Okay, let’s get one thing straight. When you think of a classic winter getaway, maybe Clarksville isn’t the first name that pops into your head. That’s about to change.
While the rest of the world is hustling and bustling, Clarksville offers a different pace. It’s a place where winter doesn’t shut things down—it just makes the scenery more dramatic and the hot drinks taste better.
This city on the Cumberland River is full of historic charm and natural beauty that absolutely shines in the crisp, cool air.
Get ready to be pleasantly surprised. We’ve put together the ultimate, insider’s list of the 14 best places to visit in Clarksville this winter.
This isn’t your average tourist guide. We’re talking about cozy cafés perfect for a chilly morning, awe-inspiring natural wonders without the summer crowds, and festive spots that feel like a warm hug.
Forget what you think you know about Tennessee in the off-season. Your most memorable winter adventure is waiting right here in Clarksville, and we’re about to show you exactly where to find it. Let’s dive in.
1. Experience a Frozen Wonderland at Dunbar Cave State Park
You haven’t truly experienced Clarksville until you’ve seen Dunbar Cave State Park in the winter. The summer crowds are long gone, leaving a serene, frosty landscape that feels like it’s all yours.
The lake might have a delicate layer of ice, and the bare trees reveal views you just can’t get any other time of year.
The three miles of hiking trails are perfect for a brisk, invigorating walk where you can spot winter wildlife and enjoy the quiet. It’s a peaceful escape and a stunning winter destination in Clarksville.
While the famous guided cave tours are a summer activity, the park’s winter beauty is an open secret among locals. Just standing at the mouth of the cave, knowing it holds prehistoric Native American art from the 1300s inside, is a humbling experience.
Bundle up, bring a thermos of something warm, and take a slow walk around the water.
The combination of wetland and restored prairie creates a unique, beautiful habitat that’s especially striking against a gray winter sky. It’s a must for any list of the top things to do in Clarksville in winter.
2. Stroll Under a Million Lights at Christmas on the Cumberland
For pure, unadulterated holiday magic, you can’t beat Christmas on the Cumberland. From late November through early January, the Riverwalk at McGregor Park transforms into a glittering, twinkling winter wonderland.
Imagine wrapping up in your favorite scarf and meandering along the Cumberland River, surrounded by countless light displays.
The reflection of the lights on the dark water doubles the enchantment. It’s a festive, free, and utterly delightful way to spend a winter evening.
The event kicks off with a huge celebration featuring a holiday market, live music, and an incredible drone show with 200 synchronized drones painting pictures in the night sky.
But even on a regular weeknight, it’s spectacular. This is the kind of classic, family-friendly tradition that makes for perfect photos and even better memories.
Taking this stroll is one of the best Clarksville winter activities for getting into the spirit of the season. It’s a hallmark of a Clarksville winter that everyone should experience at least once.
3. Discover History and Fun at the Customs House Museum
On a day when the wind is just a bit too sharp, head straight for the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center. Housed in a stunning historic building from 1898, this museum is so much more than it seems.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits that keep both kids and adults totally entertained. For the little ones, there’s a fantastic hands-on learning area, a bubble cave, and an arts and crafts room. And let’s be honest—adults will be just as mesmerized by the incredible, detailed model train display.
The museum also hosts special winter events like “Noel Night,” an open house with live music, crafts, and shopping.
It’s the ideal indoor activity in Clarksville for winter, where you can spend hours warming up while feeding your curiosity. The blend of regional history, science, and interactive play means there’s something for every interest.
You’ll leave not only warmer but also with a much deeper appreciation for the city’s story. It’s a cultural cornerstone and a fantastic bad-weather backup plan.
4. Find Vintage Treasures at Miss Lucille’s Marketplace
Prepare to be wowed. Miss Lucille’s isn’t a store; it’s a cavernous, quirky wonderland for shoppers and explorers. Housed in a former shirt factory, this massive space is home to over 200 local vendors and artists selling their wares from individual stalls.
You can find absolutely anything here: vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, antique furniture, local art, and collectibles you never knew you needed. Getting lost in the aisles on a cold afternoon is a perfect Clarksville winter activity.
The vibe here is friendly, creative, and uniquely Clarksville. It’s the polar opposite of a sterile, big-box mall. You’re supporting local makers and entrepreneurs with every purchase, which feels great.
Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind gift or just browsing for inspiration, Miss Lucille’s is an adventure.
It’s a cornerstone of the local creative community and a must-visit spot that showcases the city’s unique character. Don’t rush—take your time and see what treasures you can uncover.
5. Enjoy a Scenic Winter Walk at Rotary Park
When you need a serious dose of nature without leaving the city, Rotary Park is your answer. This expansive park has everything: wide green spaces, peaceful hiking trails, and a scenic creek that’s beautiful in every season.
In winter, the trails are quiet and the landscape has a stark, elegant beauty. It’s a fantastic place for a long, contemplative walk with a friend or a lively family outing to burn off some energy.
Make sure to pop into the on-site Wade Bourne Nature Center. Inside, you’ll find a small museum, a butterfly garden, and interactive nature discovery areas that kids adore.
It’s a warm, educational pit stop during your outdoor exploring. Packing a picnic lunch (maybe from a local deli like The Choppin’ Block) and enjoying it at one of the park’s tables is a simple, satisfying way to spend a midday break.
For active, outdoor fun, this park is a top place to visit in Clarksville TN in winter.
6. Sip, Savor, and Explore Historic Downtown Commons
Clarksville’s Historic Downtown Commons area is the vibrant, walkable heart of the city, and it’s especially charming in the winter months.
Centered around Strawberry Alley and Franklin Street, you’ll find beautiful fountains, intriguing public art, boutique shops, and a fantastic selection of restaurants all within a few blocks. The atmosphere is friendly and bustling, with that famous Southern hospitality around every corner.
You can spend a whole afternoon here without a strict plan. Browse the uniquely decorated boutique The Clarksville Collection for souvenirs.
Grab a gourmet doughnut from Parlor Doughnuts or a hearty lunch from Wild Flour Bake Shop. As the sun sets and the streetlights click on, the whole area takes on a cozy, small-town glow.
Exploring this district is essential for understanding the city’s vibe, making it a premier Clarksville winter destination for food, shopping, and ambiance.
7. Journey to the Past at Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement
Step back in time at the Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement. This isn’t a stuffy museum; it’s a living, breathing collection of 16 authentically furnished log structures spread across 40 beautiful rural acres.
In the winter, the rustic cabins and quiet fields have a peaceful, nostalgic feel. Costumed interpreters bring the 19th century to life with demonstrations like blacksmithing, weaving, and playing live fiddle music.
The settlement often hosts special winter events, like a charming, old-fashioned Pioneer Christmas Parade. It’s an immersive experience that history lovers will absolutely cherish, and kids will love exploring the old schoolhouse and farm tools.
Walking the grounds feels like a peaceful escape to a simpler time. For a unique and educational day trip, this is one of the most interesting things to do near Clarksville in winter. It’s a hidden gem that tells the foundational story of the region.
8. Cozy Up with a Film at the Holiday Film Series
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about seeing a classic movie in a theater, especially during the holidays. Clarksville’s Holiday Film Series offers just that.
Throughout December, you can catch beloved seasonal favorites like How the Grinch Stole Christmas and The Polar Express for just a few dollars. It’s the perfect plan for a chilly Sunday evening when you just want to relax and be entertained.
Settling into a theater seat with your family or friends, sharing some popcorn, and singing along to familiar tunes is pure, simple joy. It’s a community tradition that feels both special and comfortable.
At a time when streaming at home is the norm, making an event out of a trip to the movies feels refreshingly old-school. Adding this to your list of indoor activities in Clarksville TN is a surefire way to create a warm, shared memory without any fuss.
9. Witness Frontier Festivities at Fort Defiance
Perched high on a bluff overlooking the confluence of the Cumberland and Red Rivers, Fort Defiance Civil War Park offers breathtaking views year-round.
In winter, those views are even more dramatic, with the leafless trees opening up panoramic vistas of the waterways below. The park itself is a great spot for a walk with a historical perspective.
During the season, the park hosts “A 19th Century Christmas,” a special event that transports you to the 1860s with period music, games, and refreshments.
It’s a unique way to understand how the holidays were celebrated in a different era. Even outside of special events, the interpretive center and the walking trails make for a fascinating and scenic outing.
Combining history with stunning natural scenery makes this a compelling winter attraction in Clarksville.
