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Customs House Museum Clarksville

4.6
·719 reviews·Clarksville, United States

A historic gem offering interactive kids' fun, diverse art, and Clarksville's rich history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for kids

CrowdLow
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Customs House.

Customs House Museum Clarksville

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for kids

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic gem offering interactive kids' fun, diverse art, and Clarksville's rich history.

4.6
(719 reviews)

"An excellent museum with something for everyone, from kids' hands-on fun to inspiring art and local history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission for Military

Military families often receive free admission, a great perk for service members! :military_medal:

Check Train Schedule

The model trains run at specific times. Consult the museum's website for the schedule. :train2:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Children's Floor

Interactive Children's Floor

Kids' Area

An acclaimed space with hands-on exhibits, bubble cave, and explorer areas for imaginative play.

Art Exhibits

Art Exhibits

Galleries

Diverse rotating exhibits featuring local and national artists, from contemporary to historical.

Local History & Sports Legends

Local History & Sports Legends

Historical Galleries

Discover Clarksville's past and learn about notable figures like Wilma Rudolph and Pat Summit.

Model Trains

Model Trains

Train Room

See model trains in action on a track; check the schedule for running times.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Customs House Museum

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center in Clarksville, TN, offers a blend of history, art, and interactive fun for all ages. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if you're traveling with children who will enjoy the dedicated kids' areas. Check their website for special event schedules and exhibit rotations to maximize your experience.

Parking and Accessibility

While the museum is highly recommended for families, be aware of parking. Some visitors note the main parking is at the back, requiring a walk around to the front entrance, which can be challenging in heat or for those with mobility issues. A free parking lot is available on the south side of the museum on the hill.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, ideal for kids
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique concerts & receptions
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
AC is amazing, good escape
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Polishing up the girls for their debut at the Customs House Museum! “FLY GIRLS” exhibition about the WWII WASPS opens today at @customshousemuseum in Clarksville. #encaustic #encausticpainting #nashvilleartist #museumexhibition #customshouseclarksville #encausticportraits
alison_fullerton
58 likes • 684 views

Free Admission for Military

Military families often receive free admission, a great perk for service members! :military_medal:

Check Train Schedule

The model trains run at specific times. Consult the museum's website for the schedule. :train2:

Middle School had fun at the Customs House Museum today- STREAM, aerodynamics with paper airplanes, trains, scavenger hunt about Clarksville, learning about Wilma Rudolph, more!
icschooltn
25 likes • 432 views
Announcing AWA’s 10th museum exhibition in the 25 in 25 campaign! "Of Mark & Meaning" will be on view at the Customs House Museum, Clarksville, TN, Feb 13–Apr 26, 2026. Featuring top women artists from across the U.S. & Canada + $30K in awards. #OfMarkAndMeaning #AWA25in25 #WomenArtists #AWA
amwomenartists
37 likes • 1.5K views

Explore the Log Home

Don't miss the historic log home display after the fire truck area. :housewithgarden:

Membership Value

Consider a membership if you plan to visit often; it can be cost-effective for families. :moneybag:

Customs House Museum. Clarksville, Tennessee. Catch the full video on youtube. #clarksvilletn #clarksvilletennessee #clarksvilletennesse #tennessee #museum #rvtravel #evtravels #rvtrip #rvtrips
rvamerica59
19 likes • 161 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission for Military

Military families often receive free admission, a great perk for service members! :military_medal:

Check Train Schedule

The model trains run at specific times. Consult the museum's website for the schedule. :train2:

Explore the Log Home

Don't miss the historic log home display after the fire truck area. :housewithgarden:

Membership Value

Consider a membership if you plan to visit often; it can be cost-effective for families. :moneybag:

Hands-On Fun

The kids' art area and explorer zones offer fantastic hands-on learning. :art:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(719 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Customs House Museum for its excellent interactive children's exhibits and diverse art and history displays. The museum is noted for being clean, well-maintained, and offering a welcoming atmosphere, with special appreciation for its historical building and the 'Fly Girls' exhibit. Some minor inconveniences include parking logistics, especially during hot weather.

"There is a free parking lot for museum visitors on south side of museum; on hill.

