20+ Great Things to Do in Hickory (Interactive Museums, the Best Food, and More!)

Looking for the best things to do in Hickory, NC? This charming city, situated in the foothills of North Carolina, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, rich history, vibrant arts, and family-friendly attractions.

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a more extended stay, Hickory has something for everyone—from scenic parks and museums to delicious local dining and unique shopping spots. Keep reading to discover top activities and hidden gems that make Hickory a must-visit destination in the Carolinas!

Read More: Day Trips in North Carolina

To outsiders, the city’s best-known attraction is the Hickory Furniture Mart. Fans of Minor League Baseball will know the Hickory Crawdads, but there are even more great places to explore.

We created this guide to share the best things to do in Hickory for everyone, including first-time visitors, families, foodies, and more!

These sections will keep your Hickory trip organized:

• Where is Hickory?
• History
• Annual Events
• Year-Round Things to Do in Hickory (Museums)
• Downtown
• Outdoor Things to Do in Hickory
• Things to Do in Hickory’s Surroundings

Whether you’re a new resident, a frequent visitor, or a local, we’re leaving no detail behind. If you live in the Hickory area and are wondering, “What are the best things to do near me?” we think this NC travel guide will help you out! 

Read More: Our North Carolina Travel Map

Where is Hickory, North Carolina?

Hickory is a city in the Foothills of North Carolina, at the eastern edge of Western North Carolina. However, some definitions place the city in Central North Carolina due to its borderland location.

With a population of 40,000+, it is the second-largest Western NC city after Asheville.

Read More: The Best Breweries in Asheville

Hickory primarily sits within Catawba County, but parts stretch into Burke County to the west (near Morganton) and Caldwell County to the northwest (near Lenoir and Blowing Rock).

If you’re heading west on I-40, Hickory is the last city you’ll pass through before the mountains of Western North Carolina come into view. And if you’re heading east, Hickory is the last city before Statesville and the I-77 junction.

Another great thing about the city is that it’s approximately an hour’s drive east of Asheville, an hour’s drive north of Charlotte, and an hour’s drive west of Winston-Salem. Hickory is also an hour south of Boone in the High Country, which means it’s close to some of our favorite Blue Ridge Parkway stops.

The city is a perfect day trip option from so many places in North Carolina. However, our guide will show you why that’s not enough time and why a night (or more) is required.

Read More: Day Trips from Greensboro

History of Hickory

Hickory’s history is closely tied to the rest of Catawba County, so some places mentioned may not be located in Hickory. The county was formed in 1842 from Lincoln County, named after the Catawba Indians who once inhabited the area.

Hickory was initially founded as “Hickory Tavern,” a community named after a local inn built by Henry Robinson in the 1850s.

Hickory Tavern drew its first town charter in 1863 and officially became the Town of Hickory Tavern in 1870. It officially became the Town of Hickory in 1873 and, by 1889, the City of Hickory.

Lenoir-Rhyne University was founded in 1891 as Highland Academy.

In the 20th century, the area experienced significant growth, largely due to the development of the furniture industry. Hickory Manufacturing Company was founded in 1902 and continues to operate as Hickory White Co.

The completion of the Oxford Dam in 1927 resulted in the creation of Lake Hickory. The reservoir provides water for the city and offers boating, fishing, and more of the best things to do in Hickory.

After World War II, “The Miracle of Hickory” demonstrated to the world what this North Carolina city could accomplish in times of crisis. In response to the first polio cases in the area, local citizens and doctors built, equipped, and staffed a full-scale hospital in 54 hours.

Read More: Interesting Facts about North Carolina

What is Hickory Known For Today?

The furniture industry is still a significant part of Hickory’s identity, but industries (including fiber optic cable) have moved in and provided jobs.

Hickory also operates data centers for Apple and Google. Additionally, the city is an ideal destination for large gatherings and events, with the Hickory Metro Convention Center conveniently located near I-40 at Exit 125.

The recently revitalized downtown is the perfect base for visitors but also locals, new and old. Historic landmarks remain as reminders of the Hickory Metro area’s vibrant past. They include the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge and the Hickory Motor Speedway.

Beyond the things to do in Hickory that we’ll share, the city is also a fantastic base for exploring nearby mountains and lakes! 

Read More: The Best Day Trips from Boone

Annual Hickory NC Events

Hickory has several annual events that draw crowds from all over the state.

