Visit Hickory | The Hickory Metro Convention Center has been named a 2026 Readers’ Choice Award winner by ConventionSouth, earning the honor for the second consecutive year. More than 7,000 ConventionSouth readers and fans cast their votes this year, selecting just 533 organizations across the South. In North Carolina, only 32 convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and venues earned the distinction, placing Visit Hickory among a select group recognized for its work in the meetings and events industry.
With more than 132,000 square feet of meeting and event space, convenient interstate access, and a team ready to help planners bring their events to life, the Hickory Metro Convention Center makes hosting an event in Hickory an easy choice. Beyond the meeting room, attendees can experience what makes the destination special, from locally owned restaurants and downtown shopping to sporting events, arts and culture, and outdoor adventures. With plenty to see, taste, and experience throughout the area, Hickory gives visitors even more reasons to make the most of their time here.
“We’re thrilled to receive this recognition for the second year in a row,” said Mandy Pitts Hildebrand, President & CEO of Visit Hickory | The Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau. “This award means so much because it reflects the dedication of our team, the support of our hospitality partners, and the warm welcome visitors receive throughout our community. We’re grateful to the planners who trust us with their events and to the partners who help make each visit memorable.”
A memorable event takes more than a great venue. Local hotels, restaurants, attractions, and businesses all play a part in welcoming visitors and showing them what makes Hickory worth experiencing beyond their event schedule. Through these partnerships, Visit Hickory connects planners with the resources they need while helping attendees make the most of their time in the area.
This second consecutive Readers’ Choice Award is a reflection of the people who make Hickory a standout destination for meetings and events. We’re proud to share this recognition with our team and tourism partners, and grateful to everyone who helps make visitors feel welcome. We look forward to another year of great events, new connections, and plenty of Oh Hey! moments.
About Visit Hickory: Visit Hickory is the official destination marketing organization for Hickory, North Carolina. Dedicated to promoting the community’s rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty, Visit Hickory connects travelers with unforgettable experiences in the heart of Catawba County and throughout our region. The mission of the HCTDA is to market and enhance the economy of the Hickory area by promoting conventions, meetings, and travelers to the area. For more information, visit VisitHickoryNC.com.
