Oh hey, you're coming to Hickory! Whether you’re just passing through or planning to stay awhile (we get it, Hickory has that effect), you’ll want to pack more than just the basics. This list isn’t about socks or shampoo. It’s about the things that’ll help you explore, eat, and enjoy every second of your time here—plus the room to bring a little piece of Hickory home with you. Here are five things you definitely don’t want to forget.
1. A phone that's ready to work overtime
Pics or it didn't happen.
Hickory’s murals bring color and character to every corner of town, but none quite like the iconic Welcome to Hickory mural downtown. Each bold letter is filled with scenes that celebrate the city, from Crawdads baseball to Lake Hickory views. It’s practically begging for a photo op. Want more? Our Murals in the Metro guide covers not just Hickory, but also Newton, Catawba, and Claremont. Strike a pose and don’t forget to tag us @VisitHickoryNC!
2. Shoes that can keep up
Because the Hickory Trail is calling.
Lace up, you've got places to explore. The Hickory Trail includes the City Walk, Riverwalk, Aviation Walk, Historic Ridgeview Walk, and the OLLE Art Walk (under construction), and it’s perfect for both walking and biking your way through town. Spanning over 10 miles across the city, the trail connects Hickory’s hot spots and must-sees. Cruise across the River Walk bridge for stunning views of Lake Hickory, or stroll through the Downtown Hickory Social District along the City Walk with a drink in hand and shops all around. With scenic stretches and plenty to explore, you’ll be glad you packed shoes made for more than just looking cute. Bonus points if your kicks are ready for the OLLE Arts Walk—the final piece of Hickory’s trail puzzle that’s currently in the works. You'll be logging miles without even noticing!
3. Your appetite
Calories don't count on vacation, right?
Taste your way through town— one crave-worthy bite at a time. Start your day at Frothy Rooster, where Southern comfort gets a bold twist with breakfast burgers, savory hash skillets, and doughnuts topped with bacon maple jam. For a light lunch (or a mid-day caffeine fix), swing by Taste Full Beans, a cozy downtown café serving scratch-made sandwiches, bowls, and salads for every kind of eater: vegan, gluten-free, and everything in between. Their locally roasted coffee and rotating art gallery make it a spot worth lingering. When it’s time for dinner, head to Rule Italian Prime and Pasta for wood-fired pizza, house-made pasta, and the playful DIY Spritz Experience. Their garden patio feels like a little slice of the Italian coast, right here in Hickory. Cap off the night with a cocktail at No Entry, the hidden speakeasy tucked inside City Walk Brewing. You’ve earned it.
4. Your sunny-day survival kit
The sun shows up, so your SPF should too.
Take your Hickory getaway to new heights (literally!) at Bakers Mountain Park, the highest elevation point in Catawba County. With nearly 6 miles of trails and a mountaintop observation deck offering stunning views year-round, it’s the perfect spot to soak up some Vitamin D—just don’t forget your sunscreen. Feeling like a trail pro? Mountain Creek, Riverbend, and St. Stephens parks offer even more trails, water access, and picnic spots. Hydrate, reapply, and get out there.
5. Space to spare
You're gonna want to bring back more than just memories.
Let’s be real—you’re not leaving empty-handed. Downtown Hickory makes it way too easy to shop small and score the perfect souvenirs. Start with a bag of bold, addictive popcorn from Tastebuds, where more than 70 rotating flavors (like Dill Pickle, Cookies & Cream, and the local favorite, Decadent Dog) make it hard to choose just one. Around the corner, The Natural Olive is stocked with infused oils and small-batch spices that’ll instantly level up your next dinner party. At Bottega, expect the unexpected: art, jewelry, clothing, and that just-right gift you didn’t know you were looking for. Before you head out, grab a bottle from Hickory Wine Shoppe to raise a glass to a trip well spent. Consider this your official excuse to treat yourself!
You’re officially packed, prepped, and ready to take on Hickory. From killer trails to mouthwatering bites and views that’ll steal your breath (in a good way), we’ve got you covered. So go ahead—make some memories, snap those pics, and start planning your next trip before you even say goodbye. Spoiler alert: you’ll be back sooner than you think.
