Cardboard Quest didn’t begin as a storefront, but as a mobile business bringing board game events and team-building experiences to the community. As interest grew, so did a consistent message from participants: people wanted a place to gather regularly. Founder Josh Cisney recognized the opportunity to create something different—a brick-and-mortar space intentionally designed for connection through board games, where community and play come first and retail enhances the experience.
Josh and his wife and business partner, Danielle, turned the vision into reality, creating just that. Cardboard Quest operates as a unique hybrid: part board game café, part community hangout, and part hobby shop. Visitors can explore a growing library of more than 250 games to play in-store, enjoy an all-day play experience for a modest fee, purchase snacks and drinks, and browse a curated retail selection that includes both new and consignment games from the community. Whether someone is brand new to board games or a seasoned enthusiast, the space is designed to feel welcoming and accessible.
Tucked into Trade Alley in downtown Hickory, the atmosphere is part hidden café, part fantasy tavern—what Cisney describes as a “hidden gem” by design, but one that leaves a lasting impression. The goal is not simply to bring people through the door, but to create an experience that draws them back and fosters meaningful connection.
That momentum is being driven by the community itself. As tabletop gaming continues to grow in popularity, so does local excitement, shaping what comes next. Josh and his wife and business partner, Danielle, envision expanded programming, including regular game nights and learn-to-play sessions, with the long-term goal of creating a space where patrons can come with a group or they can simply show up, find others interested in the same game, and build connections that start at the table and extend beyond it. It’s a simple idea with powerful impact—strangers becoming friends through shared experience.
At the same time, they plan to continue growing both their game library and retail offerings, evolving alongside the community they serve. For those new to modern board gaming, Cardboard Quest removes the barrier to entry by teaching games daily and making the hobby approachable and social. For experienced players, it offers something equally valuable: a consistent place to gather, play, and connect.
Supporting Cardboard Quest is easy—follow and engage with them on social media, visit the space, bring a group, join an event, and help spread the word about this unique addition to Hickory’s growing list of local experiences.
Cardboard Quest is located at 249 F Trade Alley, Hickory, NC 28601.
Facebook: Cardboard Quest
Instagram: @cbquest_hickory
For more information you can also visit their website: https://www.cardboard-quest.com/
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