Spend the Weekend in Belmont

If you’re making a weekend trip to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, you’ll find there’s a lot to love about Belmont, N.C. Belmont’s historic downtown, its locally-owned boutiques and restaurants, its gorgeous trails and its proximity to the U.S. National Whitewater Center make it the perfect place for you to stay while you enjoy the city’s garden gem.

Here’s how you can spend your Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden weekend with us:

On Your Way In

Check in at the Hampton Inn by Hilton Charlotte/Belmont@Montcross or, if you’re looking for something scenic and secluded, make your weekend home at The Villa at Waters Edge. For an unparalleled dining experience, have dinner at Old Stone Steakhouse, where you can indulge in their fantastic Shrimp and Lump Crab Dip, Chargrilled Atlantic Salmon and some Old Stone Cheddar Grits or a Loaded Sweet Potato on the side.

Morning

Start the day off right by heading over to Caravan Coffee & Dessert Bar for one of their delicious gourmet coffees. Take your steaming hot cup of joe – and a walking partner, of course – across the street to Stowe Park, one of the town’s beloved historic locations, where you can drink your coffee and discuss the day’s plans while strolling along one of the park’s walking trails. Grab a fresh pastry from Nellie’s Pick-Me Up then meander along historic Main Street and peruse revitalized downtown Belmont – stop in Piccolo Antique Mall to check out their treasures before heading to The Garden.

Afternoon

After a full morning at Daniel Stowe – the Orchid Conservatory, Lost Hollow Children’s Garden and more – you’re sure to have worked up a healthy appetite, so visit Seven Oaks Café. Known for its casual southern fare and original dishes, this café sits in the historic John Davidson McLean House built in the 1850s. Relax with daily specials such as a prime rib panini or a chicken pita melt under the oaks for which the restaurant is named. Afterward, head on over to Tastebuds Popcorn and sample a few of their 151 flavors. Two of the local favorites are Dill Pickle and Sundrop, the latter named after one of North Carolina’s most popular sodas!

Evening

Relax after your long day with pizza at Simonetti’s, voted one of the 21 best in the world. Try the fantastic House Special with sausage, eggplant, tomato, spinach and ricotta.

Before You Leave

Make a stop at the Seven Oaks Preserve Trail, a 2.8-mile section of the Carolina Thread Trail, where you’ll be able to walk along the shores of Lake Wylie and see some of the area’s beautiful swamp chestnut oaks and perhaps get a glimpse of osprey, kingfishers, pileated woodpeckers and bald eagles.