Belmont Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, and eat in Belmont, North Carolina. Plan your next adventure in this charming town with our week-long itinerary, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions.


Belmont, North Carolina, is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a charming, off-the-beaten-path town full of culture, history, and adventure. Located in the Charlotte Metro area, Belmont offers a mix of scenic views, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions that will keep visitors entertained and busy. In this comprehensive Belmont travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, stay, eat, and hike, and provide a week-long itinerary to make planning your trip easy.

Introduction to Belmont

Belmont is a small town located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. The town has a population of around 12,000 and is known for its historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and scenic views of Lake Wylie. Belmont was founded in the late 1800s, and its history is evident in its many historic buildings, museums, and parks.

List of Places to Visit in Belmont

Belmont has a lot to offer visitors, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in Belmont:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: This 400-acre garden features seasonal displays, gardens, and events throughout the year.
  • Belmont Abbey College: Founded in 1876, this Catholic college features beautiful buildings and architecture, including the Abbey Basilica, which is open to visitors.
  • Belmont Historical Society Cultural and Heritage Learning Center: This museum is dedicated to the preservation of Belmont’s history and heritage.
  • Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park: This park is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the Catawba River. It also features a playground and picnic area.
  • Stowe Manor: This historic mansion was built in 1920 and is open for tours.

Natural Attractions of Belmont: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Seven Oaks Preserve Trail: This scenic trail runs through Seven Oaks Preserve, a 29-acre nature preserve located on Lake Wylie.
  • Catawba River Greenway: This 1.8-mile trail along the Catawba River is perfect for walking or biking.
  • Lake Wylie: This large reservoir offers fishing, boating, and water sports. Several parks and public access points are available for visitors.
  • Crowders Mountain State Park: Located just a short drive from Belmont, this park features hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views from its summit.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belmont

Belmont is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking trails available:

  • Seven Oaks Preserve Trail: This trail is a moderate 1.4-mile loop through Seven Oaks Preserve.
  • Catawba River Greenway: This paved trail runs along the river for 1.8 miles and is great for walking, running, or biking.
  • South Fork Trail: This 2.3-mile trail is a popular hiking and biking route that runs from Pharr Family Preserve to Carolina Thread Trail.
  • Ridgeline Trail: This 1.3-mile trail is a popular hiking and mountain biking trail located in the Seven Oaks Preserve.

Best Things to Do in Belmont: Activities and Tours

When visiting Belmont, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy. Here are a few of the best activities and tours to experience:

  • Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Enjoy the seasonal displays and special events throughout the year.
  • Belmont Abbey College Basilica: Take a tour of this beautiful Catholic basilica, which features stunning architecture and ambiance.
  • Charlotte Brews Cruise: Take a tour of the local breweries in Charlotte and sample some of the best craft beer in the area.
  • Carowinds Amusement Park: Located just a short drive from Belmont, this amusement park features roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Belmont

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Belmont, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Belmont Historical Society Cultural and Heritage Learning Center and Stowe Manor
Day 2 Hike Seven Oaks Preserve Trail and Catawba River Greenway
Day 3 Tour Belmont Abbey College and Basilica
Day 4 Visit Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Day 5 Take a Charlotte Brews Cruise
Day 6 Explore Lake Wylie and Crowders Mountain State Park
Day 7 Enjoy a day at Carowinds Amusement Park

Food and Drink Scene of Belmont

Belmont has a great food and drink scene, with plenty of local and international options available:

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ pulled pork sandwich: A staple in North Carolina, this dish is especially tasty at The String Bean.
  • Lobster roll: Experience fresh seafood at The Fish Market Bar and Grill.
  • Tacos: Enjoy fresh and delicious tacos at Sabor Latin Street Grill.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer: Sample some of the best local brews at Rivermen Brewing Company.
  • Wine: Enjoy a glass of wine while overlooking Lake Wylie at Muddy River Distillery and Brewery.

Where to Stay in Belmont: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belmont has several great accommodation options for visitors:

  • Courtyard Charlotte Gastonia: This hotel is located just a short drive from Belmont and features modern rooms and amenities.
  • Hampton Inn Charlotte/Gastonia: This cozy hotel is located just minutes from Belmont and offers comfortable rooms and great amenities.
  • The Villa at Waters Edge: This beautiful guesthouse is located on Lake Wylie and offers stunning views and luxurious accommodations.

What to Buy in Belmont: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belmont has several local products and souvenirs that visitors will love:

  • Belmont Abbey College merchandise: Show your support for the local college with t-shirts, hats, and other items.
  • Craft beer from Rivermen Brewing Company: Bring home some of the best local brews to share with friends and family.
  • Local art and crafts: Browse the local shops and galleries for unique artworks and crafts to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Belmont

Belmont is a small town with a friendly community and a strong sense of history and tradition. Visitors to Belmont should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and take the time to learn about the town’s rich history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Belmont

The best time to visit Belmont is in the spring and fall. Temperatures are mild, and the town is less crowded than during the peak summer season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belmont

Do:

  • Take a tour of historic landmarks and museums in Belmont.
  • Explore the beautiful outdoor attractions, including Lake Wylie and Crowders Mountain State Park.
  • Try the local cuisine and craft beer.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the rich history and heritage of Belmont.
  • Leave without exploring the scenic outdoor attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belmont

Belmont is a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should take normal safety precautions while exploring the town, such as not leaving valuables in the car or walking alone at night.

Health in Belmont

Belmont has several medical facilities and pharmacies available for visitors. Travelers should bring any necessary medication with them and consult their doctor before traveling.

Getting to Belmont: Transportation Options and Logistics

Belmont is located just a short drive from Charlotte and several other major cities:

Airports Near Belmont

  • Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT): Located just 14 miles from Belmont, this airport is the closest option for travelers coming by air.

Bus Stations Near Belmont

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in Charlotte, this station offers bus services to and from many major cities in the United States.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: Several car rental companies are available at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.

How to Get Around in Belmont

Belmont is a small town that is easily explored on foot or by car. Several parking spots are available throughout the town, and Uber and Lyft services are also available for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Belmont: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belmont is located in the heart of the Charlotte Metro area, with several nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Charlotte: Located just a short drive from Belmont, Charlotte is a bustling city with plenty of art, culture, and entertainment options.
  • Asheville: Located just a few hours’ drive from Belmont, Asheville is a charming town full of craft breweries, outdoor adventures, and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

Belmont is a charming town full of history, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. With so much to see and do, visitors to Belmont are sure to have a memorable and exciting trip. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your next adventure in Belmont, North Carolina.