Oh Hey, I'm your four-legged tour guide!
It’s my mission to show you all the best dog-friendly spots in Hickory. From strolling along the Catawba River and relaxing on sunny patios to trails, shops, and breweries, Hickory is full of places that welcome both pups and their people. This itinerary is packed with a day’s worth of stops that prove Hickory is the perfect place to explore, unwind, and enjoy together.
Fuel Up at Taste Full Beans
First stop: breakfast! Taste Full Beans is the paw-fect way to start the morning. While my humans sip on coffee, tea, or smoothies, they can dig into tasty bites like avocado toast, a breakfast burrito, or the peanut butter and banana energy wrap. Inside, the cozy café doubles as a rotating art gallery, but for me, the patio is the place to be—that’s where pups like me are welcome while my people enjoy the easygoing pace of a Downtown Hickory morning.
Pup Paradise at St. Stephens Park
After breakfast, we head to my go-to spot for zoomies and sniffing adventures: St. Stephens Park. This nine-acre playground has it all, including a one-acre off-leash dog park with an agility course where pups like me can show off our skills. The dog park has separate areas for large and small dogs, and the rest of the park features a peaceful ⅓-mile wooded hiking loop that’s perfect for stretching our legs together. My humans can relax on a bench, toss a ball, or join me on the trail. All Catawba County dog parks require pups like me to wear rabies tags, so don’t forget yours. Want more places to play? St. Stephens is just one of four Catawba County Parks— be sure to check out Bakers Mountain, Mountain Creek, and Riverbend.
Patio Lunch at Olde Hickory Station
Next up is lunch, and I know just the spot: Olde Hickory Station. This restored train depot sits right on Union Square, and the outdoor seating is where I settle in with my own water bowl while my humans enjoy every bite. They savor menu favorites like the goat cheese and pepper jelly burger, build-your-own pizzas, or the fried oyster spinach salad, while I watch the hustle and bustle of downtown. It’s the perfect pit stop to refresh, enjoy the atmosphere, and get ready for more adventures.
Downtown Discoveries at Union Square
With lunch wrapped up, we cross the train tracks and head straight into Union Square. My people browse clothing boutiques, vintage records, olive oil, popcorn, and home goods while I trot along and take in the buzz of downtown. DASH Home + Kitchen is a place I never miss—dogs are always welcome, and sometimes they even snap a photo of me for their social media! By the time we’re done, my humans have bags in hand, and I’ve made a few new furry friends.
Adventure Awaits on Hickory Trail
Once the shopping bags are dropped off, it’s Hickory Trail time! This over 10-mile trail includes the City Walk, Riverwalk, Aviation Walk, Historic Ridgeview Walk, and the OLLE Art Walk (under construction). The Riverwalk is my favorite spot—crossing the bridge means fresh breezes, wag-worthy views of Lake Hickory, and sunsets that make my people stop for photos every time. Miles of fun = one happy pup.
Brews & Bites at City Walk Brewing
After roaming the Hickory Trail, we wind down at City Walk Brewing & Distilling. I hang out in the biergarten while my humans enjoy cold pints like the Fanny Pack Hazy IPA or a fruity Berry Me in Hickory cocktail. They can grab pit-smoked BBQ and sides from Cranford Brothers Barbecue to enjoy outside with me, all while live music fills the air. This is how we celebrate a day well spent in Hickory!
What a day! From wide-open trails to laid-back patios and friendly faces everywhere, Hickory has it all for pups like me. My humans are just as happy, which makes every stop even better. Come see why Hickory is the place to be!
Did you know? Hickory makes it easy for pups like me to rest after a busy day. Sniff out dog-friendly stays on our hotels page!
