Spring Blossom Getaway Best For: Solo, Couples, Friends & Families Best Enjoyed: March - May Stay: 2 Nights | 3 Days ITINERARY FAQS STAY GALLERY MAP As winter bids farewell and nature awakens, Gaston County emerges as the ideal destination for a springtime escape. This area welcomes spring earlier than many other destinations, making it an ideal retreat for snowbirds seeking to escape the lingering winter cold. This can be your ultimate spring break, where a variety of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities await. Spring Blossoms Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of spring blooms at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden . Witness a symphony of colors as the garden comes to life, providing a serene and visually stunning backdrop for your spring retreat. COST: TIME: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden . Paddling Opportunities As the days grow warmer, the paddling opportunities in Gaston County come alive. Keep an eye on the opening of the Boathouse , the Marinas or the Whitewater Center , where you can embark on scenic paddling adventure. Farm Animals Head to Schiele Museum known for its family-friendly atmosphere with baby farm animals. Spring is a time of new beginnings, and the museum offers a delightful opportunity to get up close and personal with adorable farm animals, making it a perfect family-friendly activity. Scenic Trails and Outdoor Activities Explore Gaston County's scenic trails and outdoor activities , perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the rejuvenating spring air. From Crowders Mountain State Park to the Carolina Thread Trail , the possibilities are endless. Culinary Delights Indulge in the diverse culinary scene of Gaston County. From farm-to-table experiences at local restaurants to farmers' markets showcasing fresh produce, savor the flavors of spring. Events and Festivals Discover the vibrant community spirit of Gaston County through spring events and festivals . From cultural celebrations to lively gatherings, there's always something exciting happening. As the flowers bloom, the rivers beckon, and the community comes alive, Gaston County becomes a haven for those seeking the perfect springtime getaway. Book your Spring Getaway now to embrace the season's magic and create lasting memories in this charming destination. 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. Know Before You Go Gaston County offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty, small-town charm, and outdoor adventure. Wander along the Catawba River, explore colorful trails, or stroll through charming downtown streets — all while enjoying the warm, welcoming spirit of the locals. Whether you’re after a relaxing escape or an action-packed weekend, Gaston County makes every visit feel effortless, memorable, and uniquely yours. Getting Here Gaston County is just 20 minutes west of Charlotte, making it an easy drive for a weekend escape. If you’re flying, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is the closest major hub. Once you arrive, our towns and attractions are easy to navigate — most are within 15–20 minutes of each other. Atlanta, GA 4 hrs Washington, DC 7 hrs Nashville, TN 6 hrs Charleston, SC 3 hrs Raleigh, NC 3 hrs Pigeon Forge, TN 4 hrs Myrtle Beach, SC 4 hrs Richmond, VA 5 hrs Getting Around While Gaston County is compact and easy to navigate, having a car is essential to fully explore the area. Most attractions, trails, and restaurants are spread out, so having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to see everything at your own pace. Where To Eat Fuel your adventures with flavors of Gaston County. From cozy cafés to hearty Southern fare, here are a few favorites to satisfy every craving Annual Events Make your getaway even more special by checking out our signature events. From seasonal festivals to celebrations, there’s always something fun to capture the spirit of the season. Night Life Whether you’re looking for live music, a craft brew, or a relaxed evening stroll, there’s something for every night owl there's always a little something extra. 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. Facebook LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link How Can We Help? GETAWAY GUIDE Download your free Weekend Getaway Guide Downloadable Getaway Flyer SAVE & SHARE Share this getaway with a friend or save it for later! Copy link ASK US Got a quick question? Ask us here. Ask Us Email About Getaway Explore More Trip Ideas? Spring Blossom Getaway Available: March - May Fall Foliage Getaway Available: Sept - Nov Christmas Vacation Available: December

Revolver Records 109 Main St. McAdenville 980-522-4079 Learn More ABOUT EXPLORE EVENTS TRAILS MAP MORE EVENTS TRAILS CLOSE BY: McAdenville Greenway Park 501 Lakeview Drive, McAdenville, NC 28101, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Paved Easy 0.8 miles, One Way Pharr Yarns Family Trail 119 Willow Drive, McAdenville, NC, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Natural Surface Moderate 2.4 Miles One Way Revolver Records Revolver Records in McAdenville, NC, is a music lover's paradise that breathes life into the nostalgic world of vinyl records. As a cherished establishment in the community, the store stands out for its passion for music, vintage treasures, and unwavering support for local artists. Boasting an impressive collection of vinyl records spanning various genres and eras, Revolver Records caters to both avid collectors and curious enthusiasts seeking hidden gems. Beyond being a haven for vinyl enthusiasts, the store also offers a unique service of buying and selling records, making it a hub for those looking to expand or refine their music collections. Beyond the vintage charm and musical offerings, Revolver Records also specializes in record restoration, ensuring that cherished vinyl records are given a new lease on life and can continue to bring joy to generations of music lovers. For those seeking a truly immersive and authentic music experience, Revolver Records in McAdenville is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the essence of music's enduring allure. MORE IN: McAdenville 01/19 - 01/23 Bonico 121 Main St. Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 La Delizia Market 129 Main St. Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 Life is Sweet Candy Store 109 Main St. Learn More

