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Where is Hickory located?
- Hickory is located on the eastern edge of North Carolina.
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How did Hickory get its name?
- The city was named by Henry Robinson, its founder, after a hickory tree under which he built a tavern.
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What historical event occurred in Hickory?
- During the 1940s, Hickory was the site of one of the worst polio outbreaks in the United States.
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What is Hickory known for?
- The city is known for being home to some of the oldest furniture stores in the United States.
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Why is Hickory called the "Birthplace of NASCAR Stars"?
- Hickory is the birthplace of many iconic NASCAR drivers, earning it the nickname “Birthplace of NASCAR Stars”.
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What attractions does Hickory offer?
- Hickory features numerous art shops, parks, and barbecue joints.
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How far is Hickory from Charlotte?
- Hickory is about an hour away from Charlotte.
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1. Henry River Mill Village
Explore this preserved ghost town for an unusual glimpse into North Carolina’s past.
The Henry River Mill Village is one of the last places in the country that shows an unaltered industrial area from the 1800s. The village used waterpower to run its factories, something which was considered very high-tech back in the day. While parts of the village were burned during a fire in 1977, many original structures can still be seen today, such as country houses and a general store. Tours are available of the village, including one that will take you through the area at night while telling you of local ghost stories.
Henry River Mill Village, 4255 Henry River Rd Hickory, North Carolina 28602, Phone: 828-471-4768
2. Hickory Crawdads - L.P. Frans Stadium
Cheer on the Crawdads and enjoy affordable fun at this family-friendly baseball stadium.
Built in 1993, the Hickory Crawdads - L.P. Frans Stadium is home to the Hickory Crawdads, the local minor league baseball team. It was named after a local Pepsi manufacturer who helped to fund the stadium’s construction. The L.P. Frans Stadium has over 4,000 seats and a handful of cafes and eateries to grab some snacks at. After a recent renovation, the structure now has a large LED scoreboard and massive dugouts. The stadium has hosted a handful of major baseball tournaments throughout the years, including the South Atlantic League Finals.
Hickory Crawdads - L.P. Frans Stadium , 2500 Clement Blvd NW Hickory, North Carolina 2860, Phone: 828-322-3000
3. Catawba Science Center
Discover hands-on exhibits and explore aquarium wonders with curious kids in tow.
The Catawba Science Center opened in 1975 and is housed inside an old Victorian building. The science center is designed to teach visitors more behind various science fields and includes numerous exhibits and classes to help do so. The Catawba Science Center has a planetarium that plays laser light shows and guided constellation lectures. It also has a large aquarium filled with different marine species. When you’re done exploring the science center, you can stop by its gift shop which sells unique merchandise such as freeze-dried ice cream and puzzles.
Catawba Science Center, 243 3rd Ave NE Hickory, North Carolina 28601, Phone: 828-322-8169
4. Hickory Aviation Museum
Admire historic aircraft and explore military aviation sights in this easy-to-reach museum.
The Hickory Aviation Museum holds hundreds of aviation artifacts from World War II to modern-day, including plane models such as The F-18 Hornet and Wright Flyer. While here, you can step inside old engines, learn the science behind how airplanes fly, and view aviation uniforms. In addition to many exhibits inside, the museum also has a Wall of Honor which honors local veterans. The museum offers guided tours and holds various events during the year, such as HAM radio meetings. Admission is free.
Hickory Aviation Museum, 3101 9th Avenue Drive NW Hickory, North Carolina 28601, Phone: 828-323-1963
5. Hickory Museum of Art
See regional art and admire vibrant exhibits during a quiet weekend escape.
Hickory Museum of Art holds a vast collection of art from the 19th-21st centuries. The Hickory Museum of Art has numerous traveling exhibits which range from travel photography to behind-the-scenes views of artists at work. The museum additionally holds an impressive collection of folk art which it has dedicated its third floor to. Visitors can also attend one of the many art classes held here, including an introduction to ceramic pottery and abstract painting. The Hickory Museum of Art has an art shop which sells works by local artists.
