Durant has two unusual claims to fame: It was proclaimed the Magnolia Capital of Oklahoma by the state legislature in 1999 and claims to have the world’s largest peanut -- a three-foot aluminum sculpture honoring the area’s peanut farmers. But Durant isn’t just for fans of horticultural extravagance and oddities. The city has a wealth of attractions tracing its 19th-century Native American origins and celebrating its contemporary culture.
Hail its History
- Pre-dating the city of Durant, Fort Washita played a key role in the settling of the area by the Chickasaw and Choctaw Indians who had migrated down the Mississippi. The fort was established in 1842 to protect the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations from attack by Southern Plains Indians. Visit the site for a taste of military life in those tumultuous times. Tour reconstructed buildings, stone ruins and the visitor center, and catch one of the military re-enactments. Visitors are told to look out for Aunt Jane, a ghost said to haunt the fort.
Feel the Flower Power
- Durant proudly proclaims its status as Oklahoma’s Magnolia Capital with the annual Magnolia Festival. Held on the weekend after Memorial Day, the four-day event includes a children’s parade, face-painting and the Choctaw Nation Princess Pageant. Take a fairground ride or browse the many booths offering unique arts and crafts, including jewelry, clothing and woodcarvings. You can even leave with extra money in your pocket if you do well in the Red River Noodling Shootout fishing competition.
Return to the Past
- Named after the Red, Blue and Washita river valleys, the Three Valley Museum focuses on the history of Durant and the surrounding Bryan County. Wander among reproductions of more than 20 businesses from the early 1930s, including a law office, a general store and a doctor’s clinic. Explore the culture of the area's First Nations peoples through artifacts in the museum’s Native American gallery. Located in downtown Durant, the museum is operated by the local historical society. Admission is free.
Do it Yourself Durant
- Get to know Durant on a self-guided walking tour. Start at the restored Historic Market Square to stroll the streets of downtown and admire historic houses once occupied by well-to-do attorneys, physicians and businessmen. Along with 19th-century buildings, you’ll see the city’s churches and Bryan County Courthouse, complete with historic statues. Stop along the way for refreshments at one of Durant’s many family-owned restaurants. Try the Hollow Tree’s renowned coconut cream pie or a scone with "sweet magnolia" cream at the Sweet Magnolia Tearoom. Both restaurants are located on the section of the walk between the Bryan Hotel and the Three Valley Museum.
