The best things to do in Gaston County

George Pappas' Liberty Lanes is Gastonia’s only locally owned, family-run bowling center with 32 lanes, bumper and cosmic bowling, and leagues for every skill level, plus birthday and corporate parties.

From the Gastonia newsletter, October 28, 2026

Kid-friendly chain known for its arcade games, pizza parties & play zones.

Kate's Skating Rink keeps the hometown wheels turning with all-ages sessions, lessons, and speed-skate or derby vibes for the rippers. Think birthday parties that basically run themselves, an arcade when you need a breather, and Adult Nights when the playlist skews more nostalgic than Nickelodeon.

From the Gastonia newsletter, October 7, 2026

Beautiful barn venue with a river backdrop plus friendly staff and owners.

Crowders Mountain Golf Course delivers a legit local challenge with wide, mostly open fairways, sneaky elevation, and tidy bunkers, plus a signature beast called Young's Revenge. Bring a friend, soak up the mountain views, and see if your scorecard survives the back nine.

From the Gastonia newsletter, August 22, 2026

Laid-back eatery featuring pizza, hot dogs and beer, alongside an arcade filled with retro games and pinballs.

Family attraction including baseball/softball batting cages, arcade games & mini-golf.

Amusement center with dodgeball and jumping games, a playground, and a restroom.

For a low-key local upgrade, Cowan’s Ford Golf Club brings a walkable championship par 72 with bentgrass greens, legit practice greens, and PGA-led clinics, plus a Junior Olympic-size pool, lit pickleball and tennis, and a private Lake Norman boat ramp. Member-owned, family vibes since 1963.

From the Lake Norman newsletter, October 16, 2026

Regional wildlife & natural areas are the focus of a museum with a planetarium & a nature trail.

Lineberger Park Pool brings small-scale water park vibes with a lazy river, a two-story waterslide, zero-depth entry for littles, and splashy bucket dumps that wear kids out nicely. Float, slide, repeat, then call it a day well spent.

From the Gastonia newsletter, October 21, 2026

Monster-themed mini-golf chain featuring a glow-in-the-dark indoor course, plus arcade games & a DJ.

This week, let Gaston Country Club handle your off-hours. Golf when the itch hits, tennis for bragging rights, a pool and proud swim team for splash season, plus a legit fitness scene and special events that keep your calendar fun.

From the Gastonia newsletter, August 29, 2026