Welcome to Hickory
Located in Catawba County, North Carolina is the city of Hickory and its gorgeous lake, Lake Hickory. Hickory embodies the best of the state, with a beloved strong sense of community, fabulous suburban-urban amenities, and incredible shops and restaurants. Hickory itself boasts an impressive range of things to do including a shopping mall, local boutiques, antique malls, movie theatres, local community theatre, tons of community events, farmer’s markets and well-loved parks and trails.
Lake Life
Lake Hickory promotes a luxurious and relaxed lifestyle. Many locals reside on the lake and own private docks and boats. Summers are particularly fun at Lake Hickory, as there are a ton of fun activities to partake in, including tubing, kayaking, jet skiing, fishing, and frequent trips to the Sand Bar, but the lake also boasts year-round fun as well.
Local Lifestyle
The areas of Hickory and Lake Hickory are some of North Carolina’s most popular places to live, with an influx of new residents happening regularly. The area’s peaceful ambiance paired with lake activities and wonderful dining and shopping make it an attractive place for families, young professionals, and retirees. Hickory is large enough that there is still plenty to do locally but still small enough to avoid big city traffic. Locals enjoy the small town living of Hickory while having easy access to larger cities and attractions nearby such as Charlotte, Asheville, and Boone and Blowing Rock. It’s common for locals to drive to Boone or Blowing Rock for a day trip during the fall to see the pretty fall leaves or drive up to a Christmas tree farm to cut down a fresh tree for Christmas.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Hickory has many restaurant options to entice and delight. Mas Amor Cantina is a local hotspot that welcomes guests every day. This charming spot serves up amazing carnitas, birria tacos, and many other delicious entrees along with many tasty cocktails. Hatch Sandwich Bar is a unique sandwich shop in downtown Hickory that features classic and unique gourmet sandwiches in a trendy but casual setting.
For delicious espresso beverages, visit Taste Full Beans. This downtown Hickory staple not only serves drink options but many of the locals go here to purchase their coffee beans. Olde Hickory Station is a popular destination for residents and tourists alike, with creative takes on American classic dishes and handcrafted beers from local breweries. I especially enjoy their weekend brunch served on Saturdays and Sundays until 4 pm.
Things to Do
Seasonal fun abounds at Oktoberfest, which takes place every year in Downtown Hickory. Pick up handmade goods from the local vendors with tents on display, listen to live music, and indulge in some delicious dishes while there. Many large events and programs take place at the Hickory Metro Convention Center. From business trainings to comic cons, this convention center features it all.
Downtown Hickory is also home to the annual Hickory Hops event, which features handcrafted beer, live music, and delicious food.
Schools
The Hickory/Lake Hickory area is primarily served by the Hickory Public School District. Great schools in the area include:
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Hickory High School, 9-12, 3A school known for its excellent football team and athletic programs
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Challenger Early College High School, 9-12, allows eligible students to graduate high school with an Associates Degree
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Catawba Valley Community College, local community college with top-rated academics
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Appalachian State University has a new campus in Hickory
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Lenoir Rhyne University, private Lutheran University, many of the locals enjoy attending the football games and the tailgating that takes place at all home games. You can always feel the Alumni and current college student’s school spirit while at a Lenoir Rhyne event.