Last Updated on April 19, 2026 by Kimberly Stroh
Planning a family day trip or weekend getaway? Clarksville, Tennessee, is packed with activities that make it easy to keep kids engaged while creating lasting memories. Our family took a multigenerational trip, bringing Grandma with my three kids. Even with plenty of age gaps, we found so many things to do in Clarksville with kids. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, Clarksville blends small-town charm with big-time fun, making it a destination families will want to return to again and again.
1. Best Museum in Clarksville for Curious Kids
Situated in downtown Clarksville, the Customs House Museum is a must-do for kids. With 52,000 square feet, it’s the largest general history museum in the state. You can’t miss the museum because it’s housed in a historic 1898 Federal Post Office & Customs building. Parents will love the free parking and the interactive exhibits designed just for kids.
From the model train exhibit to the STEM-focused exhibit that helps kids learn about local Clarksville history, there’s going to be something your kids will gravitate towards. My kids couldn’t step away from the Bubble Cave, where bubbles teach kids about real caves, like how stalactites and stalagmites form! There’s even a family art room where kids can create pieces to take home. Carve out 1-2 hours for the Customs House Museum because your kids won’t want to leave.
2. Outdoor Adventures and Parks Kids Will Love
Downtown Clarksville feels urban, but it’s also very easy to maneuver. It’s great if you’re looking for an urban getaway that’s kid-friendly, but you want to avoid crowds. As the family driver, I truly appreciate that! Despite the urban feeling, Clarksville is home to fantastic green spaces within the city and just on the outskirts.
Our favorite is the Rotary Park. With over six miles of ADA-accessible trails, two playgrounds, a garden, and a nature center, the park surprised us. The Wade Bourne Nature Center is indoors and offers educational exhibits for kids, animals to see, and workshops. My kids love the aquarium, where kids can learn about the Cumberland River ecosystem. Start at the Nature Center and then burn off energy at the Rotary Park playgrounds.
For amazing views, head to Liberty Park. It sits on the Cumberland River and offers trails, a playground, a fishing pond, and fields. Walking alongside the river is peaceful, but our favorite is the trails over the ponds. The playground is big with plenty of shaded areas for parents.
3. Free and Budget-Friendly Things to Do with Kids
Free is always great with kids, and ArtLink in downtown Clarksville is a therapeutic way to spend an afternoon as a family. It’s an art studio space that offers free community-centric projects. Kids can make free art pieces that are donated back to the community for those in need. It’s the perfect feel-good activity that gives back to Clarksville. Of course, there are also keepsake art pieces the kids can make for a small fee, too. ArtLink is an underrated Clarksville gem that the kids are certain to enjoy.
4. Unique Attractions You Won’t Want to Miss
Our favorite Clarksville attraction surprised us in the best possible way, and it’s a short drive from downtown. Historic Collinsville brings history to life for young kids, but it’s also fascinating for adults. It is a pioneer settlement that showcases life in the 1800’s. Take a self-guided tour through historic log buildings or attend one of the special event weekends where living history interpreters demonstrate the laborious tasks of the time, like a blacksmith or someone looming fabric. The historic schoolhouse was our favorite part of the tour. Check the Historic Collinsville calendar for special and seasonal events.
5. Rainy Day Activities for Families in Clarksville
When the weather isn’t in your favor, head to The City Forum. It’s the ultimate indoor play destination, with multiple attractions under one roof. Pick from bowling, go-kart racing, mini golf, laser tag, arcade games, and rides. Guests can purchase an unlimited pass to take advantage of everything The City Forum offers.
Pro Mom Tip: The Rotary Park Nature Center and ArtLink are also great indoor spots when the weather isn’t cooperating.
6. Sweet Treats and Kid-Friendly Dining Spots
Restaurant prices in Clarksville are pleasantly budget-friendly for families. As a family of five, we kept most of our meals under $100 total, and we didn’t skimp on desserts. Compared to some of our other Tennessee family trips, like Sevierville, restaurants are cheaper. Here are some of my favorite kid-friendly Clarksville restaurants:
- Miss Lucille’s Cafe – A great lunch spot, the cafe serves sandwiches, salads, and soups. Kids enjoy a free pancake with the purchase of an adult meal. Be sure to shop at the antique marketplace after lunch.
- Legends Smokehouse & Grill – A genuine BBQ spot serving brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken. The blueberry BBQ sauce is amazing, and don’t skip the banana pudding.
- Wildflour Bistro – For breakfast, head to Wildflour Bistro, where everything is made from scratch. It’s a small restaurant, so seating is limited, but they welcome families.
- Blackhorse Pub & Brewery – Serving pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches, Blackhorse is a family-friendly downtown pub that welcomes kids during the day and offers a great cocktail menu for parents.
7. Seasonal Events and Festivals for Families in Clarksville
Clarksville, Tennessee, offers a full calendar of events throughout the year, spanning music, arts, culture, and outdoor experiences. You can catch live entertainment at F&M Bank Arena, stroll through monthly Art Walks in Historic Downtown, or enjoy a show at the Roxy Regional Theatre.
The city also hosts meaningful cultural events, such as the annual Juneteenth Block Party, and family-focused programs at Fort Defiance Civil War Park & Interpretive Center. Spring and fall tend to be the busiest seasons, while summer brings a lineup of free festivals and community events across Montgomery County. Check out the Clarksville Events calendar for up-to-date information.
Clarksville With Kids: FAQ’s
Is Clarksville, TN a good destination for families?
Yes! Clarksville is very family-friendly, with a mix of interactive museums, outdoor spaces, and year-round events that appeal to kids of all ages.
What are the best free things to do in Clarksville with kids?
Families can enjoy several free activities, including parks and playgrounds, walking trails, downtown exploring, and select museum areas or community events throughout the year.
What is there to do in Clarksville with toddlers?
Toddlers will love the playgrounds, splash pads (seasonal), and hands-on exhibits at local museums, along with open green spaces where they can safely run and explore.
Are there indoor activities for rainy days?
Absolutely. Clarksville has indoor attractions like museums, art studios, and play spaces that are perfect for keeping kids entertained when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
When is the best time to visit Clarksville with kids?
Spring and fall are especially popular thanks to mild weather and seasonal events, but summer offers lots of free festivals and outdoor fun.
How many days do you need in Clarksville with kids?
A weekend is usually perfect to hit the highlights, but you could easily extend your stay if you want a slower pace or plan to explore more parks and nearby attractions.