Visit Hickory Announces Release of 2026 Visitor's Guide

Award-Winning Publication Showcases the Best of Hickory and Catawba County

Hickory, NC (June 19, 2026) — Visit Hickory is excited to announce the release of its new 2026 Visitor's Guide, a colorful and engaging resource designed to help visitors discover the people, places, flavors, and experiences that make Hickory and Catawba County boldly unexpected.

The annual guide serves as a comprehensive travel companion for visitors planning a getaway, attending a sporting event, traveling for business, or simply exploring the region. Through engaging storytelling, vibrant photography, and insider recommendations, the publication highlights the attractions, local businesses, outdoor adventures, dining experiences, shopping destinations, and community gems that define the area.

Visit Hickory partnered with Accent Creative Group, a Lawrenceville, Georgia-based boutique marketing studio, to bring the 2026 Visitor's Guide to life. The guide's vision, content direction, and community storytelling were developed by the Visit Hickory team. Marketing Manager Elizabeth Sigmon, Visitor Services & Partnership Coordinator Maddy Phillips, and VP of Sales, Marketing & Tourism Development Sarah Jones lead content development, local partnerships, photography coordination, and editorial planning. Accent Creative Group provided creative design, layout, and production support, resulting in a publication that authentically reflects the personality and spirit of both Hickory and the region.

By exploring the destination through the lens of local residents, the guide provides insider recommendations on where to eat, shop, stay, and play. Featured spreads include "9 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Hickory," a "Foodie 411" section featuring interviews with local chefs and mixologists, and a "Treat Yo'Self" guide highlighting shopping, self-care, and ways to indulge during a visit.

In addition to showcasing Hickory's signature attractions and experiences, the guide highlights destinations, businesses, and experiences throughout Catawba County, encouraging visitors to explore the diverse communities that contribute to the region's unique culture and character.

"The Destination Guide is often one of the first introductions visitors have to our community, and we want it to reflect the personality, creativity, and experiences that make our region unique," said Sarah Jones, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Tourism Development for Visit Hickory. "Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, attending a sporting event, traveling for business, or simply passing through, this guide helps travelers discover the local businesses, attractions, communities, and hidden gems that make Catawba County a memorable place to visit."

The publication continues Visit Hickory's commitment to showcasing the destination through compelling storytelling and helpful travel information. The 2025 Visitor's Guide was recognized with a Silver Davey Award in the Consumer Magazine category, and the 2026 edition builds upon that success with fresh content, updated recommendations, and new community stories.

More than 10,000 copies of the 2026 Visitor's Guide will be distributed throughout the year through the Visit Hickory Visitor Information Center, other visitor-facing locations around the county, North Carolina Welcome Centers, local hotels and attractions, trade shows and industry events, and in response to visitor inquiries from across the country via the Visit Hickory Website.

Complimentary copies of the 2026 Visitor's Guide are available at the Visit Hickory Visitor Information Center, located inside the Hickory Metro Convention Center. Visitors may also request a mailed copy or view the digital edition online at VisitHickoryNC.com.