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Christmas Vacation Best For: Couples, Friends & Families Best Enjoyed: December Stay: 2 Nights | 3 Days ITINERARY FAQS STAY GALLERY MAP Gaston County transforms into a holiday haven from Thanksgiving through the end of the Christmas holiday, offering a perfect setting for a festive vacation or getaway. Here are compelling reasons to experience the magic of Christmas in Gaston County: Christmas Town USA in McAdenville Witness the enchantment of one of the nation's top public light displays in McAdenville, known as Christmas Town USA. The entire town comes alive with millions of twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the true spirit of the season. COST: Free TIME: 2 hrs Christmas Town USA Holiday Lights at the Garden Immerse yourself in the dazzling displays at Holiday Lights at the Garden in Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Stroll through illuminated gardens, marvel at themed light exhibits, and experience the joyous ambiance of this magical holiday tradition. COST: TIME: 2 hrs Holiday Lights at the Garden Snowless Sledding Embrace the thrill of snowless sledding at the Chutes at Crowders Ridge. Perfect for families, this outdoor activity provides a festive and exhilarating experience that captures the joy of sledding without the need for snow. COST: TIME: 1 hr Chutes at Crowders Ridge Ice Skating Glide into the holiday spirit with ice skating at the Whitewater Center. The outdoor ice skating rink offers a picturesque setting for winter fun, creating a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. COST: TIME: Whitewater Center Holiday Canyon Tour Embark on a magical nighttime adventure at the Whitewater Center. The lit-up canyon tour features suspension bridges, outdoor rope courses, and a captivating atmosphere that transforms the center into a winter wonderland after dark. COST: TIME: Whitewater Center Festive Events Explore the festive events in Gaston County's towns, such as the whimsical Whoville in Cherryville. Visit Santa, take a carriage ride in Kings Mountain, and enjoy parades and other community gatherings that exemplify the warmth and joy of the season. COST: Varies TIME: Varies festive events Celebrate the holidays in Gaston County, where the streets glow with lights, and the air is filled with the joy of the season. From enchanting light displays to thrilling outdoor activities, your Christmas Getaway promises to be filled with warmth, wonder, and cherished memories. 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

Advanced Painting & Drawing 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

Kings Mountain In The 1800sKings Mountain NC198 W Gold St Heading 3 I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Kings Mountain In The 1800s 198 W Gold St This Is a Title Celebrating the advent of the railroad and the discovery of gold. Commissioned by the City of Kings Mountain and completed in 2003 by muralist Clive Haynes of Forest City, NC, "Kings Mountain in the 1800s" celebrated the advent of the railroad and the discovery of gold. The life span of the mural is expected to be about fifteen years. The Gaston County Art Trail Discover this and the vibrant tapestry of creativity along Gaston County's captivating art trail. < PREVIOUS ART TRAIL NEXT > Kings Mountain Kings Mountain is home to comfortable climates, top-notch educational institutions, healthcare facilities, recreational opportunities and friendly people. Whether you are interested in outdoor recreation, the arts, dining and shopping, business and industry, education or healthcare, we have it all right here in Kings Mountain. Special events provide Kings Mountain residents and visitors with year-round family-style entertainment, by producing and promoting free festivals and city-wide holiday celebrations. FULL VIEW Located Close By The Gaston County Art Trail Helix R Sculpture FULL VIEW Darin & Brooke Aldridge FULL VIEW The Song of the River FULL VIEW

Mixed Media Art 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

Vinyl Wednesday 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

September 18, 2026 GASTONIA FAMILY SESSION Learn More Kates Skating Rink Venue Info Gastonia, NC, USA 12:00 PM Time: - 4:00 PM 704-864-7007 From 5-8 on Thursdays bring the whole family to Kates for Family Sessions. < PREVIOUS CALENDAR NEXT >

October 20, 2026 Oasis in Space Learn More The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium Venue Info 1500 E Garrison Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054, USA 8:30 AM Time: - 9:30 AM 704-866-6900 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 to the museum. < PREVIOUS CALENDAR NEXT >

