Skip the travel time — over Spring Break or summer vacation, you don’t need to leave town for a world-class family getaway. Instead, make a splash at OKC’s OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, the first luxury resort of its kind in the metro. As a lifelong Oklahoma City resident, I never imagined we’d have this kind of destination right in our backyard (a mere 15 minutes from my house!) — one that feels both like a family-friendly escape and an upscale retreat.
The Chickasaw Nation’s $400 million project is located in the Horizons District, next door to First Americans Museum.
My family of five had the incredible opportunity to visit OKC’s OKANA Resort just ahead of the official grand opening on Feb. 21, and it was nothing short of spectacular. I lost count of the number of times one of us exclaimed: “I don’t even feel like we’re in Oklahoma!”
Walking into the resort, we were immediately struck by the bright, airy design, with nods to Native art and artists throughout the space. Luxurious, spacious suites accommodate large families or single travelers. Top-tier dining varies from elegant and refined to quick and kid-friendly. But the showstopper for kids and adults alike? The 100,000-square-foot indoor water park features 15 thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool and plush, private cabanas.
And that’s just the beginning! This Memorial Day weekend, OKANA will debut its 200,000-square-foot outdoor water park, complete with a sandy beach, more waterslides and a zipline.
With 11 pools, 13 dining outlets and a variety of adventures, OKANA is setting a new standard for entertainment and relaxation in the metro. Plus, with day passes available, even locals who aren’t staying overnight can experience the magic.
Use this guide to plan a weekend getaway, family adventure, adults-only escape or just a day of fun!
PLAY
The indoor waterpark was, without a doubt, the highlight of our staycation. What makes OKANA’s waterpark stand out from similar resorts is that there’s something for everyone, from the tiniest tyke to the thrill-seeking teen. The variety of waterslides is unmatched – from high-speed drops and twisting bowl slides to water coasters that launch you uphill.
Whether your family visits for the gentle waves or scream-worthy slides, there’s an adventure for every age. And even if you’re visiting without kids, be prepared to feel like one again (pro tip: stretch before tackling all those stairs!).
Waterslides that wow
Our family favorite waterslide was Tidal Twist, a round tube slide for up to five riders that sent us twisting, turning and screaming as we slid up and down massive bowls. The most unexpected thrill was Wild Rapids. This two-person tube slide is like a water roller coaster, featuring huge drops, then a propelled uphill launch before sending you right back down. It was the most ridden of our entire stay.
My adventure-junkie big kids loved the two-person Whiplash, which features a backward drop, plus Racing Rapids, where they competed headfirst to see who was fastest.
We didn’t try the FlowRider Surf Simulator, but we had a blast watching guests of all ages bodyboard and surf, some more successfully than others! The wipeouts were epic, but the grins afterward were even bigger.
Fun for every age
At the heart of the waterpark is Splash Falls, a massive interactive play structure with waterslides, splash zones, tipping buckets and spraying water. My youngest (age 9) had a blast here – the slides were just the right size and speed. Heads up: there’s a maximum height restriction, so my older two weren’t able to ride, but I appreciated this restriction for the younger guests.
OKANA Crossing quickly became a favorite challenge for my crew. This floating lily pad obstacle course tests your strength and balance as you try to cross the water using an overhead rope for support. My kids did this again and again successfully, while I … got really good at falling off.
The High Tide Wave Pool was a hit for everyone. Gentle swells made it fun for floating or splashing, and the big screen playing music videos was a fun touch. But one of my personal favorites was Enchanted River. This lazy river experience had us dodging (or aiming for!) waterfalls, giggling the entire time.
For little ones, Low Tide offers a gentle slide, small lazy river and interactive play spaces. Like Splash Falls, this area also has height restrictions, making it ideal for younger guests and their families.
And if you need a kid-free retreat, head to Soothing Springs, the adults-only pool and bar area – a perfect place to unwind after an adrenaline-filled day.
Dry-land adventures at the OKANA Resort
After hours of fun at the waterpark, we dried off and explored the resort’s dry-land experiences, and I was surprised at how much fun we had!
I’ll admit: arcades aren’t usually my thing. But OKANARAMA Game Hall was different. With over 80 arcade games, there was something for everyone, and before I knew it, I was just as into it as the kids. We also laughed our way through the mirror maze, where the adults took way longer to find the exit than the kids!
The Hidden Temple Escape Room was a true test of our brainpower and teamwork. We were grateful for a helpful host (and, yes, a few hints along the way!). And Laser Tag turned into an all-out battle, bringing out everyone’s competitive streak (my kids are still suffering through my reminders that I came in second place!).
Know before you go:
- Day pass options: Whether you’re after all-day access to both the indoor and outdoor waterparks, just the outdoor area or a relaxing evening of fun, there’s a day pass option for you. Prices start at $39.99 per person (kids under 3 are free!).
- Towel tip: Day pass guests will need to bring their own towels.
- Surf’s up!: Want to try out the surf simulator? It’s included in your waterpark ticket, but you’ll need to sign additional waivers at the towel service desk before you catch your first wave.
- Chill by the pool: Pool chairs are available for all guests at the waterpark, but they’re on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Locker rentals: Keep your belongings safe by renting a locker (available indoors and outdoors) to stash your stuff while you play.
- Extra fun: Want to challenge your family to a round of laser tag, get lost in the mirror maze or test your teamwork skills in the escape room? Credits for these activities must be purchased at the arcade.
- Comfortable cabanas: Cabanas accommodate up to 8 guests and feature covered lounge beds, personal food and drink service, an exclusive menu and even a personal TV. You can reserve online or when you arrive.
- Life jacket policy: Life jackets are required for all guests under 48 inches. You can bring your own or use one of the complimentary jackets provided at the park (note: personal pool floats aren’t permitted).
