Monday, May 12, 2008; Posted: 4:30 p.m. (CDT)
Oklahoma City -- Studies show families will stay closer to home this year when taking a summer vacation because of high gas prices. In hopes of attracting regional visitors, the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department is celebrating National Tourism Week through announcing a new campaign. KSBI-TV's Kealey McIntire has more.
Many families will hit the road this year for summer vacation. Autumn Radle will take an expensive trip to New York.
"Air fare is going up very quickly, so I need to make my plans soon," says Radle.
A new AAA report shows New York City is the second most expensive city for travelers. Food and hotel for one day costs two adults $606.38. However, with a daily cost of $174.83, that same report shows Oklahoma is the sixth most economical state for a vacation.
Metro resident Robert Hellman thinks Oklahoma City could benefit this year.
"We have done a lot over the past to change the city, and I think we're going to see a lot more people coming here because of the cost of gas," says Hellman.
Many are expected to stay closer to home this summer because of rising gas prices. The Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation announced a special promotion for those getting a tax rebate in hopes of attracting regional visitors.
"Things look positive for Oklahoma this year. We just want to make sure that people are aware of all the value that's out there and see if we can push that even harder," says Hardy Watkins, Executive Director for the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation.
The department is promoting about 20 package deals all for less than $1,200. You can find out where to scuba dive in Oklahoma or take time out for the two of you in the Arbuckle Mountains.
"You don't have to drive 700 or 800 miles to have a really great vacation experience, Oklahoma offers a great getaway," says Watkins.
Tourism generates $5.3 billion every year for Oklahoma. Officials and residents alike hope this campaign will keep the visitors and the economy flowing.
"There are so many beautiful parks in the state where people can go camping, boating and hiking. I think it's great just to spur the economy and get people spending their money again," says Radle.
National Tourism Week got started 25 years ago. The week celebrates the value of the nation's $740 billion travel industry.
Click on the link below for information on the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation's travel packages.
For more information, visit http://www.travelok.com/hot_deals/rebatehome-08.asp.
