Embark on an adventure like no other! Clarksville, Tennessee is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, thrilling outdoor escapades, quirky shopping spots, and a melting pot of international flavors. Dive into this A-Z guide and discover why Clarksville is the ultimate destination that promises to captivate your heart and beckon you back time and time again.
A is for Art & Architecture
There has been an artistic takeover throughout Clarksville that marries the historic architecture with colorful murals and sculptures sharing the community's past, present, and future. Explore iconic landmarks like the Roxy Regional Theatre and the Downtown Artists Co-op, meander through diverse galleries showcasing local talent, and create your own masterpiece at ArtLink. Don't miss the monthly First Thursday Art Walk, a celebration of creativity weaving through the heart of downtown Clarksville. If you are in town during the first week of October, be sure to check out ArtLink's annual Artsville Fest.
B is for Beachaven & Breweries
For nearly 30 years, Beachaven Vineyards and Winery has been a staple in Clarksville. As the oldest single-family-owned winery in Tennessee, Beachaven is a pioneer in the state's winemaking industry producing many award-winning bottles. Stop by for a tour and a tasting, or grab a bottle to enjoy alongside live music and local food trucks. If you're downtown, be sure to check out Beachaven's tasting room. More of a beer drinker? Clarksville has got you covered with six craft breweries each with its own unique flair.
C is for Customs House Museum
Constructed in 1898 as Clarksville's first U.S. Post Office and Customs House, this architecturally fascinating property has long been a cornerstone of the community. After serving Clarksville in many capacities over the years, the building is now the largest general interest museum in Tennessee with permanent installations, rotating galleries, a newly remodeled interactive children's floor, a family art studio, a gift shop selling local art, and one of the region's largest model train displays. Of particular note is the Becoming Clarksville exhibit which highlights area history and local celebrities and changemakers.
D is for Dunbar Cave State Park
As the only public cave in the world with prehistoric Mississippian Native American cave art dating back to the 14th century, Dunbar Cave is a unique spot nestled in a 144-acre park. Guided cave tours are offered May-September each year. The area's history includes Affricanna Town, a community for self-liberated enslaved African Americans following the U.S. Army's capture of Clarksville in 1862, a wellness retreat and summer social hub, and ties to Roy Acuff, the Big Band Era, and the Grand Ole Opry. Hiking trails meander throughout the property with historic and educational markers stationed along the paths.
E is for Events
From concerts, pageants, and games to holidays, festivals, and parades, there is never a dull moment. With the opening of F&M Bank Arena and the Ford Ice Center in Summer 2023, downtown has hosted several large-scale sporting and entertainment events. There is always a full event calendar in Clarksville.
F is for Franklin Street
It is easy to frolic down Franklin Street with all its independent shops, unique dining experiences, and public art. Step inside spots like City Market and Higher Level on Franklin to explore even more small businesses. Be sure to stop and read the Then and Now signs on each building to learn its history.
G is for Greenway
Enjoy Clarksville's four seasons on the 9-mile Clarksville Greenway. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk to spot fall foliage or an exhilarating summer bike ride, the Greenway promises an unforgettable time for everyone. Be sure to stop and admire the view at Raymond C. Hand Pass, a 600-foot pedestrian bridge.
H is for Historic Attractions
Established in 1784, there is certainly no shortage of historic sites and attractions in Clarksville. Explore one of the last intact earthworks forts in the nation at Fort Defiance. Take a guided townsite tour or walk along the Trail of Tears at Port Royal State Historic Park. Step back in time at Historic Collinsville as you wander the 40-acre property complete with 16 restored log buildings and the Weakley House Museum. Discover notable figures of Clarksville's past in its many historic cemeteries.
I is for International Dining
Thanks to Fort Campbell, Austin Peay State University, and international industries, Clarksville's food is as diverse as its population. Diners can find restaurants serving cuisine authentic to Germany, India, China, France, Japan, Italy, Greece, Egypt, Thailand, Korea, the Caribbean, and many more areas of the world.
J is for Johnny's Big Burger
Since opening its doors in 1965, this cash-only establishment has been a staple of both the Austin Peay State University and Clarksville communities. Whether it's a classic burger or a Southern breakfast, locals know all meals at Johnny's must end with their famous honey bun and ice cream.
K is for Kings Bluff
Kings Bluff is one of the region's top-rated rock climbing destinations. Located along the Cumberland River, the river bluff not only has 1,673.85 linear feet of cliff to climb, but it is also home to one of the best sunset spots in Clarksville. Kings Bluff is an ideal spot for both novice and expert climbers.
L is for Live Music
Clarksville's musical diversity takes center stage with year-round concerts and performances, offering a mix of free and ticketed events for the community. Enjoy free live family-friendly music with Downtown @ Sundown and the Summer Concert Series. Head to Beachaven Vineyards and Winery for live music on weekends, or attend one of their special Jazz on the Lawn events. The Gateway Chamber Orchestra and Austin Peay State University show off local talent, while the Clarksville Community Concert Association brings in world-renowned musicians. Several bars and restaurants offer live music on weekends, as well.
