Choctaw Country Destinations
One of the most overlooked treasures within tourism tends to be the rich history and inspiration available at the local museums. In fact, Choctaw Country is loaded with many historical destinations and sites which not only give visitors a greater appreciation for the legends and myths within, but make southeastern Oklahoma one of the most unique areas in the U.S. Discover all of the museums in areas you plan to visit, and map-out your next journey.
How much admission would you pay to see a life-sized, 40-foot-long skeletal representation of Acrocanthosaurus atokensis — one of the fiercest meat-eating dinosaurs ever to walk the earth? Couple that with an archaeological Study Area which showcases numerous authentic Caddo ceramics ranging as far back as the Mississippian phase (A.D. 700 – 1500) all the way up to modern day examples of native artwork – how much would you pay to see all that? Put away your wallets, as admission to the Museum of the Red River is always free.
Hugo Frisco Depot Museum / Hugo
An actual railroad depot built in 1914 which serviced the area for fifty years, The Hugo Frisco Depot is now an entertaining and impressive railroad museum. Here, you can enjoy a miniature circus, study the intricacies of their model railroad, explore a Southwestern Bell switching center, and lots more. Dine in the depot’s converted baggage rooms in the renovated Harvey House Restaurant. It’s a fun, interesting, and unique experience that will leave lasting memories.
For those with a passion for wildlife, the 3,100 square foot Wildlife Heritage Center Museum is the place for you. Located between two existing Whitetail and Fallow deer exhibits just across from “Little Peoples Park,” you’ll find a multitude of exhibits and artifacts on display with friendly, helpful, and highly educated volunteers eager to answer all of your questions. Pet and feed the local whitetail deer, and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy for yourself while the kids take advantage of the great playgrounds.
Fort Towson Historic Site and Museum / Fort Towson
Established in 1824 to guard the southern boundary of the United States, Fort Towson also served as an access point for Texas-bound travelers including Sam Houston, Davy Crockett and Stephen F. Austin. The fort served as a dispersal point for Choctaw and Chickasaw natives who survived the dreaded “Trail of Tears.” Here, visitors can see what remains of the historic buildings and experience the state-of-the-art exhibits which take adults and kids alike through the site’s incredible history.