This is a great museum and I love that it has specialized areas for children and their families. They have a family art studio and area where the kids can explore the city by learning about different trades; plumbing, electricity, market etc. These areas are simply wonderful and if I lived in Clarksville I would bring my great nephews, frequently.

I didn’t know Wilma Rudolph was from Clarksville and Pat Summit. They have a great gallery dedicated to individuals in sports etc.

I absolutely love the ‘Fly Girls’ exhibit (Oct 13 - Jan 25, 2024) I had never heard of this group and felt so proud to see so many female pilots. These women are/were so inspiring and many lived long lives. I’m it sadly at least 2 dozen were killed while flying. I left wanting to know more about this organization and the women!! They pushed forward through the discrimination by men. Smh So sad that we live in a society where all are created equal but a few feeble minds decide they will create barriers for those who do not look like them!!

There is also an old log home on display after you pass through area that house old fire trucks. I absolutely love this and like that the wife of a family member donated house to museum.

There is also modern art on display plus an areas with model trains and track. The train runs at certain times so if you’d like to see the trains going around track check on website for times.

I highly recommend visiting this museum!"

Dr. Rosie Ann Riley

"Fun stuff to do here, Arts & crafts, Book Readings,Kids Area is the best I've seen around area in the museums. There art Exhibits as well and really good event good to meet and greet and learn about the area.

Excellent Kids Museum & Adult."

Walt Disney

"We went today and absolutely loved it! Super clean and the ac was amazing. The girl at the front was incredibly nice. Being a military family we got in free! Tons of things to look at and our toddler LOVED the kids areas. The kids art area was so much fun as well as the bubble cave and explorer area. The only downside was the parking is at the back of the building so you have to walk around the front in the heat because there is no entrance back there. I’m heavily pregnant so it was a struggle. But I would absolutely go back and definitely recommend this to anyone."

Mendy Espino

What People Like

Exceptional kids' area
Diverse art exhibits
Rich local history

What People Dislike

Parking accessibility

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center is located at 200 South Second Street in Clarksville, TN. Visitors can typically find parking on the south side of the museum on the hill, which is free for museum visitors. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a free parking lot available for museum visitors on the south side of the museum, located on a hill. Some visitors have noted that the main parking is at the back, requiring a walk around to the front entrance. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, with interactive exhibits and historical displays. However, the parking situation might require some consideration for those with mobility challenges. Reddit

Clarksville is accessible by car via major highways. If flying, the nearest major airport is Nashville International Airport (BNA), which is about an hour's drive away. Instagram

Information on public transportation options directly to the museum can be limited. It's advisable to check local Clarksville transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if not driving. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but the museum is known to offer free admission for military families. It's always best to check the official Customs House Museum website for the most current pricing and any special offers. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers memberships, which can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors or families looking to enjoy the amenities year-round. Instagram

Operating hours can vary by day and season. It's recommended to visit the official Customs House Museum & Cultural Center website for the most up-to-date information on their hours of operation. Instagram

Military families often receive free admission. Check the museum's website or inquire at the front desk for any other potential discounts or special promotions. Reddit

While walk-in visits are common, for special events or group visits, it might be beneficial to inquire about advance ticket booking options through their website or by contacting the museum directly. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum boasts an excellent, highly-rated children's floor with hands-on exhibits, a bubble cave, an explorer area simulating city trades, and an art studio. InstagramReddit+1

The museum hosts a variety of art exhibits, including works by local and national artists, contemporary pieces, and historical art. They frequently feature special exhibitions from various art collectives and individual artists. Instagram+4

Yes, the museum features exhibits on local history, showcasing the heritage of Clarksville and the surrounding area. They also have galleries dedicated to notable individuals from the region, such as sports legends. Reddit

Absolutely! The children's floor is highly interactive, and there are also exhibits like the model trains that offer an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Reddit

The 'Fly Girls' exhibit highlights the inspiring stories of female pilots during WWII, showcasing their bravery and contributions despite facing discrimination. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the many dining options available in downtown Clarksville. Instagram

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There may be designated areas for consumption, but it's best to confirm with the museum staff. Instagram