• February to November: The Hickory Motor Speedway is open nearly year-round and keeps pretty busy schedule, with club races and touring series events.
• March: The Catawba Valley Pottery and Antiques Festival is held every March at the Hickory Metro Convention Center. More than 100 potters and vendors showcase their work.
• April: Are you a beer lover? The annual Hickory Hops Festival brings live music, craft beer, and loads of fun every year.
• April to September: Watch the High-A Hickory Crawdads play at L.P. Frans Stadium. Come out to the park, catch a foul ball, and watch the ‘Dads battle teams from North Carolina and beyond.
• September: Film comes to Hickory at the annual Footcandle Film Festival. September is also when history comes alive at Hart Square. The annual festival provides a unique opportunity for the community to interact with the largest collection of historic log structures with volunteers in period dress.
• October: Is it even Fall without an Oktoberfest? Organized by the Hickory Downtown Development Association, the event is a three-day outdoor festival celebrating the regional German heritage with entertainment, food vendors, and live music.

Read More: Fall in North Carolina (Where to See Foliage + Great Fall Events!)

Things to Do in Hickory This Weekend (and All Year!)

While you should keep those annual events on your calendar, here is what to do in Hickory, NC, throughout the year.

Read More: Unique Things to Do in North Carolina

Hickory Museum of Art 

Address: 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC
Website

Hickory is a gem for experiencing arts and culture in North Carolina. This town is packed with creative energy, and you’ll find that reflected everywhere—from public murals downtown to interactive museum exhibits and local galleries. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a dedicated art lover, Hickory offers a mix of history, creativity, and hands-on experiences that make it easy to explore. It’s a place where the arts feel both accessible and alive, and you definitely won’t run out of things to see and do.

Just a short walk or drive from downtown, the Hickory Museum of Art is one of the city’s cultural highlights. Admission is free, and the museum features more than 2,000 works of art, with a focus on American art from the 19th to the 21st centuries. You’ll find a wide range of media represented—paintings, photography, sculpture, folk art, and more—so there’s always something new to discover. The museum is also located inside the beautifully restored SALT Block, which is home to several other cultural institutions, making it a great one-stop destination for families and visitors of all ages.

Fun fact: the Hickory Museum of Art is the second-oldest art museum in North Carolina. Even with its long history, the museum remains fresh and engaging, offering new exhibitions, community programs, and family-friendly events throughout the year. It’s a great spot to introduce kids to the world of art, thanks to its welcoming spaces and interactive displays.

Read More: Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More!)

Catawba Science Center

Address: 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC
Website

Located inside a beautifully repurposed former high school, the Catawba Science Center is one of the top things to do in Hickory for families with kids. It shares a building with the Hickory Museum of Art in the SALT Block, allowing you to easily make a full day of exploring both.

The Catawba Science Center is packed with hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity and keep kids engaged, featuring displays of physics and natural science, live animal encounters, and an incredible aquarium. It’s the kind of place where kids can touch, play, explore, and learn something without even realizing it.

Admission is very affordable—just $10 for adults and $8 for kids, making it a budget-friendly stop that’s perfect for families. They also offer additional programming throughout the year, including summer camps, special exhibits, and science demonstrations that change things up with every visit. There’s even a planetarium with shows that take you from the night sky to deep space, which is always a hit for both kids and adults.

Pro tip: always ask about reciprocal admission! If you have a membership to another science museum or children’s museum (like the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, for example), you may be able to get in for free or at a discounted rate.

Read More: Amazing Children’s Museums in North Carolina

Hickory Aviation Museum 

Address: 3101 9th Ave Dr NW, Hickory, NC
Website

Head out to Hickory Regional Airport and enjoy a look at aviation history in Hickory! The Hickory Aviation Museum (closed on Mondays) houses artifacts and exhibits spanning from World War II to the present day, providing excellent background information on aerospace.

Free to visit, this is considered one of the most fun things to do in Hickory, NC! 

The Hickory Aviation Museum is currently working on opening a brand-new indoor facility nearby. We received a sneak peek during our visit in May 2025 and will keep you updated on the openings through our social media (so be sure to follow us!)

