Arts, Entertainment & Tourism

Belton’s beautifully restored downtown historic district is home to numerous specialty and antique shops and Texas’ oldest family owned department store, Cochran, Blair & Potts. Belton also offers affordable, updated lodging and fine dining, including award-winning Texas real pit barbecue.

With its continued emphasis on tourism promotion, the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Tourism Committee has established the Belton National Historic Walking Tour guide. The guide leads visitors on a walking tour of 18 points of interest in the historic downtown area, starting and ending at the Bell County Courthouse.

The rich history of the region can be explored further through the Bell County Museum, located in the restored Carnegie Library building. From pre-history to the land grant period, from the formation of the county in 1850 to the establishment of Fort Hood – the region’s history is richly portrayed in permanent and rotating exhibits.

The Bell Fine Arts Association supports the arts throughout the region by providing a place for all artists to work, perform and display art. Bell Fine Arts also provides a venue for artists to share their knowledge and experience with others, and promotes all members’ artwork through exhibits and competitions.

Since the early 1900s, the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce has hosted one of the oldest and largest 4th of July celebrations and PRCA rodeo in the state. Performed by FBC, The God & Country Concert kicks off the celebration, and the weeklong festivities include the Ole’ Time Fiddlers’ Contest, four nights of PRCA rodeo entertainment, Festival on Nolan Creek, parade and carnival.

Located off of I-35 on Loop 121, the Expo Center is a multipurpose entertainment, education and exposition complex. In addition to rodeos, the Expo Center hosts the Central Texas State Fair, concerts and other events.