Looking for Southern charm with scenic views and a historic downtown? Head to Belmont, North Carolina! Just west of Charlotte, Belmont offers garden strolls, riverfront adventures, local dining, and small-town warmth. It’s the perfect blend of nature, nostalgia, and neighborhood fun.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Belmont is in the spring and fall (April–June and September–October). These seasons bring mild weather, blooming gardens, and outdoor festivals. Summer is also lively, with warm evenings perfect for patio dining and river activities.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Belmont is located off I-85, just 15–20 minutes west of Charlotte and about 90 minutes from Asheville.
- By Plane: Fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), just 15 minutes from Belmont.
- By Train: The nearest Amtrak station is in Gastonia, about 15 minutes away by car or taxi.
Where I like to stay
- Hampton Inn Belmont at Montcross – Comfortable, modern hotel close to downtown and perfect for weekend stays.
- The Villa at Waters Edge – Unique luxury rental tucked away on the river, ideal for a romantic getaway or special retreat.
- Charlotte hotels – A wide range of accommodations are also available nearby in Charlotte for more options.
Top Attractions
1. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Built in 1991 by Daniel Stowe, this botanical garden is designed to help encourage visitors to discover the beauty of nature. The garden covers 110 acres and features many gardens to explore, such as the Cottage Garden, Canal Garden, and Four Seasons Garden.
There is also a five-story greenhouse dedicated to orchids and other tropical plants. The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden has a garden store where visitors can buy unique plants and other garden-related items. A handful of events are also hosted here during the year, including birding walks and painting classes.
6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-825-4490, Map
2. Muddy River Distillery
The Muddy River Distillery was established in 2011 and is situated inside an old textile mill. The distillery gets its name from the nearby “muddy” Catawba River and produces around 300 bottles per day. It has a vast selection of products to try which include flavors that range from spicy vanilla to basil. Tours are available of the facility which have a small tasting session at the end of them. The Muddy River Distillery also has a small shop where customers can buy not only their beverages, but shirts, glasses, and custom bottle openers as well.
1500 River Dr #100, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-860-8389, Map
Attractions for Couples
3. Catawba River Antique Mall
The Catawba River Antique Mall is owned by Emory and CJ Vandiver and is one of the largest antique malls in North Carolina. Featuring over 300 vendor booths, customers will discover a variety of goods to buy, such as vintage clothing and books.
A local coffee roaster also sells fresh coffee beans. In addition to being an antique store, the Catawba River Antique Mall serves as a wedding venue and has an attached area that can be used for such events. The mall is open seven days a week.
406 Catawba Street, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-825-2383, Map
4. Belmont Historic District
This historic district is located in the heart of Belmont and features over 264 buildings. The district was created in 1873 and is home to a unique mixture of architecture, such as Tudor Revival, American Craftsman, and Colonial Revival. Besides viewing the homes in this picturesque district, visitors can view many other noteworthy structures like the Bank of Belmont, Piedmont and Northern Railroad Depot, Belmont Hotel, Samuel Pinckney Stowe House, and the James W. Stowe House. This historic downtown area also features plenty of shops and restaurants.
Belmont Historic District, Belmont Historic District, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-825-5586
Where to Eat
5. The String Bean
The String Bean first opened its doors in 2008 and serves the community with dishes made from fresh and local ingredients. Its large menu features many options which range from grilled hamburgers to salad. You’ll find many southern favorites available, like fried pickles, crab salad, and grits.
This southern bistro is also home to a market which sells fresh meat, cheese, honey, and craft beer. During the summer, The String Bean opens its terrace where diners can mingle and eat their meals in a special ambiance.
The String Bean , 106 N Main Street, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-825-3636
6. Nellie's Southern Kitchen
Nellie's Southern Kitchen was named after the owner’s grandmother, Nellie Jonas, who was a lifelong town resident. The restaurant is designed to honor her by serving her iconic recipes with perfect southern hospitality.
Some of her famous treats and dishes available include mini biscuits, green tomatoes covered in a crispy pecan crust, and creamed corn. When you’re done eating, you can stop by the restaurant’s small shop which sells merchandise such as shirts and local music CDs. The restaurant is open Monday to Friday for breakfast and lunch.
Nellie's Southern Kitchen, 36 North Main Street, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-396-7169
7. The Bearded Buffalo Sports Bar
Created by a group of friends, The Bearded Buffalo Sports Bar Sports Bar is designed to be a place where family and friends can get together to enjoy a good meal and conversation. Its menu includes dishes such as ribeye steak, nachos, and cheeseburgers. It also has a large wine and beer inventory. This sports bar and grill offers various specials and has plenty of events and activities throughout the week, including bingo, music trivia, karaoke, and line dancing.
The Bearded Buffalo Sports Bar, 16 North Main Street, Belmont, North Carolina 28012, Phone: 704-825-1401
8. Byrum's Grocery and Grill
Byrum’s Grocery and Grill was first started in 1972 by Olin and Libby Byrum. While the business began as a tiny grocery store, its popularity soon grew, and it eventually turned from a grocery store into a dining space. This restaurant offers breakfast and lunch and serves dishes such as grilled hashbrowns, chicken biscuits, tuna salad, onion rings, and club sandwiches. You’ll also find a mouthwatering dessert menu which offers numerous treats, like homemade pumpkin pie and brownies. The grill is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Byrum's Grocery and Grill , 4606 S New Hope Road, Gastonia, North Carolina 28056, Phone: 704-825-4106
If you are a first time visitor
- Downtown Belmont – Stroll charming streets filled with boutiques, coffee shops, and Southern-style restaurants.
- Belmont Abbey College – Visit this historic Catholic liberal arts college with impressive architecture and peaceful grounds.
- Rocky Branch Park – Hike or bike scenic forest trails just minutes from downtown.
- Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park – Great for picnics, paddling, or catching the sunset along the Catawba River.
My favorite local events
- Garibaldifest (May) – Annual street festival with food vendors, music, family fun, and craft booths.
- Christmas in the Garden (November–December) – Enjoy sparkling lights, holiday cheer, and Santa visits at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
- Friday Night Live (Summer) – Live music and community fun downtown on select Friday nights.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Belmont, North Carolina
- Charlotte (20–25 min) – Explore museums, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, or catch a game or concert in the Queen City.
- Crowders Mountain State Park (30 min) – Hike to breathtaking views or rock climb along dramatic ridgelines.
- McAdenville (10 min) – Known as “Christmas Town USA,” it lights up the season with magical holiday displays.
- Gastonia (15–20 min) – Visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History or picnic at Rankin Lake Park.
- Whitewater Center (25 min) – Paddle, zipline, and climb at this world-class outdoor adventure facility near Charlotte.
More events and things to do in Belmont, NC
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