10. Indulge in a Sweet Treat at Golly G’s Ice Cream
Yes, we’re recommending ice cream in the winter—trust us on this. Golly G’s Ice Cream is a local institution with dozens of incredible hand-dipped flavors.
There’s something defiantly joyful about bundling up in your coat and scarf to enjoy a cone of something deliciously cold. The shop is bright, cheerful, and always full of happy people, making it a perfect little pit stop during a day of exploring.
They have classic flavors and wild, creative inventions, so there’s something for every taste. It’s a fantastic family-friendly stop that’s guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Supporting this beloved local business is a tasty part of any visit. Whether you’re a purist or an adventurer, finding your favorite flavor is a sweet little ritual and a fun thing to do in Clarksville TN regardless of the temperature.
11. Explore the Riverwalk at McGregor Park
The Riverwalk at McGregor Park is a four-mile paved trail that follows the curves of the Cumberland River. In the warmer months, it’s a popular spot for biking and walking.
In winter, it becomes a peaceful, reflective pathway. You’ll find scenic swings and benches along the route, perfect for pausing to watch the water flow by or to catch a stunning winter sunset.
Part of the trail leads to an abandoned rail bridge, adding a touch of industrial history to the natural scenery. Sections of the path also feature lovely public art and gardens.
A walk here is invigorating and offers a beautiful perspective of the city from its shoreline. It’s easy to see why this is a beloved resource for locals and a wonderful, free winter activity in Clarksville for visitors seeking a tranquil moment.
12. Find Family Fun at the Clarksville Speedway Drive-Thru Lights
When it’s just too cold to get out of the car, you can still have a spectacular holiday experience. The Drive Thru Lights at the Clarksville Speedway let you enjoy dozens of impressive light displays from the cozy, heated comfort of your own vehicle.
You drive along a converted one-mile track, oohing and aahing at the festive scenes, and you can even loop around for a second look if you want.
This is a fantastic option for families with very young kids, for anyone with mobility concerns, or just for those nights when you want maximum Christmas spirit with minimum effort.
Crank up the holiday tunes on your radio, bring along some travel mugs of hot cocoa, and make a cozy, memorable evening of it. It’s a hassle-free, joyful Clarksville winter attraction that everyone can enjoy.
13. Grab a Bite on the Go at The Downtown Market
Even in the cooler months, Clarksville’s weekend Downtown Market is a vibrant community hub. While it’s at its peak in the summer, visiting during the off-season has its own perks.
You can still find fantastic local vendors selling artisan bread, fresh roasted coffee, handmade crafts, and more, often with shorter lines and more time to chat with the makers.
Many vendors operate year-round, and the market often features food trucks where you can grab a delicious, warm breakfast or lunch.
Wandering the stalls with a hot drink in hand, listening to the occasional live musician, is a wonderful way to connect with the local community and find unique goods.
Supporting these small businesses is a feel-good way to spend a Saturday morning, making the market a great place to visit in Clarksville this winter.
14. Ring in the New Year at the Community Celebration
If your winter visit stretches into late December, you’re in for a treat. Clarksville throws a fantastic, free New Year’s Eve Party for the whole community.
The event features live music, dancing, food trucks, and a festive atmosphere perfect for counting down to the new year with friends, family, and friendly strangers.
It’s a public, inclusive celebration that showcases the city’s spirit. There’s a real sense of togetherness as everyone gathers to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new.
It’s the perfect capstone to a holiday season in Clarksville and a brilliant alternative to crowded, expensive parties. Joining this celebration is a memorable and exciting winter thing to do in Clarksville TN to end your visit on a high note.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Fourteen incredible reasons why Clarksville, Tennessee, should be at the top of your winter travel list. This season reveals a different side of the city—a quieter, more reflective, and deeply charming side.
From the natural drama of Dunbar Cave to the twinkling lights on the Cumberland, from cozy museums to vibrant downtown streets, Clarksville is brimming with experiences that turn a cold day into an unforgettable adventure.
Now it’s your turn to explore. Pick a weekend, book a stay, and come see for yourself. Walk the frosty trails, discover a vintage treasure, share a sweet treat, and soak up that famous Southern hospitality.
Don’t just dream about a perfect winter getaway—make it happen. Clarksville is ready to welcome you with open arms and show you a season you’ll never forget. Your adventure starts the moment you decide to go.