June 29, 2027 Morbidly Curious Book Club Learn More Venue Info Belmont Bookshop 7 N Main St, Belmont, NC 28012, USA 1:30 PM Time: - 3:00 PM 704-461-8060 We are excited to partner with Morbidly Curious Book Club! This is an 18+ non-fiction macabre-focused book club diving into the darker parts of your library, whether it be true crime cases, morally ambiguous medical practice, spirits & ghosts, or death. This month's read: "Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times to the Present" by Click on the button below to reserve your book! Pick up at Belmont Bookshop prior to the discussion. Follow the Morbidly Curious Belmont Bookshop group here to stay up to date on future reads!Morbidly Curious Book Club also has a podcast! Every month the host will sit down with the author and deep dive into their books... you can find it on Spotify here. DISCLAIMERS: Please check trigger warnings on all books. It is safe to assume they will be touching on many tough subjects. Some may be easy to miss. Proceed with caution. Monthly attendance is not mandatory; you do not have to commit to anything. Join as you wish and discuss at your own will. Even if you weren't quite able to finish the book! < PREVIOUS CALENDAR NEXT >

Eastridge Mall 246 N New Hope Rd Gastonia 704-867-1851 Learn More ABOUT EXPLORE EVENTS TRAILS MAP MORE EVENTS TRAILS CLOSE BY: Avon-Catawba Creeks Greenway 1401 Golf Course Dr, Gastonia, NC 28054, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Paved Easy 4.5 Miles One Way Highland Rail Trail Downtown Sidewalk Connection 200 E Long Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Paved Easy 3.0 Miles One Way Eastridge Mall Eastridge Mall is a dynamic and inclusive shopping destination, catering to the diverse tastes and needs of visitors. The mall boasts a wide array of nationally recognized, high-quality brands, ensuring a satisfying shopping experience for all. From trendy fashion and beauty products to sports merchandise and accessories, Eastridge Mall offers a curated selection of items to suit every shopper's preferences. Beyond the well-known brands, Eastridge Mall is a community-driven hub that supports local businesses and showcases their unique offerings. With a variety of retail and entertainment experiences, the mall provides a platform for entrepreneurs to thrive and shoppers to discover hidden gems. Whether it's home decorations, specialty candies, personalized gifts, or boutique fashion, there's a local business waiting to be explored at Eastridge Mall. While indulging in retail therapy, visitors can refuel at the Food Court or enjoy the diverse culinary options offered by various food vendors throughout the mall. From international flavors to comfort food favorites, there's something to satisfy every craving. And for added convenience, the mall houses a North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) office in its premises, allowing shoppers to take care of their vehicle-related needs conveniently. With its inclusive and vibrant atmosphere, Eastridge Mall is more than just a shopping center—it's a place where the community comes together, where entrepreneurs thrive, and where families create memorable experiences. Whether you're seeking the latest trends, unique local finds, or a fun outing for the whole family, Eastridge Mall has something to offer everyone. MORE IN: Gastonia 01/19 - 01/23 TC's Sip and Sing Karaoke Lounge 141 W. Main Ave Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 57 Genova Coffee 167 W Main Ave Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 Red Roof Inn Gastonia 1700 N. Chester St. Learn More

Meet Gaston, the official travel ambassador for Gaston County! Learn the inspiring story behind Gaston the bald eagle and his role in showcasing the beauty and charm of our region. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of exploration and adventure with Gaston, your guide to experiencing the wonders of Gaston County, North Carolina. Meet Gaston It is our pleasure to introduce you to Gaston, the official ambassador of Gaston County Tourism here to show you the best places to explore in and around Gaston County. Next Anchor 1 What is this? While migrating from the north, this young green eyed bald eagle spied two mountains poking up from the relatively flat landscape of the North Carolina Piedmont and decided to take a look. Next This place is great! After more exploration Gaston discovered two rivers and a beautiful lake and decided to make a home here. Next Anchor 2 Welcome... Today, Gaston is the official ambassador for Gaston County Tourism, here to show you the best places to explore. Next Anchor 3 Anchor 4 Explore with Gaston Let's go! MUST SEE PLACES DISCOVER GASTON Calling all adventurous kids to Schiele Museum this summer Melissa McCauley Jun 22 Beat the Heat This Summer! Discover Beaches, Pools and Splash Pads in Gaston County Melissa McCauley May 23 Little Adventurers Explore Gaston County with Carolina Aventureros’ Pequeños Aventureros Program Gaston The Eagle Aug 14, 2025 25 Summer Adventures for the Family in Gaston County Melissa McCauley May 25, 2025 Celebrate the Outdoors with the Ghost Peppers May 9th, 2025 Courtney Thomas Apr 22, 2025 Soar into Adventure at Wildwoods Ultimate Playground at Whitewater Center Melissa McCauley Jul 26, 2024 GASTON TRAVELS Read this adorable picture book about how Gaston came to be the official travel ambassador for Gaston County Tourism Development READ NOW EN ESPAÑOL

