Belmont
Belmont brings together historic charm, a lively downtown, the Catawba River and some of Gaston County’s best opportunities to hike, bike and paddle. Just west of Charlotte, Belmont has experienced significant growth while maintaining the character that makes it distinctive. Its historic districts, railroad heritage, local businesses, parks, trails and river access make it an easy place to spend a day—and a convenient home base for exploring the region.
Heritage & Downtown
Belmont’s history is woven into its downtown, where three historic districts preserve the architecture and character of the community. A self-guided History Walk introduces visitors to the people, places and stories that shaped Belmont, while the railroad remains a visible part of downtown life.
Belmont Abbey College adds another distinctive layer to the community’s heritage. Founded in 1876, the college is home to the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, a striking historic landmark that gives Belmont a cultural and architectural experience unlike anywhere else in Gaston County. The beautiful campus and its long history make it a worthwhile stop while exploring Belmont.
Belmont’s connection to Holy Angels is also reflected in local businesses such as Cherubs Café, the Cotton Candy Factory and Market on Main, where visitors can shop and dine while supporting businesses that provide meaningful employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Today, downtown Belmont blends its historic character with locally owned shops, restaurants, breweries, coffee shops and gathering places. It’s the kind of downtown where you can spend the morning exploring, stop for lunch, browse local shops and continue your adventure outdoors.
Stowe Park
Right in the heart of downtown, Stowe Park is a small park with a big role in Belmont’s community life. The pocket park features a playground, amphitheater and open green space, and serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors throughout the year.
It is also the hub for many of Belmont’s community events, including the farmers market, downtown concert series, Movies in the Park and seasonal celebrations. Its location makes it easy to combine time outdoors with shopping, dining and exploring downtown.
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
Just outside downtown, Daniel Stowe Conservancy is a destination in its own right, with enough to fill an entire day. Explore the gardens, natural areas and miles of trails, or stop at the Trailhead Store before heading out.
The Conservancy is part of the Carolina Thread Trail network, with the Duke Kimbrell Trail connecting through the surrounding landscape toward the Catawba River. The trails provide opportunities to hike and explore while connecting the Conservancy to the larger regional network.
Art is part of the experience, too, thoughtfully incorporated throughout the gardens and natural setting. The result is a destination where visitors can spend the day moving between gardens, trails, art and nature.
Get Outdoors
Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park offers a direct connection to the Catawba River, providing a scenic place to relax, explore the riverfront and enjoy time outdoors close to downtown.
South Point Access offers a different way to experience the water, with a sandy beach and access to Lake Wylie. It’s a popular spot for enjoying the shoreline, paddling and taking in the lake.
Rocky Branch Park adds another dimension for outdoor enthusiasts, with mountain biking trails and connections to the Carolina Thread Trail. The trail network extends toward Cramerton through the connected greenway system, allowing visitors to explore beyond Belmont.
Together, Belmont’s parks, trails and waterways create opportunities to hike, bike and paddle—from accessible riverfront trails to more adventurous mountain bike routes and water experiences on the Catawba River and Lake Wylie.
Events
Belmont’s calendar reflects its strong sense of community. Spring brings the Garibaldi Festival, while farmers markets, downtown concerts and Movies in the Park keep Stowe Park active throughout the warmer months. Fall brings Boo Fest, and the holiday season begins with the Christmas parade and tree lighting before continuing with the Festival of Trees and Bavarian Holiday Fest.
Arts & Culture
Belmont’s arts and culture are closely connected to its historic downtown, local businesses, public spaces and community events. Historic architecture provides the backdrop, while public art, creative spaces and art incorporated into parks and gardens add another layer to the experience. From the arts at Daniel Stowe Conservancy to the creative energy of downtown, visitors can experience Belmont’s artistic side while exploring the community.
Make It Part of Your Visit
Belmont makes it easy to build an entire day around the things that make Gaston County special. Walk the historic downtown and explore its railroad heritage, spend time at Stowe Park, visit Belmont Abbey College or spend the day at Daniel Stowe Conservancy. Hike the trails, bike Rocky Branch, or paddle the Catawba River and Lake Wylie.
Then come back downtown for a meal, a drink and a little shopping. With accommodations in Belmont, its proximity to Charlotte and its connections to the Carolina Thread Trail, Belmont is also an ideal home base for exploring Gaston County and the communities, rivers and outdoor experiences that surround it.
