Once an important textile manufacturing hub, Gastonia is now one of the largest satellite cities in the Charlotte area. It was here that the Loray Mill Strike took place in 1929, with workers campaigning for better conditions and wages in what was one of the most notable labour strike actions in the United States.

Things to do

Travelling with kids? Be sure to visit the Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium, which houses fascinating exhibits dedicated to the region’s natural world. It’s home to the largest collection of mounted land mammals in the Southeastern United States, as well as displays dedicated to North Carolina’s First Nations people. Coincide your visit with an immersive experience in the James H. Lynn Planetarium or stretch your legs along the surrounding nature trail.

A short drive south-east of Gastonia is the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, which encompasses rolling meadows and woodlands on the banks of the Catawba River. It’s home to a Tuscan-inspired pavilion, ornate fountains and a short woodland trail, as well as a children’s garden and an Asian-inspired garden. During winter, the garden hosts an orchid spectacular within its beautiful conservatory.

Gastonia makes a good base for exploring the hiking trails of Crowders Mountain State Park, which is named after its 495-metre-high peak. Challenge yourself on the ridge-line Rocktop Trail or climb to the top of the Pinnacle, the highest point in Gaston County. The sheer cliffs of Crowders Mountain State Park are also incredibly popular with rock climbers.

Getting around

Gastonia is around 30 minutes’ drive from Charlotte and 20 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America and Europe. Long-distance Amtrak trains connect to the Gastonia railway station and buses travel throughout the city.