25 Summer Adventures for the Family in Gaston County

Looking for things to do with your family this summer? Gaston County has you covered with a wide range of activities for all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures to creative workshops, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some of the best family-friendly events and attractions happening this summer.

1. Family Story Time

The Gaston County Museum of Art and History is hosting Storytime with the Museum in partnership with the Dallas Branch Library. Mark your calendars for June 4, July 2, and August 6, and enjoy a relaxing day of storytelling with your little ones.

2. National Trails Day Bigfoot Edition

On June 6, spend an evening searching for Bigfoot on the trails at George Poston Park. This unique event includes a family smartphone scavenger hunt, puzzles, and challenges, promising fun for the whole family.

3. Family Camping

Join the Warlick Family YMCA on June 7 for an unforgettable family camping experience at Camp Tuscarora. Camp under the stars by the lake and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

4. Enchanting Fairy Festival

Dress up in your best fairy or enchanted forest costume on June 14 and visit Dallas Lavender Lane for a day of bubbles, unique art vendors, music, and a costume contest.

5. Robots, Rockets, and Rovers

Also on June 14, The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium hosts a space-themed adventure featuring robotic races, drone demonstrations, stomp rockets, and a planetarium show. Admission includes all event activities and access to the museum.

6. Storytelling, the Arts, and STEM Festival

On June 30, the African American Museum in Gastonia invites families to a festival celebrating literacy, art, music, puppetry, and more. Enjoy homemade ice cream, popcorn, and food trucks in a lively atmosphere.

7. Great American Splash

Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Cramerton Pool with family-friendly games, swimming, and poolside popsicles. Join in on July 4 for a refreshing day of summer fun.

8. Movies in the Park

Catch Movies in the Park every other Friday from June to August. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy classics like Ratatouille, A Goofy Movie, and The Lion King. Movies begin at 8:00 PM.

9. Gaston Ghost Peppers Baseball Games

Head to CaroMont Health Park this summer for affordable, family-friendly fun at a Gaston Ghost Peppers game. Enjoy the kids’ playground and themed events like Kids Takeover on July 20 and Superhero Night on August 23.

10. Touch-A-Truck

On July 25, get up close and personal with a range of trucks and vehicles at the annual Touch-a-Truck event. This interactive community event promises a truckload of fun for kids of all ages.

12. Summer Adventures

The Schiele Museum has a packed schedule of activities from May 24 through August 10. Highlights include farm tours, animal keeper talks, gemstone mining, and the Catawba Indian Village. Creativity flows at the Innovation Station, where visitors can design, build, and craft to their heart’s content.

13. Pools and Splash Pads

Gaston County is home to several places to cool off during hot summer days. Explore beaches, pools, and splash pads like the Beach at Southpoint Access or Rankin Lake Park for some water-filled fun.

14. Best Parks and Playgrounds

Explore some of the county’s best parks and playgrounds, including Martha Rivers Park, George Poston Park, Goat Island Park, Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park, and Stinger Park. Each one offers a unique experience for children and families.

15. Monster Golf

Experience glow-in-the-dark mini golf with local-themed artwork at Monster Golf. This 18-hole course is sure to entertain everyone in your family.

16. Xtreme Xcapes

Try your hand at Xtreme Xcapes. This is a challenging and fun place to spend an hour with family working together to "escape" the Room. You and your team have 60 minutes to escape from a locked room through puzzles, hints and codes.

17. Wildwoods

Wildwoods is a dedicated outdoor adventure campus at the Whitewater Center designed for kids. Balance-bike trails, treehouses, swinging bridges, and boulder gardens create an unforgettable outdoor playground.

18. Kings Mountain Gateway Trail

The Kings Mountain Gateway Trail offers a spacious picnic shelter with grills, making it an ideal location for a fun day outdoors. The trail features wide, easy-to-navigate paths and a nature trail with educational signs to help your little explorers learn and discover.

19. Adventure Landing

Adventure Landing offers three miniature golf courses, batting cages, and an arcade with over 35 games—perfect for a day of friendly competition.

20. Altitude Trampoline Park

For high-energy fun, visit Altitude Trampoline Park for dodgeball, battle beam, digital experiences, and more.

21. Chuck E. Cheese

End the day with pizza, games, and prizes at Chuck E. Cheese. It’s a classic family favorite with options for toddlers, kids, and adults alike.

22. Butterfly Bungalow

Open each summer, the Butterfly Bungalow at Daniel Stowe Conservancy lets you interact with butterflies up close. Hundreds of butterflies are released into this pollinator paradise, giving visitors a spectacular view and a chance to learn about the butterfly lifecycle.

23. Lost Hollow Kimbrell Children’s Garden

Also at Daniel Stowe, Lost Hollow Kimbrell Children’s Garden invites children to spark their curiosity in a magical forest setting. From an amphitheater and sunken pond to the Moonkeep and imaginative play spaces, it’s perfect for exploration. And don’t miss the new Adventure Trail and Prairie Castle Playground opening in spring 2025!

24. Kate’s Skating Rink

Whether you’re a first-time skater or a seasoned pro, Kate’s Skating Rink promises fun for everyone! Beginner skate group classes are available every Saturday morning.

25. Lineberger Farm

At Lineberger Farm, your family can pick seasonal produce, learn about farming, and have a blast in the process! Their “pick your own” crops include strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries. Kids can enjoy the playgrounds, and the farm store is open seven days a week with homemade baked goods and homegrown treats like strawberry cider and elderberry syrup.

This summer, make the most of your time with family-friendly fun across Gaston County. With everything from outdoor adventures to creative workshops and festivals, there’s no shortage of memories waiting to be made.

Gaston, our lovable ambassador of Gaston County Tourism, is dedicated to showcasing this beautiful region's wonders. With a deep love for the natural beauty and rich culture of Gaston County, Gaston is an expert guide for exploration and adventure. Keep an eye on Gaston's journeys to discover hidden gems and experience the thrill of outdoor activities, ensuring your visit is nothing short of extraordinary. Gaston can be your trusted companion as you immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of Gaston County.