Lewisville/Clemmons Clemmons, NC

Many of the decisions made by the local governments in Lewisville and Clemmons spring from the residents desire to avoid annexation by nearby Winston-Salem. As a result, Lewisville officially incorporated in 1991, and Clemmons became independent in 1986. Despite the late-20th century distinction, the areas have been established as non-incorporated since the late 1700s. To learn more abut the history of the area, locals head to the Peter Clemmons House. The preserved home once held the family of the founder of the town. The Stagecoach Historical Marker also provides insight into the area by introducing locals to one of the town's most famous landmarks. Residents enjoy some of the local culture through the fine and performing arts at places such as Cara Merritt’s Brush Strokes ART, and they enjoy coming together every year for events including the Beach Blast July 4th Celebration.

Dining in Lewisville and Clemmons includes options from all over the map, and residents stop in to locally owned diners and restaurants for dishes from Southern favorites to Far East treats. Something to satisfy just about every craving exists within the two communities. To find them, take a quick trip down Lewisville Clemmons Road or find one of the several other options that have popped up throughout the neighborhood. Bring the whole family to enjoy the Sicilian pizza, cheese steaks and other Italian favorites at Ciccione's Restaurant. The penne a la vodka and chicken Parmesan come highly recommended by the regulars, and be sure to start your meal with one of the homemade soups. For some favorites, try Italian wedding soup or minestrone. For a retro treat available for breakfast and lunch, stop into Liberty Family Restaurant, and enjoy the 1950s decor and home cooking. Drop by early for a no-frills breakfast treat, or try one of the sandwiches or burgers on the lunch menu. Full Moon Oyster Bar and Seafood Kitchen has a full bar and just about every type of shellfish a seafood lover could want. Fill up with the all-you-can-eat crab legs, or try one of the many other options, including mussels, shrimp, oysters, scallops and all of the sides imaginable. Nightlife in Lewisville and Clemmons remains limited to restaurants with full bars and a few boutique locations. You don't find many dance clubs or music venues, but shops such Grapes and Grains serve up craft beers and specialty wines that pair nicely with the live music there. Otherwise, head to places such as Mossy's Eat Ales and Spirits for a relaxed sports-bar environment.

Interstate 40 connects Lewisville and Clemmons to the rest of the country, and the major roads make it easy for people to commute to and from Winston-Salem. For those without a personal vehicle, Piedmont Authority for Regional Transport hosts scheduled routes for all residents. Joe's Taxi provides another transportation option, but locals have to call in advance. Meanwhile, ride shares like Uber serve Winston-Salem, and they may make the trip beyond the city limits. Those with a vehicle find free parking throughout the small communities. People who wish to get to their destination on foot or via bicycle enjoy the signed bike routes and pedestrian trails that make it safe to travel that way.

Parks in both Lewisville and Clemmon encourage locals of all ages to get out and active, while others provide a place of relaxation and tranquility. Most of the amenities come at no charge for residents, and some welcome leashed pets, except for Jack Warren Park and Shallowford Park. Tanglewood Park welcomes residents to enjoy all things from sports to picnics and just about everything in between. Nature programs encourage locals to learn about preservation of the animal habitats throughout the community, and maintained trails and gardens encourage residents to learn the hidden beauties of the area. Otherwise, take part in a golf game, play tennis or dive in for a swim. Passive areas like the park on Greendale Way provide a quieter alternative to explore the natural flora and fauna in the area, and some parks in Lewisville and Clemmons host a variety of events that take place all year long. Residents enjoy concerts, musicals, outdoor movies and other entertainment.

Cost of living in Lewisville and Clemmons comes in at about 10 percent below the national average and almost identical to nearby Winston-Salem. Residents rent one-bedroom apartments in the communities for around $562 per month. Residents travel through the area on local transportation for $2.40 per direction, and those with a personal vehicle fill up the gas tank for 4 percent higher than that national average. For a night out in the area, residents get a domestic beer at a local watering hole for around $2.

As large companies and national chains make their way into the area, the cities of Clemmons and Lewisville have made a concerted effort to retain their small-town charm. They manage this in many ways including filling the downtown area with locally owned stores -- some of which have been in the area for decades. Travel on Lewisville Clemmons Road to find some of the varied options. For upscale labels for the whole family, residents head to Hip Chics Boutique. Find presents for a loved one, gifts for tots and ladies accessories all within the same place. Local musicians find educational materials and instruments at Separk Music, which has been in the area since 1939. Residents get groceries at stores like Lowes Foods, but they also opt to pick up fresh produce and handmade goods at the Tanglewood Park Farmers Market.