Hochatown, Oklahoma -- If you haven't been to Hochatown, Oklahoma recently ... you haven't been to Hochatown.
The Choctaw Nation has landed in a big way in the form of Choctaw Landing, a four-story, 200,000 square-foot resort and the newest jewel in the Choctaw Nation's crown of resort casinos.
Choctaw Landing opened its doors April 3, 2024 and is accepting bookings. The pool opening, conference services, as well as concert and cultural entertainment will begin later this spring. The official grand opening is slated for May 23, 2024 on what is certain to be a historic celebration for Hochatown and the Choctaw Nation, but the ambience of Tuklo Grill at Choctaw Landing has already made it the favorite 'meet and greet' location for Hochatown Mayor Dian Jordan.
"We are excited for the complementary services Choctaw Landing brings to the Hochatown community," Mayor Jordan explains. "They have included three conference and meeting spaces that meet an unfilled need. We do a good job of putting heads in beds on weekends and in the summer, but we have struggled to reach the midweek market sector. By being able to offer both small and large group accommodations, we hope to see more business and conference travelers in addition to the weekend family vacation market."
And while Choctaw Landing comes with all the eye-catching amenities and state-of-the-art security you would expect in an ultramodern $238 million resort casino, what makes this experience unique is how the Choctaw culture and its artists have been honored at the resort. There are 40 pieces of artwork in public spaces, two large exterior sculptures and 600 pieces of artwork throughout guest rooms.
In the lobby, pause to reflect on The Last Crossing, an evocative painting by Choctaw artist Connie Phillips that depicts the incredible resilience of Choctaw women enduring the unspeakable hardships on the Trail of Tears that brought them to Southeastern Oklahoma. A picture is worth a thousand words, but the history and heartache in this one is worth so much more.
"Providing authentic and accurate cultural tourism is not something we've focused on," Mayor Jordan readily admits. "The Choctaw Landing is filled with art created by local tribal members. Much of the art is on display in the public spaces. In addition, they have created a social dance place where visitors are welcomed and encouraged to join in. These immersive experiences are something new for the community."
And speaking of immersive experiences, step into the bright lights of the smoke-free, stunningly chic Choctaw Casino – Hochatown. Excitement beckons from more than 600 colorful Slots and eight Table Games spread across a landscape of glittering possibilities.
Step next door into Tuklo Grill to fuel the fun with a sizzling Choctaw Beef steak. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has eight ranches and 60,000 acres within the reservation dedicated to raising Choctaw Beef. The menu at Tuklo Grill features a variety of "Oklahoma-meets-Southern cuisine."
Or step outdoors and visit Cypress Lawn for even more food and drink options, plus live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Kids will love Awashoha, a playground full of the creatures like turtles and rabbits that occupy a special place in Choctaw culture.
Don't miss a visit to the 12,000 square-foot Mercantile for Starbucks® coffee, sundries and unique Choctaw souvenirs.
Want a picnic for an outdoor adventure? Inside the Mercantile you'll find Tuklo Deli. Choctaw Landing is only a stone's throw from Lower Mountain Fork River and also located near Broken Bow Lake and Beavers Bend State Park, so stop by Tuklo Deli to fill your picnic basket with slow-smoked craft Oklahoma barbecue sold by the pound.
Tuklo Deli specializes in freshly sliced premium deli meats piled high with the freshest ingredients on the finest breads, or maybe your crew prefers crispy, crunchy Southern fried chicken served in traditional family-style buckets with chef-inspired sides.
When it's finally time to unwind, enjoy cocktails under the stars around the firepits at Oka Sita – the beautiful resort pool with nine private cabanas.
And when you’re ready to retire for the evening, a sanctuary of luxury awaits in the 100-room, lodge-style hotel. Need a little more space and luxury? Relax in one of the 15 suites at Choctaw Landing.
The Choctaw Nation's $238 million dollar resort casino brings 400 jobs to Hochatown and is expected to have a $95 million impact on the regional economy. With that growth comes challenges. The Choctaw Nation has already contributed $7 million to Oklahoma Department of Transportation to assist with road improvements.
And, according to Mayor Jordan, that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to contributions the Choctaw Nation has made as it works hand-in-glove with the local community.
"The Choctaw Nation is a great community partner," the Hochatown mayor states. "In addition to their investment into the tourism market, they contribute to the health and safety of the entire community. They have funded upgrades to water, electric, and roads that benefit all."
With an economy largely based on Texas tourism, the idyllic forests in the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains in Southeastern Oklahoma are a relaxing respite for families from the DFW Metroplex and offer a welcome introduction to nature and culture of the Choctaw Nation.
"Choctaw Landing is located about an hour north of the Oklahoma/Texas border and we are the perfect place to getaway and unwind," remarks Amy Davis, Choctaw Landing general manager.
photos by Allen and Cindy Rich
About The Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 225,000 tribal members and 12,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 14,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity. For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to www.choctawnation.com.
