More than 30 local family stories and portraits complement early coal-mining equipment, military equipment, and brass instruments at the Krebs Heritage Museum. This close look at individual families offers a way into Pittsburg County history. Lakes and hiking trails, along with Italian-influenced cuisine and an annual festival, offer other ways to get to know the region.
Lakes and Trails
McAlester in Pittsburg County gives visitors access to some of Oklahoma’s scenic lakes and outdoor recreation areas. McAlester Lake has a covered fishing area, boat ramps, and docks. Fishing and boating are distinct ways to enjoy the lake.
Arrowhead State Park covers 2,200 scenic acres near Canadian in southeastern Oklahoma. The Outlaw Nature Trail is 0.75 miles long, while the Arrowhead Hiking Trail is three miles long. The two trails differ considerably in length; trail conditions may vary. When planning your hike, the different distances offer a concrete point of reference for choosing a trail length.
The Arrowhead Area at Lake Eufaula State Park offers campsites, fishing, and water sports. Along with the hiking trails, visitors can enjoy activities on and in the water.
Museums and Memorials
The collection at the Krebs Heritage Museum includes early coal-mining equipment, military equipment, and brass instruments. More than 30 local family stories and portraits add personal insights to these objects. The museum is open Thursday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; scheduled tours are available by appointment. Check the opening hours before your visit.
The Tannehill Historical Museum focuses on other aspects of history: its exhibits include artifacts from the Oklahoma State Penitentiary and historic firearms. Its collection ranges from the family stories and objects in Krebs to exhibits related to the state penitentiary and historic firearms.
The Pittsburg County Genealogical & Historical Society Library & Museum features exhibits on mining, Indigenous cultural artifacts, and local history. It is housed in a building constructed in 1907 and listed in a historic register. Genealogical resources include local marriage, school, burial, and naturalization records, as well as a miners’ register. Arrange access for your research before visiting.
The XL Cattle Drive Memorial is a group of twelve sculptures honoring Freddie Browne. It depicts nine Hereford cattle bearing Browne’s XL brand, two cowboys, and a Blue Heeler dog. The figures form an ensemble in which animals and people are depicted together.
Italian Traditions and Good Food
The annual McAlester Italian Festival runs for two days, Friday and Saturday. The program includes Italian food, live entertainment, and vendor, craft, and art exhibition booths. Specific dates and program details may change; check the event schedule if the festival is important to your trip.
Pete's Place has served fresh, family-style Italian cuisine and craft beer since 1925. Check the current menu details before your visit.
Whispering Meadows Vineyards & Winery is located in the former Newton Jewelry Store, a building constructed in 1901 with curved glass windows and murals by a local artist. The winery offers its own exclusive wines, cheese, and deli items; the product selection may change.
Discover more destinations: Mcalester, Craig County, Mayes County, Stephens, Sequoyah County, Rogers County, Marshall County, Atoka County.
View the main travel overview: Oklahoma.
