Because history isn’t something you read about here, it’s something you walk through.
Our county’s roots run deep, and this is where we bring it all to LIFE!
Making it accessible for ANYONE to explore, understand and dive into what’s most important.
Step onto the Historic Dallas Courthouse Square and you’re standing in the same place where Gaston County’s story has been unfolding for generations, from horse drawn carriages to hand woven baskets to the mills that built this region thread by thread.
Here, you’ll find rotating exhibits that change with the seasons, grounds built for wandering, and rooms that put you right inside the Hoffman Hotel’s story instead of just telling it to you. Bring the kids, bring your curiosity, and experience an afternoon you didn’t have plans for.
Admission is free, so the only real question is what you’ll discover first.
Click either button to explore each location’s hours, address & parking info.
The Gaston County Museum is committed to providing a welcoming, accessible experience for every visitor. We believe that art and history belong to everyone, and we work to make sure our spaces, programs, and resources reflect that belief.
Accessible parking spaces are available directly in front of the museum. The main entrance is wheelchair accessible and located at the front of the building. The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible throughout, with an elevator available in the modern staircase.
Accessible, all-gender bathrooms with baby changers are located on the first floor.
A visit to the Gaston County Museum takes most guests about an hour and a half to two hours, though history buffs have been known to lose track of time entirely. You’ll move through our full and feature exhibits at your own pace, with museum guides on hand if you want the deeper story behind a piece or just want to wander and discover things yourself.
Traveling with 10 or more people? We recommend scheduling ahead so we can make sure your group gets the best experience possible. Private tours are available on request, or our museum guides can help your group move through at a pace that works for everyone. Call us at (704) 922-7681 to set it up.
Before you head out, swing by The Museum Store. Every purchase directly supports the exhibits and programs you just walked through, so it’s a small way to make your visit go even further. Members save 10% on everything in the store, one more reason to consider joining before or during your trip!
Don’t stop at Main Street. The museum’s second location, the Kessell History Center, is tucked inside the Historic Loray Mill in Gastonia, just a short drive away. Open for self-guided tours Monday through Friday, it’s the perfect second stop if you want to turn your visit into a full day exploring Gaston County’s story from two different angles. Best part: getting into both locations costs you nothing but a little extra time.
The museum is open free of charge Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, and Saturdays 11am-4pm. There are three floors of exhibits in the main Hoffman Hotel, and all floors are completely accessible by elevator.
Visitors can also explore the Daniel Stowe Carriage House in the museum’s backyard. The carriage house holds the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles in North Carolina and has a parking lot for those with mobility limitations who would prefer to drive to the entrance at 106 W. Church Street Dallas, NC 28034.
We recommend 1.5 hours to explore the entire museum. Plan to stay for lunch at one of our great local restaurants in the historic Town of Dallas!
Our entrance door has changed! When arriving at the museum, please use the accessible entrance to the left of the Hoffman Hotel. When the museum is open, there will be welcome signs to guide you.
You do not need a reservation to visit the museum. Stop by during our opening hours!
Visitor numbers are not limited. We do recommend that groups contact the museum for a tour in order to get the most out of your experience, but it is not required.
Yes! Despite being built in 1852, the museum has several modern additions to make it accessible to all visitors. We have handicap parking in front of the building, an elevator that reaches all 3 floors of exhibits, and accessible bathrooms. Does your group have specific accessibility needs like low-sensory options? We’d be happy to work with you and tailor your experience, so you get the most out of your visit. Give us a call at 704-922-7681.
We encourage you to take as much time as needed to enjoy the museum’s exhibits. Most visitors plan to spend about 1.5-2 hours exploring the galleries.
The museum is located in the heart of Historic Dallas, N.C. There are restaurants in walking distance, as well as the Dallas public library, Cloninger Park, and many parks and restaurants in short driving distance. Visitors are welcome to bring closed drinks with them, but we ask that no food or drink be consumed inside the galleries. The museum has a beautiful backyard and scultpure garden to enjoy a picnic lunch!