Read More: National Parks Sites in North Carolina

Hickory Furniture Mart

Address: 2220 Hwy 70 SE
Website

If you’re anywhere near Hickory, the Hickory Furniture Mart is a must-visit, especially if you love home design or are hunting for that perfect piece. This iconic destination has been part of Hickory’s furniture legacy for decades. Since opening its doors in the 1960s, the Mart has established a reputation as one of the premier destinations in the country for high-quality, North Carolina-made furniture. Hickory itself was once known as the “Furniture Capital of the World,” and the Mart proudly carries that history forward.

Inside, you’ll find a massive, four-level showroom with more than 1,000 brands represented, ranging from luxury furniture to outlet deals. Whether you’re furnishing a new home, updating a single room, or just browsing for ideas, it’s easy to spend a few hours here. Many visitors schedule design appointments in advance or even make a weekend trip out of it. It’s also a popular stop for interior designers and people traveling from all over the U.S. for better quality and better prices than they’d find back home.

Expect friendly service, Southern hospitality, and a wide variety of styles— from traditional to modern, rustic to coastal. There’s also a café on-site if you need a break while shopping. And if you’re not ready to buy, that’s fine! Just walking through is a great way to get inspired. It’s a big part of what makes Hickory such a special hub for craftsmanship and creativity.

Hickory Crawdads & Hickory FC

A night at a Hickory Crawdads game is one of the most classic summer experiences you can have in town. The ballpark has that laid-back, small-town charm where kids run around between innings, fireworks light up the sky, and the food is precisely what you want—think hot dogs, funnel cakes, and local brews.

The Crawdads are a minor league affiliate of the Texas Rangers, so you’re seeing rising stars on the field. Plus, tickets are super affordable, and there’s always something extra going on, from theme nights to giveaways.

Just across town, Hickory FC brings a different kind of energy. As the city’s semi-pro soccer team, their matches have become a fast-growing favorite, especially among families and local fans who love the game’s fast pace and excitement.

The atmosphere is high-energy and community-driven, with cheering fans, kids waving flags, and local food trucks often parked outside. It’s the kind of event where you can feel how much pride Hickory has in this team and what they’re building.

Whether you’re at the baseball stadium or the soccer pitch, both experiences are a great way to spend time outside, cheer on a local team, and feel part of something. These games give Hickory a genuine hometown sports vibe – fun, casual, and full of heart. You don’t have to be a diehard fan to have a great time! Show up, grab a snack, and enjoy the game.

Hickory History Center

Address: 310 N Center St, Hickory, NC
Website

Step inside the Hickory History Center, a beautifully preserved Victorian-era home that locals often refer to as the “Harper House.” This stunning historic residence isn’t just an architectural gem—it’s a window into Hickory’s past and the story of the Harper family, who once made this house their home.

Walking through its rooms, you’ll see carefully restored period furnishings, vintage décor, and artifacts that bring to life the daily lives of a family from a bygone era. The museum does an excellent job of connecting visitors with the region’s history, making it a meaningful stop for anyone interested in heritage and local culture.

The Harper House offers guided tours that provide a deeper understanding of the family’s influence on Hickory and what life was like in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Knowledgeable guides share stories and historical facts that bring the past to life, making it feel vivid and real. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about old homes, these tours offer an intimate and educational experience that’s both enjoyable and enriching.

Admission is very reasonable, making it accessible for families and visitors of all ages. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for kids ages 6 to 17, and free for children five and under. It’s a perfect outing if you want to dive into Hickory’s roots while exploring a beautiful piece of the city’s architectural history.

Read More: 80+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (The Asheville Bucket List)

More Things to Do in Hickory (Downtown and Nearby)

Hickory’s museums are a big draw, offering rich glimpses into art, history, and science, but the heart of the city comes alive when you step into downtown Hickory!

You’ll find a lively mix of local shops, cozy cafes, colorful murals, and plenty of spots to grab a bite or sip on a craft brew. Downtown Hickory seamlessly blends small-town charm with a creative and welcoming vibe, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. Stroll the historic streets, check out unique boutiques, or catch a live music, there’s always something new and exciting to discover just around every corner!

Union Square

If you are searching for all of the action, then Union Square is the pulse of downtown Hickory. With its many restaurants, locally owned boutiques, and more, Union Square is where travelers and locals come together. 

Another great thing about Union Square is meeting “Under the Sails.” In addition, the bi-weekly Downtown Hickory Farmer’s Market, live music, and community events occur throughout the year, and there is typically plenty of outdoor seating and space available.

