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Oh Hey, History Buffs!
Hickory, NC is where the past isn’t just remembered—it’s lived. From 1800s cabins to a city founded in a tavern, we’ve got stories (and architecture) that stand the test of time.
Start the Day at
Olde Hickory Station – Enjoy breakfast or brunch in a beautifully restored train depot, once part of Hickory’s early transportation boom. Great food, old soul charm, and maybe even a little train whistle nostalgia.
Morning Museum Stroll
History Museum of Catawba County – Free and fascinating, this museum dives into the story of early settlers who built one of the South’s strongest furniture and textile industries. Check out rotating exhibits, historic artifacts, and portraits of true grit.
Snap a Photo at
Bunker Hill Covered Bridge – Built in 1894, it’s one of only two original covered bridges remaining in North Carolina. A peaceful walk and perfect photo-op for lovers of hidden gems and roadside history.
Refuel with a Classic
Claremont Cafe – A true hole-in-the-wall legend. This cash-only, locals-favorite joint is known for its juicy burgers, cozy booths, and unshakable small-town charm.
Explore Queen Anne Grandeur
Harper House – Built in 1887, this Victorian-era mansion is a stunning example of Queen Anne architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about its design details, the Harper family, and life in post-Civil War Hickory.
Walk Through Time at
Murray’s Mill – Tour the early 1900s gristmill and its 28-foot waterwheel, then wander the peaceful property including a general store and miller’s home. It’s a true window into rural life over a century ago.
Dine in a Historic Home
Vintage House Restaurant – Once the Abernethy family home (built in 1915), this refined restaurant offers upscale cuisine, an award-winning wine list, and beautifully preserved interiors that whisper old stories with every course.
Bonus Experience:
Hart Square Village – Step into the 1800s at the world’s largest collection of authentic log cabins and early American structures. From blacksmith shops to chapels, it’s a living history village like no other.
Pro tip: Plan ahead for the annual festival each October—it’s the biggest event of the year at Hart Square, when all 100+ cabins come alive with re-enactments, demonstrations, and costumed interpreters.
Fun Fact
Hickory got its name from a tavern built beneath a hickory tree in the mid-1800s—a reminder that great places often grow from simple beginnings.