No Limit Nutrition Smoothie Bar 112 N Main St. Lowell 704-879-7523 Learn More ABOUT EXPLORE EVENTS TRAILS MAP MORE EVENTS TRAILS CLOSE BY: South Fork Ridge Trail 1101 Lowell Spencer Mountain Road, Lowell, NC 28056, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Gravel Moderate 0.8 Miles One Way Paved Greenway at Poston Park 1101 Lowell Spencer Mountain Road, Lowell, NC 28056, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Paved Easy 1/2 mile Walking track at Harold Rankin Park 519 Park Circle, Lowell, NC 28098, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Walking Easy No Limit Nutrition Smoothie Bar No Limit Nutrition in Lowell, NC, is a vibrant and refreshing hangout that brings the goodness of smoothies and juices to the community. As a top-notch smoothie juice bar, it has quickly become a go-to spot for health-conscious individuals seeking a tasty and nourishing pick-me-up. The menu boasts an enticing array of fresh and flavorful smoothies and juices that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you need a post-workout boost, a quick and nutritious meal replacement, or simply looking to quench your thirst with a delicious beverage, No Limit Nutrition has you covered. With a focus on using high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, each concoction is carefully crafted to delight the taste buds and nourish the body. MORE IN: Lowell 01/19 - 01/23 Birdie Bay 116 N Main St. Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 Parsifal Books 106 E 1st St. Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 Throw The Day Away 119 N Main St. Learn More

IconostarsDallas NC131 W. Main St. Heading 3 I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Iconostars 131 W. Main St. This Is a Title Behind the Gaston County Museum, discover these two captivating sculptures. Marking a momentous occasion, the Gaston County Museum proudly unveils the stunning work of the extraordinary artistic works of Elizabeth Healy. This highly anticipated showcase invites visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Healy's creations, where imagination and craftsmanship intertwine. From thought-provoking sculptures to intricately detailed artworks, each piece reflects Healy's unique vision and artistic prowess. The Gaston County Museum stands as a beacon of cultural appreciation, providing a platform for local talent like Elizabeth Healy to share their exceptional artistry with the community and beyond. Gaston County Museum Discover this and the rich history and vibrant art scene at the Gaston County Museum in Dallas, NC. Immerse yourself in the diverse exhibits spanning two floors, showcasing both historical and artistic displays. Step into the Daniel Stowe Carriage House, home to the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles in the state, and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of a bygone era. Delve into the region's past at the permanent Carolinas Textile Exhibit, which sheds light on the pivotal role of cotton mills and the lives intertwined with them during the late 1800s to mid-1900s. With its captivating exhibits, the Gaston County Museum offers a captivating journey through time and culture. LEARN MORE The Gaston County Art Trail Discover this and the vibrant tapestry of creativity along Gaston County's captivating art trail. < PREVIOUS ART TRAIL NEXT > Dallas Downtown Historic Dallas is located in the center of Gaston County and north of I-85 off of Hwy 321. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was originally listed as the County seat. Much of the history and still be found on the streets offering visitors many things to do. Dallas features the Old Gaston County Courthouse, the Gaston County Museum, the Old Jail, and other buildings surrounding the court square. Walking tours of the square are available at Gaston County Museum. FULL VIEW Located Close By The Gaston County Art Trail Helix R Sculpture FULL VIEW Darin & Brooke Aldridge FULL VIEW The Song of the River FULL VIEW

Tex Mex Back Road Grill 128 W Virginia Ave. Bessemer City 704-729-6157 Learn More ABOUT EXPLORE EVENTS TRAILS MAP MORE EVENTS TRAILS CLOSE BY: Track at Bessemer City Park 1316 Crowders Mountain Road, Bessemer City, NC 28016, USA Type: Difficulty: Length: Easy Tex Mex Back Road Grill Located in downtown Bessemer City, Tex-Mex of BC is a family-owned restaurant known for its fresh, flavorful mix of American and Mexican cuisine, plus a local favorite: their Southern-style breakfast. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch spot, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a place to enjoy bold flavors and generous portions, Tex-Mex of BC delivers an authentic dining experience in Gaston County. Stop by and discover why locals and visitors alike love this go-to destination for fresh Mexican food and comforting American classics in Bessemer City, North Carolina. MORE IN: Bessemer City 01/19 - 01/23 Kevin Millwood Park 400 N 8th St. Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 The Wicked Waffle 130 W Virginia Ave. Learn More 01/19 - 01/23 Allan Farris Community Center 220 S 14th St. Learn More

Bird Show 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

November 25, 2026 Did an Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs? Learn More The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium Venue Info 1500 E Garrison Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054, USA 9:30 AM Time: - 10:15 AM 704-866-6900 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 to the museum. < PREVIOUS CALENDAR NEXT >