For years, selling Oklahoma City as a destination for large meetings and conventions meant focusing on logistics: square footage, hotel room counts, and how everything fit together on paper. Today, that conversation looks very different. There’s momentum behind the city, and meeting planners can feel it. Increased visibility at national trade shows has helped put Oklahoma City on more shortlists, but it’s the site visits that make the difference. When planners come to town and experience the city firsthand, the pitch shifts from explaining what Oklahoma City could be to showing what it already is. That experience is intentional. The Convention Sales team approaches every potential meeting with flexibility, first working to understand the personality and priorities of each group. From there, the city’s partners help customize the visit, whether that’s tailored swag, welcome gifts, or even changing the color of downtown building lights to match an organization’s branding. SELLING OKLAHOMA CITY FOR MEETINGS IS ABOUT MOMENTUM, NOT JUST SPACE
Planners are also asked directly what they want to see, ensuring the visit reflects their needs rather than a one- size-fits-all itinerary. That level of customization reflects a broader shift in how Oklahoma City sells itself. The goal is not just to promote a venue, but to sell an idea. Local buy-in plays a major role in that pitch. When partners across the city lean in to support a bid, it creates a sense of alignment that planners immediately notice. Efforts around cleanliness, MAPS investments, and initiatives like Key to Home all contribute to a first impression that feels cohesive and cared for. It reinforces what many refer to as the Oklahoma Standard, a willingness to show up, collaborate, and make visitors feel valued. This coordination is especially evident within Oklahoma City’s convention campus. The Omni Oklahoma City Hotel and the Oklahoma City Convention Center have become recognizable brands, supported by city infrastructure that allows them to function as a true campus rather than standalone facilities. The result is an experience that feels elevated, walkable, and seamless, qualities that are increasingly important for large-scale meetings. Looking ahead, new and future venues continue to expand what’s possible. The upcoming soccer stadium will create additional opportunities for offsite events
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