On warm weather days in Texas, all we can think about is jumping into the nearest swimming hole. If you share our sentiment, you need to plan a trip to The Gin at Nolan Creek in Belton. Housed in a 1920s cotton gin, this historic restaurant boasts direct access to the gorgeous Nolan Creek. Enjoy a delicious homestyle meal, then hop in the water for a refreshing swim!

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Tucked away in the charming town of Belton, The Gin at Nolan Creek is a historic building that has worn several hats.

TripAdvisor/Steve J It started off as a cotton gin in the 1920s, and became a feed store when the cotton industry collapsed in the 1940s.

Just after the turn of the century, the feed store shut its doors, and the structure fell into disrepair.

TripAdvisor/JohnShaji Instead of letting such a storied place succumb to the elements, the town rallied to save it. Thus, The Gin at Nolan Creek was born.

Rustic and homey, the restaurant overlooks the beautiful Nolan Creek in downtown Belton.

TripAdvisor/Jean K It features both indoor and outdoor seating, the latter of which boasts unparalleled waterfront views.

Perhaps the most unique thing about The Gin is that it doubles as a swimming hole!

TripAdvisor/Steve J The restaurant has direct creek access, so you can enjoy a refreshing swim after your meal.

Speaking of the food, if you love good old-fashioned Texas eats, you’ll be in heaven.

TripAdvisor/TheTexasFoodie From juicy burgers to chicken-fried steak so huge, it falls off the plate, hearty and homestyle fare is the name of the game.

The Gin grills all of its meats over mesquite coals, and the smokiness is imbued into every bite you take.

TripAdvisor/El Gran Coqui Pair that with over a dozen sumptuous sides and an extensive wine list, and you have yourself a dining experience for the books.

Adding to the historic vibe, the stately Bell County Courthouse makes a picture-perfect backdrop.

TripAdvisor/WingedLizard Built in 1889, the three-story Renaissance Revival structure is truly a sight for sore eyes. It ties the whole scene together!

Hours are 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Visit the restaurant’s website or Facebook page for more information.

TripAdvisor/Steve J

It started off as a cotton gin in the 1920s, and became a feed store when the cotton industry collapsed in the 1940s.

TripAdvisor/JohnShaji

Instead of letting such a storied place succumb to the elements, the town rallied to save it. Thus, The Gin at Nolan Creek was born.

TripAdvisor/Jean K

It features both indoor and outdoor seating, the latter of which boasts unparalleled waterfront views.

The restaurant has direct creek access, so you can enjoy a refreshing swim after your meal.

TripAdvisor/TheTexasFoodie

From juicy burgers to chicken-fried steak so huge, it falls off the plate, hearty and homestyle fare is the name of the game.

TripAdvisor/El Gran Coqui

Pair that with over a dozen sumptuous sides and an extensive wine list, and you have yourself a dining experience for the books.

TripAdvisor/WingedLizard

Built in 1889, the three-story Renaissance Revival structure is truly a sight for sore eyes. It ties the whole scene together!

Have you ever eaten at The Gin at Nolan Creek in Texas? If so, did you swim in the creek? Tell us all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more epic swimming holes in Texas where you can take a refreshing dip.

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Address: The Gin at Nolan Creek, 219 S East St, Belton, TX 76513, USA