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Gastonia

As Gaston County’s largest city and county seat, Gastonia is home to the county’s largest downtown, where shopping, dining, arts and entertainment come together. Just west of Charlotte and easily accessible from I-85, Gastonia pairs the energy of a growing city with outdoor adventure, rich history and plenty of reasons to stay overnight.

Gastonia is located in the center of Gaston County.

History

Gastonia’s story is rooted in the railroad and textile industries that helped transform the community into one of North Carolina’s major manufacturing centers. Historic buildings and former mill properties still tell that story.

Downtown

Gastonia’s downtown is the largest in Gaston County and is increasingly becoming a destination in its own right. Spend time browsing local shops, discovering restaurants, viewing public art and exploring historic buildings.

Arts & Culture

The arts are woven throughout the city, with murals, sculptures and public art adding color and character to Gastonia. The Gastonia Little Theater brings live community theater to the city, providing another reason to make an evening of your visit.

Meetings

Gastonia is a destination for meetings, conferences and special events. The Gastonia Conference Center offers a premier event venue. Its design pays tribute to Gastonia’s architectural and industrial heritage while providing a modern setting for conferences, weddings, gatherings and community events.

Parks

Gastonia offers plenty of outdoor recreation, from hiking and scenic views at Crowders Mountain State Park to lakeside activities at Rankin Lake Park, family fun at Martha Rivers Park, and miles of greenways and trails for walking and biking.

Festivals & Events

Filter by Inspiration

October 28, 2026

KQ Teacher Workday GS

The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium


October 28, 2026

Workshop Thermal Imaging

Graze & Piece

Thanks to Gaston Thermal Imaging for hosting a workshop and organizing the opportunity to bring entertainment and knowledge at the same time.

October 28, 2026

Singer/Songwriter Open Mic

The Rooster

Every Wednesday we host our Singer/Songwriter Open Mic with rotating hosts. Our Open Mic is for all artists, not just singers and musicians. Whether your gift is comedy, poetry, drum…

Explore Gastonia

Back In Time Collectibles is all about the toys, games, and collectibles that we all had and loved as kids! They go out of their way to track those things down…

Back In Time Collectibles

194 S South St.

The Double Barrel Saloon is a billiards hall in the Fuse district of Gastonia. It is a beloved gem and caters to those seeking a bit of friendly competition with…

Double Barrel Saloon

508 W Main Ave.

Step into the realm of gaming enchantment at Gamers Alley, a locally owned haven catering to all your entertainment desires. Situated within our community, this cherished shop is a treasure…

Gamers Alley

401 Cox Rd.

Discover the gaming haven of Gaston County at Victory Point, your ultimate destination for immersive entertainment and camaraderie. Nestled conveniently on Union Rd, this local gaming store stands as a…

Victory Point

2212 Union Rd.

Ride-A-Bike Bicycle Shop has been serving the local cycling community since 1981. Known as “Everybody’s bike shop,” it offers a friendly, inclusive atmosphere for riders of all levels. The shop…

Ride-A-Bike Bicycle Shop

140 E Main Ave.

Welcome to Wow Supermarket in Gastonia, North Carolina – your ultimate destination for a vibrant and authentic Latino grocery shopping experience! As you step into this bustling marketplace, you'll be…

Wow Supermarket

2557 W Franklin Blvd.

Hiking Trails

Highland Rail Trail

1001 N Marietta St.

Gastonia

Type:

Difficulty:

Length

Paved, Gravel

Easy

2.1 Miles One Way

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