Belton Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Belton, South Carolina with this comprehensive guide featuring a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


A Comprehensive Guide to Belton, South Carolina

Belton, located in Upcountry South Carolina, is a small town with a rich cultural and historical heritage. From museums to outdoor adventures, Belton has plenty of attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what the town has to offer, including the best places to visit, where to stay, and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Belton

Belton has a variety of culturally important attractions, as well as natural outdoor adventures and scenic views that are well-worth the visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most important cultural attractions in Belton is the Belton Area Museum Association. This museum chronicles the history of Belton and the surrounding area, with exhibits on textiles, agriculture, and the early railroad industry.

Another must-visit museum is the Cedar Grove Historical Society Museum. Built in the 1790s, this museum showcases the history of early settlers in the area and the role they played in shaping Belton’s history.

Natural Attractions of Belton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor lovers, Belton has plenty to offer, including the Saluda River and Lake Hartwell. Visitors can take a scenic hike on the Doodle Trail, which stretches 7.5 miles from Easley to Pickens and runs through Belton. This trail was once a railroad line that served as a vital connection between the Upcountry and the coast.

Another outdoor attraction in Belton is the Chau Ram County Park. This park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities for kayaking and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belton

Belton has several hiking and biking trails, with the Doodle Trail being the most popular. This trail offers a scenic and flat ride that is perfect for a casual bike ride or a morning walk. It’s also a pet-friendly trail, so visitors can bring their furry friends to enjoy the scenic views.

Another popular trail is the Savannah and Western Carolina Railway trail. This trail is a little more challenging than the Doodle Trail and offers visitors plenty of wildlife and scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Belton: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours that visitors can partake in while in Belton. One of the most popular tours is the Anderson County Craft Trail, which leads visitors to a variety of small-batch breweries, distilleries, and wineries.

Another popular attraction in Belton is the Belton Farmers Market, which offers visitors a chance to purchase fresh produce and local artisan crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Belton

For visitors who want to explore Belton and the surrounding area in-depth, a week-long itinerary is the perfect way to see all the town has to offer. For a detailed itinerary, check out our table below:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Belton Area Museum Association
2 Go hiking on the Doodle Trail
3 Visit the Cedar Grove Historical Society Museum
4 Enjoy a day of kayaking on the Saluda River
5 Explore the Chau Ram County Park and its waterfalls
6 Take the Anderson County Craft Trail
7 Attend the Belton Farmers Market

Food and Drink Scene of Belton

Belton has a rich food and drink scene that offers visitors a taste of the local flavors and Southern hospitality.

Must-Try Dishes

One of the must-try dishes in Belton is the Barbecue. This traditional Southern dish is served with a variety of sides like baked beans and coleslaw. Belton’s BBQ restaurants are legendary and offer delicious and juicy pork ribs.

Another must-try dish is the Fried Okra. This crispy and crunchy vegetable is a staple in Southern cuisine and is best enjoyed as a side dish with BBQ.

Local Beverages

Belton is home to several small-batch breweries and wineries. Visitors can try local beer and specialty cocktails at the Carolina Bauernhaus Brewery and Winery. They can also indulge themselves with seasonal brews at the Carolina Coast Brewery.

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

Belton has plenty of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. One of the most popular options is the The James House Bed and Breakfast, a historic home that has been turned into a cozy and comfortable inn.

Another popular option is the Americas Best Value Inn, which offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the town’s attractions.

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

Belton is known for its local artisan crafts, and visitors can find a variety of handmade products to bring home as souvenirs. The Belton Farmers Market offers visitors handmade candles, soaps, and artisanal cheeses to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Belton

Belton has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums, galleries, and yearly festivals. One of the most popular festivals is the Belton Standpipe Heritage and Arts Festival, which brings visitors from all over the state to celebrate local arts and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Belton

Belton has something to offer visitors year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belton

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Visit the museums and cultural attractions
  • Try the local BBQ and other Southern dishes

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural areas
  • Disrespect the local traditions and customs
  • Visit the town during extreme weather conditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belton

Belton is a safe place to visit. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their belongings while in crowded areas.

Health in Belton

Belton has several medical centers and hospitals, including AnMed Health Medical Center. Travelers should make sure they have health insurance and seek prompt medical attention if needed.

Getting to Belton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Belton

The closest airport to Belton is the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, which is about 40 miles away. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi from the airport to Belton.

Bus Stations Near Belton

The nearest bus station is the Anderson Greyhound Station, which is about a 15-minute drive from Belton. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to Belton from the station.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Belton from nearby cities, as the town is conveniently located off of Interstate 85.

How to Get Around in Belton

Belton is a small town that visitors can easily explore on foot or by renting a bike. Visitors can also take taxis or rent a car to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Belton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belton is conveniently located near several other popular destinations in Upcountry South Carolina. Visitors can take a day trip to the nearby towns of Anderson or Greenville, both of which offer plenty of outdoor adventures and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Belton, South Carolina, offers visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as plenty of outdoor activities and natural attractions. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan the perfect trip to Belton and see all the town has to offer.