A place name tells a story here: Pryor Creek was originally called “Coo-y-yah,” a Cherokee word for “Huckleberry.” In 1887, the town adopted the name “Pryor Creek.” Two distinct cultural threads branch out from this naming story: the Coo-Y-Yah Museum in the Katy Railroad Depot in Pryor focuses on local history; the Rabbit Gallery in Pryor features artworks by Traci Rabbit and her late father, Bill Rabbit. The two points of interest offer different perspectives: local history on the one hand, and works by two artists on the other.

History and Art

The Coo-Y-Yah Museum, also known as the Mayes County Historical Museum, is located in the Katy Railroad Depot in Pryor. Exhibits on local history include a large oil painting of Nathaniel Pryor, a 19th-century printing press and a 19th-century salt kettle. Together, these objects represent painting and historical everyday items. The exhibits also cover topics including the Cherokee and Osage. The subject matter thus extends beyond the origin of the town’s name, connecting specific objects with cultural themes.

The Rabbit Gallery in Pryor offers a different perspective: it features artworks by Traci Rabbit and her late father, Bill Rabbit. Compared with the museum, the difference lies in the focus: the museum includes local exhibits and topics related to the Cherokee and Osage; the gallery presents the work of the two artists. Visitors choosing cultural attractions by their focus can therefore distinguish between local history and art.

Trail and Water Activities

The Pryor Creek Nature Trail follows Pryor Creek for more than three miles. Visitors can mountain bike on the trail; catch-and-release fishing is permitted in the creek. This offers different options for planning: mountain biking is associated with the trail, while fishing is associated with the creek. The trail’s length and the activities mentioned can be considered separately, depending on whether you are looking for a trail activity or something connected to the water.

Whitaker Park has an outdoor swimming pool and a splash pad. Along with fishing in the creek, these offer two more water-related options: the swimming pool and the splash pad. The park therefore offers something different from the activities along the Pryor Creek Nature Trail.

Tours and Seasonal Experiences

GraysLland Acres offers tours to the public by appointment, introducing visitors to goats and llamas. During a visit, you can also milk a goat or hand-feed a llama. If you plan to take a public tour, make an appointment.

At Outback Farm, visitors can pick their own blueberries during the season. If you are planning your trip around picking your own berries, check whether this is available during your intended visit.

Discover more destinations: Strang, Locust Grove.

Return to the main travel overview: Mayes County.