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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 26, 2026

Oasis in Space

The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium

The Schiele Museum’s James H. Lynn Planetarium and Science Theater is home to an immersive experience unlike anything else in the area and is a “must-see” attraction during a visit…

October 26, 2026

Did an Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs?

The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium

The Schiele Museum’s James H. Lynn Planetarium and Science Theater is home to an immersive experience unlike anything else in the area and is a “must-see” attraction during a visit…

October 26, 2026

LEGO® Club @ Main

Gaston County Library Main Branch

Sharpen your creativity, fine motor, and problem solving skills while having fun building with LEGO®! This drop-in program is appropriate for Pre-K through Grade 5. All LEGO® will be provided.…

Explore Gastonia

A Gastonia Community Recreation Destination


Walker E. Reid III Park offers top-notch amenities designed for outdoor fun, fitness, and community events, making it a go-to destination in Gastonia for all…

Walker E Reid III Park

109 W Second Ave.

Located in the Fuse District of downtown Gastonia, right next to CaroMont Health Ballpark, Durty Bull Brewing offers a large outdoor area perfect for hanging out and playing cornhole. The…

Durty Bull Brewing

126 S Trenton St.

Step back in time and experience the nostalgia of classic video games and pinball at Classic Arcade & Pinball Museum in Gastonia, North Carolina. This family-friendly attraction features more than…

Classic Arcade & Pinball Museum

3210 Union Rd.

Founded in 1982, Gaston Dance Theatre offers a professional curriculum for ballet, jazz, tap and modern. Classes are offered to children beginning at three years of age and to adults.…

Gaston Dance Theatre

201 W Franklin Blvd.

Erwin Park Pool, a traditional aquatic oasis, boasts a spacious 105’ x 45’ rectangular-shaped pool complete with a diving board for added excitement. With depths ranging from 3’ to 8’,…

Erwin Center, Park & Swimming Pool

913 N Pryor St.

Gardner Acres Private Swim Club is a Private Club in Gastonia, NC, is a premier destination for those seeking recreational enjoyment and social camaraderie. Offering exclusive access to pristine swimming…

Gardner Acres Swim Club

937 Ridgeway Dr.

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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