Durant, Oklahoma offers 30 must-visit places, starting with its own blend of history, outdoor recreation, and local culture. The city, known as the "Magnolia Capital of Oklahoma," delivers a mix of attractions that range from the Choctaw Casino & Resort to the serene shores of Lake Texoma.
Downtown Durant and Local Heritage
Begin your exploration in historic downtown Durant, where the Three Valley Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Bryan County's past, from early Choctaw settlement to the railroad era. The museum's collection includes pioneer memorabilia, photographs, and documents that bring local history to life.
Walk the streets lined with brick storefronts that house antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. The Bryan County Courthouse, with its distinctive architecture, anchors the downtown square. For a deeper dive into the region's story, visit the Oklahoma Presbyterian College site, now marked with historical plaques explaining its significance to the community.
Outdoor Recreation at Lake Texoma and Beyond
Lake Texoma, one of the largest reservoirs in the United States, offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The lake's 89,000 acres of water and 580 miles of shoreline provide ample space for water sports, while the Eisenhower State Park and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation areas offer camping and picnicking facilities.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Fort Washita Historic Site and Lake Durant for outdoor recreation and fishing. Fort Washita, established in 1842, is a well-preserved military post that now operates as a historic site and museum, with guided tours of the barracks, officers' quarters, and the cemetery. Lake Durant, a smaller municipal lake, provides a quieter setting for anglers targeting bass, catfish, and crappie.
For those seeking hidden natural wonders in Oklahoma, the nearby Red River Valley offers scenic overlooks and wildlife viewing areas. The Bois d'Arc Lake and the surrounding woodlands are home to white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species.
Choctaw Casino & Resort
The Choctaw Casino & Resort is the largest gaming and entertainment complex in Oklahoma. The resort features over 3,000 slot machines, table games, and a poker room, along with multiple restaurants ranging from casual buffets to upscale steakhouses. The property includes a 1,000-room hotel tower, a 20-screen movie theater, and a 3,000-seat event center that hosts concerts and shows.
The resort's pool area includes cabanas and a lazy river, while the spa offers massages and treatments. For golf enthusiasts, the nearby Choctaw Golf Course provides an 18-hole championship layout.
Annual Events and Festivals
The Magnolia Festival, held each spring, celebrates Durant's designation as the Magnolia Capital of Oklahoma. The festival features a parade, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and food trucks. Visitors can take guided tours of the city's magnolia trees, many of which were planted in the early 20th century.
Other community events include the Bryan County Free Fair in September, the Christmas Parade in December, and the weekly farmers market from May through October, where local growers sell fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
Durant's location in southeastern Oklahoma makes it a convenient base for exploring the broader region. The Washita Valley history and ruins in Oklahoma are within a short drive, offering archaeological sites and interpretive trails that document the area's Native American and pioneer heritage.
For railroad enthusiasts, the all aboard for Oklahoma's vintage train adventure experience departs from nearby towns and offers scenic rides through the countryside. The Kiamichi Railroad's excursion trains run on select weekends, providing a nostalgic journey through the region's timber and agricultural lands.
The Chickasaw Nation's headquarters in Ada, about an hour west, includes the Chickasaw Cultural Center with exhibits on tribal history, language, and art. The center features a traditional village, a sky bridge, and a café serving indigenous cuisine.
Dining and Local Flavors
Durant's dining scene reflects its cultural diversity. Local barbecue joints serve smoked brisket and ribs, while Mexican restaurants offer family recipes that have been passed down for generations. For a taste of the South, try the fried catfish and hush puppies at one of the city's longtime eateries.
The Choctaw Casino's restaurants include a steakhouse, a seafood grill, and a noodle bar. For a quick bite, the food court offers pizza, burgers, and Asian bowls. Several downtown cafes serve homemade pies, cobblers, and daily lunch specials.
Lodging Options
In addition to the Choctaw Casino's hotel, Durant offers a range of accommodations. National chain hotels near Interstate 75 provide convenient access to the highway, while bed-and-breakfasts in the historic district offer a more personal stay. The Lake Texoma area has cabins and RV parks for those who prefer to be closer to the water.
For a unique experience, consider staying at one of the lakefront vacation rentals that feature private docks and panoramic views. Many of these properties are managed by local families and come fully furnished.
