Things To Do
in Clemmons
Clemmons is a suburban village in Forsyth County, North Carolina, sitting along the Yadkin River and adjacent to Winston-Salem. The town blends quiet residential neighborhoods, family-friendly parks, and access to larger-city amenities within a short drive. Outdoor recreation at Tanglewood Park and the nearby Salem Lake draws locals and visitors for trails, golf, and seasonal events.
Clemmons feels relaxed and community-oriented, with a small-town pace while remaining well connected to the Piedmont Triad region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in Tanglewood Park, where you can enjoy beautiful trails and stunning views of nature. The morning sun glistens on the water, making it the perfect time for photography. Breathe in the fresh air as you take in the peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal way to begin your adventure.
After your hike, head to a local café in Clemmons for a delicious lunch featuring farm-to-table options. With the energizing meal, explore the park's gardens and perhaps take a leisurely bike ride along the paths. Enjoy the vibrant colors of seasonal blooms as you relax in the serene atmosphere.
As the sun begins to set, have dinner at a charming local restaurant where you can savor Southern cuisine. Share stories with friends or family while enjoying live music that enhances the cozy ambiance. Wrap up your day with a stroll around the park, soaking in the tranquil evening atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a visit to the nearby Winston-Salem State University where you can explore the art and culture of the region. Stop by the Diggs Gallery to admire local and national exhibitions while gaining insight into the artistic community. The calm morning atmosphere makes it an inspiring start to your day.
Afterward, head to the historic downtown area of Winston-Salem for lunch at a trendy food hall. Stroll through the cobbled streets to discover boutique shops and local art galleries that showcase the talent of the area. This vibrant scene offers a mix of flavors and creativity to delight your senses.
In the evening, catch a performance at the Stevens Center, a historic theater known for its variety of shows. Whether it’s a play, concert, or dance performance, experiencing local talent provides a cultural highlight to your day. After the show, grab a late-night snack at a nearby diner to wind down.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi / ride-share (5–10 miles) | $12-25 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to outdoor recreation (Tanglewood Park, lakes, nearby state parks)
- Close to Winston-Salem with cultural attractions while maintaining small-town calm
- Family-friendly community and seasonal community events
- Lower congestion and more affordable accommodations than larger cities nearby
- Limited late-night nightlife and specialized dining within Clemmons itself
- Public transportation options are limited; a car is helpful
- Fewer boutique or niche shops compared with larger nearby cities
- Summer humidity can be intense for visitors not accustomed to it
Places to Visit in Clemmons
Visit one of these nice places.
Lakes, manicured gardens, golf course vistas, and seasonal blooms offer wide photography opportunities—sunrise and golden hour by the water are especially photogenic.
Scenic pull-offs along the river provide reflections, wildlife photos, and peaceful water scenes, particularly in early morning.
A short drive away, the lake offers walking trails, wooded shorelines, and excellent birdwatching—great for nature and landscape shots.
Historic architecture, murals, and renovated tobacco-factory buildings create interesting urban photo backdrops—combine with a Clemmons visit for variety.
Food in Clemmons
Clemmons Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked pork or pulled pork with vinegar- or tomato-based sauce, common in local BBQ shops and regional diners; try it with hushpuppies and coleslaw.
Must-Try!
Classic Southern starters you'll find on many menus—crispy fried tomato slices and house-made pimento cheese often served with crackers or toast.
A hearty Southern breakfast staple—flaky biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy, popular at local breakfast spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (usually spring through fall) featuring local produce, baked goods, honey, and crafts—great for picnic ingredients and regional treats.
Clemmons hosts occasional food truck gatherings and nearby Winston-Salem markets offer an expanded street-food scene with global and fusion options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People tend to be polite and conversational—small talk and a friendly greeting go a long way. Respect personal space and line etiquette.
Casual attire is typical; dress appropriately for events (e.g., business casual for nicer restaurants). Be respectful at memorials, historic sites, and during religious services.
Drivers expect turn signals and courteous merging; yield to emergency vehicles and be aware of rural two-lane road etiquette (slower vehicles keep right).
Safety
Tipping in Clemmons
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in the U.S. applies: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for table service, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for taxi/ride-share drivers. Tip hotel staff for bellhop/housekeeping as appropriate (a few dollars).
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Smaller markets and some vendors may be cash-only—carry small bills for farmers markets and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild and flowers bloom—great for outdoor activities, farmers markets, and festivals. Expect occasional rain; pack a light rain jacket and layers for changing days.
Warm to hot and humid, with temperatures often in the mid-80s to low-90s°F (29–35°C); ideal for water activities and evening outdoor events, but bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Pleasant, cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage make this a favorite season for hiking, scenic drives, and outdoor festivals—pack layers for warm days and cool evenings.
Generally mild winters with occasional cold snaps and light snow some years; some parks remain open but check conditions for hiking and driving on slippery days.
Clemmons at Night
Hiking in Clemmons
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several easy to moderate loops around lakes, gardens, and wooded areas—family-friendly and accessible for walkers, runners, and casual hikes.
A scenic trail around Salem Lake (in Winston-Salem), popular for walking, running, and birdwatching with paved and natural sections.
About a 45–60 minute drive; offers iconic summit views, challenging hikes, and rocky outcrops—excellent for day hikes and panoramic photography.
Approximately 60–90 minutes away; features rugged trails, waterfalls, and overlooks—suitable for more adventurous hikers and nature lovers.
Scattered access points and small trails along the Yadkin River provide easy riverside walks and fishing spots—great for short excursions and sunrise/sunset shots.
Airports
How to reach Clemmons by plane.
Approximately 25–35 minutes by car (35–45 miles depending on route) serving the Greensboro/Greensboro-Forsyth County area with domestic flights and some connections; rental cars and ride-shares are available.
About 1.5–2 hours by car (~75–90 miles), a major hub with extensive domestic and international connections; ideal for long-haul flights if regional options are limited.
Small general aviation and limited commercial services located in Winston-Salem, convenient for private flights or charter services; commercial passenger options are very limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families attracted to good schools, parks, and a suburban lifestyle with relatively affordable housing.
Commuters who work in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, or regional business centers live in Clemmons for the quieter residential environment.
Clemmons appeals to retirees seeking a relaxed community, access to outdoor recreation, and proximity to medical services.
Local entrepreneurs, farmers, and artisans contribute to the farmers market scene and small retail businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College basketball and football, especially Wake Forest University in nearby Winston-Salem, draw regional interest and game-day crowds.
Minor league and college baseball are popular in the region during spring and summer—the area supports lively local support for games.
North Carolina has a strong motorsports culture (NASCAR and related activities)—enthusiasm for racing is common across the Piedmont region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Clemmons.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafés and bistros offer salads, veggie burgers, and seasonal vegetable sides; larger nearby cities (Winston-Salem, Greensboro) have more fully vegetarian/plant-based restaurants. Call ahead for options at smaller diners.
Vegan options are growing but still limited in small-town Clemmons—look for vegan salads, grain bowls, and sometimes vegan baked goods. For broader choices, visit Winston-Salem.
Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests (gluten-free bread or salad substitutions) but cross-contamination is possible in kitchens—inform staff of strict needs.
Small restaurants are generally helpful if you communicate allergies clearly; larger establishments and markets may have clearer ingredient labeling. When in doubt, ask to speak with the chef or manager.