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2025 Visit NC Tourism Conference

Sunday-Tuesday, April 6-8, 2025

Welcome to Hickory! We’re thrilled to host the Visit North Carolina Tourism Conference in our vibrant and inviting city. With a rich heritage rooted in exceptional furniture craftsmanship and warm hospitality, Hickory offers plenty to explore.

Arrive early or stay a little longer to uncover the hidden gems that make Hickory special. Stroll along Hickory’s City Walk and savor a craft beverage in one of North Carolina’s first and largest social districts. Recharge with outdoor adventures on our extensive trails, indulge in some self-care at the region’s premier spa at Rock Barn, or discover why USA Today ranked Hickory’s downtown among the “Top 10 Charming Main Streets in the U.S.”

Plan your visit and experience Hickory like never before! 

Pre-Conference Tours & Things to Do in Hickory!

History tour Visit NC conference 2025

Spirits Tour - more info to come

Sarah, Citywalk, City Walk Brewing, Dog

In addition to the tours above there are several exhibitions and free tours to take part in: 

Hickory Furniture Mart - With over 60 years of expertise in creating inspired living spaces, our expansive facility is home to a diverse collection of independent furniture retailers. These include custom-order showrooms, direct-from-factory outlets, general mix outlets, and exclusive manufacturers' galleries. While our renowned North Carolina pricing initially draws visitors from around the globe, they return time and again for the exceptional craftsmanship delivered by world-class designers and manufacturers—many of whom are based right here in our region and state. At Hickory Furniture Mart, our seasoned experts are here to guide you every step of the way, offering personalized consultations and helping you customize upholstery and finishing options to suit your style perfectly. We combine a wide variety of brands and styles with affordability, ensuring something for every taste and budget.

Hickory Art Museum - Cochiti Pueblo artist Virgil Ortiz continues his REVOLT 1680/2180 saga at Hickory Museum of Art with a brand new chapter. The artist draws inspiration from the most successful Indigenous uprising against a colonizing power in North American History, the 1680 Pueblo Revolt. Ortiz keeps Cochiti pottery traditions alive but transforms them into a contemporary vision that embraces his Pueblo history and culture and merges it with apocalyptic themes, science fiction, and his own storytelling.

Catawba Science Center is an engaging, family-friendly destination dedicated to inspiring curiosity and learning in science, technology, and nature. The center features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and fascinating displays that cater to visitors of all ages. Key attractions include the Planetarium, which offers immersive astronomy shows, and the Aquarium, home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, and freshwater species. Rotating exhibits keep the experience fresh, while STEM-focused activities and educational programs make it a great resource for students and families. With its blend of discovery and fun, the Catawba Science Center is a must-visit spot for those looking to explore the wonders of science in an accessible and entertaining way.

Attractions & Dine Around Guide!

Front of Mini Attraction & Dine Around Guide 2025

Back of Mini Attraction & Dine Around Guide 2025

Thank you for visiting us! We hope you have a wonderful experience and encourage you to come back soon to see us again. Explore more ways to enjoy Hickory right here at www.visithickorymetro.com.

Follow us on social media @visithickorync