Oklahoma’s tourism industry is experiencing a significant surge, according to state leaders. In 2023, the interest in traveling to Oklahoma has grown dramatically, as reported by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. Executive Director Shelley Zumwalt highlighted the fact that tourism revenue in the state increased from $10.5 billion to $12.8 billion in 2022, indicating a thriving industry. Data tracking from Omnitrak, which monitors hotel stays and events across Oklahoma, provides valuable insight into this growth.
One of the main reasons for this growth is the natural attractions in Oklahoma, such as sand dunes and waterfalls, that draw visitors to the state. Additionally, sports play a major role in attracting tourists to Oklahoma City, as it will host the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics. This event will bring even more attention and visitors to the state.
Tourism is seen as a crucial aspect of economic development in Oklahoma, contributing significantly to the state’s economy. The industry generates over $833 million in state and local taxes every year, making it one of the largest industries in the state. Zumwalt emphasized that promoting tourism to residents of other states is key to further increasing visitor numbers to Oklahoma. By showcasing the diverse range of attractions and opportunities in the state, officials believe they can attract even more tourists and boost economic activity.
The State is continuously working on enhancing its tourism offerings and providing memorable experiences for visitors from near and far.
Overall, it seems that Oklahoma’s tourism industry is doing well and there are many exciting things happening for tourists who come to visit this beautiful state!
