In a major move poised to elevate Tulsa’s status as a premier meetings and conventions destination, Visit Tulsa has announced plans for a new 650-room convention hotel directly connected to the city’s downtown Arvest Convention Center. The $390 million project is set to break ground in 2026, with a projected opening in 2029.
The addition of this anchor hotel marks a significant milestone in Tulsa’s growth trajectory as a competitive host city for large-scale events and conferences
“Tulsa has had great success attracting premier event business thanks to our incredible venues, attractions and hotel options, and the addition of this new hotel will be a true game-changer for the city,” said Renee McKenney, Senior VP of Tourism, Tulsa Regional Chamber & President of Tulsa Regional Tourism, in a media statement. “Adding this hotel to our skyline makes our city even more attractive and competitive to large-scale businesses, meetings and conventions and will further solidify Tulsa as a true international destination for business and leisure travelers alike.”
Three architectural firms are currently in the running to design the hotel, with a developer expected to be selected this summer. Once complete, the hotel will significantly boost room capacity and infrastructure, helping Tulsa compete more aggressively for major national and international conferences.
The project is expected to inject millions into the local economy, adding to the estimated $327 million in annual economic impact from events already hosted in Tulsa. Planners can expect expanded options for hosting weeklong conferences, trade shows and executive retreats—all within walking distance of the city’s revitalized downtown.
The future hotel will connect directly to the 275,000-sf Arvest Convention Center, formerly the Cox Business Convention Center, which recently underwent a rebranding following a new 10-year licensing agreement with Arvest Bank.
For meeting planners, the new property represents expanded opportunities for mid-week events, incentive programs and national associations looking for an affordable yet dynamic alternative to larger metro areas. The hotel’s integration with the convention center will streamline logistics, offering a seamless experience for organizers and attendees alike.
“The advancement of the convention center hotel project is a pivotal moment for Tulsa’s meetings and events landscape,” said Keller Taylor, Vice President of the Arvest Convention Center, in a media statement. “With this critical piece in place, we will significantly enhance our ability to attract major conventions, trade shows and corporate events.”
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