Major Events Expected To Bring Millions Of Dollars In Tourism To Tulsa

Between the Ironman triathlon and the Senior PGA Championships coming this weekend, Tulsa Regional Tourism is expecting more than $65 million in economic impact.

Tulsa Regional Tourism President Ray Hoyt said there was more than $14 million in economic impact from Ironman and the Senior PGA Tour at Southern Hills Country Club is expected to bring in $49 million. 

He said after the pandemic, they are thrilled to see these numbers. 

"Anytime that would be tremendous, but the fact we are coming out of the pandemic, and just jump right into those two events is fantastic," Hoyt said. 

Hundreds of people are also coming to Tulsa for the Centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre. 

Pete Patel, the CEO of Promise Hotels, said his hotels are fully booked in downtown Tulsa, something they haven't seen since before pandemic. 

"There was a time where we got down as low as, some of our downtown hotels, five percent occupancy about a year ago, so we are just ecstatic to see so many people coming to Tulsa," Patel said. 

Patel said they have had reservations from all over the country, and they are ready to welcome people to Tulsa.

"It's our opportunity to spotlight Tulsa, Oklahoma to the world," he said. 

Patel said hotels are still seeing staff shortages, so when checking in, it's best to use patience.