This Unexpected Oklahoma Oasis Is the Genius Spring Break Move for Gen X Parents and Here’s Why ...Saudi Arabia

When it comes to waterparks, my kids are obsessed. Over the years, we’ve visited countless waterparks across the country and Mexico. So, I knew we had to make our way to Oklahoma City to check out Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark, one of the biggest and newest water parks in the region. 

Before reaching the year-old $400 million property, colorful block letters spelling O-K-A-N-A stood out in the distance across the building’s façade.

Seeing the property’s name made my kids and I excited for what we sensed would be a few fun-filled days in the heart of Oklahoma City. 

As soon as we entered the lively lobby, my intuition was confirmed. As a proud Gen Xer, the songs blaring from the speakers proved that I was in the right place. The heavy rotation of pop and R&B hits from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and early 2000s was music to my ears. 

The nostalgia washed over me and set the tone for what I was sure would be a good time.

Here’s my honest review of Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark and why it’s the perfect spring break getaway for Gen X parents, and more. 

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Rooms and Accommodations 

Boasting riverfront and lagoon views, the resort is 11 stories and features 404 rooms and suites. With ten distinct accommodation types ranging from 420 to 720 feet, the property is ideal for couples, friend groups, and of course, families of all sizes.  

We stayed in the Oka’ suite, which had a living room, two queen beds, and a separate room with a bunk bed, which my tween and teen loved. Upon entering the suite, I was impressed with the plush, yet practical muted furnishings accented with vibrant pillows and decorative accessories. There were also two large-screen TVs, a couch, and desk. Plus, we had a spacious balcony overlooking the sparkling lagoon.

Although our suite only had one bathroom, it was roomy and had a double vanity. When traveling with my teenage daughter who has her own stash of beauty and skincare essentials, more space is always good.

Overall, the suite was spacious and inviting. It also had a mini fridge. However, it didn’t have a microwave, which would’ve come in handy for reheating meals. 

The rooms and suites are connected to the waterpark complex, restaurants, and arcade via a walkway. It’s evident that every detail of the design is geared toward making family stays easy and convenient as possible.

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Food and Drinks

There’s no shortage of food options. With four restaurants spanning cuisines, guests never have to leave the resort to venture out for a good, fast-casual meal. During our stay, we dined at all four eateries. 

After our early flight from New York City, we were starving. The first place that caught our eye was Chido, a Mexican restaurant with a tequila bar and comfortable seating. Located next to the arcade, this spot is perfect for people-watching—especially with the resort being at full capacity during our stay. Beyond its prime location, the food was impressive. My fish tacos, piled with cilantro, avocado, and salsa verde, were bursting with flavor.

For dinner, we dined at Smokehouse Social, which serves a variety of barbecue favorites like BBQ chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, and baby back ribs. My 12-year-old son said the ribs were the best he’d ever eaten and wished he could get that meal back home in Brooklyn. He raved about them so much, he requested the pork ribs again for dinner the following day. 

The restaurant also has a sports simulator inside the restaurant for guests to play, which we took full advantage of after dinner. Hours into our stay, I quickly realized there were opportunities to have a good time at every turn. 

Another example of play being thoughtfully incorporated into all aspects of the resort, is on full display at Curveball Kitchen. Specializing in sports food like chili hot dogs, sliders, nachos and more, this eatery is a homebase for those who crave comfort foods. Decked out in baseball-inspired decor, the restaurant has a baseball simulator for guests to take their best swing. 

Finally, there’s Jack Rabbit—the resort’s popular breakfast spot. While there’s a full buffet of bacon, eggs, waffles, fresh fruit, and other traditional dishes to jumpstart the day, guests can also indulge in made-to-order omelets and build-your-own Bloody Mary. In the evening, the restaurant serves elevated comfort food like rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes, and grilled salmon.

The food options don’t stop. Inside the waterpark’s indoor portion, guests can also grab pizza, burgers, Asian street food, and cool off with Hawaiian-style shaved ice. 

There’s also Market 56, which serves Starbucks coffee, as well as a candy shop with tons of nostalgic candies and sweet treats that Gen X guests will appreciate. 

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For us Gen Xers who suffer from occasional aches and pains, the on-site spa is the perfect place to unwind. Don’t expect the royal treatment, this is a no-frills spa—but it gets the job done. Frankly, I was shocked there was even a spa on the property. So, it was a welcome surprise that met my needs and left me feeling relaxed and restored. Pro tip: Book a massage or relaxing treatment after a few trips down the water slides. 

Waterpark Highlights 

Speaking of water activities, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor aquatic adventures to keep guests of all ages entertained. Ideal for inclement weather and year-round fun, the 100,000-square foot indoor waterpark features a wave pool, lazy river, luxury cabanas, adult-only pool, and kiddie pool, as well as 15 water slides.

The best part? It’s set to a balmy 82 degrees. This was my favorite place in the entire resort because I enjoy warm environments, and this temperature was just right. 

Additional attractions include a multi-level interactive play structure with spray zones, more slides, and a huge bucket that tips over every few minutes, drenching guests waiting below. I noticed this area was dominated by younger kids between the ages of 5 and 10. 

Since my kids are a bit older and thrill seekers at heart, they couldn’t get enough of the Wild Rapids ride— a rollercoaster and water slide combined.

When I wasn’t in our private cabana nibbling on fresh fruit, I walked around the waterpark and watched old-school music videos like Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” and Deniece Williams’ “Let’s Hear It for the Boy,” which were played on a jumbo screen above the wave pool. 

The outdoor waterpark is just as expansive. The main attraction is the cerulean-colored lagoon in the center of the property. It’s the hangout for kids and adults alike who want to cool off and take a dip. There’s also an inflatable obstacle course, which was another major hit with my kids. There’s also a zip line for those who crave adventure.

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Activities and Nearby Attractions 

In addition to the waterparks, the resort also has an arcade with laser tag and an escape room. We experienced both during our stay. It was the first time we’d ever participated in an escape room—it was so much fun and now we can’t wait to do it again. 

The resort is teeming with an abundance of fun activities for the whole family. Plus, next door, guests can get a healthy dose of culture and history by visiting the First Americans Museum, which shares the cultural diversity, history, and contributions of the First Americans.

The resort, which is owned by Chickasaw Nation, also celebrates the heritage of the land’s Indigenous people through curated art seen throughout the property. 

The Bottom Line

Okana Resort & Waterpark offers Gen X parents the best of both worlds: a fun, family-friendly escape that balances comfort and value. Plus, lively dining and common areas are set to nostalgic hits, blending throwback vibes with new memories. Whether you’re 50 or 15, guests are sure to have an unforgettable time.  

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