Clarksville may be known for its family fun, romantic getaways, and college-town charm, but it rolls out the red carpet for solo travelers too. I arrived unsure of what awaited me, but what I found was a warm welcome, unforgettable experiences, mouthwatering eats, and a vibe that made me feel right at home.
If you’re traveling solo, let this guide be your go-to for where to stay, what to do, what to eat, and how to make the most of Clarksville even while solo.
Where to Stay
Homer House
If you’re looking for a comfortable retreat where you can spread out, enjoy the perks of a kitchen, and be steps from downtown, Homer House is a great stay for you!
Located on Main Street, this short-term rental property has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It’s been beautifully updated to guarantee a modern, spacious stay.
Doubletree by Hilton
Solo travelers may feel more comfortable at a hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton is one of Clarksville’s best – not only for the security that a hotel provides, but also for the excellent location a block from downtown and the Cumberland River.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Amsterdam Local
The Amsterdam Local serves up some of the best coffee in town from the cutest rustic boho-styled café, formerly an auto repair shop. Find a cozy seat to enjoy their specialty drinks like butterfly matcha in the spring and S’more-icano in the fall.
Asulon Collective
Looking for connection? Asulon Collective serves craft coffee, with a side of conversation. Visit their flagship store on the corner of Third and Commerce Street and be greeted by the most welcoming atmosphere and people.
Pinky’s Up
Prefer a more traditional tea experience? Pinky’s Up downtown is an incredibly fun option. They have afternoon teas complete with tiered trays of delights within a pink paradise. With photo opps, fun swings, and upbeat music, you’ll be so glad you popped by. Plus, traveling solo means you don’t need to share all the treats!
The Mailroom
Located in Clarksville’s former federal building, The Mailroom is known for its wood-fired grill and international flavors. The space has so many perfect spots to enjoy your time solo, especially the patio that overlooks downtown Clarksville.
Mad Herbalist
One of the most unique experiences in Clarksville comes from the Mad Herbalist. This tea shop housed in a historic stone cabin makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The real fun comes from their blending lab where you can try a flight of tea or create your own alcohol-infused concoctions.
Calle Taco
New to Clarksville, but not new to the restaurant game, The Calle Taco brings authentic tacos to the city. With recipes going back generations, don’t miss the Al Pastor tacos and Quesabirria, their two hallmark menu items.
Blackhorse Pub and Brewery
Sample local Tennessee beer from Blackhorse Pub and Brewery downtown. While their beer certainly shines, their food menu will impress you just as much! Don’t leave without trying their crispy brussels.
What to Do: Arts and Culture
Markets
One of the best things to do when traveling solo is strolling a local market because you can meet vendors, try new foods, and support local artists. Luckily, Clarksville has five!
Every Saturday from May to October, enjoy the Downtown Market. On the first Sunday of every month, visit the Sunday on Strawberry market. Sango Night Market operates Mondays from May to November. Stop by the Thursday Night Market at Old Glory every Thursday from May to November. Finally, don’t miss the Third Thursday Market at Beachaven Winery every third Thursday of the month.
Customs House Museum & Cultural Center
One must do that every traveler will enjoy is Customs House Museum & Cultural Center. Not only is the museum in an architecturally beautiful building, but you’ll learn so much from the exhibits inside from historic athletes who call Clarksville home to the city’s role in the Civil War.
Fort Defiance
For an even deeper discovery of Clarksville’s role in the Civil War, you must visit Fort Defiance. Here, you’ll see trenches dug during the Civil War along the beautiful trails with a stunning view of downtown Clarksville. Plus, the exhibits teach you about the various roles Clarksville residents played during the Civil War including soldiers, their families, merchants, and more!
Historic Collinsville
History lovers will want to stop at Historic Collinsville, just 25 minutes from downtown, to see the old pioneer settlement. Solo travelers will especially love visiting during events like Create at Collinsville, where you can socialize with other visitors.
Shopping
Miss Lucille’s Marketplace
Take antique shopping to a whole new level at Miss Lucille’s Marketplace. With 52,000 square feet, you’re guaranteed to find something that catches your eye.
Warehouse 41
Another great vintage shopping experience is at Warehouse 41. With two floors of antiques, handcrafted art, and historic items, you can spend hours browsing here!
Hudubam Booktraders
For new and used books, support Clarksville’s local bookshop, Hudubam Booktraders. They have a wide range of genres that will please every reader.
Pups Plants and Goods
For sustainable goods, eclectic plants, and vintage clothing, Pups Plants & Goods is the spot for you! Even if you’re traveling and can’t take a plant home, the other wares are worth stopping in for.
AndVinyl Records
Music lovers rejoice! AndVinyl Records has quite the collection for sale. Even browsing is quite fun given the music that’s playing in the background.
Outdoors
Wade Bourne Nature Center & Rotary Park
Take to the trails to reconnect with nature at Wade Bourne Nature Center & Rotary Park. If you’re traveling solo to lean into the quiet, you won’t want to skip this.
Dunbar Cave State Park
One of the most fascinating historic and natural sites in Clarksville is Dunbar Cave State Park, which was used by Mississippian Native Americans and later as a concert venue by Roy Acuff. Take a guided tour to go inside, or stroll the outside trails to see lots of wildlife.
Tips for Visiting Clarksville Solo
Join a group tour
One surefire way to meet other travelers is to join a group tour. As a solo traveler this can be a fantastic way to discover a new place and connect. In Clarksville, try Historic Greenwood Cemetery walking tours or guided tours of the Weakley House Museum at Historic Collinsville.
Embark on a challenge trail
Did you know Clarksville has 18 themed challenge trails? If you need help structuring your trips as a solo traveler, download the Visit Clarksville app to follow your trail of choice.
Get social at events around Clarksville
Clarksville has tons of fun events where you can get social, even solo. Spring brings the Mid-South Jazz Festival where you can enjoy music while you meet new friends. And, each month, the first Thursday is First Thursday Art Walk where you can explore local galleries and meet the artists and patrons inside!
Don’t let being solo stop you from discovering all the wonderful things Clarksville has to offer. As you plan your trip, be sure to download the Visitor Guide to get started.
