Beth Ellsworth

Aug 28, 2024 | ourstate.com | Beth Ellsworth |Brad Campbell |T. Edward Nickens |Katie Schanze

SPONSORED BY To the blast of a train horn and the tune of ringing bells, a massive diesel engine streaks into view at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer. Families gather on the platform for their 25-minute train ride, everyone hoping to score one of the window seats.

Apr 4, 2024 | ourstate.com | Beth Ellsworth |Andrea Weigl |Katie King |Katie Kane

Hickory’s “Life. Well Crafted.” motto may have been inspired by its early days as a town built around furniture manufacturing. Today, the idea of “well crafted” encompasses and extends beyond the city’s artisans. Hickory brims with inspired features that elevate the everyday: Brick sidewalks line the streets of downtown’s bustling Social District. A riverwalk nature path encourages peaceful contemplation. Friendly business owners stand at the helm of local bistros and shops.