OKC’s horizons expand with OKANA Resort

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On February 21, Oklahoma City will welcome a transformative addition to its economic and cultural landscape: the $400 million OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark. Located in Horizons District, the resort promises to be a premier destination for families, thrill-seekers, and tourists seeking a blend of adventure and luxury. As anticipation builds, it’s worth considering OKANA’s significant economic impact.

The numbers speak for themselves. The construction phase generated 1,404 annual jobs and over $226 million in expenditures. Once open, OKANA will employ 500 year-round staff across roles, from lifeguards and valet attendants to supervisors and ‘back of house’ in-office professionals. Operations are expected to contribute nearly $98 million in economic impact in its first year. Over the next decade, OKANA will drive $1.3 billion in spending and generate nearly $214 million in tax revenue for Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, and the state.

OKANA is set to bolster Oklahoma City’s status as a regional tourism hub. The resort already has bookings through September 2025 and is attracting visitors from cities across the region like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Tulsa. This influx will generate millions in outside spending, benefitting local businesses and reinforcing Oklahoma City as a destination worth traveling for.

The 11-story, 404-room hotel offers views of the Oklahoma river as well as the expansive 4.5-acre outdoor lagoon with a sandy beach. OKANA is providing services and amenities not typically seen in the industry and features 11 pools, 15 water slides, a surf simulator and an immersive lazy river. A wholly owned subsidiary of the Chickasaw Nation, OKANA is adjacent to the First Americans Museum (FAM), and the resort weaves subtle nods to First American art and heritage into its design.

Amenities are diverse and offer the very best equipment and practices. Guests will enjoy state-of-the-art arcade games, 13 eateries, bars, candy and ice cream shops, and signature restaurants, and a spa, which will be open to both hotel guests and locals. The year-round indoor waterpark and seasonal outdoor lagoon will cater to hotel guests and day-pass visitors alike, ensuring steady revenue and attendance.

Beyond its economic benefits, OKANA represents a partnership between the Chickasaw Nation, Oklahoma City, and developers nationwide. Together, they’ve created a destination that celebrates cultural heritage while positioning OKC as a leader in tourism and economic development. This isn’t just a resort; it’s a proud investment in the future of our city.

As we prepare for OKANA’s opening, let’s celebrate the ripple effect it will have on our city—a destination with horizons as expansive as its vision.

Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.