STORIES

Dive into adventure and cool off in Gaston County this summer! Whether you're a beach enthusiast or just looking to cool off in a family-friendly pool or splash pad, we have the perfect spots. Southpoint Access Belmont This picturesque 68-acre park offers a sandy beach and swimming area, picnic pads, a boat ramp, and two large fishing piers. This serene haven provides endless recreational opportunities, perfect for swimming, picnicking, or fishing. Spring hours are from Apri

From Mountain Summits to Riverside Patios, Gaston County Blends Outdoor Adventure With Local Flavor There’s a moment that happens after a really good trail day. Maybe it’s sitting on a patio with friends after reaching the summit at Crowders Mountain State Park. Maybe it’s watching the river drift past in Cramerton with an ice cream cone in hand. Or maybe it’s lingering over dinner in Belmont after an easy afternoon walk beneath towering trees. In Gaston County, the trail rar

In North Carolina’s Piedmont, life unfolds in a way that feels both grounded and expansive, where mountain views are within reach, greenways connect entire communities, and every season invites you to step outside and stay awhile. In Gaston County, that feeling becomes an everyday reality. This is a place where summer doesn’t rush by; it lingers in long golden evenings, shaded trails, and weekends that feel less like escape and more like rhythm. Whether you’re exploring for a

Disc golf is growing rapidly across the U.S., and Gaston County, North Carolina is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for players of all skill levels. Just minutes west of Charlotte, one of the top disc golf cities in the country, Gaston County offers a collection of scenic, easy-to-access disc golf courses, making it simple to plan a day trip or weekend outing. Whether you’re searching for disc golf courses near Charlotte, trying the sport for the first time, or looki

Eastser Egg Hunt Phot Credit: Downtown Belmont Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner! We've got you covered if you're in Gaston County and looking for egg-citing fun. Get ready to hop into the festive spirit with Easter egg hunts happening across the parks of Gaston County. But remember, always double-check the hosting locations for any last-minute date changes. Let's dive into the list and make this Easter egg hunt season one to remember! Easter Egg Hunt

Discover meaningful ways to spend your free time in Gastonia during Unite 2026. From quiet coffee breaks and family-friendly museums to park walks and group dinners, this guide helps attendees make the most of every moment.

Spring is here, and Gaston County is coming alive. Longer, warmer, sunny days with Carolina blue skies beckon you to get outside and try something new. Here are 21 things to do this spring in Gaston County. Paddling the South Fork River. Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper 1 Paddle our blueways Sunny days warm our rivers making it fun to paddle the blueways of the Catawba or South Fork River. Grab a boat and head to either for a day of fun on the water. If you have equipmen

Looking for a trail running challenge near Charlotte? Join us on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for Perennial , a timed trail running event at the beautiful Daniel Stowe Conservancy in Belmont, NC. Choose your challenge—3-hour, 6-hour, or 10-hour options—and run along scenic waterfront trails and crushed-gravel loops, perfect for hitting a personal best while enjoying the outdoors. Every loop you complete brings a new opportunity to collect prizes, cheer on fellow runners, and exp

An Unforgettable Spring Adventure Awaits! Spring is the perfect time to get active, explore, and make lasting memories! The 2026 Greater Gaston Senior Games are more than just a competition—they're an opportunity to turn an experience into an adventure. Whether you're competing, cheering on friends, or looking for a fun getaway, Gaston County offers the perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, discovery, and is another example of free and affordable things to do . 2026 Grea

If you and your partner share a love for exploration and are seeking a rejuvenating escape, look no further than Gaston County. Allow us to guide you as we present a tailor-made experience for couples yearning for a captivating getaway. Explore Together Crowders Mountain State Park is at the heart of Gaston County's outdoor allure, a majestic peak that beckons couples to hike together. The journey to its summit, a 2-3 hour endeavor, promises breathtaking vistas that stretch

