Poteau

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Poteau's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day at the beautiful Peter Pender Park, enjoying a walk around the scenic trails. Bring your camera to capture the stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Poteau River and take a leisurely canoe ride to enjoy the serene waters. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the riverside.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local diner serving classic American cuisine. Take a stroll downtown to appreciate the small-town charm and local shops.

day 2
Dive into Local Culture
morning
:

Begin your cultural journey at the Poteau Public Library, exploring local history exhibits. Spend some quiet time reading about the area’s past.

afternoon
:

Head over to the annual Poteau Music Festival if it's happening during your visit. Enjoy live performances from local artists and indulge in delicious food stalls.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing evening at one of the town’s cozy breweries, sampling unique craft beers. Chat with locals and find out about new music events coming up.

day 3
Shopping and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a coffee from a local café while browsing through boutique shops downtown. Look for handmade crafts and local specialties to bring home.

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmers' market to shop for fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage with vendors and learn about local farming practices.

evening
:

Unwind at a nearby spa for some pampering and relaxation after a busy day. Enjoy a soothing massage or beauty treatment to rejuvenate yourself.

day 4
Foodie Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your culinary exploration with breakfast at a famed local café known for their pancakes. Try their signature dish, which is loved by both locals and visitors.

afternoon
:

Take part in a cooking class that showcases regional cuisine, learning new recipes to try back home. Discover the unique flavors that define Poteau's cooking.

evening
:

Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. Relish in a multi-course meal paired with local wines for a true dining experience.

day 5
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Go mountain biking at the Poteau Mountain Trails, which offer a range of difficulty levels. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate through breathtaking scenery.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a picnic area with great views, then challenge yourself to a hike on one of the higher trails. Enjoy the panoramic vistas once you reach the summit.

evening
:

After a day of excitement, relax at your accommodation and enjoy a light dinner. Reflect on your adventurous day while watching the sunset.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Visit a local petting zoo to enjoy some delightful interaction with animals. Kids will love feeding and learning about the different farm animals.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a community park, where children can play on the playground while adults enjoy some leisure time. Pack games and sports equipment for added fun.

evening
:

End the day with a family-friendly movie at a nearby theater or enjoy a game night back at your accommodation. A perfect way to wrap up a fun family day.

day 7
Hiking and Nature Walks
morning
:

Start with a guided nature walk in the nearby Ouachita National Forest. Explore trails while learning about the diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure with a hike along one of the scenic trails, taking breaks to appreciate scenic viewpoints. Pack snacks and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

evening
:

Settle in for the evening with a barbecue dinner at your lodging. Share stories about your hiking experiences while enjoying the great outdoors.

day 8
Artistic Escape
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local art gallery featuring works from regional artists. Get inspired by the creative energy around you.

afternoon
:

Participate in a local art workshop and unleash your creativity with some hands-on experience. Leave with a unique piece of art that you made.

evening
:

Enjoy an art-themed dinner at a nearby restaurant offering a creative menu. Connect with fellow art lovers over a meal in a visually striking atmosphere.

day 9
Travel Through History
morning
:

Visit the local historical museum to learn about Poteau's rich heritage. Spend time exploring various artifacts and exhibits that tell the town's story.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of historic landmarks in the area, discovering intriguing facts about their significance. Photograph stunning architecture and landscapes.

evening
:

Dine at a historic restaurant that has stood the test of time, enjoying dishes inspired by classic recipes. Appreciate the ambiance that reflects the town's rich past.

day 10
Stargazing and Astronomy
morning
:

Spend the morning preparing for an evening of stargazing by visiting a planetarium nearby. Learn about the cosmos and what to look for in the night sky.

afternoon
:

Visit a local observatory for a scheduled public viewing session, getting up close with telescopes. Take notes of the celestial bodies you observe.

evening
:

Head to a nearby open field or park for a night of stargazing. Bring blankets and snacks as you relax under the stars, sharing stories about constellations.

Discover Poteau

Read more in our Poteau 2024 Travel Guide.

Poteau Travel Guide