Ashland OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ashland, Oklahoma.
1. Eufaula Lake
EXPANSIVE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Eufaula Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, offering panoramic views near Ashland and McAlester. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping throughout the year. The lake's extensive shoreline provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts in all seasons.
2. McAlester Army Ammunition Plant
MILITARY HISTORY SITE
The McAlester Army Ammunition Plant stands as one of the region's largest employers and a significant historical site. Visitors can learn about the area's military contributions and the plant's role in national defense. The facility represents the evolution of McAlester's economy from coal mining to more diversified industries.
3. Coal Mining Museum
REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE
The Coal Mining Museum preserves the rich history of McAlester's foundation in the coal industry following the Civil War. Exhibits showcase the tools, techniques, and daily life of miners who shaped the region's development. Visitors gain insight into the challenging work that built southeastern Oklahoma's economy for decades.
4. Wildlife Heritage Center Museum
NATIVE ANIMAL EXHIBITS
The Wildlife Heritage Center Museum features impressive 7,000 square foot deer exhibit enclosures that showcase the region's wildlife. Visitors can get up close with resident deer and other native fauna in this celebrated facility. The center helps establish Antlers' reputation as the Deer Capital of the World.
5. Kiowa Downtown District
HISTORIC MAIN STREET
Kiowa Downtown District offers visitors a glimpse into small-town Oklahoma charm just 11 miles from Ashland. The historic buildings house local businesses, restaurants, and shops that reflect the area's cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the authentic atmosphere while supporting the local economy.
6. Honey Haven Farm
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURAL ATTRACTION
Honey Haven Farm welcomes visitors to experience rural Oklahoma agricultural traditions. Families can enjoy seasonal activities including harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and farm animal encounters. The farm provides educational opportunities about local agriculture while offering recreational fun for all ages.
7. Pittsburg County Art Galleries
LOCAL CREATIVE SHOWCASE
Pittsburg County Art Galleries display works from talented regional artists in Ashland and surrounding communities. Exhibits rotate regularly to showcase various media including painting, sculpture, photography, and folk art. Visitors can appreciate the artistic expression that captures the spirit and landscape of southeastern Oklahoma.
8. Choctaw Country Trails
SCENIC HIKING PATHS
Choctaw Country Trails wind through the sparkling lakes and glorious mountains of southeastern Oklahoma near Ashland. Hikers can experience cypress-lined bayous and diverse ecosystems that characterize this picturesque region. The well-maintained paths offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography throughout the year.
9. Old Town Mercantile
VINTAGE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Old Town Mercantile offers a nostalgic shopping experience in the heart of Ashland. Visitors can browse through antiques, local crafts, and regional specialty foods in a historic building. The store serves as both a retail destination and a community gathering place for residents and tourists alike.
10. Southeastern Oklahoma Music Venue
LIVE PERFORMANCE SPACE
Southeastern Oklahoma Music Venue hosts performances ranging from country and bluegrass to rock and folk music. Local and touring musicians entertain crowds in this intimate setting that celebrates the region's rich musical heritage. The venue contributes to Ashland's cultural scene by offering entertainment options for residents and visitors.
11. Ashland Historical Society Museum
TOWN HERITAGE COLLECTION
Ashland Historical Society Museum preserves artifacts and documents from the town's founding and development in southwestern Pittsburg County. Exhibits chronicle local history from early settlement through the present day with photographs, tools, and personal items donated by longtime residents. The museum provides insight into the cultural and economic factors that shaped this Oklahoma community.
12. Mama's Country Kitchen
HOMESTYLE OKLAHOMA DINING
Mama's Country Kitchen serves authentic regional cuisine featuring Oklahoma favorites and Southern comfort foods. Diners enjoy generous portions of home-style cooking in a welcoming atmosphere that reflects local hospitality. The restaurant has become a gathering place for both residents and travelers seeking a taste of genuine Oklahoma flavors.
13. Pushmataha County Outdoor Recreation Area
MULTI-ACTIVITY NATURE PARK
Pushmataha County Outdoor Recreation Area offers diverse activities for nature enthusiasts near Ashland. Visitors can enjoy fishing, camping, hiking, and wildlife observation in this well-maintained public space. The park showcases the natural beauty of southeastern Oklahoma while providing accessible outdoor experiences for families.
14. Oklahoma Native American Cultural Center
INDIGENOUS HERITAGE DISPLAYS
Oklahoma Native American Cultural Center highlights the rich indigenous heritage of the region through interactive exhibits and cultural demonstrations. Visitors learn about Choctaw traditions and other tribal histories that have shaped southeastern Oklahoma. The center preserves and celebrates Native American contributions to the area's development and contemporary culture.
15. Southeastern Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE MARKETPLACE
Southeastern Farmers Market brings together regional growers and artisans offering fresh produce and handcrafted items. Shoppers can find seasonal fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and specialty products direct from local producers. The market supports the agricultural community while providing visitors with authentic Oklahoma flavors and crafts to take home as souvenirs.