Cold temperatures and the occasional snowy day in North Carolina may slow us down, but winter is actually one of the best seasons to get outside and walk. January is the perfect time to reset, move your body, and reconnect with nature—without the heat, bugs, or crowds. From peaceful trails to scenic river walks, Gaston County offers plenty of winter-friendly places to explore . Here’s why winter walking is worth it—and where to lace up your shoes. Easy Paved Open Walk at Goa

Looking for fun and engaging activities this winter? Gaston County offers a variety of ways to enjoy the season, whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or staying cozy inside. From illuminated trails to antique shopping and everything in between, here’s a guide. Top Winter Things to Do in Gaston County 1. Wander Through a Tropical Paradise Escape the cold and enjoy the vibrant beauty of the William H. Williamson, III, Orchid Conservatory . This tropical haven is the perf

Winter at Daniel Stowe Botanical Conservancy is a season of quiet wonder and unexpected beauty. The crisp air, shimmering frost, and peaceful trails invite visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature in a way that only winter can provide. Every path and garden corner tells a story, and each visit offers something new to see, hear, and feel. Unique winter beauty: what to look for Winter transforms the Garden into a living gallery of textures, colors, and forms. Evergreen

Welcome to the thrill-packed winter wonderland at Whitewater Center. From the exhilarating glide of outdoor ice skating to the captivating glow of a Winter Trail. Activities run throughout the day and into the night. This outdoor haven is your ticket to a memorable winter. Embrace the festive spirit. Grab your Christmas Trees, join the adult pond hockey league, or dive into the frosty excitement of winter races. Starting mid-November through mid-February, experience the magic

Blue Heron: Birdwatching on the Catawba River in Gaston County Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Gaston County beckons birdwatching enthusiasts to experience a captivating symphony of avian wonders. This three-day birdwatching trilogy will have you exploring the diverse landscapes, from the meandering Catawba River to the picturesque woodlands of Crowders Mountain State Park, making Gaston County a sought-after destination for both seasoned birdwatchers and eager begin

The Chutes Winter Tubing Get Tickets for 2025 Now! Add excitement to your celebrations at The Chutes in Gaston County this Christmas. Experience the thrill of snowless tubing on our custom-designed lanes, offering the fun of traditional snow tubing without the freezing temperatures. Enjoy a night of laughter and joy with your friends and family as you ride down the Chutes, suitable for singles and doubles, ensuring a delightful experience for children of all ages. After your

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-rich escape close to Charlotte and Gaston County, Mountain Island Educational State Forest (ESF) is officially open and ready to welcome visitors. This picturesque forest stretches across Gaston and Lincoln counties and offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the region—blending scenic trails with hands-on learning about North Carolina’s forests, wildlife, and water resources. Whether you love hiking, exploring nature with your f

Get ready to enter a world of festive lights and seasonal cheer at Daniel Stowe Conservancy's "Holidays at the Garden" — the heart of Gaston County's winter celebration! From November 28 to December 27, 2025, the Garden transforms into a holiday wonderland where twinkling lights, sparkling fountains, and immersive holiday displays bring the season's magic to life. Open select evenings from 5 to 10 pm, this cherished annual tradition offers a perfect way to make memories and

Scarecrow Hollow Located in Belmont, Daniel Stowe Conservancy has for a long time been one of our must-see attractions with spectacular gardens, sparkling fountains, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, nature trails and more. This month will be a great time to visit. See it transition from summer to a fall flourish with their locally created art display "Scarecrow Hollow." These themed scarecrows are on display from September 27 - October

Christmas County is the place to be this holiday season, with festive events and dazzling displays across Gaston County. Here's a guide to the best ways to celebrate this magical time of year. Christmas Town USA December 1-26, 2026 Each December, McAdenville transforms into a winter wonderland as "Christmas Town USA." Walk or drive through glowing displays of green, red, and white lights that shine from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM each night. Arrive early to enjoy dinner, cocktails,