Oklahoma City is set to become a major travel destination with the grand opening of the OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark. This ambitious $400 million project, developed by the Chickasaw Nation, promises an unparalleled family vacation experience. Featuring a sprawling indoor waterpark, an expansive outdoor lagoon with a sandy beach, diverse dining options, and luxurious accommodations, OKANA Resort aims to redefine tourism in the region and firmly place Oklahoma City on the national map for leisure and entertainment.
OKANA Resort: A New Era of Family Entertainment in Oklahoma City
Opened its doors on March 6, 2025, OKANA Resort, whose name is derived from Chickasaw words meaning 'water' and 'friend,' is a 40-acre marvel approximately 20 minutes northeast of Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City. This significant development features an 11-story hotel with 404 suites, offering a range of room types designed for family comfort, including options with patios, balconies, and additional bedrooms. Each suite is equipped with modern amenities such as large TVs, in-room safes, refrigerators, and complimentary coffee and bottled water. With rates starting at around $215 per night, the resort provides a blend of luxury and convenience.
The heart of OKANA Resort lies in its extensive water attractions. The 100,000-square-foot indoor waterpark boasts 15 exhilarating slides, including a dynamic water coaster and the competitive Racing Rapids. Younger guests can enjoy a dedicated toddler slide area and an interactive water play structure with splash zones and tipping buckets. For adults, a full bar and a relaxing soaking pool offer a serene escape with views of the bustling slides. Outdoors, the 4.5-acre OKANA Beach lagoon provides a true lakeside ambiance with a floating obstacle course, a zip line, high-diving platforms, and two rapid slides. The zero-entry sandy beach is lined with lounge chairs and private cabanas, all facing a giant outdoor movie screen. While the indoor waterpark operates year-round, the outdoor lagoon transforms into a giant ice skating rink during colder months.
Dining at OKANA Resort is an adventure in itself, with 13 food and beverage establishments. From casual walk-up spots to sit-down restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate. Highlights include Smokehouse Social, known for its hot wings and sports simulators, and Jack Rabbit, a gastropub offering delicious entrees like filet mignon. The OKANA Candy Co. provides a sweet retreat, featuring specialty candies and unique ice cream flavors like the 'Exhausted Parent,' a bourbon-infused treat. The resort also caters to various dietary needs, offering gluten-free options and accommodating other restrictions.
Beyond the water, OKANA offers an array of entertainment. A massive arcade features a mirror maze, laser tag, and an escape room, ensuring endless fun for all ages. For those seeking relaxation, the OKANA spa provides massages, facials, scrubs, and nail services. The resort's strategic location also provides easy access to Oklahoma City's diverse attractions, including Bricktown's charming canals, the unique Museum of Osteology, the educational National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the adrenaline-pumping Riversport, and the historic Oklahoma National Stockyards, offering a glimpse into the city's rich ranching heritage.
The OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark is poised to become a landmark destination, offering a comprehensive and captivating experience for families and travelers alike, blending thrilling adventures with cultural exploration and luxurious comfort.
Reflections on OKANA Resort's Visionary Impact
The development of OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark represents more than just a new entertainment venue; it symbolizes a bold vision for regional tourism and economic growth. By investing significantly in such a multifaceted destination, the Chickasaw Nation is not only creating jobs and attracting visitors but also showcasing the rich cultural heritage and dynamic spirit of Oklahoma. This resort exemplifies how strategic development can transform a city's profile, offering both an exciting escape for families and a deeper connection to the local community's history and future potential. It serves as a reminder that innovative projects can unlock hidden gems and establish new reasons to explore previously overlooked destinations.