Tulsa Hotel Bookings Surge Ahead Of President Trump Visit

City officials said they're estimating as many or more than 100,000 people downtown Tulsa for the president's rally, and places to stay are filling up fast. 

It's a much-needed financial boost for hotels.

Steve Fischer, general manager at the Courtyard Marriott, said he saw arrivals drop to zero during the pandemic.Tulsa's Downtown Courtyard Marriott is still pretty quiet right now, but Fischer said they're expecting a full house in 48 hours. "We are sold out one night and close to selling out a second night. It's a very quick getting back in the game," said Fischer, who is also the president-elect Metro Tulsa's Hotel and Lodging Association.

Fischer said most of the hotels downtown and in the Metro are reaching capacity, a stark contrast from a few weeks ago. "We've seen things slow down to zero arrivals which is very uncommon," he said.

"I would expect downtown to be sold out based on the activity we're seeing," said Ray Hoyt, the President of Tulsa Regional Tourism. Hoyt said Tulsa-area hotels saw the occupancy percentage in the teens during the peak of COVID-19.

He said many hotels that reduced staffing and rooms are now hurrying to get ready before President Trump arrives. "Some are working really hard to get those rooms open and provide the best experience possible," said Hoyt.

Fischer said their hotel has increased cleaning and is encouraging people to wear masks and maintain social distancing. He says they had to furlough 25 people, but now many will be back this weekend to help.in

"It's a new experience for all of us," he said. "We're ready to welcome them to our city and hotel for a great Oklahoma experience."

President Trump said more than a million tickets have been claimed for his rally Saturday at the BOK Center, but there is no definite number on exactly how many people could be here this weekend.