15+ Best Things To Do in Durant, Oklahoma

Durant, Oklahoma, affectionately known as the Magnolia Capital of Oklahoma, offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern entertainment. As the capital city of the Choctaw Nation in the heart of Southeastern Oklahoma, your visit stands to be rich with history and native traditions. Annual festivals reflect Durant’s vibrant community spirit, providing you with authentic experiences that showcase the region’s character.

While in Durant, you have the opportunity to explore historical sites like the Fort Washita Historic Site, which extends a tangible connection to the past, or engage in contemporary leisure at the Choctaw Casino Resort. Each location tells part of Durant’s storied tapestry. Your itinerary can include a balance of educational pursuits and relaxation, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of this unique city nestled in Southeastern Oklahoma.

Choctaw Casino & Resort-Durant

Indulge in the vibrant scene at Choctaw Casino & Resort-Durant, where you’ll find more than a game of chance. Entertainment unfolds with live music and events, ensuring each visit is memorable. Your luck extends beyond the casino’s floor, home to numerous slot machines and table games, to the Oasis Pool—a retreat resembling a tropical escape.

Rebalance at The Spa where massages, facials, and body treatments rejuvenate the senses. Satisfy your cravings at various dining options, from casual bites to upscale restaurants. If you fancy a drink, select from multiple bars and lounges offering crafted beer and cocktails.

The resort boasts a clean and inviting atmosphere. Should you choose to extend your stay, the hotel’s comfort is a promise delivered. With amenities catering to both excitement and relaxation, Choctaw Casino & Resort-Durant offers a slice of leisure for every visitor.

Choctaw Casino Durant

At Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, you’re invited to step into a world where excitement mingles with an array of high-stakes games and luxurious amenities. Here, slot machines — over 7,400 of them — jingle with the promise of luck, complemented by more than 100 table games including blackjack, roulette, and poker.

Entertainment isn’t limited to gambling; as you explore the grounds, you’ll encounter The District, featuring an arcade, cinema, and bowling alley. It’s a family-friendly zone ensuring fun for all ages. The resort’s commitment to service shines at the Welcome Center, where helpful staff can assist you with any questions.

Crystal-clear pools and private cabanas offer a refreshing break from the thrill of gaming, while a selection of dining options caters to whatever you’re craving, be it a quick bite or a lavish dinner. Whether you’re there to play or to simply bask in the vibrant atmosphere, Choctaw Casino Resort is a premier destination that promises a memorable stay.

Three Valley Museum

When you visit Durant, the Three Valley Museum offers a deep dive into the cultural and historical fabric of the area. This local gem brings the past to life with its rich assortment of artifacts showcased in a climate-controlled setting.

Exhibits

• Historic Locales: Step into a recreated small-town exhibit area on the second floor with over 20 scenes that portray early 20th-century life including a doctor’s office, a general store, and more.
• Cultural Artifacts: Discover a wide range of objects that narrate the story of Bryan County and southeast Oklahoma, accentuating the region’s journey through time.
• Local Artistry: Expect to find indoor displays featuring local artwork that connect you to the modern and historical significances of Durant.

Every artifact and exhibit in the Three Valley Museum is a brushstroke in the broad painting of Durant’s history, offering insights into the town’s unique culture within the Red, Blue, and Washita River valleys.

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Rocket Park

In Durant, Oklahoma, Dixon Durant Park, commonly known as Rocket Park, is a family-friendly spot that nods to both local history and space exploration enthusiasm. Set on a 6-acre land on North 10th Avenue, the park is an ode to the city’s founder, Dixon Durant.

• Amenities:

• Paved parking
• Benches & grills
• ADA accessible restrooms
• Basketball court
• Six lighted tennis courts

The centerpiece, an eye-catching rocket-shaped structure, serves as a playful beacon and a whimsical reminder of bygone eras when space race fever gripped the nation. This nod to the adventurous spirit can fuel your imagination while you leverage the on-site recreational facilities. Whether you’re serving a tennis ball or enjoying a picnic, the park is a link to Durant’s past and a foundation for making new memories.

