Fort Defiance sits on a 200-foot-high rocky bluff above the confluence of the Red River and Cumberland River. The site’s outer earthworks, powder magazine and gun platforms are still clearly visible. Here, the history comes to life through tangible traces in the landscape. Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center offers free group tours and excursions.
Nature Between Caves, Parks and Trails
Dunbar Cave is a 144-acre natural area in Montgomery County. Rotary Park covers more than 111 acres and combines scenic trails with natural areas and opportunities for outdoor activities. The two places frame the landscape in different ways: a natural area on the one hand, and a sprawling park on the other.
At Clarksville Greenway, movement and scenery are equally central. The trail is nine miles long, fully paved, and follows a disused railroad line. You can use it for cycling, skating, running or walking. Along the way, creeks, rocky bluffs, native wildflowers and trees shape the scenery, along with a scenic bridge and expansive views.
River Trails and Activities on the Water
A two-mile RiverWalk follows the Cumberland River and connects downtown with the river. This makes it quite different from the nine-mile Greenway, whose route and scenery highlight the former railroad line and natural features. The Cumberland River also offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, boating, water skiing and tubing. Walking and exercise trails are thus complemented by a variety of activities on the water.
Buildings and Historic Traces
Part of the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center is housed in a historic building dating from 1898. It was originally built as a Federal Post Office and Customs House. Historic Collinsville’s 40-acre pioneer settlement also includes the Weakley House Museum. A self-guided audio tour leads through 16 restored log houses and outbuildings in an open-air complex. At the Weakley House Museum, visitors can explore the couple’s extensive collections and the stories behind them.
The history of transportation can also be read in a specific structure: the Louisville and Nashville Railroad built the L&N Train Station at its present location in 1882. Sevier Station is considered the oldest surviving structure in Montgomery County. Those interested in the region’s African American history can explore the African American Legacy Trail. It runs through Montgomery County and shares the far-reaching and unique history of Clarksville’s African American community.
Museums, Theaters and Local Events
The Wade Bourne Nature Center is both a museum and an event venue; a nature discovery area allows children to learn about the world around them. The Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum features interactive and immersive exhibits for visitors of all ages. Both offer examples of the different ways nature and history can be presented.
The Roxy Regional Theatre presents productions ranging from classics to new works. Since 1985, it has also offered matinee performances aligned with the curricula of schools serving grades K–12. For a different glimpse of local life, there is Clarksville Downtown Market: since its founding in 2009, it has brought local producers and artisans together with local shoppers every Saturday from May through October. If you plan to visit the market, check the specific dates. Downtown Commons complements the cultural offerings with a variety of events and activities for cultural and recreational purposes.
Discover more destinations: Clarksville, Jefferson County, Monroe County, Scott County, Sevier, Rutherford, Knox, Humphreys.
For the overview of the wider region: Tennessee.