Hickory Museum of Art, 243 Third Ave NE Hickory, North Carolina 28601, Phone: 828-327-8576
6. Harper House/ Hickory History Center
Step inside Victorian elegance and explore fascinating attractions from Hickory’s past.
The Harper House, which was once a prominent family’s home, now serves as the Hickory History Center. Featuring a beautiful display of Queen Anne-style architecture, the home takes guests back in time to the 1800s. While here, you’ll be able to view stained glass windows, twirling staircases, and even a tower built into the top of the house. The home also has a few exhibits inside which hold items such as vintage jewelry, silverware, and clothing. The center is open from Thursday to Saturday and offers a few guided tours throughout the day.
Harper House/ Hickory History Center, 310 N. Center Street Hickory, North Carolina 28601, Phone: 828-324-7294
7. Maple Grove, Hickory, NC
Visit this antebellum home to learn about early life in a retirement-paced setting.
Maple Grove, a farmhouse built in 1883, was the home of the Shuford family who helped found the city of Hickory. The home is preserved to look exactly as it did during the 1800s and is considered to be one of the oldest homes in the area. Guests to Maple Grove can step inside its various rooms, including bedrooms, a parlor, and kitchen. Each room also contains family heirlooms which range from clothing to furniture. The home is open from Monday to Friday and guided tours are available by appointment.
Maple Grove, 542 Second Street NE Hickory, North Carolina 28601, Phone: 828-322-4731
8. Blowing Rock Brewery
Savor craft beer and enjoy a romantic stop nestled in scenic Blowing Rock.
Founded in 2007, Blowing Rock Brewery is designed to help teach others more about the art of craft beer and some of the best ways to enjoy it. This boutique brewery features some of the best brewing equipment in the world, including high-quality fermentors and kettles. Guided tours are available of the facility as well as tastings of the brewery’s top creations which are known for their creative combinations. Blowing Rock Brewery also operates as an inn which has a handful of quaint rooms guests can book.
Blowing Rock Brewery, 883 Highland Avenue SE Hickory, North Carolina 28602, Phone: 828-855-9999
9. Backstreets Bar and Grill
Grab a bite and enjoy a casual, affordable spot full of local flavor.
Backstreets Bar and Grill first opened in 1996 in what was once a former barbecue restaurant. Eventually, the company relocated to a building a few feet away from its original location, but has remained an important fixture in the community. This bar and grill offers a vast menu which includes hamburgers, salads, hand-cut steaks, and homemade pasta and pizza. Diners will also find the bar well-stocked with a variety of beers and wines. Besides its dishes and drinks, Backstreets Bar and Grill has a unique assortment of sports and bar memorabilia hanging on its walls.
Backstreets Bar and Grill , 246 14th Ave NE Hickory, North Carolina 28601, Phone: 828-328-6479
10. Hickory Community Theatre
See local talent shine and enjoy exciting live performances in a charming venue.
The Hickory Community Theatre has been bringing the joys of live performance art to the Hickory community since 1949. The theatre aims to entertain and inspire new generations of performing artists to pursuit their dreams. The theatre has always operated out of the Hickory City Hall and when a new City Hall was built in 1976, the theatre was able to expand in the original premises. Today Hickory Community Theatre has two venues where audiences can enjoy a wide variety of entertainment including musicals, comedy shows, music concerts and more. Everyone in the community is encouraged to join in and audition for roles.
Hickory Community Theatre, 30 3rd Street NW, Hickory, NC 28601, 828 328 2283
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Hilton Garden Inn Hickory – A comfortable stay with modern amenities.
Visit Bakers Mountain Park – Enjoy scenic hiking trails and panoramic views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor and lake activities.
Hampton Inn Hickory – A centrally located and well-rated hotel.
Explore Lake Hickory – Go boating, fishing, or relax by the waterfront.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and local festivals.
The Inn at Hickory – A charming bed & breakfast with historic charm.
Attend the Hickory Oktoberfest – Enjoy live music, craft beer, and cultural festivities.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive with holiday events.
Courtyard by Marriott Hickory – A cozy stay with easy access to downtown.
Visit the Hickory Museum of Art – Explore local and national exhibits in a historic setting.
Plan Your Trip
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