Clarksville has received recognition for its’ many attributes including a mild climate with four distinct seasons, a central location, and low cost of living. These are just a few of the reasons over 100,000 residents call Clarksville home. The city is ranked as a top quality community by publications like Reader's Digest, Money Magazine, Demographics Journal, Expansion Management, Forbes and others.
Clarksville was named for General George Rogers Clark, Indian fighter and Revolutionary War leader. In December 1785, North Carolina established Clarksville as a town. Despite frequent Indian attacks, the town survived and prospered.
In 1796 when Tennessee became the 16th state, Tennessee County, of which Clarksville was a part, was divided into Montgomery and Robertson Counties. Austin Peay State University and Fort Campbell have a significant impact on the community’s culture and cultural opportunities.
The Cumberland River and nearby land between the lakes present an abundance of recreational and water sport opportunities. Annual events that celebrate the history and heritage make residents and visitors alike feel a welcomed part of the community.
Founded in 1784, Clarksville is one of the South's most historic cities. Visitors and residents alike experience that history through memorable attractions, unique architecture, and a variety of festivals and events.
Today, as Tennessee's fastest growing city behind only Memphis and Nashville, Clarksville offers the best of both a rich heritage and a vibrant city on the move.
Accommodations
The Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast, located in the heart of Clarksville, is a historic residence built in the early 1940s by tobacco businessman Kendrick Rudolph.
It features a variety of hardwoods floors throughout and arched doorways, crown molding, wainscoting, hand-carved cherry wood cabinets, and floors. There is an exquisite wrought iron staircase leading to the second floor, as well as a sloped copper awning over the side porch.
Other selections on interest include: The Cabin at Still Waters Farm, the Riverview Inn, Wingate Inn, Best Western Inn, Country Inn and Suites and the Guest House Inn.
Restaurants
The Rose Garden, built in 1886, is a beautiful Victorian mansion and is now home to a tea room and garden shop. Homespun dining with wonderful foods include the Hachland Hill Dining Inn -a 1950's Bed and Breakfast with historic cabin lodging, and Charlie's Steakhouse which serves the finest steaks in midwestern, 60's-era style.
Main Events
See the best of historic downtown Clarksville in the 2.2-mile, self-guided walking tour. Among the tour's 34 stops are "Bursting with Pride" a mural display of Clarksville's historic architecture. The 17-mile driving tour showcases 52 historically significant sites. Brochure maps are available at the Customs House Museum, Cumberland RiverCenter, and I-24 Visitor Center. Starting point is the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center.
Visitors can stroll the meandering Cumberland RiverWalk, the city's signature riverfront promenade. The internationally acclaimed RiverWalk is the centerpiece of the River Distict and includes an amphitheater, overlook plazas, a playground, picnic facilities, wharf, boat ramp, pedestrian overpass, and performance stages. Built in 1898 as a U.S. Post Office and Customs House for the flourishing tobacco trade, this architecturally fascinating structure is among the most photographed buildings in Tennessee. The State's second largest general history museum features rotating shows, fine art galleries, and a sculpture garden, along with permanent exhibits, and the Explorer's Floor--a special area for the entire family to solve puzzles and play games.
L & N Train Station, built in 1890, the L & N Train Station was the scene for the Monkees' hit, Last Train to Clarksville. Once one of the busiest locations in Clarksville, with soldiers and civilians arriving and departing daily, the facility is open for public and private use.
Shopping
Governor's Square Mall is a prime destination for regional shoppers. Over 100 stores offer a variety of name-brand and specialty items. Downtown Franklin Street Posh Boutique is a highlight among the shopping boutiques along Franklin Street in downtown Clarksville.
Cultural
Leading the way for performing arts in Clarksville-Montgomery County is Austin Peay State University’s Center for the Creative Arts. The Center, established in 1985, promotes a variety of musical and dance productions, recitals, concerts, theatrical performances, literary readings and art exhibitions. Most Center events are free and open to the public.
The Center annually produces more than 100 quality arts activities by faculty and regional and internationally acclaimed guest artists who bring change in arts awareness and understanding. Performances are held in the elegant European-style, 600-seat concert theatre of the music/mass communication building and in the more intimate atmosphere of the 200-seat Trahern Theatre.
Another hallmark is Clarksville’s own Roxy Regional Theatre, located in historic downtown. The theatre is Clarksville’s oldest professional theatre and offers patrons a combination of professional company shows and community offerings. Housed in a 1947 art deco theatre, The Roxy produces 10 main stage productions annually.
Located in the heart of historic downtown, the Customs House Museum is Tennessee’s second largest general museum. With over 35,000 square feet of the region's best hands-on activities gallery space, the Customs House Museum provides an outing for all ages. The Museum’s premier gift store, Seasons, offers unique, high-quality art, jewelry, books, handcrafted treasures, and other merchandise.
Written by: Karen J. Lee
