The Dog Park in Downtown Anderson might be the most pawpular meeting place for Belton’s canine population. With small- and large-dog fenced areas, water fountains, benches, and plenty of shade from the hot Southern summer, you can relax while your buddies make some new friends. Once they’re back on-leash, it’s easy to explore the historic downtown area on the comfortable sidewalks throughout. Head a few blocks over to Wren Park, where you might discover the splash pad or evening light show, the summer outdoor movie series, the winter ice skating (for humans only, unfortunately), or any number of festivals and special events. Then, camp out on the Main Street patio dining at Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers or one of the other dog-friendly restaurants and do some people-watching, or cross through downtown to reach Galloway Park and Abney Mills Park.

Although the 40-minute drive into Downtown Greenville might be saved for a special occasion, it’s impossible to live in Belton without enjoying the hip, vibrant beauty of this up-and-coming city. Start with the stunning Falls Park, on the southern end of the Main Street business district and near the Peace Center for Performing Arts. This affluent part of the city has lots of chic restaurants with dog-friendly patios, but you may want to grab something to-go and spend the entire afternoon enjoying the natural waterfall, scenic bridge, art installations, picnic spots, and community spirit of Falls Park. Greenville has plenty of other lush parks to explore, but your pack might prefer to catch the Swamp Rabbit Trailhead at Falls Park. The 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail is a mixed-use converted railway beloved by athletes of the furry and not-furry varieties.