The Best Small Town Getaway In Virginia: Best Things To Do In Clarksville
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Melanie Johnson
Author
As one of the oldest states in the US, Virginia’s charm is rooted in its many quintessential small towns that are rich in culture as well as natural splendor. Of course, this makes Virginia the perfect destination for a small-town getaway in the United States. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast seeking your next excursion, a small-town escape in the Old Dominion belongs at the top of your list. Much to your delight, I’ve found the perfect town that will entice the adventurous traveler in you. As Virginia’s only lakeside community, Clarksville is a must-visit haven, offering attractions for all types of vacationers. Teeming with historical sites, specialty boutiques, family-owned restaurants, as well as a plethora of outdoor activities, there are lots of things to do in Clarksville.
Nestled on the banks of the vast Lake Kerr, this small-town destination is recognized as a slice of heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. So, if you’re seeking to spend time in the great outdoors or you simply want to bask in a relaxing weekend, make Clarksville your next small-town getaway in the United States. Pack your bags, flip on your vacation mode, and let’s embark upon one unforgettable two-day weekend in this charming and oh-so-delightful Virginia small town.
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Table of Contents
Is Clarksville Worth Visiting?
Featuring a walkable downtown with specialty boutiques, great restaurants, art galleries, and more, you'll find lots to explore in Clarksville. Additionally, Kerr Lake as well as Occoneechee State Park offers ample outdoor recreational opportunities. Not to mention the various festivals and events hosted in the town each year. Making this charming town a great getaway for a family vacation, a girl's trip weekend, or a couple looking to spend some time rekindling the magic. Regardless of why you're in Clarksville, it's guaranteed it will be a vacation that you won't soon forget.
Originally settled by the Occoneechee Indians, the town attracted early settlers due to the mild climate as well as its rich tobacco soil. Eventually, due to its large tobacco-manufacturing operation, Clarksville became a booming town and is recognized as the oldest continuous tobacco market in the world.
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Kerr Lake aka Buggs Island Lake is the crown jewel of the town and is the centerpiece of many of its attractions. Today, with just under 1,500 residents, Clarksville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as well as for vacationers seeking a destination with laid-back vibes. With so much to offer, you might get to this charming Virginia town and not want to leave.
Take a glimpse inside this lakeside town by watching this YouTube video tour by Bryan Selser.
Take a glimpse inside this lakeside town by watching this YouTube video tour by Bryan Selser.
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How To Get To Clarksville?
Therefore, for about $30 per day, we suggest that you rent a car at the airport. You'll enjoy the scenic drive on I-85 N to US-15 N to your final destination. You'll also need the car as you venture out on your 2-day excursions around Clarksville, so have no worries, it will come in handy. Local travelers can take US-15 or US-58 to get to the town. You'll enjoy the scenic views from the Phillip Saint Julian Wilson Bridge and the Clarksville Bypass as well as the warm welcome sign.
Getting Around Clarksville
Virginia Avenue, Virginia Ave, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
The downtown square is dotted with local boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more. Additionally, there are adorable benches, where you can sit and people watch, or bask in all the beauty the town has to offer. Lined with stunning architecture, most of the historic buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so history buffs will have lots to explore.
Best Time To Visit Clarksville
Festival lovers will rejoice as this is one of the biggest events in the state, attracting over 20,000 folks every year. You'll want to plan your trip accordingly if you would like to participate in this FREE, award-winning festival. Other events are held throughout the year as well as festive holiday celebrations.
During the Fall, the vibrant hues of the Autumn foliage will serve as a pretty backdrop for some stunning pictures. However, as a lakefront community, Summer and Spring will be the best time to experience the best of Clarksville's attractions.
Where To Stay In Clarksville?
The Sunnyside Sisters Bed and Breakfast, 104 Shiney Rock Rd, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Wake up to freshly baked bread at Sunnyside Sisters Bed and Breakfast. This gorgeous, 5-bedroom 19th-century mansion is as charming as can be, and history buffs will be fascinated by the story that it has to tell. Amenities include large rooms with sitting areas, breakfast with a Dutch twist, private baths, and more. Plus, you'll be greeted with the utmost hospitality from the lovely hosts. A stay at Sunnyside will range from $150 to $210 depending on the room you select.
