Downtown

Downtown Clarksville is hipster, passion and energy encompassed among charming historic architecture and bordered by a majestic river. Escalated private and public investment in recent years in creating a place where locals and visitors love to hang out. New businesses and amenities are opening regularly, making the downtown experience completely new from what it was only a few years ago. 

Food

Italian, Greek, French, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, American, Soul Food, and pubs…find them all in downtown, with many restaurants open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Strawberry Alley Ale Works is a favorite hangout for burgers, weekend brunch, balcony river views and a wide selection of craft brews. Their Upstairs restaurant features pizzas, games, live music and plenty of lounging areas.

Shops

Browse a small, but impressive variety of local shops along Franklin Street and Strawberry Alley. From vinyl records to books, clothing and accessories to art, home décor to antiques, you’ll find lots of options. We hear a lot of buzz about Journey’s Eye Studio. It’s one of those places you just have to experience to understand. What’s for sure is that you’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces artfully displayed and a welcoming smile no matter who you are or where you’re from. Also check out The Clarksville Collection for locally branded merch.

Public Art

You’ll find a dozen of more pieces of public art in the downtown area. Sculptures, murals, and fountains give the city its unique character. Make sure to see the “Bursting with Pride” mural near the Roxy and “Clarksville Starry Night” at 420 Madison St. See a list of all Public Art pieces here. 

Breweries & Beverages

Just outside the downtown center, Kings Bluff and Evill Nash both offer a unique selection of craft beers on tap. Kings Bluff features weekly food trucks and entertainment. In central downtown, discover the craft ales at Blackhorse Pub & Brewery, Strawberry Alley Ale Works and Star Spangled Brewing. If wine is your preference, try Trazo Meadery and The Vine on Franklin.

Architecture

The historic facades from the Mid-19th Century are a definite wow-factor. You’ll want to plan time to walk around Franklin, Public Square, 2nd and 3rd Streets to take it all in.

Things to Do

Not only is the Customs House Museum an architectural marvel, but a treasure of permanent and rotating exhibits. If you’re traveling with kids, plan enough time for them to play throughout the Explorer’s Floor, complete with Bubble Cave and a massive train exhibit.

The stellar cast at the Roxy Regional Theatre offers mainstage and black-box productions throughout the year.

Downtown Commons is an urban playground, gathering place, and venue. During summer months enjoy free live music, movies and other staged entertainment. 

Fitness buffs will have no trouble designing a workout with a view along the Upland Trail and connecting RiverWalk. Out and back, depending on which spurs you choose, is about five miles. You can even rent a B-cycle along the route.

Top-ranked Downtown Market is open Memorial Day Saturday through September (except during Riverfest) on Public Square. Dozens of vendors offer handmade, crafts, baked goods, produce and more. Most weekends include entertainment and food trucks -- it’s the happening place to be! 

Challenge your creativity with an outing at Courtney's Creative Palette or Artlink, where your imagination can soar.