Hotel
If you like small town vibes (Walmart, McDonald's, etc.) and relative convenience, this place might be best for you. It is located approximately 50 minutes from the wedding site and is within walking distance of two restaurants and a Walmart. "The Coffee Cup" and "Warehouse Willie's" are recommended among locals. There are several other mid-sized hotels located in Poteau. The smaller town of Heavener, OK is closer to the wedding site (25-30 minutes). I do not know that I would recommend the accommodations. However, if you are not picky about where you stay and you see life as an "adventure" and an "experience," it could be worth the gamble. When in Heavener, I highly recommend "Southern Belle" (train car restaurant), as well as, KP's (quick stop) hotbox food and the taco stand. NOTE: Traveling down the dirt road could lengthen your travel time. Please plan accordingly. Also of note: there is limited to no cell phone service from the top of Walker Mountain to the wedding site.
Hotel
If you love scenic byways, charmingly quaint mountain towns, antique shopping, and nature, Queen Wilhelmina Lodge might be the place for you. It is located approximately 35 minutes from the wedding site. It sits atop a mountain in Queen Wilhelmina State Park. The fall foliage is typically quite striking and should be at its peak during this time. There is a great restaurant housed within the lodge. I also highly recommend "The Branding Iron." Mena marks the end of scenic Talimena Drive. (A scenic stretch of road from Talihina, OK to Mena, AR that draws a multitude of people yearly specifically during fall foliage.) It is best to call this location to book. Additionally, there are also several Airbnb/Bed & Breakfast style accommodations located in Mena. NOTE: If you are not accustomed to it, traveling down the dirt road could lengthen your travel time. Please plan accordingly. Also of note: cell service can be spotty. There is limited to no cell service at the wedding site.
Hotel
If you're making a weekend of it and/or desire a more urban experience, Choctaw Casino Resort in Pocola, OK may be best for you. Although a little over an hour from the wedding site, this resort is only a short 10-15 minute drive to the small city amenities of Ft. Smith, AR (Target, Chick-Fil-A, Starbucks, excellent cell phone service, wifi availability, and a myriad of restaurant and shopping opportunities). Although housed in a casino, many elect to utilize the overnight accommodations solely due to quality of the rooms and food. NOTE: If you are not accustomed to it, traveling down the dirt road could lengthen your travel time. Please plan accordingly. Also of note: there is limited to no cell phone service from the top of Walker Mountain to the wedding site.