Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying awhile, there’s always something to do in Gastonia. Made memorable by its historic buildings, boutique shops, award-winning restaurants, and lively entertainment, Gastonia is anything but ordinary. This rapidly-growing city attracts new fans every year who are weaving together past and present in former mills and old theaters. Downtown Gastonia is the perfect blend of old and new, with a tidal wave of new development projects in the historic business district in the works. The city successfully highlights its rich history while simultaneously showcasing modern amenities and attractions. Read on to discover everything Gastonia has to offer, that’ll have you extending your visit for longer than you initially intended.
You’ll never go hungry in Gastonia. With both casual and fine-dining restaurant options at your convenience, you can satisfy your cravings on any night of the week, whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, hearty comfort food, or a high-quality steak. And if you’re looking to have a quick drink, downtown Gastonia is home to several bars and restaurants, ideal for celebrations or to watch a sports game.
The String Bean
This casual bistro is a local favorite for updated Southern eats and burgers, featuring meats from an in-house butcher.
Grille Works
Open every night of the week, this charming restaurant offers many shareable appetizers, large garden-fresh salads, and mouth-watering tacos.
Pita Wheel
Enjoy warm pitas, burgers, sides, beer and cocktails at this quirky spot with an impressive patio.
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
This classic family-friendly chain serves American comfort food with a Texan twist and delicious cocktails.
Gastonia’s shopping areas provide endless options to spruce up your wardrobe, find the perfect gift, and ensure your home essentials are always well-stocked. From quaint boutiques offering designer fashions and homeware, to shopping malls with large retailers, Gastonia offers the best of everything all within a 30-minute radius. Plus, big-box stores like Walmart and Target are all in close proximity, so you can take comfort in knowing anything you need is never more than a few minutes from home.
Eastridge Mall
The Eastridge Mall is filled with local businesses and a variety of retail and entertainment experiences, featuring many nationally-recognized, quality brands including American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, and Footlocker.
Franklin Square
Franklin Square is the go-to place to buy all your basics in one convenient location with national retailers including Walmart, Michaels, Dollar Tree, Five Below, and Best Buy.
Akers Shopping Center
Situated at the prime location of U.S. 74 and South New Hope Road, the Akers Shopping Center consists of three small buildings, freestanding restaurants, and big-box retailers on Franklin Boulevard.
Painted Tree Boutiques
An Etsy marketplace and Pinterest catalog come to life, Painted Tree Boutiques is a retail shopping experience specializing in gifts, home decor, and boutique clothing.
Gastonia’s countless entertainment options take all of the guesswork out of a night out. From theaters, museums, and botanical gardens, to golf courses, live concerts, and city-wide events, there’s always fun to be had. And when you’re looking to do something a little more physical, hit up one of the city’s fitness studios or take a short drive to Lake Wylie where canoeing, boating, and hiking are all the rage.
Bank of America Stadium
Known as the Carolinas’ premier destination for sports and entertainment, locals and tourists travel to this stadium for fun at any time of year.
Crowders Mountain State Park
A local favorite for good reason, Crowders Mountain State Park boasts two mountain peaks that offer magnificent views of Piedmont, in addition to challenging hikes and stunning trails.
Catawba Creek Golf Course
Featuring a par 70, 18-hole course, guests at Catawba Creek Golf Course can perfect their swing at the driving range or practice putting green, and recharge at the well-maintained clubhouse.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Welcoming visitors all-year-round, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden offers 30 acres of spectacular sights including a children’s garden, a conservatory dedicated to tropical plants and orchids, plus annual and perennial displays.
Living in Gastonia isn’t just ideal for dining, retail and entertainment — it’s also filled with every modern convenience you need. The city’s services including spas, barber shops and salons, in addition to fitness studios and popular destinations like churches, dry cleaners and banks, keep its residents comfortable and taken care of at all times. Plus, Gastonia’s prime location makes it the perfect place to explore the surrounding area for weekend adventure in nearby Charlotte or other scenic cities just a few hours away.
Spindle City CrossFit
A studio that thrives on the success of its members and community, Spindle City CrossFit’s goal is to create a positive and supportive environment where their members become family.
Body Balance Day Spa and Salon
Body Balance is a full-day spa, striving to create a tranquil setting for each client with a range of services including massages, lash extensions, facials, and more.
Wren & Ivy Salon Co.
Known for its beautiful space and quality service, Wren & Ivy Salon Co. is a local favorite, specializing in luxe haircuts, coloring, and extensions.
Ultimate Fitness
For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, this premier fitness, training, and yoga club is open 24/7 and offers a strong commitment towards personalized service.
Discover Empire Camber Woods
Where small-town charm and big-city conveniences collide. Learn more in our community guide below.
Think Gastonia is right for you? Learn more about our Camber Woods community in the heart of Gastonia.
Next, discover what makes Gastonia a great place to live, and the benefits of owning a home in Gastonia with the premier suite on the main floor.
Images courtesy of: Trip Advisor (Webb’s Custom Kitchen); Expedia (Gastonia, NC); Charlotte’s Got a Lot (Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden); Carolina Panthers (Bank of America Stadium); CN Media (Crowders Mountain State Park); Our State Magazine (Downtown Gastonia).