Shelby / Gastonia
Shelby, Kings Mountain & Gastonia:
Where Small-Town Charm Meets Outdoor Adventure
Just west of Charlotte, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Gaston-Catawba-Cleveland region offers scenic landscapes, a comfortable climate, historic small towns, and exciting recreational opportunities. With thriving local economies, highly rated schools, and a strong sense of community, this area continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees seeking an affordable, laid-back lifestyle with convenient access to Charlotte.
Gaston County: History, Growth & Outdoor Recreation
As one of the fastest-growing areas west of Charlotte, Gaston County features a mix of small-town charm, growing business districts, and outdoor attractions. The county’s largest city, Gastonia, is home to a revitalized downtown, thriving healthcare institutions, and family-friendly attractions.
Major Cities & Towns in Gaston County
- Gastonia – The county’s largest city, Gastonia is known for its historic downtown, growing business sector, and access to parks and greenways.
- Belmont – A charming riverside town with a historic downtown, Belmont Abbey College, and the famous Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
- Mount Holly – A riverside community known for its outdoor recreation, local breweries, and small-town feel.
- Cherryville & Bessemer City – Small, tight-knit communities with deep roots in North Carolina’s textile and railroad industries.
Attractions & Things to Do in Gaston County
- Crowders Mountain State Park – A hiking and rock climbing paradise with stunning mountain views.
- Schiele Museum of Natural History (Gastonia) – An educational destination featuring planetarium shows, dinosaur exhibits, and an outdoor nature trail.
- Franklin Urban Sports & Entertainment (FUSE) District (Gastonia) – Home to a multi-use stadium, sports events, concerts, and entertainment venues.
- Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (Belmont) – A renowned botanical garden showcasing seasonal floral exhibits, water fountains, and walking trails.
- U.S. National Whitewater Center (near Mount Holly) – A world-class adventure facility offering rafting, kayaking, ziplining, and live music events.
- Riverside Greenways & Catawba River Access – Perfect for hiking, biking, and water sports.
Catawba County: A Growing Economic & Recreational Hub
Located along the Catawba River and bordering Lake Norman, Catawba County is known for its strong industrial base, recreational boating opportunities, and rich cultural history.
Key Highlights of Catawba County
- Lincolnton – A historic city with small-town charm, a walkable downtown, and local festivals.
- Hickory – A fast-growing city known for its furniture industry, Lenoir-Rhyne University, and arts scene.
- Denver – A lakeside community offering lakefront homes, golf courses, and easy access to Charlotte.
Popular Attractions & Outdoor Recreation in Catawba County
- Lake Norman – The region’s largest recreational lake, ideal for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.
- Duke Energy’s Energy Explorium – A fascinating educational center about energy and the environment.
- Denver Days Festival & Lincoln County Apple Festival – Popular community events featuring live music, local vendors, and family fun.
- Golf & Country Clubs – Numerous options, including
Cowans Ford Golf Club and Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club.
Cleveland County: Historic Charm & Southern Heritage
Cleveland County, located west of Gaston County, is known for its rich musical history, family-friendly communities, and vibrant local culture. Shelby, the county seat, is a music lover’s destination and home to the American Legion World Series.
Key Cities & Towns in Cleveland County
- Shelby – A historic town with deep musical roots, home to the Earl Scruggs Center, Cleveland County Fairgrounds, and a charming downtown district.
- Kings Mountain – A town known for its connection to the Revolutionary War, outdoor recreation, and local festivals.
- Boiling Springs – Home to Gardner-Webb University, offering a college-town atmosphere with scenic beauty.
Attractions & Events in Cleveland County
- Earl Scruggs Center (Shelby) – A museum dedicated to bluegrass music legend Earl Scruggs, celebrating the region’s musical heritage.
- American Legion World Series (Shelby) – One of the biggest baseball events in the country, held every summer.
- Kings Mountain National Military Park – A historic Revolutionary War battlefield with hiking trails and interpretive exhibits.
- Cleveland County Fairgrounds – Hosting the annual Cleveland County Fair, one of the largest fairs in the region.
- Foothills Farmers Market – A popular
market for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
Business & Economic Growth in the Region
The Gaston-Catawba-Cleveland region is experiencing major economic growth, with expanding industries in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
- CaroMont Health (Gaston County) – A nationally recognized hospital and healthcare system.
- Textile & Manufacturing Industry (Catawba County) – Home to large companies like United Technologies and The Timken Company.
- Gardner-Webb University & Belmont Abbey College – Providing higher education and research opportunities.
- Kings Mountain Casino Expansion – The Catawba Nation is developing
a casino and entertainment complex that is expected to bring
new jobs and tourism.
Why Live in Shelby, Kings Mountain & Gaston County?
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Affordable Cost of Living – More space, lower taxes, and a lower cost of living than Charlotte.
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Small-Town Charm & Community Feel – Tight-knit communities with
friendly neighbors, strong local traditions, and historic downtowns.
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Outdoor Adventures & Green Spaces –
Mountains, rivers, state parks, and greenways provide endless outdoor activities.
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Proximity to Charlotte – Easy commutes via
I-85, Highway 74, and Highway 321.
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Growing Job Market –
Expanding healthcare, manufacturing, and education sectors create great career opportunities.
With affordable housing, scenic beauty, exciting job prospects, and a welcoming community, the Shelby/Kings Mountain/Gaston County region is a fantastic place to call home.
