Muskogee is a town with a long and interesting past and an enchanting location. Lying at the intersection of the Verdigris, Arkansas and Neosho rivers, the town’s beautiful surroundings make it a great destination for a tranquil retreat, while its strong community identity and local heritage offer plenty of opportunity for cultural stimulation. Explore its charming museums, learn about the town’s Native American history and sample some of the area’s delicious local produce.
Get a sense of the town’s past on a visit to the Five Civilized Tribes Museum. This lovely building houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits on five important local Native American groups: the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek and Seminole tribes. Muskogee was once a trading post, where European settlers traded essentials and luxury items with Native tribes people living along the riverbanks. Learn more about the crucial role the rivers have played in the town’s development at the Three Rivers Museum.
The Five Civilized Tribes Museum sits on the edge of Honor Heights Park, a scenic green space that hosts varied events throughout the year. See the most visually impressive, the annual Azalea Festival, in spring. During this season, the park comes to life with a spectacular display of blooms. Arrive in winter instead to see the Garden of Lights festival in full swing. The park also houses the Papilion, a beautifully presented garden and butterfly house.
Muskogee Farmers Market, which opens each spring, is another seasonal highlight of the town. Treat yourself to locally produced fruit, vegetables and baked goods or pick up some local wine as a gift.
In the evening, watch a show at the captivating Muskogee Little Theatre. This delightful venue has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years.
Drive to Muskogee from Tulsa in about 1 hour, or from Oklahoma City in just over 2 hours. Come in the spring to witness the colorful Azalea Festival and be prepared to take countless photos of this striking sight.
