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Attractions

THE GRAND HALL OF THE CITY OF MOUNT HOLLY

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Mount Holly, the historic mill gives the warmth of exposed brick and open beams together with the airy spaciousness of the vaulted wooden roof and large windows. The open staircase offers the perfect stage for Grand entrances or a birds-eye view of the room.

TAILRACE MARINA

Tailrace Marina

Tailrace Marina is a beautiful waterfront facility that offers a range of activities. Rent kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoon boats to explore the scenic waterways of the Catawba River, which is home to a vibrant range of fish species. The Carolina Thread Trail also runs through the area, providing an invigorating hiking experience with the possibility of spotting ospreys, bald eagles, and herons. Check the marina’s calendar of events for concerts, festivals, and fishing tournaments that draw nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts from all around Gaston County. The marina’s parking lot is shared with J.R. Cash Grill & Bar, where you can enjoy a well-deserved post-excursion riverfront meal after making use of the marina’s full bathrooms and showers.

The Whitewater Center is an outdoor center that offers thrilling activities for all skill levels. You can choose from options like rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and ziplining. The center offers guided and selfguided rafting experiences on a manmade river with class II-IV rapids. You can also rent equipment or take classes to learn how to steer while kayaking or paddleboarding.


For those who prefer the air, the center offers zip line tours, including the Mega Zip with a 1,000-foot dual racing zip line. The Deep Water Solo climbing experience is also available, which allows climbers to scale a rock wall before dropping into a deep water pool.


The Whitewater Center hosts live music concerts, festivals, and competitions throughout the year. Summer weekends usually feature live music.


The center also offers dining options at several outdoor venues. It’s a great place to visit if you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both.

GASTON COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY

Travel back in time. Visit the museum and browse through North Carolina’s largest collection of horse-drawn carriages. History is brought to life with the museum’s historic campus and collections.

Awaken Art Gallery

Awaken Art Gallery

Visit Awaken Art Gallery, located in the heart of our charming town, to admire a diverse collection of artwork from local and regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. Each piece is thoughtfully curated and displayed to create a unique experience for visitors. The gallery also hosts events and workshops, including art classes, book clubs, and poetry readings, encouraging community engagement and creative expression. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Awaken Art Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and anyone seeking a unique cultural experience in Mount Holly.

Visit this historic monastery, which was founded in 1876, and take in the area’s distinct symbolism and beauty,

The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a must visit attraction. The garden spans 110 acres and features a conservatory, butterfly garden, canal garden, and sensory garden. Visitors can take guided tours and observe over 100 species of birds while exploring the gardens. One of the highlights of the garden is the Bluebird Trail, where visitors can peek into over 50 new nesting boxes. Those with limited mobility can enjoy the Garden Tram Tour, while outdoor yoga classes and photography classes are also available. Visitors can access the gardens for only $1 per person for up to six family members with an EBT card.

This is home to a collection of static aircraft, uniforms, memorabilia, and aircraft models. It is conveniently located near the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Opening in Summer 2024!

Consider visiting the childhood home of famous evangelist Billy Graham, which has been transformed into a library complex open for tours. Take the Journey of Faith tour, which lasts around 90 minutes and allows guests to follow Billy Graham’s spiritual journey. Throughout the museum, you’ll find interactive displays, videos, and artifacts from the minister’s life. While you are there, step back in time at the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar, a retro-style soda shop that serves generous scoops of ice cream, delicious milkshakes, and other refreshments. Be sure to check the library’s special events calendar for regular concerts, book signings, and lectures.

Have a deeper insight into the conservation and rehabilitation of these fascinating birds of prey.

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Nature

Almost the entire length of the trail is shaded by mature trees during the spring and summer months. There are several foot bridges and a canoe launch along the way till the trail ends in a small loop. 

Parking Location

Gravel Parking lot next to the trailhead 400 Mountain Island Rd. Mount Holly, NC 28120

Catawba Heights Neighborhood Park

Catawba Heights Neighborhood Park

This park features a playground, green space, and picnic tables.

Mountain Island Park at Mount Holly

Mountain Island Park at Mount Holly

This park located right below the dam is home to a 1.6-mile natural surface walking trail.  The park also has almost 2 miles of mountain bike trails. Mountain Island Park at Mount Holly also includes an accessible fishing pier, a natural canoe/kayak launch area, playground, and group primitive campsites.

River Street Park

This tree-lined park includes a ballfield, 9 hole disc golf course, 3 picnic shelters, fishing pier, natural canoe/kayak launch area, playground, basketball court, sand volleyball court, and walking trail.

Tuckaseege Park

Tuckaseege Park

Bring your children and pets to Tuckaseege Park, (or “Tuck Park” for short), where you can take advantage of the playground, picnic shelters, dog park, riverfront greenway, and athletic fields. Tuck Park’s playground includes fun equipment for kids of all ages. The disc golf course winds through nature trails and offers fun competition on beautiful days. Soccer and basketball players will all find a happy home at their respective courts and fields, all well-maintained by the staff who care for the lovely park. There’s even a skate park! Perhaps you’re just looking for a place to sit and relish the natural beauty of the area; in that case, pack a chair and blanket and set up your serenity station by the river, where the gentle sounds of trickling waters, chirping birds, and light zephyrs will transport you to a tranquil state.

Veterans Park

Veterans Park

Veterans Park is home to a veterans’ memorial, playground, green space, and a picnic shelter.

Crowders Mountain State Park and Hiking Trails

Crowders Mountain State Park in North Carolina is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of recreational activities such as hiking trails and rock climbing. The park boasts over 20 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, leading to breathtaking views of the Charlotte skyline. In addition to hiking and camping, the park has two pristine lakes that are stocked with bass, catfish, and crappie, making them a haven for anglers. The park also offers regularly scheduled nature programs, including guided hikes, wildlife observation treks, and educational programs designed specifically for children.

Woodlawn Park

Woodlawn Park

Woodlawn Park features a playground, 2 basketball courts, and green space.

Aquatic Adventures

Aquatic Adventures

Aquatic Adventures offers unforgettable experiences on the water. Rent single or tandem kayaks (all equipment provided) and paddle the Catawba River. A popular option is the 2-hour Upper River Paddle through a serene, tree-lined waterway, unmarred by development or boat traffic.

For more information please call 704-951-3006.