Best for: Best Enjoyed: Year-Round Stay: ITINERARY STAY FAQS GALLERY MAP Gaston County, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, beckons outdoor enthusiasts with a promise of unforgettable adventures. As your premier destination for an outdoor getaway, Gaston County boasts a myriad of reasons to choose it as your next vacation spot: Explore Natural Landscapes: Crowders Mountain State Park : Uncover the jewel of Gaston County's outdoor offerings at this State Park. Hiking trails cater to all skill levels, including those leading to breathtaking views. Kings Mountain National Military Park : offers historical significance intertwined with nature trails. Explore the battlefield and take leisurely walks through wooded areas for a holistic outdoor experience. Thrilling Outdoor Adventures: Whitewater Center : For adventure seekers, unleash your adventurous spirit with whitewater rafting, zip-lining, rock climbing, and mountain biking—an ideal introduction to various outdoor pursuits. Catawba River : Meandering through Gaston County, the river invites you to indulge in water-based activities. Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty. Botanical Beauty and Outdoor Activities: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden : Beyond its breathtaking gardens, the Garden now beckons all to explore. Revel in the natural beauty, harmonizing with the serenity of the garden setting. Accessibility and Connectivity: Strategic Location: Gaston County's strategic proximity to major cities like Charlotte ensures a swift escape from urban chaos to the tranquility of nature. Your outdoor getaway is just a short journey away. Embrace the Community Focus on Outdoor Recreation: Local Initiatives: Gaston County proudly embraces outdoor recreation as an integral part of its identity. Committed to preserving and enhancing natural resources, the county provides a warm welcome to outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy Variety Tailored to All Skill Levels: Inclusive Options: Regardless of your outdoor expertise, Gaston County caters to everyone. Whether you're up for challenging hikes or leisurely strolls, our inclusive options ensure an outdoor experience tailored to your preferences. In summary, Gaston County invites you to a world of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and a dedication to preserving its outdoor treasures. Whether you crave adrenaline-pumping activities or serene nature walks, Gaston County promises a premier introduction to the diverse and captivating world of outdoor recreation. Unlock your perfect outdoor getaway—your ultimate vacation package awaits in Gaston County! Experience Gaston County Through Our Lens From scenic adventures to local flavors and unique experiences, explore our gallery to get a taste of what your weekend in Gaston County could look like. Discover, Dine, Shop, and Play in Gaston County Spend a weekend in Gaston County to relax, recharge, and make memories. Enjoy outdoor adventures, connect with nature, savor local food and flavors, explore unique shops, and experience a mix of fun, culture, and small-town charm—all at your own pace. Weather DINING Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site. The Sun-Smart Collection Restaurants, cafes, breweries, wineries. View More SHOPPING Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site. Comfort X Design Signature dishes, locally made products. View More NIGHT LIFE Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site. Transport In Style Bars, live music, craft beverage trails. View More What to Know Before You Go "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Simone Woods "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Nicole Yang "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Calvin Smith "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Suzanne Levis I-85 runs straight through Gaston County linking it to cities in the Northeast, Southwest, and Midwest, while I-40, less than one hour north, provides an important east/west link with coast-to-coast access. Gaston County, North Carolina enjoys four distinct seasons. Spring has moderate temperatures from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Summer is hot and humid with highs in the upper-80s to low-90s. Fall high temperatures average in the 70s. Winter is mild and a day in the 60s is not uncommon. The rainiest months are January and March while the driest months are April and November. Reserve Your Stay Today! Book direct for a simple, stress-free way to reserve your stay. Choose your dates, secure your lodging, and start planning your Gaston County weekend with confidence.” Map Out Your Perfect Weekend in Gaston County Plan your perfect weekend at your own pace! Explore all the top stops—attractions, outdoor adventures, dining, shopping, and more—then mix and match to create your ideal weekend. ITINERARY STAY FAQS GALLERY MAP Winter Escape Explore rugged trails, paddle scenic rivers, and embrace the great outdoors. Hike to the summit of Crowders Mountain for stunning panoramic views. Bike the Carolina Thread Trail for an exhilarating ride through nature. Paddle along the Catawba River and spot local wildlife. Experience Gaston County Through Our Lens From scenic adventures to local flavors and unique experiences, explore our gallery to get a taste of what your weekend in Gaston County could look like. Discover, Dine, Shop, and Play in Gaston County Spend a weekend in Gaston County to relax, recharge, and make memories. Enjoy outdoor adventures, connect with nature, savor local food and flavors, explore unique shops, and experience a mix of fun, culture, and small-town charm—all at your own pace. Weather DINING Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site. The Sun-Smart Collection Restaurants, cafes, breweries, wineries. View More SHOPPING Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site. Comfort X Design Signature dishes, locally made products. View More NIGHT LIFE Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site. Transport In Style Bars, live music, craft beverage trails. View More What to Know Before You Go "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Simone Woods "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Nicole Yang "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Calvin Smith "Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours." Suzanne Levis I-85 runs straight through Gaston County linking it to cities in the Northeast, Southwest, and Midwest, while I-40, less than one hour north, provides an important east/west link with coast-to-coast access. Gaston County, North Carolina enjoys four distinct seasons. Spring has moderate temperatures from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Summer is hot and humid with highs in the upper-80s to low-90s. Fall high temperatures average in the 70s. Winter is mild and a day in the 60s is not uncommon. The rainiest months are January and March while the driest months are April and November. Reserve Your Stay Today! Book direct for a simple, stress-free way to reserve your stay. Choose your dates, secure your lodging, and start planning your Gaston County weekend with confidence.” Map Out Your Perfect Weekend in Gaston County Plan your perfect weekend at your own pace! Explore all the top stops—attractions, outdoor adventures, dining, shopping, and more—then mix and match to create your ideal weekend. MORE GETAWAY IDEAS 01/19 - 01/23 Winter Escape 01/19 - 01/23 Fall Foliage Getaway 01/19 - 01/23 01/19 - 01/23 01/19 - 01/23 Nature Lover 01/19 - 01/23 Christmas Vacation 01/19 - 01/23 On The Water

