Looking for a family getaway that doesn’t require a flight or a full week off work? OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark in Oklahoma City is only 2.5 hours from Wichita, and it should definitely be added to your family’s must-visit list. It is truly made for kids (and adults) of all ages!
We were recently made the drive for our family of four and kept saying that we couldn’t believe we hadn’t visited sooner. When we checked into the resort, we were greeted with bright bold colors and Native art throughout the resort, along with the friendliest staff. And we already can’t wait to return when the outdoor waterpark opens in May!
Thank you to OKANA for hosting our stay – we can’t wait to return!
OKANA Resort & Waterpark: Epic Weekend Getaway from Wichita
Dive In: The Indoor Waterpark
The main attraction of OKANA is its massive 100,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, open year-round, no matter the weather.
Here’s what to expect inside the waterpark:
- 15 slides ranging from tot-friendly to thrill-chasing
- Lazy river for a relaxed float *this was my husband’s favorite!
- Heated wave pool with a giant tv
- Splash Falls: the center of the park designated for younger kids with interactive water play elements
- Surf simulator for year-round wave riding
And when the weather cooperates, the fun spills outside to the 4.5-acre outdoor adventure lagoon with zip lines and an inflatable obstacle course. We can’t wait to come back to try the outdoor waterpark.
Head to okanaresort.com and use code SPLASH for up to 25% off!
Little Ones Will Love OKANA
One of the things we loved the most about OKANA is that it really had something to offer for all ages. Younger guests have plenty to enjoy at Splash Falls, the center of the indoor waterpark.
Kids can splash through interactive water play areas with slides, tipping buckets, spraying water features, and splash zones — all designed with little ones in mind. Shallow pools and gentle water features mean younger kids can play freely while parents actually relax nearby.
Beyond the water, daily drop-in activities like pajama story time are a sweet way to wind the little ones down at the end of a big day.
Insider Tip: Complimentary life jackets are available at the park and are required for all guests under 48 inches. Personal pool floats aren’t permitted, but you’re welcome to bring your own jacket.
Tweens & Teens Won’t Want to Leave
This is where OKANA really shines. There is enough here to keep older kids busy, independent, and genuinely having such a fun time!
The slides alone could fill an entire day – our girls rode them for hours. Though we didn’t try it (too busy on the slides), the surf simulator is a serious crowd favorite. And OKANA Crossing’s floating lily pad obstacle course and lazy river were quite the hit too.
When they needed a break from the water, the arcade was a huge hit with our tweens, and within the arcade, there’s also the option to do laser tag, a mirror maze, and an escape room. Drop-in activities like DIY tote bag crafts and water park scavenger hunts keep that energy going even off the water.
Insider Tip: The wristband system is a game changer for this age group – the wristbands open the door to your room, and you can use them to pay for things at restaurants or the gift shop. Kids can walk around the resort independently and grab what they need without mom hovering. It’s the kind of freedom tweens and teens love!
Eats for Every Craving at OKANA
With 14 dining options on property, you genuinely never need to leave for a meal.
Jack Rabbit is a vibrant pub inspired by Oklahoma’s black-tailed jackrabbit – think elevated pub cuisine in a really fun atmosphere. Smokehouse Social serves up delicious BBQ alongside 25 sports and games on high-def simulators. Curveball Kitchen is a unique concept where comfort food meets friendly competition in the baseball simulators, a total hit for families.
For something quick and easy, Market 56 is a grab-and-go market that’s perfect for a fast breakfast or a no-fuss lunch between waterpark sessions. And don’t leave without stopping at OKANA Candy Co. for candy or ice cream…it’s pretty much impossible to walk by without buying a treat after a full day at the water park.
Insider Tip: We loved Market 56 for Starbucks coffee and breakfast in the morning. And the egg bites and breakfast sandwiches were delicious!
Mom Tips for Your Stay
A few things worth knowing before you go:
- Pool chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis – or you can reserve a cabana or premier seating ahead of time online or when you arrive. Cabanas accommodate up to 8 guests and include covered lounge beds, personal food and drink service, an exclusive menu, and a personal TV.
- Locker rentals are available inside the park
- Life jackets are required for all guests under 48 inches. Complimentary jackets are provided at the park, or you can bring your own. Personal pool floats are not permitted.
- Want to add laser tag, the mirror maze, or the escape room to your visit? Credits for these activities are purchased at the arcade – a fun add-on for older kids and families.
- Don’t miss the festivities and attractions beyond the waterpark! OKANARAMA is the resort’s entertainment hub with an arcade, laser tag, and escape room.
- Attention to all moms: check out the spa and wellness center. This full-service spa is perfect for sneaking some much-deserved self care. *I got a massage from Lassandra, and it was the best 50 minutes of our trip!
Ready to Book?
OKANA is one of those rare trips where every member of the family is happy at the same time. It’s close, it’s easy, and it genuinely feels like a real vacation. If you’re a Wichita mom who hasn’t looked into a trip yet, this is your sign.
Ready to book? Head to okanaresort.com and use code SPLASH for up to 25% off!
