CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Fall break is officially underway in Clarksville. If you were not one of the few who flock southward towards the coast, you may be staring at your children wondering what to do with them for the next four days. Fear not, there are great options in and around Clarksville that can entertain even the hardest to please children. Yes, teenagers.
1. Get Outdoors
How long have we felt like an egg sizzling on the sidewalk? This week the weather is expected to stay in and around the mid-60s. A perfect chance to take the kids outside to any number of parks.
Clarksville Greenway: The Greenway has a paved trail from beginning to end. While some spots are quite hilly, the majority of the path is perfect for kids of all ages to ride their bikes. 1101 Pollard Road, Clarksville
Rotary Park: This park has a ton of opportunity for kids to explore. There are paved and dirt trails, a creek, playground, picnic area, and a mountain bike trail (recommended for experienced/older kids). One trail in particular will lead you to an abandon tobacco barn. 2308 Rotary Park Drive, Clarksville
Playgrounds: The old standby, take the kids to the playground and let them run off steam. There are so many to choose from as both City of Clarksville Parks and Recreation and Montgomery County Parks and Recreation
2. Indoor Fun
Looking for an indoor place to take the kids for a few hours? There are several options for indoor activity. Prices vary at each location depending on what you choose. Groupon may have discounts on certain places as well.
Planet 3: This indoor trampoline park is always a hit. The entire center is filled with trampolines, foam pits, basketball hoops, a dodgeball court, and a ninja course. Planet 3 may be crowded at certain times, to avoid the wait they do take time slot reservations online. 310 N. Needmore Rd, Clarksville
The City Forum: The City Forum is an indoor amusement and entertainment center like no other. From go karts, to mini golf, indoor bowling to laser tag, they’ve got it all. We didn’t even mention the arcades! 2231 Madison Street, Clarksville
Horsefeathers Pottery Studio: There are several different pottery painting and canvas painting places in Clarksville to explore. One option is Horsefeathers in historic downtown. Kids can choose a piece of pottery to paint, at any time during normal operating hours. The studio offers children’s classes too, on set dates and times. Kids follow a specific design as the teacher guides them through painting on canvas. 94 Franklin Street, Clarksville
3. Arts and Culture
Does your child enjoy exploring their creative side? Whether they’re an art lover or history buff, there are several places to go in Clarksville that will ignite their imagination.
Customs House Museum and Cultural Center: You’ve seen the stunning Customs House on the corner of Commerce and Second Streets in historic downtown. Since 1898 the Customs House has been in Clarksville, in a variety of capacity. Once a customs house and post office, the building now houses several permanent and rotating exhibits. Children love the Explorers Floor. Who knew a bubble cave, mock grocery store, and some trains could keep children busy for hours? 200 S. Second Street, Clarksville
Historic Collinsville: Just outside of Clarksville in Southside, Tenn. are 40-rolling acres that look like you’ve stepped back into Little House on the Prairie. Historic Collinsville is a recreated pioneer village/settlement. Visitors can explore authentic period artifacts as they tour these historic homes and buildings.
Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library: If you haven’t been to the library recently, it’s time you revisit, because there is so much going on! The library staff has created some unique classes and opportunities for children of all ages to explore, learn, and engage. During Fall Break, they’ll host a Disney Fall Break Program with crafts and games for the younger kids. On Oct 17, 7 – 12th graders can learn house to apply special effects makeup in their Special Makeup for Halloween.
4. Pumpkin Patch
What Fall Break list would be complete without mentioning the pumpkin patch? There are several options to choose from in and around Clarksville. Hours and pricing may vary by location.
Honeysuckle Hill – Springfield, Tenn.
Shade Tree Farm and Orchard – Adams, Tenn.
Patterson Place Farm – Woodlawn, Tenn.
Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf – Hopkinsville, Ky.
5. Volunteer
Keep your children’s hands occupied while also serving their community. There are plenty of organizations looking for volunteers, here are just a few examples:
Walk the Shelter Dogs: Montgomery County Animal Care and Control needs caring volunteers to love on their four-legged friends. This volunteer position is recommended for older children with a calmer disposition. To learn more, contact Animal Control.
Make Food Bags for F.U.E.L: The F.U.E.L. Program is a food subsidized program providing children in Montgomery County access to healthy food options, when they may otherwise not have access to a stable food source. Contact the organization to see a recommended list of non-perishable healthy food items. Let your kids set up a mini assembly line and ‘pack lunches’ for other children in the community.