Clarksville

A Brief History of Clarksville, Tennessee
Clarksville, founded in 1784, is a historic city located in north-central Tennessee. Named after Revolutionary War hero General George Rogers Clark, it has deep ties to Southern culture, American history, and the spirit of innovation. The city played a crucial role in the Tobacco trade, becoming a hub of commerce and culture in the region. It was occupied by Union troops during the Civil War, which left an indelible mark on the city’s history. Clarksville grew rapidly in the 20th century with the establishment of Camp Campbell, now Fort Campbell. Home to the 101st Airborne Division, the city embodies a strong military tradition. Today, Clarksville is a vibrant city blending heritage with modern development, reflected in its downtown architecture and thriving arts scene.

FAQ for Clarksville
What is the best way to get there?
Clarksville is best accessed by car or bus from Nashville, which is about 50 miles to the southeast. Nashville International Airport is the nearest major airport.
What is Clarksville famous for?
Clarksville is famous for its historic downtown, the Austin Peay State University, the Customs House Museum, and its proximity to Fort Campbell.
What are five interesting facts about Clarksville?
1. Clarksville is Tennessee’s fifth-largest city.
2. It’s home to Tennessee’s oldest bank, the Northern Bank (now known as the F&M Bank).
3. Clarksville was named after General George Rogers Clark, a Revolutionary War hero.
4. The city has a 10.5-acre outdoor museum called Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement.
5. The Roxy Theatre in downtown Clarksville was originally a movie theater and is now a popular center for live performances.
How did Clarksville get its name?
Clarksville was named after General George Rogers Clark, a Revolutionary War hero and brother of William Clark of the famed Lewis and Clark Expedition.
What are some travel tips for Clarksville?
Prepare for a wide range of weather as the city experiences all four seasons. Enjoy the historic downtown, visit Dunbar Cave State Park, and explore the local cuisine. Don’t forget to visit Fort Defiance Civil War Park & Interpretive Center.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you will likely need a visa to enter the United States, depending on your country of origin. It’s best to check the U.S. State Department’s website for the most accurate information.
When is the best time to visit Clarksville?
Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) are the best times to visit Clarksville when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing.
Are there local customs I should know for Clarksville?
Drinking: The legal drinking age is 21.
Greetings: A simple “Hello” or “How are you?” is common.
Public transit: The Clarksville Transit System provides local bus service.
What is the time zone for Clarksville?
Clarksville is in the Central Time Zone (CST/CDT).
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage is 120 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B.
What is the currency?
The currency is the U.S. dollar (USD).
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes, ATMs are widely available throughout the city.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, most businesses accept major credit cards.
Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?
Yes, many businesses in Clarksville accept Apple Pay and Google Pay.
How much do I tip in Clarksville?
Tipping: Standard tipping is 15-20% of the total bill.
Restaurants/bars: Tip 15-20%.
Hotels: Tip $1-2 per bag for bellhops, and $2-5 per day for housekeeping.
Taxis: Tip 10-15% of the fare.
Tour guides: Tip $15-20 per person per day.
Clarksville Key Information

Founded
Population
Elevation

1784
176,974(source)
180 m (591 ft)

Weather

Season (Months)
High Temp (C/F)
Low Temp (C/F)

Spring (Mar-May)
22C / 72F
7C / 45F

Summer (Jun-Aug)
31C / 88F
19C / 66F

Fall (Sep-Nov)
24C / 75F
9C / 48F

Winter (Dec-Feb)
10C / 50F
-1C / 30F