Oklahoma may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about international attractions, but we have several unique destinations and a few unprecedented upcoming events that will undoubtedly draw visitors from around the world.
Following the recent announcement that Oklahoma City is only a few steps away from hosting multiple events as part of the 2028 Olympic Games, I was filled with immense pride but also an overwhelming sense of duty. This is a significant opportunity to welcome national and international visitors to our state and showcase everything we have to offer — from our world-class facilities to our stunning landscapes and unmatched hospitality — on the global stage
Oklahoma is also in a perfect position to leverage the over 400 miles of Route 66 in our state to welcome visitors from across the country and the world looking to plan a trip around the 2026 centennial of the iconic highway. For years, international visitors have come to the United States with the sole purpose of traveling the longest drivable stretch of Route 66.
With Tulsa recently named the official Capital of Route 66 and the Legislature’s historic investment in the Mother Road, Oklahoma is more prepared than ever to welcome the tens of thousands of visitors who will travel this iconic highway.
In 2022, Oklahoma saw its largest year-over-year percentage increase in travel spending in nearly a decade, jumping 12.3% from $10.5 billion in 2021 to $11.8 billion. More than 60% of those dollars were spent in rural communities outside of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Those dollars were able to support more than 100,000 jobs. More impressively, according to Omnitrak, the average Oklahoma travel party of four spends $562 per trip. That’s up more than 14% from last year, signaling positive continued trends for the tourism industry in Oklahoma.
Despite the economic growth and unprecedented opportunities, Oklahoma’s statewide tourism marketing budget lags well behind those of our neighboring states like Texas, Arkansas and Missouri. Consequently, our limited tourism marketing budget that has remained capped for nearly a decade, has required strategic and innovative approaches to maximize our available resources and promote our state. Enhanced funding could help further boost our state’s tourism industry, driving economic development and increasing Oklahoma’s appeal as a global travel destination.
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Tourism is already Oklahoma’s third-largest industry. What we do in the next four years, and the resources devoted to promoting the major events and attractions coming to our state, will have an impact on Oklahoma for generations to come.
It’s time for the world to discover Oklahoma’s hidden treasures, to walk its storied paths and to carry its tales back across the globe. The invitation is open — we welcome all to come and explore the heart of America in Oklahoma.
Shelley Zumwalt is the executive director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Olympics, Route 66 give us a chance to showcase Oklahoma on the global stage | TravelOK
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