While exploring Hickory, North Carolina and its charming southern roots, discover a growing world of public art. From historic, storytelling murals adorning downtown buildings to modern sculptures gracing parks and greenways, Hickory has transformed into an open-air gallery. Journey through the streets and nature to discover murals and sculptures breathing life into the community.
Downtown Selfie Walk
In the heart of downtown Hickory, Union Square acts as the central hub for community life and art. Murals range from small pieces in alleys to large ones that cover entire building sides. History, nature, figures, and interactive photo ops provide pops of color on otherwise bland walls. Hickory offers a selfie walk list and locations to make them easy to find on a stroll.
We started at the Welcome to Hickory mural which highlights city scenes within the letters.
Historic Beginnings and The Miracle of Hickory depict the city’s foundational years and building an emergency hospital in response to a polio outbreak in 1944, respectively.
A series of four interactive murals includes three that are perfect for selfies – Under the Umbrella, Angel Wings, and Butterfly Wings.
My favorite figures were A Piece to the Puzzle, McGuires Pub, Woman in Window, and Charlie Chaplin.
A painted art bench called Lines of Nature sits near the Old Hickory Tavern Fireplace.
Ivey Arboretum at Sally Fox Park
Nearby Sally Fox Park features public art benches, sculptures by local artists, and approximately 250 different species of trees and plants.
Art benches we found include DaBenchi, Flamingo, Trompe L’Oeil, and Wizard of Oz.
Other sculptures in the park are Convergence, Generations, Love Makes the World Go Round, and Swallowtail II.
Across the street from Ivey Arboreum is an under-sea creature called Otter Out of Water. I don’t really understand the name because to me it looks much more like an octopus or squid.
Hickory’s walkable outdoor gallery is the perfect way to tour the city or immerse yourself on an afternoon stroll.
Excellent blog! Congratulations on number 350! Don’t stop. Your blogs help so many discover new destinations.