Things to Do in Durant

Bessie Heard dedicated years of her life to philanthropic efforts throughout the McKinney area, helping plant hackberry trees along downtown streets and establishing an American Red Cross chapter during World War I. However, she accomplished her greatest feat in 1967 when the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary opened to the public. With 289 acres of rolling space, the sanctuary functions as a testament to the diversity of local flora and fauna, educating visitors and urging them to protect those species for future generations.

More than 6.5 miles of unpaved hiking trails wind throughout the sanctuary, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in habitats that range from tall-grass prairie to limestone slopes. The grounds shelter more than 150 varieties of wildflowers and plants, as well as more than 240 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and carnivorous shrubs. In addition to the trails, the sanctuary also features an extensive garden of native trees, grasses, and perennials, as well as a treetop ropes course (reservation required; additional fees apply). Indoors, interactive exhibits and collections impart valuable information on north-Texan geology, marine life, and venomous snakes.

Painting with a Twist pairs instructional art with friends, wine and a lively instructor to produce individual works of art.

Drag Racing every Friday and Saturday. Fantastic food concessions. Fun for the whole family. Kids 12 and under get in free.

The calls of more than 100 exotic and endangered animals fill the air at Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch, an educational, nonprofit wildlife reserve licensed by the USDA and featured on the Discovery Channel's Dirty Jobs. Knowledgeable staffers pilot a fleet of safari trams that ferry guests across the park's 126 acres of sprawling pastures, dispensing enlightening wisdom as they pass zebras, kangaroos, emus, bears, and monkeys. The staff brings patrons face-to-face with many of the exotic critters and often stops to allow guests to pet and get to know the animals. Interactive presentations and small-animal habitats further educate visitors on the menagerie of rare creatures.

Nicole Shaw and Brandon Hartsell opened the studio in an effort to create a consistent, reliable stretching space for students of all skill sets, as well as a yoga program that combines hot yoga with regular yoga in a delicious yoga ratatouille. Bending beginners learn the ropes in introductory lessons that take students through a condensed syllabus of basic poses and essential yoga etiquette to avoid duels. Beginner-friendly Fire is a 90-minute course that will help you perfect 34 postures in a climate-controlled studio. Newbies can also try the Earth session, a high-energy power-yoga course that concludes with an optional 30-minute restorative wood series. Yoga veterans can challenge themselves to the Metal class, which helps hone movement and breath and moves at a more vigorous pace. View a list of all courses here, with specifics regarding temperature, humidity, duration, and skill level.

According to the Dallas Morning News, sewing and handwork gave Laura Kay Houser's life "balance"—guiding the stay-at-home mother through life's daily challenges as well as more trying ones, namely her son's illness. In 2006, Houser and two partners turned that restorative hobby into a business venture. Houser now spends most of her days behind the counter, eyes figuratively glued on her latest project.

Inside the colorful shop, shelves overflow with fabrics by brands such as Andover, Benartex, and Marcus Brothers, as well as with books, kits, and experimental needlework patterns inspired by the paintings of Jackson Pollock. Experienced teachers pop in to lead a variety of classes, ranging from sewing basics to workshops with renowned authors and designers. As the culture of quilting has always involved gifting quilts to those in need, the store publicizes volunteer opportunities involving quilting and other crafts.