SLEEP
As a family of five, finding a hotel room that comfortably fits all of us – without feeling like we’re playing a game of suitcase Tetris – is nearly impossible. But OKANA delivers, offering spacious, well-thought-out accommodations for families of all sizes. Even better? Every single one of the 404 rooms across the resort’s 11 floors is a suite, meaning extra space and comfort are standard.
We were lucky enough to stay in a King Bunk Suite, and our kids were ecstatic. Designed with families in mind, the suite featured a king-sized bed, sleeper sofa and cozy bunk bed nook that instantly became the kids’ favorite hideaway. Everyone had their own space, and we all enjoyed a full night’s rest on luxury bedding that felt like sleeping on a cloud (a must after all those trips up the water slide stairs!).
Thoughtful touches continued, including a large mini-fridge, safe and even a steamer. Indigenous art and decor, plus Indigenous-made toiletries, were a meaningful touch. I also appreciated the resort’s commitment to eliminating single-use plastics. A sink setup outside the bathroom always makes this mama happy – less fighting for space! While the toilet and shower area was on the smaller side, the overall layout made up for it in efficiency and comfort.
Know before you go:
- Suite life: In addition to Bunk Suites, Junior Suites and Multi-Room Suites are available. Overnight stays start at $249/night.
- Waterpark access: Entry to both the indoor and outdoor waterparks (when open) is included with your stay. Wristbands, given at check-in, serve as your room key and waterpark pass.
- Elevator tip: Hotel elevators don’t have buttons inside. Use the touchscreen outside to select your floor, and it will assign you an elevator.
- Wristband charges: You can enable charge-to-room payments on your wristbands. We opted out with three kids in tow!
- Extended waterpark time: You can enjoy the waterpark all day on both check-in and check-out days. Arrive as early as 10 a.m. (before 4 p.m. check-in) and stay until closing (8-9 p.m.) after your 11 a.m. check-out.
- Towel service: Hotel guests receive complimentary towel service at the waterpark – one less thing to pack!
EAT
I expected the OKANA resort to deliver top-tier waterpark thrills and luxe accommodations – but what I didn’t see coming was just how incredible the dining would be. Let’s be honest; at most waterparks, you’re lucky to find lukewarm pizza or a soggy burger. But OKANA takes resort dining to another level with 13 unique eateries serving everything from elevated comfort food to modern Mexican street fare to some of the best ice cream we’ve ever had.
Our family is always up for a tasty challenge, so we made it our mission to try as many spots as possible during our 18-hour stay.
Fuel up without leaving the fun
At the indoor waterpark, you don’t have to sacrifice sliding time for snack time. Order fast-casual favorites like pizza, burgers and Asian fare via touchscreen and get right back to the action. The highlight for us was Sliders’ chicken fingers and waffle fries. These were next-level crispy, juicy and flavorful.
Signature dining that delivers
For a sit-down meal, OKANA offers several signature restaurants:
- Jack Rabbit Pub – Elevated comfort food in a cozy yet modern setting
- Chido Tacos y Tequila – Bold Mexican street food and unforgettable craft margaritas
- Smokehouse Social – A BBQ hotspot with a side of entertainment: golf simulators overlooking the lagoon
Dinner at Chido was a standout. The grown-ups sipped on specialty craft margaritas (highly recommend the Cocina, with strawberry, basil, lime and a Tajín rim) while the kids devoured adorable taco truck kids’ meals, complete with tacos served in an actual toy truck! Every bite was fresh and delicious, from the sizzling fajitas to the creamy quesadillas and bold guacamole and salsa.
The breakfast buffet at Jack Rabbit included fluffy waffles, fresh fruit parfaits, spicy biscuits and gravy and a hearty egg scramble, all with views of the OKC skyline.
Quick bites & sweet treats
Need to grab and go before hitting the waterpark? Market 56 has you covered with Starbucks coffee, fresh pastries, sandwiches and salads.
For a sugar rush, head to Frosty Flamingo for Hawaiian-style shaved ice or OKANA Candy Co. for whimsical candy creations and craft ice cream. After a competitive game of laser tag, we cooled off with some of the creamiest, most unique ice cream flavors we’ve ever had. Our top picks: Ultimate Oreo and This (Ish) Just Got Serious – a dreamy blend of salted caramel ice cream, fudge ribbons and salted cashews.
Drinks with a view
For the adults, swim-up bars are coming soon to the outdoor lagoon, and Soothing Springs inside the indoor waterpark offers a just-for-adults pool and bar for a little kid-free relaxation.
Whether you’re craving a sit-down feast, a quick bite between waterslides, or an over-the-top dessert, OKANA has something for everyone and then some. Come hungry, because you’ll want to try it all!
Know Before You Go:
- Dining access: All dining establishments are open to hotel and day pass guests. Some, including Smokehouse Social, Frosty Flamingo and Chido, are also open to the public.
- Food restrictions: Outside food, drinks and coolers are not permitted at the waterparks.
Book your staycation to remember
Whether you’re seeking heart-racing thrills, family-friendly fun or kid-free relaxation, OKANA Resort & Waterpark delivers it all. This staycation was the perfect blend of adventure, luxury and unforgettable memories. With its elevated waterpark slides, unique dining options and exciting dry-land activities, there’s truly something for everyone. We left feeling refreshed and recharged. OKANA has set a new standard for staycations in Oklahoma City, and we can’t wait to return for more fun and relaxation!
Coming Soon
OKANA Beach, the outdoor waterpark, will open Memorial Day weekend. The park will include a large, family-friendly pool with a beach entrance (the fourth largest pool in the country!!), an inflatable obstacle course, the Summit Splash freefall plunge, more water slides and a Zip and Dip ride. Guests 21 and over have exclusive access to the adults-only pool and swim-up bar.
