Things To Do
in Durant
Durant, Oklahoma sits along the Red River near the Texas border, blending small-town charm with university energy. It is home to Southeastern Oklahoma State University and a vibrant downtown with seasonal events. The surrounding Lake Texoma area offers outdoor recreation, fishing, and scenic drives.
Visitors enjoy the Choctaw Nation presence, casino entertainment, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to explore on foot or by car.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area of Durant, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Stop by the local café for a hearty breakfast featuring regional favorites, such as biscuits and gravy. As you sip your coffee, take in the vibrant atmosphere filled with local artisans and friendly residents.
After breakfast, visit the Three Valley Museum to delve into the rich history of Durant and its surrounding areas. Explore exhibits that showcase artifacts from Native American culture to the railroad era, providing a comprehensive view of the region's past. Enjoy lunch at a nearby diner, where you can savor classic American fare while chatting with locals about their favorite spots in the town.
As the sun sets, head over to the nearby Choctaw Casino for an evening of entertainment and fun. Try your luck at the gaming tables or catch a live music performance in one of the casino's venues. Wrap up your night with a delicious dinner at one of the casino's restaurants, where you can choose from a variety of cuisines.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Lake Texoma, where nature trails wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the water. Bring along a packed breakfast and enjoy it at one of the scenic overlook spots, watching the sunrise over the lake. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, birds, and perhaps even a playful otter.
After your hike, spend the afternoon kayaking or fishing in Lake Texoma, taking advantage of the lake's clear waters and abundant fish population. Rent equipment from a local provider and find a peaceful spot to enjoy some quiet time on the water. For lunch, pack a picnic to savor lakeside, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
As evening approaches, return to Durant and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a cozy lakeside restaurant. The setting sun will provide a picturesque backdrop while you enjoy fresh seafood or a juicy steak. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the shore, soaking in the tranquility of the lake at twilight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming vibe
- Great access to Lake Texoma and outdoor activities
- Cultural attractions and a university town feel
- Casino entertainment nearby
- Relaxed pace and lower costs
- Limited public transit and heavy reliance on cars
- Smaller nightlife variety compared to big cities
- Summers can be very hot; winters can be chilly in occasional years
- Some attractions operate on seasonal hours
Places to Visit in Durant
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant murals and vintage storefronts provide lively backdrops for street photography.
Historic architecture and curated exhibits offer opportunities for architectural and documentary shots.
Sunsets over the lake and reflections on the water create scenic landscape photography.
Green spaces and classic campus buildings offer clean lines and warm light for photography.
Food in Durant
Durant Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy breaded steak served with gravy, a comforting staple at many local diners.
Must-Try!
Slow-smoked ribs with regional sauces, a common choice at nearby casual eateries.
Fried or blackened catfish, a Southern favorite found on several local menus.
Classic dessert featuring Southern pecans, often served with whipped cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from regional vendors.
Occasional food stalls and trucks around Main Street offering quick bites and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People in Durant are typically warm; a brief greeting and small talk are common in social settings.
Show respect for Native American cultural sites and events; ask before taking photos at certain venues.
Safety
Tipping in Durant
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard is 15-20% in full-service restaurants; round up for casual service and tip hotel staff as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy for some smaller venues; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days are common; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening and stay hydrated.
Mild temperatures with pleasant fall colors; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.
Cool to mild temperatures with occasional freezes; pack layers and be prepared for variable conditions.
Moderate temps and blooming landscapes; watch for rain showers and enjoy outdoor events.
Durant at Night
Hiking in Durant
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic lakefront routes offering moderate hiking and sunset views along the shore.
Nearby wooded areas with shorter, family-friendly trails suitable for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Durant by plane.
Major international hub about 90-120 miles from Durant; frequent domestic and international flights; accessible by car or rideshare.
Smaller Dallas airport offering domestic flights; roughly 90-110 miles away.
Oklahoma City’s main airport; about 170 miles away; good for domestic connections.
Smaller regional airport serving general aviation and limited domestic flights; convenient for quick trips to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizeable student population from Southeastern Oklahoma State University contributes to the town’s energy and cultural events.
Common residents include families seeking a relaxed small-town environment with outdoor access.
Residents with ties to Choctaw and Chickasaw heritage, contributing to local culture and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central pastime at high schools and Southeastern Oklahoma State University; games draw community crowds.
Popular in schools and community centers; supports local leagues and college matchups.
Lake Texoma supports year-round fishing, boating, and water sports for residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durant.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and vegetable sides; ask about dairy-free dressings and soups.