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Day One, Morning – Breakfast, Shopping, And Outdoor Recreation
Here you'll find locals conversing about happenings in the area, so it's the perfect place to relax and bask in the slower side of life. You could also discover fun activities in Clarksville that the locals enjoy.
Michelle's Home Cooking, 11256 US-15, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
On the menu, you'll find breakfast favorites like sausage and gravy biscuits, country ham and eggs, bacon, pancakes, and more. We recommend getting one of the breakfast plates that comes with 2 eggs, a choice of meat, as well as sides for under $10. This is a hearty country breakfast that will get you fueled up for the day.
Grandfather's Country Creations, 214 Virginia Ave, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
In addition to the stunning architecture, the walkable square on Virginia Avenue has lots of specialty stores, antique shops, clothing boutiques, and more. Perhaps one of the most charming is Grandfather's Country Creations. Overflowing with all the crafty decorative items that you could think of for your home, it's the store you didn't know you needed in your life. You could easily spend hours browsing through all the great merchandise. Truly, this rustic store is a treasure to the Clarksville community.
John H. Kerr Reservoir, United States
As the centerpiece of the town, no trip to Clarksville is complete without exploring this vast haven. Depending on what side of the lake you're on, folks will refer to it as Kerr Lake or Buggs Island Lake.
John H. Kerr Reservoir, United States
Spend the morning kayaking, boating, jet skiing, fishing, or perhaps swimming at one of the sandy beaches in the area. At about $25 per hour, a kayak or paddle board can be rented at Clarksville Water Sports. Pontoon boats are also a popular water vessel used on the lake. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you will rejoice as you explore Virginia's largest lake.
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Day One, Afternoon – Historical Landmarks, Museum, And Winery
Clarksville Regional Museum, 801 West St, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
It's quite evident with all the museums and historical landmarks throughout the town. History buffs, if you're in town on the weekday, take some time to stop by the Clarksville Chamber of Commerce. On Saturdays, the Clarksville Regional Museum is open to the public. Both venues won't cost you a thing.
So, be sure to plan accordingly as you'll gain a wealth of knowledge from a visit to these historic locations.
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This beloved local gem boasts the best burritos in town. Moreover, the expansive menu features tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, nachos, and everything in between.
Los Bandidos Mexican Restaurant, 7331 US-58, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Three Sisters of Shiney Rock Winery, 5484 Shiney Rock Rd, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Rustic and charming, this family-owned winery is operated by...you guessed it, 3 sisters. For the best experience, we highly recommend scheduling a private wine tasting Specializing in Native American grape as well as fruit wines, wine lovers will find something for any pallet. Spend the afternoon sipping wine on the patio overlooking the vineyard on this peaceful farm and winery. If you enjoyed Three Sisters, you'll be delighted to know that the Clarksville Wine Festival is hosted in town during the Spring, so be sure to plan accordingly.
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Built in 1830, Cooper's Landing Inn & Traveler's Tavern is in the heart of historic downtown Clarksville, and it's the perfect way to end our day. This historic inn features a fine dining restaurant as well as the most charming little cottages in the area.
Cooper's Landing Inn & Traveler's Tavern, 801 Virginia Ave, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Featuring steamed shrimp, Alaskan crab legs, and sautéed colossal crabmeat baked in lemon dill butter, it's a favorite of the guests. Pair it with a glass of wine or a cocktail, it's one meal you won't soon forget. Since you’re downtown, you can take an evening stroll or simply relax by the pool and reminisce about the spectacular day you had. A standard room at the inn starts at about $155 per night.
Day Two, Morning – Local Gems, Exploring, And Golfing
Sugar It Up is a local bakery and a beloved gem of the town. Serving traditional baked goods that include cookies, pastries, pies, cakes, cupcakes, and more, you'll feel a true sense of community when visiting this tiny bakery.
Sugar It Up, 203 7th St, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
No matter what you choose, you'll be pleased, as folks rave about all their selections. Not to mention you'll be welcomed by some of the kindest folks in town, you'll experience hospitality at its best. Of course, you must purchase some treats to enjoy later.
