Belmont, NC
Gorgeous gardens with fountains, a children's garden, and an orchid conservatory; spring blooms and holiday lights.
6 places · near Charlotte
Belmont is the riverside town just west of the airport. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the big draw — gardens and a children's area most of the year, then Holidays at the Garden once the lights go up. Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park is the free outdoor pick on the Catawba, and the Belmont Festival of Trees is a seasonal holiday tradition. Pair it with Gastonia next door for museums and splash pads.
Belmont, NC
Gorgeous gardens with fountains, a children's garden, and an orchid conservatory; spring blooms and holiday lights.
Belmont, NC
Treehouse-themed playground on the Catawba River with wide paved paths and a public dock with bench swings.
Belmont, NC
Walk-through holiday light display with Santa visits and a trackless train on select dates.
Belmont, NC
Decorated Christmas trees fill Stowe Park all December — free.
Belmont, NC
A fenced-in dog park in a forest setting directly behind The Trailhead Store at The Village at Stowe. This is a Conservancy amenity, not a city park.
Good to know: Dogs aren't allowed inside The Farmhouse Garden Center or the Gardens.
Belmont, NC
Free public library with a children's area. Check the official library calendar for storytimes and kids' programs.
Good to know: Storytime days and times vary by branch — check the official calendar before you go.
More ideas: free activities, rainy-day fun, this weekend or all things to do with kids in Charlotte.
Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden runs during the holiday season with timed tickets. Check the official site for dates.
Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park is a free riverside park.
Hours, prices and seasonal dates change often — always check the official website before you go. Info last reviewed November 2026.