the legends of auto racing. See classic cars driven by Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, and other stars as you learn about the history of the sport.
Hickory Aviation Museum
Located at the Hickory Regional Airport, this museum contains exhibits looking at Hickory’s role in pioneering aviation history. Vintage aircraft are on display, including prop planes from World War II, a 1952 Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star, and a 1959 Douglas DC-3. Aviation memorabilia fills out the rest of the museum.
Farmers Markets and Agritourism
Get a taste of Hickory’s agricultural roots at these farmers markets and agritourism destinations located in the area:
Downtown Hickory Farmers Market
Running from April to November, this lively farmers market sets up on Saturday mornings in Downtown Hickory. Browse stalls from over 35 local farmers and food producers selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more. There’s often live music and cooking demos too.
Winkler’s Pumpkin Patch
Each fall, Winkler’s farm just west of Hickory transforms into a pumpkin patch extravaganza with hayrides, corn mazes, farm animals to feed, and pick-your-own pumpkins. Kids will love getting lost in the maze and picking out the perfect pumpkin.
Apple Hill Orchard
Another fall favorite, this orchard near Hickory offers pick-your-own apples, a cafe selling cider donuts and other treats, a winery, a play area for kids, and lovely views. It’s a perfect spot for an afternoon with the family.
Bear Creek Farm
At this farm and event venue, you can pick seasonal blueberries in summer and shop for fresh produce and flowers year-round. They also host weddings, school field trips, and other events.
Homestead Creamery
Watch cows being milked, sample ice cream, and shop for dairy products at this family-run creamery. You can even bottle-feed calves when they are available.
Broad River Greenway Farm Tour
Every August, this self-guided driving tour allows you to visit over 25 different farms in the Hickory area, with stops for fruit picking, winery tastings, hayrides, and demonstrations of traditional farming methods.
Breweries and Wineries
Hickory has developed an impressive craft beverage scene in recent years. Beer lovers can tour local breweries, while the area’s wineries produce fine wines from the North Carolina soil.
Olde Hickory Brewery
One of the most prominent craft breweries in Hickory, Olde Hickory offers tours of their facilities and tastings of brews like their Irish Draught and Event Horizon Belgian-style brews. Food trucks are often on site.
LoSo Brewing Company
LoSo keeps beer drinkers happy with mainstay brews like their Gateway IPA and seasonal and specialty beers on rotation. Their taproom offers beers to drink in or take home in growlers.
Red Sun Meadery
For something different, try the meads at this meadery located in downtown Hickory. Made from fermented honey, mead is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages, and Red Sun makes meads ranging from dry to sweet.
Downtown Hickory Wine Walks
On certain Friday nights from April through November, downtown merchants host a wine walk where you can sample wines from up to six downtown shops while enjoying live music. A great way to discover new wines.
Burntshirt Vineyards
Just west of Hickory, this vineyard crafts premium wines like Chardonnay, Merlot, and seasonal blends. Take a tour of the winemaking facilities and tasting room set on a scenic hilltop.
Silver Fork Winery
Another nearby winery, Silver Fork’s staff will walk you through a tasting of their classic wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin. Picnic areas with mountain views let you linger.
Shopping and Dining
Whether you’re looking for some retail therapy or great places to eat and drink, Hickory has plenty of options:
Downtown Hickory
Stroll along the Walk of Fame displaying handprints of famous people born in Hickory while you pop in and out of downtown shops. Everything from antiques to art to homegoods. Grab a bite at one of the local restaurants like Southern Crafted Kitchen.
Union Square
This shopping center located in Viewmont features big chain stores like Hobby Lobby, PetSmart, Old Navy, and more. Break up shopping at eateries like Chipotle or Arby’s.
The Avenue Catawba
Also in Viewmont, shop department stores like Belk and Dillard’s or check out shops like Bath & Body Works along this outdoor mall’s lanes.
Highland Avenue
Near Lenoir-Rhyne University, this street contains an array of boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and taverns popular with college students.
Southgate Shopping Center
Major retailers like Target, Lowe’s, Michael’s, and Academy Sports + Outdoors make this a go-to shopping destination on Highway 70 SW. The area is packed with other big box stores and chain restaurants.