Practical Information for Visitors
Durant is located at the junction of U.S. Highway 75 and State Highway 70, about 90 miles north of Dallas, Texas. The city is served by the Durant Regional Airport, which offers general aviation services; commercial flights are available at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport or Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, both about a two-hour drive.
The best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Summers can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Winters are generally mild, though occasional cold fronts can bring freezing temperatures.
Parking is generally easy to find in downtown Durant, with free street parking and several public lots. The Choctaw Casino offers valet parking and a large parking garage. Public transportation is limited, so a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding area.
Most attractions in Durant are open year-round, though hours may vary on holidays. The Three Valley Museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays, while Fort Washita offers tours daily from March through October and by appointment during the winter months. Lake Texoma State Park charges a small day-use fee, and camping reservations can be made online.
For those interested in route 66 museums and small town highlights in Oklahoma, the historic route passes about 30 miles north of Durant, with several preserved sections and roadside attractions worth a detour. The town of Caddo, just east of Durant, features a historic downtown district with antique stores and a restored opera house.
The secret sites and parks in Oklahoma near Durant include the Blue River Public Hunting and Fishing Area, a 1,300-acre tract along the Blue River that offers primitive camping and excellent smallmouth bass fishing. The Pontotoc County Courthouse in Ada, another nearby town, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
For places in Tahlequah, the capital of the Cherokee Nation, plan a day trip to see the Cherokee National History Museum, the Cherokee Heritage Center, and the ancient capital grounds. The Illinois River, which flows through Tahlequah, is popular for float trips and kayaking.
In places in Bartlesville, about three hours north, visitors can see the Price Tower, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed skyscraper that now houses a hotel and museum. The nearby Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve offers art collections, a petting zoo, and hiking trails.
Durant's strategic location also makes it a gateway to the Ouachita National Forest, which straddles the Oklahoma-Arkansas border. The forest offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and waterfalls, including the popular Talimena National Scenic Byway.
For a relaxing day on the water, rent a pontoon boat at Lake Texoma and explore the coves and sandbars. Fishing guides are available for hire and can take you to the best spots for striped bass, which are abundant in the lake's deep channels.
History buffs will appreciate the Choctaw Nation's Capitol Building in Tuskahoma, about 45 minutes east of Durant. The 1884 building now serves as a museum, with exhibits on the tribe's government, culture, and the Trail of Tears.
The Red River, which forms the Oklahoma-Texas border, offers additional recreational opportunities. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on calm stretches, while the river's sandbars are perfect for picnicking and swimming.
Durant's community theater group, the Bryan County Players, performs several productions each year at the local arts center. The center also hosts art exhibits, workshops, and concerts throughout the year.
For shopping, the Choctaw Casino's retail area includes a gift shop with Native American crafts, apparel, and souvenirs. Downtown Durant's shops sell handmade jewelry, home decor, and specialty foods, including locally made jams and salsa.
Fitness enthusiasts can use the walking trails at Durant's city parks, including the multi-use trail that circles the municipal golf course. The local YMCA offers a pool, gym, and group fitness classes for visitors with a day pass.
When visiting Fort Washita, allow at least two hours to tour the grounds and buildings. The site's museum houses artifacts recovered during archaeological excavations, including military buttons, pottery shards, and tools from the 1800s.
Lake Durant, despite its smaller size, is a favorite spot for local anglers. The lake's shoreline is ringed with pecan and oak trees, providing shade for a quiet afternoon of fishing. A boat ramp and fishing pier are available for public use.
The Magnolia Festival, typically held in late March or early April, coincides with the trees' blooming season. The festival's parade features floats decorated with magnolia blossoms, and the queen's coronation ceremony is a highlight of the weekend.
Durant's mild climate allows for year-round outdoor activities. Even in winter, sunny days can be pleasant for hiking or golf. The city's location in the southern Great Plains means that snow is rare, though ice storms occasionally occur in January.
For a memorable sunset view, drive to the top of the dam at Lake Texoma and watch the sun dip below the water. The lake's western shore offers the best vantage point, with the Wichita Mountains visible on clear days.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Durant's combination of history, recreation, and hospitality ensures a rewarding visit. The city's friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a worthy addition to any Oklahoma itinerary.