The District

At The District in Durant, you find a vibrant entertainment and dining landscape tailored to provide a memorable outing for families and friends.

Entertainment Zone

You can harness your competitive spirit at the state-of-the-art bowling lanes or immerse yourself in the exhilarating escape rooms. With games galore and occasional live music and concerts at the ice house, your thirst for fun and entertainment will undoubtedly be quenched.

• Bowling: $4.75/game per person or $20/hour (for up to 8 people per lane)
• Cyber Bowling: Available all day Friday and Saturday
• Escape Rooms: Book in advance for group adventures

Dining & Drinks

Refuel with a sumptuous meal at The District’s array of restaurants. Feast on comforting pub type food like chicken wings and fries, or try a refreshing margarita with a chicken salad sandwich. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, your taste buds are in for a treat.

• Items to try: Margarita, Chicken Salad Sandwich with Potato Chips and a Pickle Spear
• Beverages: A selection of beers and soft drinks available

Fort Washita Historic Site

Experience a piece of American history at Fort Washita Historic Site in Durant, Oklahoma. Built in 1842, this historic fortress served to protect the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations from invasions by the Plains tribes. Its strategic importance continued through various conflicts, including its role in the Civil War.

• Address: 3348 OK-199 Durant, Oklahoma 74701
• Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Discover the well-preserved ruins and engage with the cultural heritage of the region. Group tours offer a deeper understanding of the fort’s role in history, though you’ll need to schedule in advance. As a visitor, you can explore the artifacts and stories that highlight Fort Washita’s significance as a military post and its role in shaping the American frontier. This site is not only a window into past conflicts but also a recognition of the resilience and history of the Chickasaw Nation.

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Choctaw Casino Too-Durant

When you visit Durant, the Choctaw Casino Too! presents a compact yet vibrant gambling experience. Think of it as a mini-casino or a service/welcome center hybrid, designed to give you a taste of the Choctaw excitement. With a focus on slot machines, you’ll find a variety of games to keep you entertained for hours. While it may not carry the full array of table games, it compensates with a range of slot experiences from classic reels to contemporary video slots.

If you’re on a road trip and craving a bit of casino fun, Choctaw Casino Too! serves as an efficient stopover. However, don’t let its size fool you; the establishment offers an intimate gambling environment with attentive service to match the thrill of bigger venues. It’s an ideal spot for a quick gaming fix before heading to the larger Choctaw Casino & Resort.

EcoPark

Discover EcoPark, a hidden gem in Durant, Oklahoma, where nature’s serenity meets urban accessibility. This park is a green enclave, perfectly clean and well-maintained, offering you a moment of tranquility within the city’s bustling rhythm.

• Nature: Immerse yourself in the calming presence of towering trees and vibrant greenery.
• Dog-Friendly: Bring your furry friend along for a delightful walk along the trails.
• Points of Interest: Explore the carefully curated points of interest, each designed to provide an informative and restorative experience.

Enjoy the simple joy of an afternoon picnic or follow the paths to uncover various local flora and fauna. As you wander through EcoPark, experience the natural beauty that makes this spot a cherished resource for both residents and visitors alike. Remember to tread lightly to help keep EcoPark a pristine retreat for years to come.

Keithley Park

Nestled in the heart of Durant, Keithley Park is a 2.5-acre green haven that invites you and your family for a day of leisure and play. The park, previously sided by the old George Washington School, boasts a well-equipped playground, ensuring kids have plenty to do.

Amenities:

• Playground equipment
• Covered pavilion for picnics
• Paved jogging/walking track
• Lighted Little League baseball diamond
• Splash pad for cooling off on hot days
• ADA accessible restrooms

Encourage your kids to frolic in the splash pad while you enjoy the serenity of the park or engage in a friendly game of baseball. Keithley Park is not just a public space; it integrates nature and community, fostering an environment where locals and visitors alike can converge and enjoy simple outdoor pleasures. It is a testament to Durant’s commitment to public leisure spaces within the bustling town environment.

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