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Oh Hey, Family Fun!
Adventure for the kids, great stops for the grown-ups—that’s what we call a win-win. Here’s how to make the most of a day out together in Hickory.
Start Your Day with Wonder
SALT Block & Catawba Science Center – Dive into hands-on exhibits, explore the stars in the planetarium, and meet Splashy the stingray! It’s interactive learning at its best, and the perfect way to spark young curiosity.
Lunch Break = Refuel & Recharge
Backstreets Bar & Grill – A casual family favorite with something for everyone—from burgers and wraps to wings and hot stone-fired pizza. It’s a laid-back spot where everyone feels right at home.
Get Crafty
Bisque Boutique – Unleash your inner artist with paint-your-own pottery fun. It’s the perfect colorful, screen-free way to get creative and make something uniquely yours.
Treat Time & Tee Off
Udderly Delicious – Choose from 40 plus flavors of creamy creamy ice cream then take on 13 holes of indoor mini golf all under one roof on Highway 70. It’s the perfect mix of sweet treats and friendly competition.
History Takes Flight
Hickory Aviation Museum – Climb aboard real aircraft and check out military planes and helicopters up close. It’s free (donations encouraged) and endlessly cool for aspiring pilots and curious minds.
Game On
Dive Bar Hickory – Don’t let the name fool you—it’s family-friendly until 8 PM and packed with classic arcade games. From skee-ball to pinball, it’s the ultimate throwback fun for all ages.
Park It for a While
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Mountain Creek Park – Has an adventure playground and plenty of open space to help kids burn off all that energy.
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Lowe’s Foods City Park – A charming stop right in Downtown Hickory, perfect for a quick play break before dinner or dessert.
End with a Home Run
Crawdads Baseball Game – Snack on classic ballpark treats and cheer loud for the hometown team. If you’re there on a Friday night, stick around for fireworks that light up the sky and cap off a perfect day.
Fun Fact
Splashy the stingray is over 20 years old—and you can actually pet him during your visit to the Catawba Science Center!
Pro Tip
With so many of these spots close together, you can easily mix and match to build your ideal family day. Pack a picnic to stay flexible and enjoy a park break when the sun’s shining.