Downtown Gastonia Airbnb VISIT TODAY Downtown Gastonia Airbnb Gastonia W. Main Ave. WEBSITE Full Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Airbnb Downtown Gastonia This charming one bedroom apartment offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Free parking, Wi-Fi, air conditioning/heating, washer/dryer, self check-in/out, tv, and more. Come and experience a little slice of NY! Explore local attractions and savor delicious cuisine, on the streets of Gastonia. Located in one of the city's most charming and eclectic neighborhoods, this Airbnb provides the perfect blend of culture, convenience, and excitement. Enjoy unique dining experiences, explore local boutiques, and nightlife—all within walking distance. The welcoming community vibe, promises to create an unforgettable experience. VISIT TODAY Downtown Gastonia Airbnb EXPLORE # W. Main Ave. WEBSITE

Affordable Suites of America VISIT TODAY Affordable Suites Gastonia 704-853-0045 1921 Bessemer City Rd. WEBSITE Affordable Suites Gastonia is the smart choice compared to ordinary hotel accommodations. Our spacious suites offer distinct spaces: an open-concept living room with a sofa, lounge chair, and television with premium cable, Free WiFi, a full-size kitchen with full-size appliances including a four-burner stove and oven; and a separate bedroom with a second TV and a spacious closet to help you stay organized. Don't pay more, don't settle for less. That's Affordable Suites. VISIT TODAY Affordable Suites EXPLORE # 1921 Bessemer City Rd. WEBSITE

