We all know how stressful gift shopping can get during the holidays. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be! Hickory is full of amazing local spots that make it super easy (and fun!) to find the perfect gifts — and you’ll be supporting our community at the same time.
Whether you're on the hunt for an experience gift your kids will never forget, a unique treasure from a local artist for a friend, or a gift card that tells a co-worker, "I thought of you," this guide has you covered.
Here are some of our favorite local gift ideas in Hickory:
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Experience Gifts in Hickory
Give the gift of adventure and memories this holiday season! From family-friendly activities to classes and events, experience gifts are perfect for everyone.
Hickory Motor Speedway
- Location: 3131 US-70 Newton, NC 28658
- Contact: hickorymotorspeedway.com
- Why we love it: Whether you're 5 or 85, everyone loves the thunderous roar of racecars and the smell of burning rubber surrounding you at a race track! This experience is one that everyone will truly enjoy!
Hickory Community Theatre
- Location: 30 Third St NW Hickory, NC 28601
- Contact: hickorytheatre.org
- Why we love it: Hickory Community Theatre prides itself on Inclusion, Respect, Discovery, & Collaboration. No matter where you're from or what you believe in, the Hickory Community Theatre welcomes you through its doors to enjoy the magic of the whole collective of individuals coming together toward a common goal and presenting breathtaking performances.
Know of other experience gifts in Hickory we should include? Let us know at Shelbyt@macaronikid.com.
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Locally-Owned Stores in Hickory
From locally-made T-shirts and baked goods to specialty stores, let's make this a year that we buy all local! Each purchase from a Hickory owned business makes such a difference to local shop owners. These local shops offer a range of unique gifts that we love:
2 Pink Magnolias
- Location: 211 N College Ave Newton, NC 28658
- Contact: 2pinkmagnolias.com
- Offerings: 2 Pink Magnolias was born from a mother-daughter duo who had a passion for shopping and gift giving! They now have a storefront where they offer gifts for everyone from your sports fanatic FIL, to your Great-Aunt Shirley, & even the family pet!
Bottega
- Location: 256 Union Square NW Hickory, NC 28601
- Contact: 828.217.2581
- Offerings: The Bottega downtown is an awesome unique boutique downtown that offers vintage looks, trendy styles, jewelry, Home Decor & more. There's even a cat boutique upstairs that benefits shelter cats, some of which are on-site!
Do you have a favorite locally-owned shop in Hickory? Share their info with us at Shelbyt@macaronikid.com.
Gift Cards for Hickory Shops & Restaurants
Not sure what to get? A gift card to a local restaurant, boutique, or shop is always a great idea. Here are a few standout options in Hickory:
Fourk
- Location: 1410 Fourth Street Dr NW Hickory, NC 28601
- Contact: fourkrestaurant.com
- Why It’s Great: FOURK's upbeat atmosphere is ideal for everyday dining – a business dinner, a girls’ night out, dinner for two, or just a fun group occasion. Their attention to detail, excellent service, and focus on cuisine create a great experience for their guests!
The Natural Olive
- Location: 216 Union Square NW Hickory, NC 28601
- Contact: naturalolivehickory.com
- Why It’s Great: This shop has 50 varieties of fresh oils & balsamics available for tasting and purchasing along with local natural honey, personal care items, home decor, and gifts. The atmosphere is so cozy and the smell of freshly baked bread surrounds the store.
Know of a great local spot in Hickory we should feature? Email us at Shelbyt@macaronikid.com.
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Seasonal Markets & Pop-Up Shops in Hickory
Support local vendors and find an array of holiday treasures at Hickory’s craft fairs, seasonal markets and pop-up shops this season! Check out these spots for unique holiday finds:
Know of other seasonal markets in Hickory? Submit it HERE
Celebrate Hickory’s amazing local businesses this holiday season by choosing to shop local as much as you can. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Happy holidays from all of us at Macaroni KID Hickory - Western Piedmont!
