Poteau, Oklahoma 2025

Poteau is a city in Le Flore County, Oklahoma, United States. It is the county seat of Le Flore County. Poteau is situated in the southeastern part of Oklahoma, approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Population:

According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Poteau is approximately 8,400 people.

Culture:

Poteau is a diverse city with a mix of cultures. The city hosts different events and festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Poteau Balloon Fest, which attracts visitors from all over the country. The city also has a rich Native American heritage, with several tribal nations located in and around the city.

Special Events:

Some of the popular events in Poteau include:

* Poteau Balloon Fest: This annual festival takes place in September and features hot air balloons, live music, food vendors, and other activities.

* Poteau Fall Festival: This festival happens in October and includes a carnival, live music, food vendors, and other activities.

* Christmas Parade: The city holds a Christmas parade each year in December, featuring floats, live music, and Santa Claus.

Local Attractions:

Some of the popular local attractions in Poteau include:

* The Poteau River: The river offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water sports.

* Wister Lake: Wister Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping.

* Talimena Drive: This scenic drive passes through the Ouachita National Forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

* Poteau Historical Museum: The museum features exhibits on the history of Poteau and the surrounding area, including exhibits on the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area.

* Cavanal Hill: Cavanal Hill is a popular spot for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Food:

Poteau is known for its southern cuisine, including barbecue, catfish, and chicken fried steak. Some of the popular restaurants in Poteau include:

* The Farmhouse Restaurant: This restaurant serves up southern favorites like chicken fried, steak, and catfish.

* Billy Sims BBQ: This restaurant is famous for its barbecue and offers a variety of meats and sides.

* The Poteau Bakery: This bakery serves up a variety of sweet treats, including cakes, pastries, and cookies.

People:

Poteau is a tight-knit community with a small-town feel. The people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Many residents are involved in community events and activities, and there is a strong sense of community pride.

History:

Poteau was founded in 1885 and was named after the Poteau River. The city was once home to several Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Cherokee. The city grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to the construction of the Kansas City, Pittsburg, and Gulf Railroad. Today, Poteau is a thriving community with a strong sense of history and tradition.

In summary, Poteau, Oklahoma, is a charming city with a rich history and culture. From its beautiful scenery to its friendly residents, Poteau is a wonderful place to visit or call home.