Game On in Hickory, NC
Hickory is no stranger to the thrill of competition. From youth tournaments to regional championships, our city is built to host sporting events that score big. With top-tier venues like Henry River Fork Park soccer complex, Lenoir Rhyne University’s collegiate facilities, and the newly expanded Hickory Metro Convention Center, this is where athletes come to play—and fans come to cheer.
Big News— Our Expansion is Complete! The Hickory Metro Convention Center is now bigger, better, and built for action. It features 165,600 square feet all on one level, with 132,000 square feet of usable space designed for meetings, conventions, and sports.
Here’s the highlight reel: Our 35,000-square-foot sports complex features 30-foot ceilings, wood flooring, and space for up to 8 volleyball courts, 4 basketball courts, or 12 pickleball courts. It’s also an ideal setup for cheer, wrestling, gymnastics, and more. Need even more room? We’ve got over 110,000 square feet of flat-floor exhibit space, plus flexible meeting rooms and pre-function areas to round out your event.
The Visit Hickory team is here to help with every step—site selection, hotel coordination, and even ideas for off-the-court fun. We also work closely with the Hickory Metro Sports Commission to support events at every level.
Every year, athletes, families, and fans show up ready to play. We’re here to welcome them with top-notch facilities, friendly faces, and a city that knows how to deliver a great event experience.
Let’s make your next event a win. Click here to learn more or connect with our sports team.
The Hickory Metro Sports Commission is a non-profit (501c3) organization made up of volunteers to assist with hosting sporting events and tournaments in the Hickory Metro. The Commission also assists with the Sports Hall of Fame and more.
Appalachian State University is a sports tourism partner with HMCC to bring tournaments and other sporting events to the Hickory Metro area by allowing others to rent their facilities.
The City of Hickory Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism is a close partner and if more info is needed reach out to the Director Mark Seaman at (828) 322-7046.
Lenoir-Rhyne University partners with HMCC through sports tourism to host many sporting events and tournaments at LR’s new stadium, state of the art gym, arena, and fields.
Catawba Valley Community College is in partnership with HMCC to help host tournaments and other sporting events at CVCC’s courts, fields, and even Lake Hickory.