Hickory Crawdads Baseball Games
Cheer for the Hickory Crawdads minor league baseball team at L.P. Frans Stadium during the season from April to September. Enjoy an affordable family-friendly game with entertainment like in-between inning games and fireworks nights.
Annual Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Hickory hosts fun annual festivals and events that highlight the city’s arts, culture, food, and history.
Hickory Hops Festival
This annual April event turns downtown Hickory into a beer lover’s paradise with tastings from dozens of breweries, homebrewers, and local restaurants. Enjoy great beers while grooving to live music.
Alive After Five
From May through August on alternating Thursdays, downtown Hickory hosts free outdoor evening concerts, shopping, and dining, with kids’ activities too. A fun way to celebrate the end of the workweek.
Bluegrass and Barbecue Festival
In June, this festival brings together bluegrass performances and delicious BBQ along with arts, crafts, rides, and children’s activities at L.P. Frans Stadium.
Freedom Fest
Hickory’s big Independence Day celebration spans several days in late June and early July with activities like a patriotic parade, live music, hot dog eating contest, car show, and fireworks.
Oktoberfest
Held in downtown Hickory in September, this lively German-style festival includes beers, brats, live polka music and dancing, kids’ activities, craft vendors, and more beer. Free admission.
NC Apple Festival
Taking place at the end of September, this huge street fair encompasses several blocks of downtown Hickory. Highlights include live music on three stages, apple-themed food, a juried arts & craft show, carnival rides, and more.
Amusement Parks and Family Attractions
For family fun the kids are sure to love, Hickory has several great amusement parks, play places, and other attractions.
Valley Fun Park
This entertainment center northwest of Hickory offers go kart tracks, mini golf, bumper boats, batting cages, arcade games, picnic areas, and more for a fun-filled family day.
Zahra Baker All Children’s Playground
Located in Taft Broome Park, this huge playground has separate areas designed for kids ages 2-5 and 5-12 with swings, climbing structures, toys, and interactive musical elements.
Frye Farm Horse Riding Stables
Both young novices and experienced equestrians can take horseback riding lessons and trail rides at this stable located conveniently near Hickory. They offer activities like summer camps too.
Triple Play Family Fun Park
With laser tag, indoor mini golf, arcade games, and more, Triple Play offers indoor entertainment for all ages just north of Hickory. A great rainy day activity.
Rockin’ Jump Indoor Trampoline Park
Kids can get their energy out bouncing on trampolines, diving into foam pits, playing dodgeball, and more at this indoor park located in Hickory.
Conclusion
With its picturesque location in western North Carolina, charming downtown, fascinating museums, scenic parks, and wealth of things to do, Hickory makes for an excellent getaway destination. Outdoor lovers can pedal along the Catawba River, cast a line into Lake Hickory, or hike forested trails, while the city offers family fun at amusement parks, interactive museums, and seasonal festivals. These are just a few of the many things to do in Hickory, NC.. Along with local craft breweries, wineries, antique shops, historic sites, and great dining, Hickory truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or longer stay, Hickory provides the perfect base to experience the beauty and culture of the North Carolina foothills region.
FAQs
What is there to do in Hickory at night?
Some top nightlife options in Hickory include downtown breweries like Olde Hickory, sidewalk cafes and bars on Union Square or Highland Ave, events like Alive After Five summer concerts, Hickory Crawdad baseball games under the lights, or catching an indie film or show at the PAC Arts Center.
Is Hickory, NC safe?
Like most cities, common sense precautions apply, but overall Hickory is a very safe city with a low crime rate, particularly in downtown and tourist areas. Violent crime is rare, but always be aware of surroundings.
How far is Asheville, NC from Hickory?
Asheville is located about 84 miles away from Hickory, or just over a 1.5 hour drive. Take I-40 West to get from Hickory to Asheville through the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.
What is there to do near Hickory, NC?
Popular nearby attractions include the town of Blowing Rock, the gem mining destination of Hiddenite, numerous area wineries, South Mountain State Park, the town of Morganton, Lake James, and the city of Asheville just over an hour away.
Is Hickory, NC a good place to raise a family?
Yes, Hickory offers a very family-friendly environment. Good public schools, low crime, easily affordable housing, outdoor recreation opportunities, kid-friendly museums and parks, plus events and amenities make Hickory a great place for families.