Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

The Chahta, or Choctaw, people originally made their home in the eastern part of Mississippi and western area of Alabama. Although hunting parties began visiting what is now southeastern Oklahoma around 1800, it was not until 1830 that the Choctaw people were forced to relocate to the area permanently after the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek was signed, ceding all remaining Choctaw homelands to the United States. Upon arriving in Oklahoma, the Choctaw people rebuilt their government and settled into life in their new home.

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has much to offer as a travel destination. Throughout the area, tourists will find historical sites, unique attractions, hiking, biking, boating, camping and festivals. One especially interesting location is the Spiro Mounds site, located a few miles outside the town of Spiro. This area is the only prehistoric Native American archaeological site in Oklahoma that is open to the public. Another popular spot in the Choctaw Nation is the Talimena Scenic Byway, located between the Oklahoma town of Talihina and Mena, Arkansas. This winding road is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.

The Choctaw Welcome Center, located just north of the Oklahoma-Texas border on Hwy. 69/75, offers information on the best places to visit. The Welcome Center also houses a gift shop where visitors can purchase art, souvenirs, and cultural items made by Choctaws and other Native artisans.

For those looking for exciting indoor entertainment, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma operates state-of-the-art casino resorts at Durant, Grant and Pocola. These resorts offer an impressive number of amenities, as well as dining options, shopping and live entertainment.