Read More: The NC Museum of History (+7 Things We Love About It!)

Shop Local in Hickory

Hickory boasts an impressive downtown shopping district, featuring a diverse range of local shops catering to everyone. Here are some of the businesses in downtown Hickory that we think you should check out:

• Lou Lou’s Corner is an excellent children’s toy boutique. They have an incredible selection of unique toys as well as gifts for adults!
• Bisque Boutique is a mother-daughter-run paint-your-own-pottery studio! Drop in and paint your creation.
• Lilly Thomas Boutique has stylish clothing for every woman! And I met the owners one day at Main Chick Jammin’, and they were so sweet. Great people, great clothes. Check them out and tell them I said hi!
• DASH Home and Kitchen is one of the most aesthetically pleasing stores I’ve been in lately! They have everything from decor to even mimosa flights.
• Far Out Records & Retro is a blast from the past. If you are a record collector of maybe just really into nostalgia, this Hickory store is a fun place to poke around!
• Tastebuds Popcorn has over 70 flavors of popcorn! And… here me out… there’s even a dill pickle popcorn that you have to try to believe!

This is just a short list to get you started! We love supporting small businesses, and there is no shortage of amazing places to patronize in Hickory. Shopping in downtown Hickory should be at the top of your list of things to do!

Read More: Why and How to Support Our Amazing Local Businesses

Hunt Murals in Hickory

In the heart of Downtown Hickory (117 Government Ave SW), you’ll find this vibrant mural by artist James Smith—a colorful welcome and a love letter to the city. Each letter in “HICKORY” is filled with scenes that celebrate local life, from gears that nod to our industrial roots to a map showing exactly where we are in North Carolina.

You’ll spot the Lenoir-Rhyne logo, a Hickory Crawdads shoutout, and a kayaker paddling through Lake Hickory. It also highlights the city’s passion for the arts, sciences, music, literature—and yes, food! (Peep the Farmers Market!) It’s a must-see stop that captures so much of what makes Hickory special.

Located at 234 Union Square in Downtown Hickory, the Historic Beginnings mural by Roger Cooke brings the city’s roots to life. It captures scenes from Hickory’s early days, including the Piedmont Wagon, Southern Railroad, Hickory Tavern, the Huffry Hotel, 1918 Union Square, and the Hickory Manufacturing Company.

You’ll also see the faces of four pioneers who helped shape the city’s foundation—Alex A. Shuford, J. Alfred Moretz, Lester Clark Gifford, and Edmund Thomas Moore, Sr. This mural is a tribute to the people and industries that helped build the strong, community-driven spirit Hickory is known for today.

You’ll find The Miracle of Hickory mural at 241 1st Ave NW, honoring one of the most incredible moments in the city’s history. In 1944, during a sudden polio outbreak, local doctors and volunteers collaborated to construct a fully functioning emergency hospital in just 54 hours. What they accomplished became known as “The Miracle of Hickory.”

Today, the mural stands as a tribute to that powerful spirit of community and resilience. It’s painted on the side of the Exodus Homes building, reflecting both the history of Hickory and Exodus Homes’ ongoing mission to uplift and empower diverse leadership.

Find more information and murals here.

Lowes Food City Park

Address: 300-326 Main Ave NW, Hickory, NC
Website

Lowes Foods City Park is on the western corner of Union Square, and its playground is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Hickory.

The Friends of Hickory’s very first project was creating a beautiful downtown park that quickly became a favorite spot for families. It’s got a little bit of everything: an interactive splash pad, unique play equipment that encourages creativity and exploration, and plenty of space to relax and take it all in. Whether you’re letting the kids run wild or just enjoying a quiet seat in the shade, it’s the kind of place that brings the community together.

Hickory Trail

Another Hickory attraction is the Hickory Trail. The 10-foot-wide walking and biking path connects neighborhoods with downtown Hickory, making it easily accessible and community-friendly. Currently, the trail spans 10 miles and includes City Walk, Riverwalk, Aviation Walk, Historic Ridgeview Walk, and OLLE Art Walk. 

