Just 2 hours west of Gastonia, you can find the Appalachian Mountains. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning views or find a good hiking trail along the parkway to stop at. Popular towns include Boone and Asheville where you can find breweries, good food and local art.
Local art museums include the Mint Museum, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of Illusions. Race fans can also visit the Nascar Hall of Fame.