What a hidden gem. You can see it like a lamp on hill from the highway! It is truly a peaceful campus and setting with a lovely basilica. Do not miss the St. Joseph's Chapel hidden in the back of the property which defies architectural genius incorporating the sacred with nature. The Benedictine hospitality is without question ever present and the campus makes for a place of respite in the midst of the thriving Charlotte metropolis. A great Catholic store and coffee house aptly named "Holy Grounds."
When I see the word historical I exspect to see more than a bunch of buisinesses using updated old buildings I would like to see some real history whether it be from sinage or some landmarks I would have to assume that most people who visit the area and then leave don't even realize the historical value of Belmont (Garibaldi ) because of the emphasis put on ( will you come to my shop,resturant or other buisness to spend money ) instead of learning about the area there use to be a better park in the quaint downtown park and there is a revolutionary connection here.
Beautiful place to have a nice walk. Awesome large homes from a time when folks had money and taste. Well kept homes, lawns, sidewalks. The wonderful old store fronts, a few places to sit out side and eat. Get some ice cream at Cherubs while you stroll around.
The Fighting Yank, which has recently been moved has been erected since 1946 or 1947. Only 1 of 5 made to honor WWII veterans. The Belmont Historical Society is downtown and is open Fri-Sun. There is no admission fee. There is a restored 1930s era mill house representing life on a mill village. There is an outdoor kitchen 1899 recently restored inside and out. Across the street from the society is Allen Millican's Pictorial History Museum. He had hundreds of pictures from surrounding areas that are historic. No fee. Hours are 10:30-5:00 Mon-Sat.
The town had a Christmas bazaar the Friday night of our stay in Belmont, and for a small town, they did it fairly big. Things to see, do and enjoy the Christmas spirit. There were several businesses that stayed open longer than typically along with several good choices of places to eat also.
Belmont is a beautiful little town ! So many things to see & do! A beautiful walk downtown! Old historic homes & building. A place to come and spend the day take beautiful pictures visit old homes & railroad cars! Spb
A very disappointing day. The usually very personable lady who owns Blythe Gift shop had the door locked when my friend and I approached and as we were leaving as she opened the door and announced "You can come in, I don't like to keep the door unlocked when I'm here by myself"!!! How was one to shop if she is going to keep the door locked whenever she's by herself; this was at 10:45 am on a Thursday morning! So disappointed to see the vacant shop windows, at least two had closed since our last visit of one year ago. We did buy a coffee at the local cafe but didn't feel like staying around for lunch so we went back to Concord for lunch in a more bustling, "open for business" atmosphere!
We will be retiring to the Carolina area in a few years so we visited a few towns during a visit to my daughter. When we reached Belmont, they just happen to be having a small community festival in the a park in the center of town. What a delightful town!The atmosphere was so upbeat and everyone was so friendly. We were going to walk around the Main Street and neighborhood as that but needed up just enjoying all that was there.We can't wait to go back and really explore what seems to be a wonderful town and see if we can have a future there.
I walked up and down the main street in downtown several times. It was lovely. I went into several of their shops and business establishments. The buildings are interesting and the old train at the end of the street is unique. I was only there 2 days but I would love to return to do a bit more exploring. It was a bit like stepping back in time. You will love the people very welcoming. Here is my blog post on my experience
Half of the Main street is blocked off, there is live music every other Friday night, bring a chair and sit in the middle of the road. Vendors are available for food and drinks, nice restaurants a sidewalk away. A great shaded park with swings is on the other side of Main Street.