700 Virginia Ave, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
You can also find local honey as well as plants, flowers, and more. Moore's Farm Produce Stand is a favorite and we recommend taking the quick 2-minute walk to see all that this fruit stand has to offer.
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Kinderton Country Club, 799 Kinderton Rd, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
If you're a golfer who loves spending time on the greens, then head to Kinderton Country Club, which is a quick 5-minute drive from the square. This semi-private country club is highly ranked amongst golfers in the region and has been featured in Virginia Golf and Triad Golf magazines.
MacCallum More Museum & Gardens, 603 Hudgins St, Chase City, VA 23924, USA
Located just 16 miles outside of town in nearby Chase City, this stunning garden is a must-visit when in Clarksville. Surrounded by walking trails dotted with lovely dogwoods as well as flowing fountains, a Spanish Cloister, and so much more, you'll love marveling at all the treasures inside this picturesque sanctuary. Admission is $5 to $10 for adults and free for kids and members.
Day Two, Afternoon – Hiking, Exploring, And Brewery
Occoneechee State Park, 1192 Occoneechee Park Rd, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Tucked on the banks of Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Lake), this state park is packed with adventure and a haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, as well as the history buff. Featuring water recreation, hiking trails, living history demonstrations, a museum, a splash park, horseback riding, and more, the possibilities for fun are endless. Rent a boat or simply stroll along the lake for a peaceful day.
Overlooking the lake, this family-owned restaurant offers the best of both worlds - delicious food as well as spectacular views.
Bridgewater Bar & Grill, 201 Virginia Ave, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
The seafood items are a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Don't skip trying the jumbo lump crabmeat sandwich served on a buttery brioche bun with all the fixins. It's as mouthwatering as it sounds!
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Buggs Island Brewing Company, 101 2nd St, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Leave the car at the restaurant and take the 5-minute stroll to the brewery. Overlooking the serene lake, featuring outdoor patio seating, fire pit, and more, this brewery is a popular gathering spot for local folks as well as visitors. It's the best way to close out a day of exploration in Clarksville. Sit back, enjoy a cold craft beer, and bask in the lake with all its glory.
The good news is, it's located just a half mile from the brewery, so depending on how your evening goes, you can easily take a stroll to the inn instead of getting back in the car.
The Delicate Flower B&B, 617 Virginia Ave, Clarksville, VA 23927, USA
Rates range from $119 to $179, which is quite reasonable for this adorable historic B&B. Of course, you'll be served the most delicious breakfast featuring all the staples that we love. Depending on the room, you can enjoy breakfast on a cozy balcony with a view. This is a peaceful end to your getaway in this gorgeous lakefront town in Virginia.
Charming and undeniably beautiful, Clarksville is one of the best destinations for a small-town getaway in the United States. This gorgeous lakefront town with its stunning architecture, charming shops, family-owned restaurants, as well as its historical landmarks, represents a quintessential small town in Virginia. From its laid-back vibes to the abundance of outdoor excursions, this delightful town has something for every vacationer.
As a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Clarksville is great during the warmer months, but the town is worth visiting throughout the year. So, the next time you’re searching for a getaway in Virginia, consider a day trip to Clarksville or perhaps make it a weeklong adventure. There’s no doubt that it will be one unforgettable vacation!
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More to Explore
THINGS TO DO IN CLARKSVILLE VIRGINIA & RELATED INFO
What are some more things to do in Clarksville, Virginia?
There are ample opportunities to explore in Clarksville Virginia. Whether you're seeking outdoor fun, historical sites, shopping, dining, and more, the possibilities are endless. Here are some more things to do in Clarksville that we recommend:
- Clarksville Bridge Lights & Nighttime Fishing Venue
- Bluestone Wildlife Management Area
- The Cottage Barn LLC - a charming ice cream shop in the heart of downtown
- Urban Slide - a touring 1,000ft water slide hosted in August that will be lots of fun for the entire family
- Merifield Wildlife Management Area
- Longwood Park - a county park offering camping, picnic tables, water recreation, and more.
- Old Soudan Wildlife Management Area
- Prestwould Plantation - historical landmark and gardens
- Little Lake Farmery - local farm with barnyard friends. If you're traveling with kids, this would be the perfect adventure for them.
Featured Addresses
Clarksville, VA 23927, USA