Best Western VISIT TODAY Best Western Gastonia 704-868-2000 360 Best Western Ct. WEBSITE The Best Western Gastonia offers all the essentials you need to stay on your game and be your best. We’re just minutes away from the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport This newly renovated hotel in Gastonia gives you easy access to other sites and activities like the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, Discovery Place museum, U.S. National Whitewater Center, Carowinds theme park, Crowder’s Mountain State Park and Schiele Museum of Natural History. Our Gastonia hotel caters to both vacationing tourists and business travelers alike with complimentary services and amenities such as free Wi-Fi, seasonal outdoor pool, outdoor patio, free weekday newspaper and business center. Start your trip to Gastonia with our free hot breakfast featuring eggs, breakfast meat, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal and more, including your choice of hot waffle flavors! We also happily serve you free coffee. We invite you to relax in your spacious guest room, which features a refrigerator and a microwave. Select rooms also feature a flat-screen TV, desk, love seat and whirlpool bathtub. Enjoy the combination of cozy accommodations, friendly service and wonderful amenities at the Best Western Gastonia hotel. VISIT TODAY Best Western EXPLORE # 360 Best Western Ct. WEBSITE

WoodSpring Suites VISIT TODAY WoodSpring Suites Gastonia 704-866-8865 1830 Wren Turnpike WEBSITE WoodSpring Suites Charlotte Gastonia - Extended Stay Hotel North of Gastonia WoodSpring Suites Charlotte Gastonia is an extended stay hotel with monthly rates, weekly rates, and nightly rates. Great for business travelers, students and staff of local universities and trade schools, tourists, those visiting the area, military and their families, patients and medical professionals and those moving to/within the region. Pet-friendly hotel rooms with double-/full-sized beds. Three suite styles - all with in-room kitchen, free parking, free basic wi-fi, and 24/7 access vending machines, guest laundry room, and staff support. This is a 100% non-smoking hotel. VISIT TODAY WoodSpring Suites EXPLORE # 1830 Wren Turnpike WEBSITE

Backpack Camping at Crowders Mountain State Park VISIT TODAY Backpack Camping Kings Mountain WEBSITE Backpack Camping at Crowders Mountain State Park Crowders Mountain State Park offers ten backpack camping approximately 1 mile from the visitor center. These sites are so secluded there is often not another person in sight. Each of the backpack campsites in the family campground accommodate up to 6 people. Campers must register at the visitor center to receive an overnight parking tag. These campsites are reached by trail, and all supplies must be packed in and carried to the campsites. Firewood is available for purchase at the visitor center and are picked up at the campground area. Each campsite has a grill, picnic table, and two tent pads. Drinking water and vault toilets are provided. There is also a family campsite located in the group camping area that is accessible for people with limited mobility or disabilities. VISIT TODAY Backpack Camping EXPLORE # WEBSITE

Lakefront River Retreat VISIT TODAY Lakefront River Retreat Belmont WEBSITE This clean and comfortable cabin is nestled on the edge of a beautiful lake and full of natural light that comes from a panoramic view of the famous "Hot Hole" on Lake Wylie, which is known for great fishing and water sports! This private residence also includes a deck overlooking the lake, a patio with a fire pit, and a dock suitable for two boats. If you’re looking for a staycation or have family or friends coming to visit, this is the ‘WOW’ place to stay!! The space The River Retreat is located in Belmont, NC on the lake and has two bedrooms (each bedroom sleeps two) with one loft bed (sleeps two, with low ceiling), three rollaway twin beds (stored in master closet) and two and a half bathrooms, a large kitchen and living room space with two sofas (one sofa bed) and a large dining room table— perfect for families and small gatherings. Outside, there is plenty of space for parking, a deck with stellar views, and a large fire pit area. You’ll be surrounded by trees, peacefulness, deer, lots of birds, great fishing and beautiful sunsets! Events: consider this property to host a family dinner, your child’s birthday party or graduation, retirement celebration, or simply take your family on the lake for the day. 11 miles from the White Water Center, 5 miles to the super quaint downtown Belmont area, 13 miles to Charlotte airport, 6.5 miles to Publix in Clover, SC, 3.4 miles to Daniel Stowe Bontanical Gardens. Other things to note For pets, please inquire directly! We have a liability waver that all guests must sign and return prior to check in. There is a $150 per day surcharge for events with more than 10 people, taking place during the day at the River Retreat. No more than 10 overnight guests are allowed at any time. VISIT TODAY Lakefront River Retreat EXPLORE # WEBSITE

