Texas Cities

Region: Prairies and Lakes

A small town of distinctive charm. Belton was founded in 1850, and in early years grew as a rustic trading center for nearby farms and ranches. The first merchant sold goods from his wagon before any stores were built; first "saloon" was a barrel of whiskey and a tin cup under a shade tree. A stagecoach line served the village, and cowboys herding longhorns up to the Chisholm Trail enjoyed rest stops in Belton. Town is graced by architecture from the early 1860s to turn-of-the-20th-century. Preservation of historic structures is a priority in Belton's graceful old downtown area. Some buildings and homes opened during annual tour late April–early May.

Belton is home to the annual 4th of July Celebration and PRCA Rodeo. This weeklong event includes a parade, festival, fiddlers' contest and barbecue.

Belton lies on the I-35 corridor and U.S. 190, a segment of the Ports-to-Plains Highway connecting the state's heartland to coastal ports.