Belmont

A thriving, yet charming Southern city that is situated in the midst of some of the Piedmont's most alluring natural beauty. So laid-back and peaceful, you would never know you are just minutes from Uptown Charlotte. 

 

 

It's no secret that Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, and that means Belmont is growing, too. Located just 15 miles west of the city, Belmont is the ideal suburb for families and professionals who love a quick commute but like to slow down on the weekends and enjoy town festivals, boating or fishing on Lake Wylie or the Catawba and South Fork Rivers, or grabbing some world-class barbecue from a neighborhood restaurant. It is both the place where everyone knows their neighbors, but they can be at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in 10 minutes. Both Interstate 85 and U.S. Route 49 run through the city but head a little south of those major roads, and Main Street looks like a picturesque piece of history.

 

Based on billions of social media posts, these scores show how common certain lifestyles and interests are here.

 

 

History

The settlement that eventually became the city of Belmont was originally built around a 1750's-era fort located where the South Fork and Catawba Rivers meet. A century later, the area became home to Stowesville Mill, one of the first cotton mills in Gaston County. After fighting in the Civil War, Abram Stowe returned to the area and built a large Greek Revival home, which still stands today, as well as a mercantile store, and he became a prominent member of the community. By 1871, the Atlanta and Richmond Air-Line Railway passed through the area, and more people began to settle there and start businesses. By 1876, Bishop Leo Haid founded a monastery, and in 1895, the area became incorporated as the town of Belmont. The town grew slowly at first, but when several members of the community banded together to build Chronicle Mills, it became a center for textile production, and the population went from 145 in 1901 to 3,793 in 1930.

 

Quick Facts

• Population: 12,292
  
  
• Belmont means "beautiful mountain." Legend has it that the city earned its name because one can see Crowder's Mountain from the area.
  
  
• The city is home to Belmont Abbey College, a 650-acre private liberal arts college with nearly 2,000 students.
  
  
• Many of the structures in Belmont date back centuries and are on the National Register of Historic Places. They include the old post office, the Belmont Abbey Cathedral, and the Belmont Hosiery Mill.
  
  
• In 2015, the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association named Belmont one of its "Great Places in North Carolina."
  
  
• Belmont offers many community festivals and activities. One local favorite is a concert that takes place every other Friday throughout the summer: "Friday Night Live."
  
  
• Both the South Fork and Catawba Rivers border Belmont. They come together south of the city to form Lake Wylie.

Local Attractions

Because Belmont is so close to Charlotte, there is always something to do. You can drive into the city and its suburbs to have a fun-filled day at the Carowinds amusement park, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place, or Bank of America Stadium. But before you experience all of that, you must check out the attractions and restaurants in your own backyard.

 

Dining

• The String Bean - The String Bean has earned an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine from 2013-2019. The nationally-recognized eatery is located on North Main street and is popular for its unique menu items — duck fat fries and bison quesadillas, anyone? — as well as its extensive wine and beer collection.
  
  
• Old Stone Steakhouse - Old Stone Steakhouse, located on South Main, is not your average steak restaurant. The upscale eatery sits in the historic building that was once the city's police department and jailhouse. While the ambiance reminds diners of what Belmont was like long ago, the menu is made up of pasta, steak, and seafood dishes so flavorful that they will awaken your senses and bring you back to the present day. Stop in to their sister concept next door, The Jailhouse, for pre- or post-dinner drinks.
  
  
• Sammy's Deli & Neighborhood Pub - Sammy's Deli & Neighborhood Pub on South Main is the place where Belmont residents make new friends and bump into old neighbors over cold drinks and a delicious meal. It has been around for over two decades and is one of the city’s most popular restaurants. From burgers and barbecue to one of the best selections of beer in Belmont, this is a place you will want to eat at often.
  
  
• Peace-N- Hominy Q Shack – When you want authentic North Carolina barbecue, you must head to East Catawba Street to Peace –N- Hominy Q Shack. From the food to the decor, you will feel like you have stepped back in time when you dine here. Pulled pork, brisket, corn dogs, burgers — it’s hard to pick just one entree off the menu.
  
  
• Mugshots Coffee & Tea - Award-winning Artisan Direct Trade and sustainably sourced coffee, tea and kombucha can be found at this local coffee shop. Don't forget to order a fresh pastry!
  
  
• South Main Cycles - Don't let the name fool you. This space beside the Belmont train tracks is the place to go for beer, wine, soda, coffee, and light bites.

Transportation

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport - Belmont is just 7 miles away from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, and the largest hub for US Airways.
  
  
• Charlotte Area Transit System - Bus service into Charlotte is available weekdays via the Charlotte Area Transit System. Commuters meet at Abbey Plaza Shopping Center Station.

Shopping

• Downtown Belmont - Historic Downtown Belmont is an excellent place to shop and dine. Unlike many small towns, it has a high commercial occupancy rate, and it is home to independent shops like Surprise Me and Piccolo Antique Mall. From jewelry and clothing to antiques and gifts, there is something for all tastes here.
  
  
• Catawba River Outfitters
  
  
• Charlotte Premium Outlets - Belmont does not have a mall, but head about 15 or 20 minutes east into Charlotte, and shop at Charlotte Premium Outlets. It is home to dozens of popular brand names like Ann Taylor, J. Crew, Kate Spade, Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Michael Kors, Under Armour, Steve Madden, and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH.

Things To Do

• Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden - The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a family-favorite attraction. People come to Belmont from all over North Carolina to see 380 acres of gardens, fountains, and nature trails. The location is so beautiful that wedding magazines have described it as one of the top places in the country to get married.
  
  
• U.S. National Whitewater Center - Belmont is surrounded by water, so it may come as no surprise that the U.S. National Whitewater Center is located here. Anyone who loves adventure will find so much to do. Kayaking, rafting, paddleboarding, ropes, trails, zip lines, rock climbing, and canopy tours are just a few of the activities offered.
  
  
• Belmont Abbey - You might be surprised to learn that Belmont is home to a monastery, Belmont Abbey. Guests can tour the beautiful grounds or even go on spiritual retreats.
  
  
• Stowe Park - Stowe Park has served Belmont since the mid-twentieth century, and today, it remains one of the city's focal points. It features a large picnic area with shelter, playground, fountain, walking track, an amphitheater for seasonal concerts, concession stand, and athletic field.
  
  
• Tailrace Marina - Those who move to Belmont because they love the water will become regulars at Tailrace Marina. Located just north in Mount Holly, the Lake Wylie Marina sits on historic land once known as Tuckaseegee Foard. You can park your boat here if you have one, but you can also have a picnic, barbecue, or rent a pontoon, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.

Real Estate Information

Like most Charlotte suburbs, Belmont is home to many new homes and communities, but you will also find an assortment of established homes here, as well. There is also something for every budget. You might find a million-dollar mansion situated along one of the rivers, or a great mid-century brick ranch home with a big yard for a growing family closer to town. Somewhere in between, you will find newer traditional two-story homes in communities with ample amenities, such as pools, playgrounds, and tennis courts. In other words, Belmont is one city where everyone, no matter their tastes or budgets, is welcome, and the homes here reflect that down-home neighborly attitude.