M is for Markets
Looking to shop local? Clarksville has seasonal markets full of small businesses with unique finds. Voted the #1 Farmers Market in Tennessee through the American Farmland Trust's 2023 Market Celebration, the Clarksville Downtown Farmers Market connects the community with over 80 local vendors each Saturday from May to October. The community can shop from local vendors, artisans, and makers at Sunday on Strawberry on the first Sunday of each month. The Sango Night Market brings farmers, food vendors, local artisans, and live music to the Sango community every Monday from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
N is for New Development
As one of the fastest-growing cities in America, there is always something new in Clarksville. Shelby's Trio, home to three restaurants including Clarksville's first rooftop bar, opened in 2023 alongside the F&M Bank Arena and Ford Ice Center. The DoubleTree Hotel is slated to open in the fall of 2024 providing a hotel for downtown visitors. Two large parking garages are also being constructed downtown, with the construction of a new retail and restaurant complex expected to follow. These projects are only part of a large list of exciting public and private developments planned for Clarksville in the next few years.
O is for Old Glory & Distilleries
Stop along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail at Old Glory Distilling Co. Schedule a tour, find something special in the bottle shop and tasting room, dine at Old Glory Restaurant, and enjoy that nice Tennessee weather with a drink and live music in the Silo Park. Want to try all three of Clarksville's distilleries? Head just down the road to Leatherwood Distillery and a bit further into downtown Clarksville to try Clarksville's newest distillery, Three Rifles Distilling Co. Both venues offer live music and tasty food options.
P is for People
Clarksville has many famous connections from athletes and musicians to doctors and inventors. Pat Head Summitt, an Olympian and record-breaking women's basketball coach, was born and raised in Clarksville. After his time at nearby Fort Campbell, Jimi Hendrix moved to Clarksville where he performed at local venues with his band The King Kasuals before moving to Nashville. Frank Sutton, who played Sergeant Vince Carter in Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C., was born and raised in downtown Clarksville.
Q is for Queen City on the Cumberland
In 1784, Clarksville was established near the confluence of the Cumberland and Red Rivers. These rivers shaped much of Clarksville's history from exploration and settlement to the Civil War and the tobacco trade. Get out on the water, stroll along the Cumberland Riverwalk, and be sure to stop in McGregor Park's As the River Flows Museum to learn about Clarksville's rich river history.
R is for Rotary Park
Rotary Park is 111.3 acres of fun, relaxation, and learning. Get in some outdoor recreation with disc golf, mountain biking, or enjoying the park's two unique playgrounds. Take a scenic stroll along the ADA-accessible creekside trail or opt for the more rugged wooded trails. Children love the Wade Bourne Nature Center where they can explore interactive exhibits and gardens and see live creatures native to the area.
S is for Strawberry Alley
Named after the strawberry patch belonging to Lucinda Elder, the wife of Clarksville's first mayor, this historic block has truly come alive with a vibrant new energy over the past few years. Unique restaurants, bakeries, shops, public art, and even a monthly market call this street home.
T is for Trails
With so much to explore, Visit Clarksville created 18 Challenge Trails tailored to specific interests such as history, architecture, shopping, and coffee. Once a trail is completed, a collectible pin is earned. History buffs enjoy following the Civil War Trail and the African American Legacy Trail, while music lovers must make a stop at the five Clarksville locations on the TN Music Pathways trail.
U is for University
Since opening its doors in 1927, Austin Peay State University has been a staple of the Clarksville community. Visitors can enjoy the historic architecture on campus, several art galleries, the state's only Center for Excellence for the Creative Arts, and exciting athletic events year-round. Go Govs!
V is for Vintage Shopping
With well over 100,000 square feet of vintage and antique shops, Clarksville is a must-visit for lovers of all things from decades past. Miss Lucille's Marketplace and Warehouse 41 Vintage Market offer large warehouse spaces full of booths, and independent shops around town offer great antique shopping.
W is for Wilma Rudolph
After overcoming childhood polio, Wilma Rudolph became a world-record-holding champion in track and field, winning a bronze medal in the 1956 Olympics and three gold medals in the 1960 Olympics. She was the first American woman to win three gold medals in track and field during a single Olympic Games. Due to her insistence, Wilma Rudolph's homecoming parade was Clarksville's first fully integrated municipal event. Her legacy is honored with a life-size bronze statue in front of her namesake event center and a large installation at the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center. Her grave can be visited by the public.
X is for Excell BBQ
Just past the city limits sits a small white gas station with a smokehouse out back. While most visitors wouldn't think to stop here for a great meal, locals have been getting their barbecue at Excell for decades.
Y is for Yum!
With hundreds of restaurants to choose from, there is something for every pallet in Clarksville. Enjoy brunch on pretty patios, breakfast in local diners, lunch at quaint cafes, and dinner at unique locations like a former post office, automotive shop, or loading dock. Try all the sweet treats from ice cream and donuts to macarons and cheesecake. Take in magnificent river views or be tucked away in the quiet forest.
Z is for Trazo Meadery
As Tennessee's first meadery, Trazo is a popular stop along Franklin Street. Several flight options allow guests to pick their favorite mead or cider. The meadery's menu includes charcuterie, flatbreads, bao buns, and other small bites that can be enjoyed on the downtown patio.
