OKANA ribbon cutting marks a transformative investment in OKC’s economic future

This story originally ran on VeloCityOKC.com. 

Oklahoma City officially opened the OKANA Resort and Indoor Waterpark with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a major milestone for the city’s tourism industry and the Chickasaw Nation’s economic development efforts. 

The $400 million development in the Horizons District, next to the First Americans Museum (FAM), is the most expensive commercial investment in Oklahoma City history. With over 400 rooms, a conference center and an indoor waterpark, OKANA is expected to drive tourism and economic growth. 

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt spoke about the resort’s impact on the city’s visitor economy, which attracts 24 million visitors annually and generates $4.5 billion in economic impact. “The opening of OKANA is another quantum leap forward,” Holt said. “Never again will we be a city you just pass through.” 

Holt also highlighted OKANA’s proximity to FAM. “This is not just a beautiful and fun resort—it has a deeper meaning,” he said. “One of the primary diversions for guests will be the opportunity to visit FAM just steps away.” 

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby detailed the project’s economic impact. “The first-year economic impact is projected at $97 million, and over the next decade, it is expected to exceed $1 billion,” he said. “We have already surpassed our initial employment projections, with over 500 people working at the resort.” 

The economic impact extends beyond the resort itself. The one-time construction phase supported 1,404 jobs annually, generating $80.7 million in payroll. In its first year of operation, OKANA is projected to support 800 direct and indirect jobs, contributing $23.1 million in payroll and $98 million in economic activity. Additionally, visitor spending outside of the resort is expected to generate 158 jobs, $4.5 million in payroll, and an $18.5 million annualized economic impact. Over ten years, the combined impact of the resort and visitor spending is projected to reach $1.3 billion, supporting 985 jobs and $320.6 million in payroll. 

Anoatubby emphasized the collaboration that made the project possible. “It took hard work, dedication and cooperation from many people to get here,” he said. “Together, we’ve transformed this site from an old oil field into a world-class entertainment and cultural destination that supports the First Americans Museum and showcases the traditions of Oklahoma tribes.” 

He also explained how the Chickasaw Nation’s investments benefit the wider community. “People see tribes involved in gaming and other industries, but what often gets overlooked is that we are a government. We don’t have a tax base, so projects like OKANA provide funding for healthcare, education and housing for our citizens,” he said. “Tribes are good for Oklahoma. This development proves what can be accomplished when we work together.” 

Anoatubby noted the significance of tribal partnerships in state progress. “We are building toward greater self-sufficiency and a brighter future—not just for the Chickasaw Nation, but for all of Oklahoma,” he said. “Everything we do leads to the next step, and OKANA is part of that continued progress.” 

A key part of OKANA’s long-term vision is its integration with Oklahoma City’s existing attractions. A new Oklahoma River Cruises Ferry Landing, funded primarily by a $4 million Federal Transit Administration grant through the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COTPA), will connect OKANA to the OKC Boathouse District. The landing will also include a riverfront events zone, offering visitors a prime view of the US Rowing National High-Performance Center’s 2,000-meter course finish line. 

OKANA will also be linked to Oklahoma City’s expanding trail system, ensuring accessibility for both visitors and locals. A pedestrian bridge over the Oklahoma River, currently under construction through MAPS projects, will connect OKANA and FAM to the OKC Boathouse District and other riverfront attractions. 

OKANA’s completion follows years of collaboration between the Chickasaw Nation, the City of Oklahoma City and development partners. The resort is expected to boost tourism and investment in the Horizons District, strengthening Oklahoma City’s role as a hub for Native and Indigenous culture while supporting long-term community development.