Unmissable Things to Do Near Hickory, NC: Experience Authentic Mountain Heritage

Looking for the perfect day trip or weekend activity just minutes outside of Hickory, North Carolina? While the Catawba Valley is famous for its furniture history and bustling downtown, some of the best hidden gems are waiting just down the road.

If you want to experience the true, rugged spirit of the Blue Ridge foothills, make South Mountain Distilling Company your very first stop. Located just 15 minutes west of Hickory in Connelly Springs, it offers a fascinating, hands-on dive into Appalachian history that you can’t find anywhere else.

The Ultimate Hickory Day Trip: South Mountain Distilling Co.

You don't have to travel deep into the mountains to find authentic Carolina moonshine. South Mountain Distilling Company brings the legacy of the 1828 North Carolina Gold Rush right to your glass, using historic family recipes passed down through generations of the Smith and Hudson families.

Whether you are a history buff, a craft spirits connoisseur, or just looking for a unique weekend activity with friends, here is why this distillery is one of the top things to do near Hickory:

1. Award-Winning Tastings & Craft Cocktails

Step into a welcoming Southern tasting room and sample a decorated lineup of local spirits. From traditional corn whiskey and smooth wheated bourbon to legendary regional favorites like Cherry Bounce and JB Rader's Honeycrisp Apple Moonshine, there is a flavor profile for everyone. Visiting on a Friday? Stick around for their monthly community events, featuring handcrafted cocktails, board game nights, and local vinyl swaps.

2. The Hands-On "Distilling Experience"

For those who want to do more than just sip, South Mountain offers an immersive Masterclass Distilling Experience. You will get a behind-the-scenes look at the craft, getting your hands dirty grinding grain, mashing, fermenting, and distilling. To top it off, you’ll even get to bottle the spirit and put your own name on the label.

3. Take a Piece of the Foothills Home

The distillery’s gift shop is the perfect place to pick up unique local souvenirs, from high-proof jars of authentic shine to exclusive, limited-edition bottles supporting veteran organizations.

Plan Your Visit From Hickory

Getting to South Mountain Distilling Co. is incredibly easy, making it the perfect addition to a day spent exploring the Hickory metro area.

• Distance from Downtown Hickory: ~15 minutes (Directly off I-40, Exit 113)

• Address: 1027 Malcolm Blvd, Connelly Springs, NC 28612

• Hours: * Monday – Thrus: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• •  

    Friday 10 AM - 9 PM

    Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Closed Sundays

• Group Friendly: The distillery features two private event space rentals (hosting up to 49 guests), perfect for regional meetups, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or corporate outings looking for a taste of local culture.

Local Area Tip: Make a full day of it! Combine your distillery tour with a morning hike at nearby South Mountains State Park, grab a bite at a local foothills eatery, and finish your afternoon with a tasting flight at South Mountain Distilling.