Hotels in Poteau

Discover Poteau: Where Mountain Serenity Meets River Reverie

Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, Poteau, Oklahoma, is a charming small town that beckons nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With the serene Poteau River winding through its landscapes, visitors can explore scenic trails and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby state parks. Key attractions include the historic downtown area, the impressive Cavanal Hill—dubbed the tallest hill in the world—and the vibrant local library. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a taste of small-town culture, Poteau offers a unique blend of natural beauty and quaint charm, perfect for an unforgettable escape. For the best hotel rates in Poteau and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Poteau

Some of the best places to stay in Poteau are Fort Smith, Van Buren and Sallisaw. Fort Smith, Van Buren, and Sallisaw offer rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes, making them great stops for travelers. Fort Smith, with its charming downtown and museums, is ideal for first-time visitors. Accommodation options range from affordable hotels to suites with amenities like fitness centers and onsite parking. Van Buren boasts cozy inns, while Sallisaw features budget-friendly lodging, all providing a comfortable stay in the heart of Oklahoma. Enjoy your trip! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Poteau:

1. Fort SmithOpens in a new window: Fort Smith is a vibrant city rich in history and culture, making it an excellent destination for both leisure and business travelers. Key attractions include the Fort Smith National Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into the area's past, and the Central Mall for family-friendly entertainment. For accommodations, consider Wyndham Fort Smith City CenterOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel perfect for business travelers, featuring extensive business amenities and pet-friendly policies. Another option is Choctaw Casino Hotel - PocolaOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel with casino facilities and business services, ideal for those looking to combine work and play. Hampton Inn Fort SmithOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, offers a romantic atmosphere alongside business amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay in the city center.
2. Van BurenOpens in a new window: Van Buren is a charming town that captures the essence of family and outdoor activities, with attractions like Kay Rodgers Park for entertainment and the Central Mall for shopping. For lodging, Holiday Inn Express Suites Van Buren-Ft Smith Area, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a welcoming 2.5-star hotel that caters to families and pets, providing 24-hour business services. Hampton Inn Van BurenOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, focuses on business travelers and is pet-friendly, offering essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Sonesta Essential Van BurenOpens in a new window, a budget-friendly motel, is a great choice for pet owners and provides basic accommodations for families.
3. SallisawOpens in a new window: Sallisaw is a picturesque destination known for its outdoor beauty, including Tenkiller Ferry Lake and Cherokee Casino Roland for entertainment. The town offers a relaxing atmosphere for visitors. Blue Jay Inn and SuitesOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for animal lovers. Quality InnOpens in a new window, also 2.5 stars, caters to families with amenities for children and pet-friendly policies. For budget-conscious travelers, Blue Ribbon Inn and SuitesOpens in a new window offers basic accommodations while allowing pets, making it a convenient choice for those on the go.

Things to do in Poteau for first time

Three days in Poteau offers a delightful escape into a vibrant small-town atmosphere surrounded by lush mountains and serene rivers. Travelers can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and golfing, alongside lively entertainment options such as dancing and gaming, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Poteau:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Heavener Runestone State Park, where you can explore the fascinating history surrounding the ancient runestone that dates back over a thousand years. Enjoy a leisurely hike on the scenic trails that wind through the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. Next, head to Wister Lake State Park for a relaxing afternoon by the water. Engage in activities like fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a picnic amidst nature. Wrap up your day at Wister State Park, where you can stroll along the trails as the sun sets, casting beautiful reflections on the lake.
• Day 2: Your day starts at the Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, an important site showcasing Native American history with its ancient burial mounds. Take in the informative exhibits and guided tours that delve into its rich cultural significance. Following that, make your way to Fort Smith National Historic Site, where you can explore the historic structures and learn about the area's role in American history. Conclude your day at the Fort Smith Museum of History, where engaging displays and artifacts provide insight into the local heritage and stories that shaped the region.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Talimena State Park, known for its stunning vistas and hiking trails. Enjoy the crisp air as you hike along the scenic paths that overlook the breathtaking Ouachita Mountains. Afterward, head to Queen Wilhelmina State Park, where you can relax at the lodge or explore the beautiful trails that meander through lush forests. End your day at Bell Park, a lovely spot perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk, where you can unwind and reflect on your adventures in the beautiful landscapes of Oklahoma.

5 tips to find a great Poteau hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Poteau is from October to December, when hotel prices are more affordable. To truly experience the area's main attractions, it's best to plan for at least a 2-3 day stay. Highlights in Poteau include its charming library, scenic river, and beautiful mountains, all of which offer great value for money and are perfect for those exploring on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re looking for last-minute hotel deals in Poteau, Hotels.com is a great resource. You may discover attractive discounts by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, especially as your travel date approaches. Consider signing up for email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, increasing your chances of finding the latest prices and potentially saving on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Poteau.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Poteau. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

Best time to go to Poteau

Poteau experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 40.1°F (4.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.4°F (28.0°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Poteau are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, August, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Poteau Travel Information