Get your adrenaline pumping, learn something new or escape to a quiet place — you can do it all here. Must See Located just outside of Charlotte, NC, Gaston County offers many things to see and do. We offer amazing opportunities to get outside and explore. Crowders Mountain State Park Daniel Stowe Conservancy Lake Wylie South Fork River Catawba River Christmas Town USA Whitewater Center Schiele Museum

Get inspired with the best selection of images in Gaston County. Media Gallery

Gaston County provides outdoor explorers with  hiking trails found in our state parks, county parks and city parks. Use these trails for an easy stroll or a strenuous hike. Some are great for jogging and biking as well. Trails Gaston County provides outdoor explorers with natural spaces found in our state parks, county parks and city parks. Use these trails for an easy stroll or a strenuous hike. Some are great for jogging and biking as well. Carolina Thread Trail Interactive Trail Map The Carolina Thread Trail is a network of trails and blueways across 15 counties in North and South Carolina offering people a place to hike bike and paddle. Currently it has more than 300 miles of trails and 170 miles of blueways. Once complete, the system will total 1,600 miles. Gaston County’s distinct towns and its proximity to the Catawba and South Fork Rivers make it a great place to explore via their trails and blueways. See All Our Trails Town Trail Type Difficulty Golf Tennis Swimming Basketball Track Judo

JAM AT THE DAM Hall of Dinosaurs FIND IT The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium 1500 E Garrison Blvd. Gastonia Visit one of the largest dinosaur exhibits in the Carolinas, with 4,200 square feet of real fossils, interactive learning experiences, and full-bodied cast specimens of T. rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and more. Exhibit Highlights Include: Full-bodied prehistoric skeleton casts Authentic dinosaur fossils, including an Edmontosaurus that displays healed wounds from a T. rex attack Stegasaurus, Triceratops, Apatosaurus , and MANY MORE of your favorite dinosaurs Specimens unique to the Southeast, including Appalachiosaurus , the East Coast T. rex The return of The Schiele’s iconic T. rex in a whole new display 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 Hall of Dinosaurs The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium LEARN MORE The Turnings A Cycle of American Time Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE When Are We US Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE Hoffman's Farm to Friends Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE

Social media links to GoGastonNC.org in Gaston County North Carolina. Social Click media to learn more. Social media rules can be found here . Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Public Rules Anchor 1 Coming soon.

Gamers Alley 401 Cox Rd. Gastonia 704-671-2124 Learn More ABOUT EXPLORE EVENTS TRAILS MAP EVENT DETAILS Every Monday at 7PM $10 Entry Best of 3 Rounds Standard EVENT DETAILS Every Tuesday at 7 P.M. $10 Entry with 100% of entries prized out! Swiss pairing with best of 3 rounds. Pioneer Weekly Events EVENT DETAILS Every Wednesday at 7 P.M. $10 Entry with 100% of entries prized out! Swiss pairing with best of 3 rounds. Modern at Gamers Alley MORE EVENTS TRAILS CLOSE BY: Avon-Catawba Creeks Greenway 1401 Golf Course Dr, Gastonia, NC 28054, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Paved Easy 4.5 Miles One Way Highland Rail Trail Downtown Sidewalk Connection 200 E Long Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Paved Easy 3.0 Miles One Way Gamers Alley 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 trove for video game aficionados, trading card enthusiasts, and collectors of captivating toys and comics. The shelves are adorned with an eclectic array of offerings, from the latest video game releases that beckon adventure, to the allure of trading cards that spark strategic battles, and the nostalgia-laden embrace of collectible toys and comics. Gamers Alley isn't just a store; it's a sanctuary where passions come alive and like-minded individuals unite. Whether you seek to uncover rare treasures or simply wish to immerse yourself in a world of digital and visual marvels, Gamers Alley welcomes you with open doors and a shared love for all things gaming. MORE IN: Gastonia 01/19 - 01/23 TC's Sip and Sing Karaoke Lounge 141 W. Main Ave Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 57 Genova Coffee 167 W Main Ave Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 Red Roof Inn Gastonia 1700 N. Chester St. Learn More

Lakeside Brunch Hall of Dinosaurs FIND IT The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium 1500 E Garrison Blvd. Gastonia Visit one of the largest dinosaur exhibits in the Carolinas, with 4,200 square feet of real fossils, interactive learning experiences, and full-bodied cast specimens of T. rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and more. Exhibit Highlights Include: Full-bodied prehistoric skeleton casts Authentic dinosaur fossils, including an Edmontosaurus that displays healed wounds from a T. rex attack Stegasaurus, Triceratops, Apatosaurus , and MANY MORE of your favorite dinosaurs Specimens unique to the Southeast, including Appalachiosaurus , the East Coast T. rex The return of The Schiele’s iconic T. rex in a whole new display 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 Hall of Dinosaurs The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium LEARN MORE The Turnings A Cycle of American Time Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE When Are We US Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE Hoffman's Farm to Friends Gaston County Museum LEARN MORE