One of the newest features is the overwater bridge at Lake Hickory and along the Catawba River. Hickory’s Riverwalk stretches about 2.3 miles through Geitner Park, winding along the edge of Lake Hickory. You’ll walk across an overwater bridge, through shady wooded paths, and right beside the water—perfect for soaking up different views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

The Riverwalk also ties together some of the best activities in Hickory. It connects to the paved Geitner Trail greenway, the Boy Scout Cabin at Rotary-Geitner Park, and the Lake Hickory mountain bike trails. And there’s even more on the way, including the Deidra Lackey Memorial Park, the OLLE Art Walk, and a future pedestrian bridge that will stretch across Lake Hickory to Caldwell County.

Outdoor Things to Do in Hickory

Looking to get outside and explore? Hickory’s outdoor scene offers numerous opportunities to soak up the natural beauty. From scenic hiking trails and peaceful lakeside spots to parks perfect for picnics and family fun, there’s no shortage of fresh-air adventures waiting just minutes from downtown. Hickory’s beautiful surroundings make it easy to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina

Lake Hickory 

Just a short drive north of downtown Hickory lies Lake Hickory, a beautiful mid-sized lake boasting an impressive 105 miles of shoreline. This scenic spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering ample space for a variety of water-based activities.

With 16 convenient boat launches and six full-service marinas, Lake Hickory is ideal whether you’re into boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or casting a line for some quality fishing. The lake’s calm waters and surrounding natural beauty create the perfect backdrop for a day on the water or a relaxing afternoon by the shore.

Don’t have your own boat? No worries! Lakeside Marina is a small business with 55+ years of serving the community and would be an excellent option for renting a boat.

Read More: 25+ Great Things to Do in Lake Norman (Nearby Towns and Parks)

Hart Square

Address: 3130 US Hwy 70 SE, Newton, NC
Website

Hart Square Village, located in Vale, North Carolina, is a remarkable testament to 19th-century Appalachian life. Established by Dr. Robert Hart in 1967, the village began with the relocation of the Hunsucker House, a circa 1840 log cabin, to his 200-acre property.

This initial acquisition sparked a passion for historic preservation, leading Dr. Hart to collect over 100 additional structures from Catawba County and neighboring regions. These buildings, dating from 1760 to 1890, include cabins, barns, a tavern, a chapel, a schoolhouse, and various other structures, forming the largest collection of original log buildings in the United States!

In 2005, the Hart Square Foundation was established to ensure the preservation of this unique village. Dr. Hart and his wife, Becky, officially donated the village and its collection to the foundation in 2017.

To visit the village, consider attending one of the community events or folkways classes that take place year-round! Find a list of upcoming events here.

Read More: Colorful Fall Hikes in North Carolina (+ 20 Beautiful Places to Explore!)

Hickory Motor Speedway

Address: 3130 US Hwy 70 SE, Newton, NC
Website

We mentioned the historic Hickory Motor Speedway in our annual events section, but this unique place deserves a spot here, too.

The speedway was built in 1951 and can be considered part of a NASCAR history museum. That’s because it houses both “the World’s Most Famous Short Track” and “The Birthplace of the NASCAR Stars.”

The Whelen All-American Series (NASCAR’s club racing division) and the CARS Tour (Late Model and Super Late Model) races are held throughout the year and considered one of the best things to do in Hickory for sports fans!

Read More: The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte

Bakers Mountain Park

Address: 6680 Bakers Mountain Rd, Hickory, NC
Website

Looking for a quick escape into nature without leaving Hickory? Check out Bakers Mountain Park! While Hickory is known as a gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bakers Mountain offers its own slice of natural beauty with easy-to-access trails and gorgeous views that don’t require a full day trip. It’s a local favorite for anyone wanting to stretch their legs, breathe in fresh air, and take in some peaceful forest scenery just minutes from the city.

At 1,780 feet, Bakers Mountain stands as the highest point in Catawba County, making it a rewarding destination for hikers of all skill levels. The park itself covers 189 acres of lush woodland, and you’ll find about six miles of well-marked trails winding through hardwood forests, rocky outcrops, and wildflower-filled clearings. Bakers Mountain Park offers a refreshing way to connect with nature and enjoy some of the best panoramic views around!

Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes

Bunker Hill Covered Bridge

Address: 4160 US-70, Claremont, NC

Last but not least, among our favorite things to do in Hickory is the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge. It’s one of only two remaining covered bridges in all of North Carolina, standing alongside its sister bridge, Pisgah Covered Bridge in Randolph County.

