Small town holiday shopping in the downtowns of Gaston County
Updated: Nov 21, 2023
Christmas is a magical time on the streets of our small towns in Gaston County. Adorned with sparkling lights, ribbons, and wreaths, locally-owned shops offer thoughtful and locally sourced goods to make your holiday shopping a breeze. Our eateries usher visitors in after a day of shopping with hot drinks and tasty cuisine. This winter, visit and enjoy the hometown feel of a few of our favorite historic communities — all offering special events and experiences. Check out five of our delightful downtowns.
Belmont
This bustling historic mill town is just off the banks of the Catawba River. Find several types of shops along the main street to complete your shopping list. South Main Cycles and Catawba River Outfitters have your outdoor gear. GiGi's Boutique, Jolie's Boutique, and Piccolo Antiques have your fine consignment and new clothing. Tastebuds Popcorn and Cotton Candy Factory have all kinds of tasty treats.
Three great places to take a break from the shopping include The String Bean, a casual cafe with an in-house butcher, wine and beer selections; Nellie's Southern Kitchen, the Jonas family's restaurant, or you can grab a bite in the refurbished police station, Old Stone Steakhouse.
Mount Holly
There are several unique shops in the heart of Mount Holly. Catalyst Mercantile is a brick-and-mortar shop for local merchants offering excellent products that could make the perfect holiday gift. Planet Vintage Clothing prides itself on providing classic, well-constructed pieces in mostly natural, biodegradable fabrics. The Vintage Nest Home & Gift Shop and POP-Maize-N Gourmet Popcorn are two more great shopping options.
Fuel up at JackBeagle's, a neighborhood hangout with great food and an outdoor patio, or Traust Brewing, part of the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail. Just outside of downtown, check out J.R. Cash's Grill & Bar, where you can sit on the patio overlooking the Catawba River.
McAdenville
Mona's Boutique & Gifts is an adorable shop in the heart of McAdenville. Revolver Records is also downtown, where some classic vinyl. The Modest Market Flower and Gift Shop and Laundry Dae, a rentable fashion boutique, are two more to check out.
Before a McAdenville shopping spree, fuel up with a breakfast sandwich and a cup of joe at Knowledge Perk or Spruced Goose. If you'd prefer a lunch break, try Terra Mia for an Italian feast. Or relax and grab a beer at 115 Craft.
Gastonia
The largest town in the County, Gastonia, offers visitors a few great places to shop in the newly revived downtown. A few stand-out places include Ride-A-Bike Bicycle Shop, which has served cyclists and promoted cycling in North Carolina since 1981. They are proud to be one of the oldest bicycle shops in the state! Wild & Whimsy Living sells seeds and plants, seasonal items, potted plants, home and garden accessories, and other items.
Fantastic dining experiences await at Barrister's, located inside Esquire Hotel and Webb Custom Kitchen, where the ambiance evokes its past existence as a theater. After dinner, unwind at Vintage Whiskey and Cigar Bar.
Cherryville
If you have yet to go to Cherryville, you are missing it. This historical town has come to life in the past year with fun shops to check out! Victoria-Coles in Cherryville feels magical and whimsical when you walk through the door. Annalise Boutique is a cute pink boutique with a great selection and prices. Ryann Oneal Boutique is a true treasure trove of style, offering a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and unique gifts that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. The Wild Cholla is an excellent boutique shop where you can grab a beer or wine at their bar and shop for various clothing, jewelry, and shoes.
Gaston County Tourism Development
620 N. Main Street, Belmont, NC
GoGastonNC.org | TravelGuide@gogastonnc.org
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