Today marks two years since Gathering Place opened in Tulsa.

The $465 million park took roughly a decade of planning and around three years to build.

The park has seen some adversity in the first two years with record flooding and a global pandemic affecting operations.

The park’s executive director, Tony Moore, told KRMG they’ve had to think outside the box since COVID-19 hit.

“We’re reinventing the business a little bit.” Moore said as he described the linear experience visitors will soon see. “You experience by walking and not by gathering.”

Moore said the park is open in its entirety with the exception of the Vista restaurant.

“Social distancing does not lend well for a small restaurant.” Moore said.

Even with some struggles, Gathering Place has seen much success in the first two years, with national recognition from USA Today as the ’Best New Attraction’ and from TIME Magazine as one of the World’s Greatest Places.

As expansive as it is, Gathering Place has yet to be completed.

Phase II is still to come and includes the addition of the Discovery Lab Children’s Museum.

The park will also benefit from the new pedestrian bridge that will be built across the Arkansas River.

Listen to our full interview with Gathering Place Executive Director Tony Moore here

Cox Media Group