Things To Do
in McAlester
McAlester is a city located in southeastern Oklahoma, United States. It is known for its rich history in the coal mining industry and is home to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. The city offers a mix of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing at nearby lakes and state parks.
With a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, McAlester provides a vibrant small-town atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, visit the McAlester Historical Society to learn about the city's rich history.
Head to the stunning McAlester Park for a leisurely walk and enjoy the greenery. Grab lunch at a nearby diner and savor some classic American fare.
Wind down with a visit to the local cinema for an evening movie show. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant downtown.
Visit the McAlester Art Museum to appreciate local and regional artwork. Take your time exploring the exhibits.
Lunch at a charming bistro and then check out local artisan shops. Consider participating in a craft workshop if available.
Enjoy dinner at a cultural restaurant that offers regional cuisine. Attend a theater performance if available for an entertaining night out.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm with a close-knit community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities, including lakes and parks.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including local festivals and events.
- Growing local economy with opportunities in various sectors.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and specialized services.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation may be limited, necessitating personal vehicle use.
- Job market may be more competitive with fewer large employers.
- Extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and potential winter storms.
Best Activities in McAlester
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails in Krebs Municipal Park, offering beautiful views and a chance to enjoy nature. The park features walking paths and areas for picnicking.
Spend a relaxing day fishing at Lake McAlester, which is stocked with various fish species. Enjoy the tranquil environment and stunning lake views.
Take advantage of the designated biking trails around McAlester, perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. Enjoy a leisurely ride while taking in the local scenery.
Pack a lunch and head to Chadick Park for a delightful picnic. The park offers plenty of green space, picnic tables, and playgrounds for families.
Visit nearby wildlife areas for birdwatching opportunities. With diverse habitats, you can spot various bird species and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of McAlester with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in McAlester
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding greenery, making it a great spot for photography and picnics.
Features breathtaking vistas, rock formations, and wooded trails, providing picturesque settings for photography and outdoor activities.
Showcases historical buildings and artifacts, offering unique opportunities for capturing the town's heritage through photography.
Food in McAlester
McAlester Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Must-try local specialty featuring slow-cooked, hickory-smoked meats, such as ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. One recommended spot is Pete's Place, known for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes.
Must-Try!
A classic Southern dish fried to golden perfection, often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw. Look for this dish at The Jincy, a popular local eatery known for its delicious catfish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know McAlester better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant marketplace offering an array of fresh produce, homemade goods, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample freshly prepared street food, including tacos, tamales, and kettle corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In McAlester, like in many parts of the United States, personal space is important. It's common to keep a comfortable distance while conversing. Be mindful of individual comfort levels regarding physical proximity.
When meeting someone, a friendly greeting such as 'hello', 'hi' or 'how are you?' is appreciated. Using 'please' and 'thank you' is considered polite and is expected in both casual and formal interactions.
Active listening is valued in conversation. Show interest in what others are saying by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and providing relevant responses. Interrupting someone while they speak can be seen as disrespectful.
Safety
Tipping in McAlester
Ensure a smooth experience
In McAlester, United States, tipping practices generally align with those found across the country. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and hairdressers between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. In bars or coffee shops, a dollar or two for small orders is appreciated. While tipping is not mandatory, it is considered a way to show gratitude for good service.
Payment methods in McAlester are diverse, with most businesses accepting cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Digital payment options like mobile wallets (e.g. Apple Pay, Google Pay) are also increasingly accepted at various venues. For convenience, many residents prefer to use credit or debit cards for everyday purchases, while cash may still be used for smaller transactions or in places that do not accept cards. Additionally, some local businesses might offer layaway plans or installments for larger purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit McAlester, United States as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby scenic areas.
Summer in McAlester brings warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for outdoor events, festivals, and enjoying the beautiful lakes and parks in the area. Visitors can also indulge in water activities such as boating and fishing.
Fall is a wonderful time to experience the colorful foliage in McAlester and the surrounding areas. The weather is cooler, and it's a great time for nature walks, fall festivals, and enjoying the local harvest.
While winters can be cold in McAlester, there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as visiting museums, cozying up in cafes, and taking part in holiday celebrations. It's also a great time for those who enjoy a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.
McAlester at Night
Hiking in McAlester
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the Kiamichi Mountains and lush forests.
A popular park featuring extensive hiking trails, historic areas, and beautiful scenery, located about 22 miles from McAlester.
Known for its serene atmosphere and hiking trails, this park offers a chance to commune with nature and enjoy the landscape.
This park includes hiking trails along the lakeshore, perfect for a day of exploring and enjoying nature's beauty.
Located a bit further away, this national forest offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with stunning views.
Aiports
How to reach McAlester by plane.
Located in Dallas, Texas, approximately 120 miles southwest of McAlester, DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, around 100 miles northwest of McAlester, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, about 90 miles to the northwest of McAlester, this airport offers a range of domestic flights and some international connections.
Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, RVS is closer to McAlester, offering mainly general aviation services but is often used for private and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in McAlester, consisting primarily of individuals of European descent.
A significant demographic group in McAlester, representing a notable portion of the population.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, contributing to the cultural diversity of McAlester.
A smaller demographic group compared to others, consisting of individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
This group includes individuals who identify as Native Americans, reflecting the region's historical roots.
This demographic includes individuals who identify with two or more racial categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in McAlester, with strong community support and local high school teams that compete in regional competitions.
Widely played at schools and recreational centers, basketball has a robust youth program and local leagues.
Baseball is a favorite pastime in McAlester, featuring youth leagues and summer teams for various age groups.
Softball is popular among both men and women, with numerous recreational leagues and tournaments held throughout the year.
Local schools participate in track and field events, encouraging athletic development and competition at various levels.
A traditional sport in McAlester, wrestling has a strong presence in schools and community competitions.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with local leagues for children and youth, as well as adult recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting McAlester.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in McAlester offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including fresh salads, veggie tacos, and plant-based burgers. The Brick House Café is a great choice for diverse vegetarian and vegan selections.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating menus at various restaurants, such as The Missouri Mule Restaurant, known for its gluten-free fried chicken and other gluten-friendly options.