Downtown Clarksville offers a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to more formal dining. You can find options for various cuisines within walking distance or a short drive from the museum. Instagram

Yes, downtown Clarksville has several family-friendly restaurants that cater to children, offering diverse menus and a welcoming atmosphere. Instagram

The museum may offer spaces for private events or parties. It's advisable to contact their events department directly to inquire about availability, packages, and booking procedures. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Customs House Museum, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artwork. Always check for posted signs or ask museum staff. Instagram

Yes, you can usually take photos of the art exhibits for personal enjoyment. However, some special exhibitions might have specific restrictions, so it's good practice to verify. Instagram

The interactive children's floor, the historic log home, and the diverse art galleries offer many visually interesting opportunities for photography. The exterior of the historic building itself is also photogenic. InstagramReddit

Tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permission. It's best to contact the museum in advance if you plan to use such equipment for a photoshoot. Instagram

You can share your photos on social media using hashtags like #CustomsHouseMuseum, #ClarksvilleTN, and #VisitClarksville. Tagging the museum's official accounts is also a great way to connect! Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Customs House Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The highly-praised children's floor offers endless interactive fun with a bubble cave, explorer zones, and an art studio that kids absolutely love. InstagramReddit+1 It's a great way to combine learning and entertainment, making it a memorable outing for all ages. Remember to check the parking situation and consider weekday visits for a less crowded experience. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find plenty to admire at the Customs House Museum. The museum consistently features diverse and engaging art exhibitions, showcasing a range of styles and artists. From contemporary works to historical pieces, these rotating exhibits offer a fresh perspective with each visit. Instagram+4 Keep an eye on their schedule for special artist receptions and featured collections. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For those interested in local heritage, the Customs House Museum provides a deep dive into Clarksville's past. Explore exhibits detailing the region's history, discover the stories of local sports legends, and step back in time with displays like the historic log home. Reddit It's an excellent opportunity to connect with the area's unique cultural narrative. Reddit

✈️ Military Families

A significant perk for military families is the free admission often offered at the Customs House Museum. This makes it an accessible and enjoyable outing for service members and their families stationed in or visiting the Clarksville area. Reddit It's a wonderful way to experience local culture and history at no cost. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Clarksville: History and Culture

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center is more than just a building; it's a repository of Clarksville's rich history and vibrant culture. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic building that once served as a U.S. Post Office and Customs House, the museum offers a tangible connection to the past. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the area's development, significant events, and the lives of its notable residents. InstagramReddit

Beyond local history, the museum celebrates the achievements of individuals from Clarksville who have made a mark on the world. Galleries dedicated to sports legends like Wilma Rudolph and Pat Summit provide inspiring insights into their journeys and accomplishments. This blend of local heritage and broader cultural impact makes the museum a compelling destination for understanding the spirit of Clarksville. Reddit

A Haven for Young Explorers: The Children's Floor

One of the most lauded aspects of the Customs House Museum is its exceptional children's floor. This area is designed to be highly interactive and educational, offering a dynamic space for kids to learn through play. Features like a bubble cave, an explorer area where children can simulate various city jobs (plumbing, electricity, market), and a family art studio ensure hours of engaging fun. InstagramReddit+1

The hands-on nature of these exhibits makes learning an adventure. Children can engage their curiosity, develop problem-solving skills, and spark their creativity in a safe and stimulating environment. The positive feedback from families highlights this as a major draw, making the museum a top choice for family outings in the Clarksville area. InstagramReddit

Artistic Expressions: Exhibitions and Collections

The Customs House Museum is a significant venue for showcasing a wide array of artistic talent. It regularly hosts rotating art exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists from across the region and the nation. These exhibits span various mediums and styles, from contemporary paintings and sculptures to historical art pieces, ensuring there's always something new and captivating to discover. Instagram+4

Visitors can expect to see diverse collections, including abstract art, landscapes, and portraits, reflecting the dynamic art scene. The museum also plays a role in promoting craft and artistic communities, often featuring member exhibitions that highlight the skill and creativity of local artisans. This commitment to the arts makes the Customs House Museum a vital cultural hub for Clarksville. InstagramReddit

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