Block Party Block Party Schiele Museum 1500 E Garrison Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054, USA 704-866-6900 Calling all young architects! Kids can enjoy more than 1,000 soft and safe building blocks and connectors of all shapes and sizes. This exhibit is designed to inspire creativity and hands-on STEAM learning. Bring your imagination to life through block play! Included with museum admission. LEARN MORE For more information, click the LEARN MORE button above (if provided) or reach out to the venue/host directly. FIND IT ALSO WORTH SEEING Live Music Muddy River Distillery LEARN MORE Works by K. Orr Ambrose Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Mauney Memorial Library LEARN MORE Trivia Night Muddy River Distillery LEARN MORE

Goat Island Getaway VISIT TODAY Goat Island Getaway Cramerton 704-995-7851 237 8th Ave. WEBSITE Luxury Modern Living with a Small Town Feel The Goat Island Getaway offers two suites, the Nanny Suite and the Billy Suite. Each Suite contains 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and shares 1 communal deck and is available for short term vacation rentals. As soon as you check yourself into this 2-bedroom, 1-bath suite, you’re greeted with a Matisse inspired wall mural commissioned by Charlotte street artist, “Cheeks”. The high-pitched ceilings and high-end finishes and amenities create a luxurious living experience. Complimentary kayaks are available to float the Southfork River, as are bikes to ride to Cramerton’s famous Goat Island Park. After exploring, you can rest and relax on our oversized furnished outdoor deck. VISIT TODAY Goat Island Getaway EXPLORE # 237 8th Ave. WEBSITE

Econo Lodge VISIT TODAY Econo Lodge Gastonia 704-868-4900 1721 Broadcast St. WEBSITE When you stay at Econo Lodge® in Gastonia, you’ll get affordable rates and an easy stop on the road. Our hotel is located at Interstate 85 and U.S. Highway 321. If you’re traveling by plane, we’re close to Gastonia Municipal Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Fans of the Carolina Panthers will appreciate being near Bank of America Stadium, and Charlotte Hornets fans are close to Spectrum Center. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a walk and hike in Freedom Park or test the rapids at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. No matter how you spend your day, return to the Econo Lodge for a relaxing evening and a peaceful night’s sleep. Remember, when you join Choice Privileges, you’ll get more rewards from each stay, including points for free nights, gift cards and more. VISIT TODAY Econo Lodge EXPLORE # 1721 Broadcast St. WEBSITE

The Esquire Hotel VISIT TODAY The Esquire Hotel Gastonia 980-888-1500 168 West Main Ave. WEBSITE Esquire Hotel Botique hotel in Gastonia Embrace history, charm, and romance in the heart of revitalized downtown Gastonia at the Esquire Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection®. This national landmark opened as the First National Bank in 1918, and eventually became office space for several attorneys, later renamed the Lawyer's Building. The hotel features Barrister's Restaurant with locally sourced southern cuisine. We also offer a conference space that can accommodate up to 25 people. Our unique rooms invite guests to enjoy premium travel amenities like a Keurig coffee maker, USB charging stations, and free WiFi. VISIT TODAY The Esquire Hotel EXPLORE # 168 West Main Ave. WEBSITE

The Villa at Waters Edge Vacation Rental VISIT TODAY The Villa at Waters Edge Belmont 443-463-4046 170 Charity Ln. WEBSITE The Villa at Waters Edge Vacation Rental on Lake Wylie Lakeside Villa located on a secluded cove only 15 minutes from Charlotte North Carolina. Very well appointed with panoramic views of the lake, fireplace, six foot soaking tub, and an exquisite master suite and guest suite.The Villa is for up to four people only. Events, parties, gatherings are not accepted. Discover paradise with breathtaking views. The Villa overlooks a secluded cove on the glistening waters of Lake Wylie. Large picture windows and floor to ceiling views bring the outdoors right into the spacious gathering room to enjoy a fireplace and panoramic vistas of the sunrises and sunsets. Our soul stirring Villa offers an exquisite get away from relaxing on the veranda and letting your body unwind to catching a glimpse of a deer prancing by. VISIT TODAY The Villa at Waters Edge EXPLORE # 170 Charity Ln. WEBSITE