Dallas
Dallas was established in 1846 as the first seat of Gaston County government and incorporated in 1863. At the heart of town, the Historic Dallas Courthouse Square remains a gathering place and a window into the community’s past. The nationally registered courthouse and surrounding square preserve the character of an earlier era, while the Historic Dallas Jail adds another piece of the town’s story and now serves as a venue for community events.
Gaston County Museum of Art & History
Located across from the historic courthouse square in the 1852 Hoffman Hotel, the Gaston County Museum of Art & History is a great place to experience both the history and creative spirit of the region. Explore changing exhibits featuring local and regional art, along with collections that tell the story of Gaston County—from textiles and handcrafts to historic transportation. Highlights include an extensive collection of horse-drawn vehicles and a permanent textile exhibit. Admission is free, making it an easy addition to an afternoon exploring downtown Dallas.
Downtown
Downtown Dallas centers around its historic courthouse square, creating a distinctive setting for exploring the community. Walk the square, discover local businesses and enjoy a downtown that continues to serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors. Throughout the year, the square and surrounding area provide a backdrop for community celebrations and events.
Outdoors & Recreation
Dallas Park: offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, with a one-mile walking track, walking and jogging trails, three fishing ponds, a splash pad, playground, athletic fields and an amphitheater. The park is also home to a historic cotton gin, connecting it to Dallas’s agricultural and textile heritage. Each year, the park comes alive for Cotton Ginning Days, a weekend-long celebration that brings this piece of local history to life.
Lineberger Farm: Just outside Dallas, Lineberger Farm offers a chance to experience Gaston County’s agricultural roots firsthand. Throughout the year, families can shop for farm-fresh products and enjoy seasonal experiences, including U-pick strawberries in spring, muscadines and other U-pick crops, plus fall favorites like the pumpkin patch and hayrides. Educational opportunities make the farm a fun way for families to get outside, learn about where food comes from and enjoy the changing seasons.
Community & Recreation
Dallas is also home to Gaston College, bringing education, activity and a growing campus presence to the community. The upcoming Gaston Aquatics Center will add another major recreational amenity, expanding opportunities for swimming, competition, programs and family recreation.
Together with Dallas Park, the historic courthouse square and the Gaston County Museum, these community assets give visitors even more reasons to spend time in Dallas.
Events & Community
Dallas brings its small-town community spirit to life through events throughout the year, including a summer concert series and gatherings centered around the historic courthouse square. It’s a chance to enjoy live music, spend time outdoors and experience the welcoming character of this historic county seat.
