Charlie Leonard- Charlie Leonard
Walk Down Main Street: Explore Dallas' history, art and exciting beer culture
As a part of our Walk Down Main Street series, our writers take you on a stroll down the beautiful streets that make up our county's down towns, sharing a bit of insider info along the way.
Dallas is a natural fit for the newest era of Gaston County’s growth. Nicknamed the “Crossroads of Gaston County” the town named after the 11th Vice President of the United States, George Mifflin Dallas, is not only in the geographic center of Gaston County, but has historically been the social, political, and economic center of early Gaston County. Dallas was named as the original county seat of the Gaston County government in 1846, a title it held until 1911.
Dallas is still a key area for Gaston County and North Carolina at large. Just a short drive away from a major economic connector in I-85 and an important regional road that is US-321, Dallas is positioned perfectly for the future ahead. With an important selection of Gaston County’s arts, museums, retail stores, classic restaurants, and more in the downtown area, the time is now to explore the classic center of Gaston County.
Shopping & Services
Whether you’re looking for a new haircut, some fresh flowers to enjoy or a few new home essentials, the shops in downtown Dallas have you covered. Below is a starter guide to great retail options to explore your curiosity in the heart of downtown.
The Best Little Hair House in Dallas
136 N. Gaston St.
Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
With over 16 years of experience, The Best Little Hair House in Dallas offers a variety of hair and beauty products and services such as haircuts, colors, perms, and waxing. Book an appointment online or call today.
Dallas Paint Glass & Mirror
116 W. Trade St.
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Founded by Lamar “Yock” Stroupe in 1976, Dallas Paint and Glass have many different options for glass, mirror, and other services. Some of the offerings include custom frameless and framed showers, custom framed mirrors, wire shelving, window repair and replacement, custom-built screens, and even picture framing.
Elizabeth Roberts Salon & Boutique
107 E. Trade St.
Monday 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Elizabeth Roberts Salon & Boutique offers a multitude of hair cut and styling options for both men and women. Additional services include waxing, extensions, keratin treatment, corrective color, and other coloring services. Come see one of their independent stylists today and enjoy the “Elizabeth Roberts experience.”
Gaston Floral Gardens
114 E. Trade St.
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
At over 125 years old, Gaston Floral Garden is Gaston County’s oldest locally owned floral shop. The shop offers a variety of flowers and gifts for all occasions including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and more that can be ordered online. Gaston Floral Garden will also deliver to the Gaston and Lincoln County areas.
Heart & Rhythm Dance Studio
114 W. Trade St.
Monday-Friday, 3 p.m.-6 p.m.
The Heart and Rhythm Dance Studio gives kids an opportunity to learn how to dance in a class style setting. The studio regularly wins “Best of Gaston” awards for high-quality service and instruction by the studio’s teachers. Registration is offered on a rotating basis and with a number of styles to choose from like hip-hop, jazz, tap, ballet, and more.
Ideal Upholstering Co
136 W. Trade St.
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Family-owned since 1965, the Ideal Upholstering Company offers furniture repairs and upholstery service to Gaston County and the surrounding communities. If you’ve got a piece of furniture that you know needs a new lease on life, then this is the place for you.
JCB Photography & Videography
142 W. Trade St.
JCB Photography and Videography is a freelance photography service that can shoot many different types of events. Whether you need senior pictures, wedding photos, or a personalized photoshoot, JCB has you covered. Visit the JCB Photography and Videography Facebook page to schedule your photoshoot today.
Rapha’s Custom Floors
111 E. Trade St.
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Rapha’s Custom Floors is a carpet and flooring store with over 16 years of experience in the industry. Rapha’s provides custom flooring options for all new and old homes, as well as homes that are still under construction.
Roots Organic Salon
110 E. Trade St.
Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Roots Organic Salon offers hair services for men and women and focuses on overall well-being. Services offered include cuts, color, foils, styling, Vegan skincare, complimentary facial and neck massages, and more.
Dining & Bakeries
If you’re looking for a delicious dinner and dessert (or both), then downtown Dallas has you covered. Whether you crave sugary sweets, savory main courses, or you just need a drink with friends, look no further than these three Dallas eateries sure to satisfy your cravings.
Cake Me Away Bakery
120 W. Trade St.
Wednesday 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Newly relocated to Dallas, Cake Me Away Bakery pairs the love of sweets with the love of people and community. The menu features cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, pies, cupcakes, cake pops, and more decadent dessert favorites. Stop by for a quick treat or talk to the owner, Brittney, about dessert for your next event.