Indianola, which was established during the 1890s, is located in southeastern Oklahoma in Pittsburg County just south of the Canadian River along SR 113. The original town ("Old Town") is located one mile south of the current-day Indianola. The shift to the north was caused when the Fort Smith and Western Railroad came through the area in 1901.
Outdoor recreation is provided by Eufaula Lake and Arrowhead State Park to the east.
Local attractions include the Choate House Museum.