Introduction

Hickory, North Carolina — where competition meets Carolina cool. Perfectly positioned along I-40 between Knoxville and Raleigh, Hickory is an easy win for tournaments, athletes, and adventure seekers alike.

With fields, courts, and venues that set the bar high, Hickory is built for champions — from youth tournaments to collegiate showdowns and everything in between. Our central location, top-notch facilities, and Southern hospitality make it easy for teams to play hard and unwind even harder.

Need a breather from the field? Head to Bakers Mountain Park, home to 189 acres of Chestnut Oak forest and nearly six miles of trails with unbeatable views.

Then, dive into Hickory’s creative side at the SALT Block, where Science, Arts & Literature Together fill an entire city block with hands-on inspiration. Or take a stroll (or victory lap) along the City Walk — over 10 miles of pedestrian-friendly trail connecting Downtown Hickory, Lenoir-Rhyne University, local shops, and crave-worthy restaurants all the way to Lake Hickory and the River Walk.

Catch a game with the hometown heroes — the Hickory Crawdads, the Texas Rangers’ High-A affiliate — at L.P. Frans Stadium, where the energy is high and the snacks are legendary.

And when it’s time to unwind, explore why we’re known as the Furniture Capital of the World. The iconic Hickory Furniture Mart draws more than 500,000 visitors a year looking for craftsmanship, comfort, and that just-right Carolina style.

From stadium lights to mountain heights — Hickory’s got your next sporting event covered.