Well, you should really come to Charlotte! It is only about an hour away from Hickory and a very easy drive. HOWEVER, we are hosting the Democratic National Convention so you may want to avoid that week depending on when is your trip because you probably will not be able to get a hotel.

Probably the biggest place I would recommend is called Sleepy Poet Antique mall. It is 50,000 square feet of individual booths. It has a mix of everything, from larger furniture to smaller pieces and art.

I will think of a few others. You also might want to see what's on the Charlotte or Hickory CL since many shops advertise there.

If you want to go about an hour the other way from Hickory, you can always go to Asheville. I don't have any specific recommendations there.

Here is a link that might be useful: Sleepy Poet

I have NO idea why that posted three times! Sorry.

Hey gsciencechick!! I'm in the Charlotte area too. Darn if I'm going to venture uptown during the DNC!! Too much traffic for my taste!
S

I'm not sure if this will be helpful, but I love to see what is for sale @ a cool shop in Greensboro. I think you need to schedule an appt to see items if something online is 'calling your name'. Google: stuff vintage greensboro. I believe she only has a facebook page, not a website. I enjoy cruising thru 'junk' stores in Burlington and Mebane, however the only name I am familar with is Melville Trading (this is an antique mall). It is a refreshing antique mall - not cramped or depressing. I am amazed at the prices. Don't know why anyone would buy new furniture. HOWEVER, if you venture to NC, I would check out the Mitchell Gold outlet. Yummy!