Spiro Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Spiro in Oklahoma with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the hidden gems of Choctaw Country and experience the natural beauty, history, and culture of Spiro.


Introduction to Spiro

Spiro is a small town located in Choctaw Country in Oklahoma, on the banks of the Arkansas River. The town has a rich history, dating back to the ancient times. One of the most significant archaeological sites in North America, the Spiro Mounds, is located here. Spiro is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town has many scenic views, outdoor adventures, historical sites, and a vibrant food and drink scene.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Spiro, we will explore the town’s best attractions, activities, and accommodations. Learn about the local culture and customs, the best time to visit, and important safety and health information.

List of Places to Visit in Spiro

Spiro has many culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, and fun activities. Here is a list of places to visit in Spiro.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center
  • Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum
  • Heavener Runestone State Park
  • Fort Smith National Historic Site
  • Talimena Scenic Drive

Natural Attractions of Spiro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Wister State Park
  • Poteau Mountain
  • Ouachita National Forest
  • Robbers Cave State Park
  • Spiro Public Pool

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spiro

  • Ouachita Trail
  • Winding Stair Mountain Trail
  • Skyline Drive Trail
  • Yellow Rock Trail
  • Buzzard Roost Ridge Trail

Best Things to Do in Spiro: Activities and Tours

  • River Rafting on the Arkansas River
  • Fishing at Wister Lake
  • ATV Riding at Wolf Pen Gap
  • Horseback Riding at Boiling Springs State Park
  • Winery Tours at Poteau Valley Vineyards

Week-Long Itinerary for Spiro

Day 1: Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, Talimena Scenic Drive Day 2: Heavener Runestone State Park, Robbers Cave State Park Day 3: Ouachita Trail Hike, Yellow Rock Trail Hike Day 4: Poteau Mountain Scenic Drive, ATV Riding at Wolf Pen Gap Day 5: Fort Smith National Historic Site, Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum Day 6: River Rafting on Arkansas River, Fishing at Wister Lake Day 7: Horseback Riding at Boiling Springs State Park, Winery Tours at Poteau Valley Vineyards

Food and Drink Scene of Spiro

Spiro has a vibrant food and drink scene, with many local cafes, diners, and restaurants serving traditional dishes and exotic drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken and Biscuits at The Iron Horse Grill
  • Catfish at The Catfish Hole
  • BBQ at Robert’s Bar-B-Q
  • Pies at Granny’s Kitchen
  • Donuts at Daylight Donuts

Local Beverages

  • Poteau Valley Vineyards Wines
  • Ozarka Water
  • Mountain Fork Brewery Beers
  • Delta Blue Vodka
  • Root Beer at The Soda Fountain

Where to Stay in Spiro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Spiro has many options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are a few of the most popular options.

  • Choctaw Casino Hotel
  • The Brushy Creek Lodge
  • Holiday Inn Express Poteau
  • Best Western Traders Inn
  • American Dream Inn

What to Buy in Spiro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Souvenirs from the Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center gift shop
  • Local Wines from Poteau Valley Vineyards
  • Quilts and Creations at Rags to Stitches
  • Custom made jewelry and gifts at Diamond Shop
  • Local cuts of meat and cheeses at Spiro Farmers Market

Local Culture and Customs of Spiro

Spiro has a mix of cultures, and the people are known for their hospitality and warm personalities. The people of Spiro celebrate their traditions, and you may witness some of the unique customs while you visit.

Best Time to Visit Spiro

The best time to visit Spiro is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are pleasant. The peak tourist season is from June to August, and during this time, the rates of accommodation and travel tend to go up.

Do’s and Don’ts of Spiro

Do:

  • Respect the local cultures and traditions
  • Tidy up after yourself
  • Explore the natural wonders and cultural attractions of Spiro

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Ignore the local customs
  • Disturb the wildlife. Spiro is a natural habitat for many animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Spiro

Spiro is a relatively safe town, and there are no significant safety concerns to worry about. However, like any travel destination, one should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Spiro

There are no major health concerns in Spiro, and the town has a few clinics and hospitals to take care of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Spiro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Spiro

The closest airport to Spiro is the Fort Smith Regional Airport, located about 30 miles from Spiro.

Bus Stations Near Spiro

The nearest bus stations are in Poteau and Fort Smith.

Other Options

One can also fly to Tulsa International Airport or Little Rock International Airport and drive to Spiro.

How to Get Around in Spiro

The best way to get around in Spiro is by car. Rental cars are available at the airports and in town. Bikes are also an excellent option for exploring the town, especially for hikers and bikers.

Where to Go Next from Spiro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Spiro is located in the heart of Choctaw Country and is an excellent base for exploring the region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Talihina: The Gateway to the Ouachita National Forest
  • Eureka Springs: Quaint Victorian Town in Arkansas
  • Beaver’s Bend State Park: Forest and River Oasis in Southeast Oklahoma

Conclusion

Spiro is a hidden gem in Oklahoma with a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center and other historical sites are significant attractions that showcase the ancient history of the region. The town has many outdoor adventures, scenic views, and exciting activities to offer. The food and drink scene is vibrant and diverse, with many local cafes and restaurants serving traditional and exotic dishes. The people of Spiro are warm and hospitable, and one can experience their traditions while exploring the town. With this comprehensive travel guide, plan your trip to Spiro and explore the hidden gems of Choctaw Country.