Visit Belmont During Chinese Lanterns at Stowe: Local Favorites, Dining, and Things to Do

60 glowing displays at Daniel Stowe Conservancy are reason enough to visit Belmont durning Chinese Lanterns this summer. But if you arrive a little early—or stay the night—you’ll discover a charming small town full of great food, parks, and local spots that make the experience even better.

Just minutes from the Garden, downtown Belmont offers walkable streets, cozy cafés, unique shops, and a lively dining scene. Think of it as the perfect way to turn a beautiful evening among the lanterns into a full Belmont experience.

Here’s the inside scoop on some of our favorite things to do before or after you explore the glowing gardens.

Start with a Stroll Through Downtown Belmont

Before heading to the lanterns, spend some time wandering downtown Belmont. The historic streets are lined with locally owned shops and restaurants, making it an easy place to explore at your own pace.

At the center of it all is Stowe Park, a welcoming green space surrounded by dining and shopping. If you’re visiting with kids, the playground is a great stop before dinner. Couples and groups often grab a drink or dessert nearby and relax in the park before heading to the Garden.

During the summer months, the park also hosts Friday Night Live concerts and Movies in the Park, which can make for a perfect pairing with an evening at the lantern festival.

Where to Eat Before the Lanterns

One of the best ways to build your Belmont evening is to start with dinner nearby.

If you’re looking for something memorable, make a reservation at Drift on Lake Wylie, the closest restaurant to the Garden. With waterfront views and elevated coastal cuisine, it’s an ideal pre-lantern date night.

Downtown Belmont also has plenty of great dining options depending on what you’re in the mood for.

For Southern comfort food, try Nellie's Southern Kitchen, known for its connection to the Jonas Brothers family and its classic Southern dishes.

For a truly unique setting, enjoy dinner at Old Stone Steakhouse, located inside Belmont’s historic former jail.

Other local favorites include Stone Fired Social for wood-fired pizza, Marrelli's Italian Kitchen for classic Italian fare, and Sammy's Pub for a relaxed neighborhood vibe.

If you prefer something lighter before walking through the Garden, lunch spots like Honeycomb Cafe, Pita Wheel Belmont, and New York Butcher Shoppe offer quick and delicious options.

Grab a Coffee, Wine, or Something Sweet

Belmont is also a great place to grab a treat before heading to the lantern displays—or afterward when you’re not quite ready for the night to end.

Start the day with coffee and baked goods at Everyday Market or Waterbean Coffee Belmont.

If you’re looking for something to bring back to your hotel, stop byThe String Bean Market for wine, gourmet snacks, and sandwiches.

For dessert lovers, Belmont has plenty of options:

• Bumblebee Creamery for classic ice cream flavors

• Tastebuds Popcorn Belmont for creative popcorn—including Gaston Gold, inspired by Go Gaston NC

• Cotton Candy Factory Belmont for colorful sweets and nostalgic treats

• Two Chicks Ice Cream and Cafe for handmade waffle cones

• The Banana Bar perfectly frozen, dipped and covered with your favorite toppings

These are also great places to grab snacks for enjoying later while relaxing after your lantern visit.

Craft Beverages & Local Flavor

If you’re exploring Belmont’s craft beverage scene, check out Jekyll and Hyde Taphouse and Grill or Primal Brewery two stop along the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail with craft beer and a lively atmosphere. For something a little different, try Thai tea or bubble tea at Bocha Bubble Tea.

Visit Belmont during Chinese Lanterns

The Chinese Lantern Festival at Daniel Stowe Conservancy is the highlight of the evening—but Belmont’s restaurants, parks, and local favorites help make the visit even more memorable.

Arrive early, explore downtown, grab dinner, and then head to the Garden as the lanterns begin to glow. You’ll quickly see why so many visitors turn a lantern visit into a full night—or even a weekend—in Belmont.