Originally established as Nolanville, Belton was founded in 1850. The city had several thriving business ventures and investor groups, including Texas’s only women’s commune during the 1800s, leading to a booming commercial sector.

Like most cities at the time, Belton struggled during the Great Depression, but the newly established presence of Fort Hood before the start of World War II brought new populations and boosted economic activity. As of 2020, Belton has a population of 23,054.

Known for great food and lots of outdoor recreation, you’re sure to have a good time in Belton!

Dining

Whatever you’re in the mood for, Belton has it! Belton offers a wide array of food genres, from Japanese, Korean, Thai, Italian, American, Mexican, to Puerto Rican. We guarantee you’ll find something to whet your appetite here. Arusha’s offers hand brewed coffee with a laid-back atmosphere. For a great date night, Dead Fish Grill over looks Lake Belton and has fresh seafood. If you love Bar-B-Que, Clem Mikeska’s, Schoepf’s Bar-B-Que, and Millers Smokehouse are all award-winning restaurants. Narunya’s has the best Thai Food in Central Texas. Water Street Waffle Company offers fluffy gourmet waffles. Napolis Italian Bistro has authentic Italian cuisine and atmosphere. Experience dining in a historic building overlooking Nolan Creek with The Gin. There are too many to name them all but come to Belton and see what they have to offer.   

Shopping

Belton is the best kept secret for shopping in Central Texas, filled with hidden treasures. Belton is home to Cochran, Blair & Pots the oldest department store in Texas, founded in 1869. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your loved ones, our downtown district offers a variety of shops including, MyGivingTree, iMeraki, Razzle Dazzle, & the Exchange on Central. The fun doesn’t stop there, there’s tons of other shopping adventures to be had throughout Belton. They range from gift shops, boutiques, specialty goods, clothing, antiques, and more!   

Outdoors

There is no shortage of outdoor fun: Belton Lake, Nolan Creek Hike & Bike Trail, Miller Spring Nature Center, and Summer Fun Water Park. If you like camping, biking, fishing, paintball, wildlife, disc golf, kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing, hiking and biking, picnicking, wakeboarding, swimming, tubing, and other fun activities, you came to the right place.

Historical Sites

There’s a long and rich history to our charming town. We recommend you take the Historic Walking or Driving Tour to learn about the history behind the town. Bell County Courthouse was built in 1884 and was later beautifully restored in 1999. Stop by to learn more about this historical landmark. For a look further back in the area (all the way to prehistoric times), Bell County Museum is the must-visit place with group tours and interactive exhibits. 

Arts & Entertainment

Catch a movie at Grand Avenue Theater, where you can have an in-theater dining experience or an evening coffee from one of our cafes. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more unique, check out the veteran owned Beltonian Theatre to watch classic movies while enjoying gourmet dining. Bold Republic Brewery offers locally crafted artesian beers. For music fans, Schoepf’s back yard features Schoepf’s Texas Music Series every week. There’s also the Bell County Expo Center where you can experience motocross, rodeos, comicon, concerts, and other events.

Belton is the host of the Belton Bacon, Blues, and Brews Festival on the last weekend of September. Home to the biggest 4th of July Celebration in Texas, the Rockin’ Rotary Downtown Street party, and Christmas on the Chisholm Trail during the first weekend in December. Art lovers should check out Downtown Market Days, there’s hundreds of vendors that offer an assortment of handcrafted goods, on the 3rd Saturday of spring and fall months. You’ll want to come down and stay a while.