Looking for history, outdoor fun, and riverside charm? Head to Clarksville, Indiana! Explore ancient fossil beds, stroll scenic trails along the Ohio River, and uncover local legends near Louisville. This southern Indiana gem is packed with surprising adventures—perfect for a weekend getaway or a scenic stop on a road trip.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Clarksville is from April to October, when mild weather makes it ideal for exploring the Falls of the Ohio, hiking local trails, and enjoying outdoor events along the waterfront.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Clarksville is right off I-65, just across the river from downtown Louisville, Kentucky—about 10 minutes away.
  • By Air: Fly into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), only 15 minutes from Clarksville.
  • By Bus: TARC buses connect Louisville and Clarksville, or use ride-share options for easy access across the river.

Where to Stay

  • Radisson Hotel Louisville North – Lakeside hotel with an indoor pool, close to the riverfront and downtown Louisville.
  • Candlewood Suites – Extended stay option with kitchenettes and modern amenities.
  • Best Western Green Tree Inn – Budget-friendly with a great location near shops and restaurants.

Top Attractions

⮕ For nature lovers: Falls of the Ohio State Park

For nature lovers: Falls of the Ohio State Park

© kirkikis/stock.adobe.com

The Falls of the Ohio State Park is located along the banks of the Ohio River, where it forms part of the larger Falls of Ohio National Wildlife Conservation Area. The main draw-card of the park is the largest exposed Devonian fossil beds on the planet, which date back to 416 -358 million years ago. Visitors are advised to start their tour of the park at the Interpretive Center, where immersive and interactive exhibits will set the scene for viewing the fossil beds. Other on-site activities include hiking the fossil beds, wildlife watching, visiting the George Rogers Clark Home site, fishing, picnicking and further geological explorations.

Falls of the Ohio State Park, 201 W. Riverside Drive, Clarksville, IN 47129, Phone: 812-280-9970

⮕ For shoppers and families: Green Tree Mall

For shoppers and families: Green Tree Mall

© Green Tree Mall

The Green Tree Mall first opened its door in 1968 and has been going strong ever since. The mall offers visitors a good selection of popular stores including anchor tenants JCPenney and Dillard’s. Other interesting retail outlets include American Eagle, At Home, H & M, Claire’s and Foot Locker. The Mall is easy to navigate and offers various food outlets where you can rest for a while as you enjoy a light meal or coffee – your choices include Applebee’s, Auntie Annie’s, B C Rooster’s, Chinese Gourmet and the Texas Roadhouse, which is the first of this chain to open in Indiana.

Green Tree Mall, 757 E. Lewis and Clark Parkway, Clarksville, IN 47129, Phone: 812-283-0741

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Clarksville, Indiana

  • Louisville, KY (Downtown) (10–15 min) – Tour the Louisville Slugger Museum, stroll the waterfront, or enjoy top-notch dining and bourbon bars.
  • Jeffersonville (5–10 min) – Walk the Big Four Bridge, explore local shops, or dine along the Ohio River with skyline views.
  • New Albany (10–15 min) – Discover boutique shopping, visit Carnegie Center for Art & History, or grab coffee in a vibrant downtown district.
  • Falls of the Ohio State Park (5–10 min) – Explore fossil beds, hike scenic trails, or visit the interpretive center along the riverfront.
  • Charlestown State Park (20–25 min) – Hike forested trails, take in river views, or explore historic Rose Island ruins in a lush, peaceful setting.
  • Sellersburg (15–20 min) – Visit local wineries, golf scenic courses, or enjoy quiet cafés and small-town charm.
  • Floyds Knobs (20–25 min) – Drive winding hillsides, pick seasonal fruit at orchards, or take in sweeping views of the Ohio Valley.
  • Corydon (East Side) (25–30 min) – Tour Indiana’s first state capital, explore historic buildings, or shop and dine in the quaint downtown.
  • Clarksville Greenway (5–10 min) – Bike or walk this peaceful trail through wooded areas, wetlands, and open green space in town.

FAQ

  • Where is Clarksville, Indiana located?
    • Clarksville, Indiana is located directly across the Ohio River from the bustling Kentucky city of Louisville.
  • Why is Clarksville a popular weekend getaway destination?
    • The town offers a variety of interesting activities, making it a popular weekend getaway destination for visitors looking for both relaxation and adventure.
  • What is the top attraction in Clarksville?

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