STORIES

National Trails Day, established by the American Hiking Society (AHS), is an annual celebration on the first Saturday in June. Founded by AHS, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting hiking trails and outdoor recreational spaces in the United States, this event aims to inspire individuals to explore and appreciate the beauty of trails while advocating for their preservation and conservation. Since its inception in 1993, National Trails Day has evolved

Warm weather and long summer nights draw the crowds to our patios for chill time with ice-cold beverages, good food, and great summer vibes. We invite you to grab some of your favorite people and hang out on our patios in Gaston County. Belmont Nellies Roof Top Bar A visit to the rooftop at Nellie's Southern Kitchen in downtown Belmont is a must. Go as the sun sets to enjoy cold craft beverages, their fried green tomatoes, and live music. If you didn't already know, Nellie's

If you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail is the perfect destination. Featuring twelve...

Since making the move to the historic Mount Holly Cotton Mill last August, Muddy River Distillery has been thriving. We checked in to...

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 March 25, 2026 | Martha Rivers Park | Gastonia

Green River Revival at Whitewater Center Photo Credit: Whitewater Center As the seasons shift towards spring, the Whitewater Center is gearing up to kick off its annual celebration with the return of the Green River Revival and the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run. For years, the Whitewater Center, on the Catawba River just across from Mount Holly, has been the go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. And now, this much-anticipated event returns this year,

If I told you the perfect rum recipe existed, and it’s made right here in Gaston County, would you believe me?

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the charm of Gaston County’s historic downtowns . As the leaves change color, our walkable streets...

Best burgers in Gaston County, Bright Star Grill in Mt. Holly voted best of the best several times.

It's a new adventure to discover. Recently moved from the banks of the Catawba in Belmont to Dutchmans Creek in Mount Holly, Muddy River...

Every day is good to be on the water in Gaston County as the scenic views, public access areas and boat rental options abound. Here are...

Embark on a literary adventure to Gaston County, where book lovers are invited to indulge in numerous literary treasures. Each year, our...

Outdoor recreation positively impacts physical health, mental well-being, and economic prosperity. However, people with disabilities...

For those of you who like to indulge when on a vacation, here is your go-to guide to complete your traveling experience. Ice cream, flakey pastries, creative cookies and cupcakes, sugary sno-cones, and sweet and savory popcorn are all available to top off your stay in Gaston County. ​ SWEET PAIRING: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by choices, so we've made a list of some of our most unique sweet treats currently available in our walkable downtowns and paired them with great vis

Gaston County is on a mission to be the Piedmont's premier outdoor recreation destination. Our trails are helping to revitalize this...

Gaston County, North Carolina, boasts a wealth of natural beauty, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its tranquil and...