Spring Break is the perfect excuse to take a break from the everyday and explore somewhere new. Whether you're looking for a laid-back escape, an active adventure, or a family-friendly getaway, Clarksville, Tenn. has something for you. Just 40 minutes northwest of Nashville along I-24, Clarksville offers the right mix of history, outdoor recreation, and local charm—without the large crowds or high prices of bigger cities.
With a vibrant downtown, stunning natural areas, and plenty of entertainment options, Clarksville makes for an ideal Spring Break destination. Whether you're visiting as a college student, traveling with your family, or simply looking for a refreshing weekend getaway, here’s your guide to making the most of Spring Break in Clarksville.
For Out-of-Town Visitors Seeking a Relaxed Escape
Explore Historic Downtown & Local Culture
Start your trip by exploring Historic Downtown Clarksville, where classic architecture, locally owned boutiques, and inviting coffee shops set the scene. Stop by the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, the largest general-interest museum in Tennessee. Housed in a stunning 1898 building, the museum features exhibits on local history, interactive children’s displays, and rotating art exhibits that highlight regional talent. It’s a great way to get a feel for Clarksville’s rich history while enjoying a relaxed afternoon indoors.
If you enjoy discovering local talent, visit Downtown Artists Co-op or check out an art class at ArtLink, a hands-on creative space offering painting, jewelry-making, and other workshops. If you’re in town on the first Thursday of the month, don’t miss the First Thursday Art Walk, where galleries and shops open their doors for an evening of creativity and community.
Relax Along the River & Enjoy the Outdoors
After some time downtown, head to Liberty Park & Marina. Take a leisurely stroll along the paved trails, enjoy a picnic by the river, fish and birdwatch by the stocked pond, or sit by the water and watch the boats drift by. The Cumberland Riverwalk is another excellent option for unwinding—this paved trail runs alongside the river, offering picturesque views and plenty of benches to sit and take it all in.
Savor Local Flavors
Clarksville has a growing culinary scene that blends Southern favorites with modern flavors. Grab brunch at The Mailroom, housed in a former post office with a beautifully restored interior and a menu featuring farm-to-table dishes. For a classic Southern meal, head to The Catfish House, a local favorite serving up fresh, crispy catfish with all the traditional sides. And no visit is complete without a stop at Johnny’s Big Burger, a Clarksville staple known for its burgers, fries, and milkshakes for nearly 60 years.
For College Students & Their Visiting Families
Indoor Fun in Clarksville
Clarksville has plenty of ways to stay entertained indoors, whether you’re looking to spend time with friends or catch up with family. The City Forum is one of the region’s largest indoor entertainment centers, featuring go-karts, laser tag, mini-golf, an arcade, and a bowling alley. It’s a great spot for friendly competition and an easy way to fill an afternoon with fun. The new Dave & Buster’s, located at Governor’s Square Mall, offers a mix of arcade games, big-screen sports, and a full-service restaurant, making it the perfect place to grab food, play some classic games, and enjoy an evening out.
Need to let off some steam? Check out Rage’N Axe! Imagine the thrill of darts, but with a twist—axes! It’s an absolute blast. While it might seem a bit daunting at first, once you try it, you’ll find it’s an amazing way to relieve stress.
Outdoor Adventure: Rock Climbing & Mountain Biking
For those who prefer a more active Spring Break, Clarksville has exciting outdoor recreation opportunities. King’s Bluff Rock Climbing Area, a scenic limestone crag overlooking the Cumberland River, features over 160 climbing routes, making it a favorite among climbers of all skill levels. If biking is more your speed, North Ford St. Mountain Bike Park offers a variety of trails designed for both beginner and experienced riders. The trails weave through wooded areas, providing a mix of technical challenges and flowy sections for a thrilling ride.
Live Music & Nightlife
Clarksville’s live music scene makes for a great night out, with plenty of venues hosting performances throughout the week. The Revel House is a laid-back gastropub and music venue where you can catch live performances, enjoy craft cocktails, and soak in the welcoming atmosphere. Strawberry Alley Ale Works is another downtown favorite, featuring live music nights, craft beer, and a cozy yet lively setting. Upstairs at Strawberry Alley boasts an impressive 5,000-square-foot taproom with stunning 360-degree views of historic downtown Clarksville. Enjoy a welcoming, casual, and smoke-free atmosphere complete with board games, delicious food, and access for those under 21 until 9 p.m. For a more casual night out, Star Spangled Brewing Co., a veteran-owned brewery, frequently hosts live music, trivia nights, and community events, making it a great place to enjoy local craft beer and an evening with friends. If you find yourself on the other side of town, Old Glory Distilling Co has live music each Friday and Saturday with fire pits, cornhole and more.
For Families Traveling with Kids
Indoor Play & Interactive Museums
For families with young children, Clarksville has plenty of kid-friendly attractions to keep little ones entertained. Mochas & Minis Indoor Play & Café offers a fun and safe play space designed for kids 8 and under, where parents can sip a latte while kids climb, slide, and explore with two locations available. The Customs House Museum is also a hit with families, featuring exhibits like the Bubble Cave, a large model train display, and interactive learning spaces designed to spark curiosity. Another great option for hands-on learning is the Wade Bourne Nature Center at Rotary Park, where kids can explore interactive nature exhibits and play in the outdoor adventure area.
Outdoor Fun & Parks
Clarksville is home to some fantastic parks, making it easy for kids to run, climb, and explore. Downtown Commons is a family-friendly urban park with interactive water features, a giant Imagination Playground, and plenty of green space for running and playing. Liberty Park offers a large playground, walking trails, and a pond where kids can watch the ducks or toss in a fishing line. The park also has a dog park, making it a great stop for families traveling with a pet.
Sweet Treats & Kid-Friendly Dining
No family trip is complete without a few sweet stops! Golly G’s is a must-visit for homemade ice cream and cookies, with plenty of fun flavors for kids to choose from. Frozen Fuel is another great option, serving up delicious ice cream and milkshakes that make for the perfect Spring Break treat. For a fun meal, head to Miss Lucille’s Café, where parents can enjoy fresh sandwiches and salads while kids explore the massive marketplace filled with unique finds.
Tips & Tricks for Visiting Clarksville
Parking in Downtown Clarksville
Downtown Clarksville offers free street parking on weekends after 5 PM on weekdays and on Mondays. If you're visiting during a busy time, the new public parking garage at First Street and Commerce Streets provide affordable and convenient options, with a walking connector directly to Franklin Street.
Best Photo Spots
Clarksville has plenty of Instagram-worthy spots to snap and share with your friends back home. The Customs House Museum’s striking architecture makes for a stunning backdrop as does the Roxy Regional Theatre, while the Upland Trail offers unique, scenic shots. If you’re looking for something artistic, don’t miss the murals scattered around downtown, including the "God Bless" mural on the Strawberry Alley side of Mildred and Mables. For nature lovers, the Clarksville Greenway offers many scenic views and spots for grabbing the perfect selfie, like a bridge crossing a 600’ ravine.
Exploring Like a Local
One of the best ways to experience Clarksville is by following one of Visit Clarksville’s themed Challenge Trails, available on the Visit Clarksville mobile app. Whether you're into local coffee shops, public art, or historic sites, the trails offer a fun way to explore the city and even earn a prizes!
Plan Your Spring Break Getaway to Clarksville!
Start planning your trip today by visiting VisitClarksvilleTN.com or downloading our mobile app to discover more ideas, see upcoming events, and build your perfect itinerary.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Clarksville this Spring Break!
