You don't have to rush to the big city for those perfect Valentine's Day vibes. From dinner and a movies to a luxurious overnight stay and spa day, there are so many date worthy experiences to explore in the Choctaw Nation.
Choctaw Nation’s guide to planning the perfect Valentine’s Day experience on the reservation
Published February 3, 2025By Christian Toews
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate those you love. Whether with a spouse, a significant other, a best friend, or by yourself, you will find the ideal place to celebrate in the Choctaw Nation.
If you want to spend time away from the city’s noise for a quiet getaway or to rev up the celebration of love, southeastern Oklahoma has everything to make your most romantic dreams come true. Grab your planner, pencil in some dates, and make some reservations for your most fun and unique Valentine’s Day yet.
We begin our lovely list by escaping from the hustle and bustle to one of Oklahoma’s most beautiful locations, Beaver’s Bend State Park. With rolling hills, winding rivers, and tall pine trees, this part of Oklahoma will captivate you. February in Oklahoma can be cold, but don’t worry. There is a warm place to get away from it all.
Located on the border of the State Park, Choctaw Landing is the ultimate escape for those who love the outdoors. Choctaw Landing brings the comforts of a world-class resort experience to the breathtaking Oklahoma wilderness.
There is something for everyone at Choctaw Landing, from restaurants and entertainment to unique events and attractions.
If you feel like venturing out, the surrounding area has plenty of options, from fine dining to quick bites, hiking and biking trails, helicopter rides, and some of the best trout fishing in the country. Beavers Bend State Park is one location where you can have it all while getting away from it all.
Is a lakeside escape more of your Valentine’s Day style? If so, Carlton Landing is the place for you.
This beautiful resort-style community is just a short drive from McAlester, Oklahoma, located on the shores of Lake Eufaula. The getaway destination has everything you need to unwind with your loved one.
Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail by the outdoor fireplace at The Meeting House or cozy up around the fireplace in the backyard of your private vacation rental. Have a delicious slice of wood-fired pizza at Mama Tig’s, or jump in the car for a Romantic evening exploring the fine dining locations in nearby McAlester, Oklahoma.
Instead of getting away from it all, maybe you want to spend this Valentine’s Day going somewhere that has it all.
The Choctaw Nation’s largest resort and hotel in Durant, Oklahoma, has everything you can dream of in one location.
Choctaw Casino and Resort has an incredible spa, Fine dining, a movie theater, bowling, entertainment and more under one roof.
With this much excitement, it is the perfect place to dress up and treat your love to the time of their life.
What if you prefer a dining experience that isn’t common in southeastern Oklahoma? There are numerous spots to enjoy a fine dining experience within the Choctaw Nation. Whether you prefer a multicourse specialty menu or want fine dining with a touch of Oklahoma flair, there is a restaurant sure to spark your appetite.
The Ranch Restaurant at Talimichi has been turning heads and exciting tastebuds. Located on the scenic Kiamichi River near Tuskahoma, Oklahoma, this restaurant offers a dining experience you don’t want to miss.
Owned by veteran chef Weston Corbin, who has a background including an 8-year stint as the Executive Chef at the Oklahoma Governor’s mansion, his unique culinary style has drawn people from all over. “We are always trying to offer something unique,” said Corbin. “Maybe something you haven’t tried before in a nicer dining environment than you might be used to.”
He said some crowd favorites he has undertaken include chicken-fried elk steak, roasted beef bone marrow, and seafood boils. Corbin said they pull out all the stops for their Valentine’s Day menu, and you won’t want to miss it. He said there would be a filet or bone-in ribeye, a fresh seafood option, and a pasta dish you might believe is straight from Italy.
Valentine’s Day dining will be by reservation only, so visit their Facebook page at The Ranch Restaurant at Talimichi or call 918-563-1234 for details on how to make your reservations today.
Another unique restaurant to consider is the Fort Towson Depot Steakhouse. Located in the historic Fort Towson train depo building, this dining experience is one you won’t find anywhere else. Owners Kathy Kruther and Judy Fuhrhop wanted to bring a fine dining option to the area, and that’s precisely what they did.
The restaurant has become very popular, and Fuhrhop said that the Valentine’s Day menu has been a huge hit. “Last year was a sell-out, and we expect this one will be as well. We are requiring reservations this year to make sure that our guests have a wonderful, unhurried experience,” she said.
The menu will be posted on their social media platforms, and you can make reservations by calling 580-579-8873. Visit for more information on this dining experience.