The Bunker Hill Bridge isn’t just picturesque; it carries deep roots in American history, with connections to both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Walking across the wooden planks, you can’t help but feel a sense of stepping back in time.

The bridge and its surrounding area have been carefully preserved, offering visitors a chance to experience both the natural beauty and history. Beyond simply admiring the bridge itself, you can explore the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge Trail, a peaceful half-mile loop that surrounds the area. This trail is part of the expansive Carolina Thread Trail, a network of greenways and trails that stretches across 15 counties in North and South Carolina.

Read More: Things to Do in Shelby and Cleveland County

Where to Eat in Hickory

When it comes to restaurants in Hickory, we have a lot of thoughts! This North Carolina city offers a wide range of options that you won’t likely find elsewhere.

For casual eats in Hickory, don’t miss:

• Hatch Sandwich Bar
• Las Isabellas
• Olde Hickory Station
• Tasteful Beans
• Main Chick Jammin’ Biscuits

These are also our top hits for dinner in Hickory:

• Fourk
• Olde Hickory Station
• Standard Oyster Company
• Cranford Brother’s Barbecue
• Vintage House

Want a full review of these foodie spots? Check out our article on 17+ Restaurants in Hickory, North Carolina!

We think eating is one of the best things to do in Hickory, NC, for adults and children, and we are always open to suggestions. So, what are your favorite places to eat in the Hickory Metro area?

Ready for these Fun Things to Do in Hickory?

We have a lot to say (and write) about Hickory and will always be happy to share more with you. You can reach us here by email or by visiting our Facebook Group, where thousands of people (including us) are usually around to answer questions.

We’d love to know about your favorite things to do in Hickory if you’re familiar with this area. But, before you chime in, here are some fun spots nearby.

Things to Do in Hickory’s Surroundings

It’s hard to share things to do in Hickory without discussing a few Burke County highlights.

Read More: 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Statesville

Henry River Mill Village 

Located just over the Burke County line in Hildebran, the Henry River Mill Village is a 10-minute drive from Hickory and a must-see!

The former textile mill is one of the few that remain, showcasing what life was like during the Industrial Age in North Carolina. 

Bought by a local family, they have preserved the mill and even converted some of the mill houses into boutique accommodations. You might recognize the mill from scenes of District 12 in the first Hunger Games movie! 

Morganton

Keep driving down I-40 after the Henry River Mill Village and you’ll reach Morganton, about 30 minutes west of Hickory. From this great town, you can see Table Rock Mountain, which is also one of the most incredible hikes in North Carolina.

Speaking of Table Rock, it stands next to Hawksbill Mountain in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. Speaking of Linville, add a hike to Linville Falls and walk to nearby Wiseman’s View to your bucket list.

Before you hit that trail and others in the Linville Gorge, a number of great restaurants and breweries (including Fonta Flora) await in Morganton.

Before you leave Burke County, include stops in Valdese and Connelly Springs. This county is chock-full of fun.

Read more: The Best North Carolina Mountain Towns

South Mountains State Park

About 40 minutes away from Hickory is South Mountains State Park in Burke County. This is a rugged park and home to 40 miles of hiking trails.

One of our favorite trails at South Mountains State Park is High Shoals Falls, an epic 80-foot waterfall. We think this hike and the whole park would make an excellent day trip from Hickory.

Read More: The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in North Carolina

Statesville

Statesville is one of those North Carolina towns that surprises you in the best way. It’s known for its deep roots in history and aviation, but there’s a fun mix of old and new happening here. One of the biggest draws is the Carolina BalloonFest, held every October—picture dozens of hot air balloons rising into the sky, live music, local food, and that crisp fall air. Even outside of the festival, you can book a hot air balloon ride year-round and see the Piedmont from a whole new angle.

Downtown Statesville boasts a cozy, walkable atmosphere with a rich local flavor. You’ll find charming boutiques, antique shops, and coffee spots, all set amidst murals and restored historic buildings.

Nearby Fort Dobbs offers an extraordinary glimpse into North Carolina’s colonial past. You can hike, picnic, or just let the kids explore. And don’t miss a visit to one of Statesville’s local distilleries or wineries—Southern Distilling Company offers tastings and tours in a gorgeous space. Whether you’re making a day trip from Hickory or want to extend your stay, Statesville has that small-town charm with just enough adventure mixed in.

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