Latest news with #TourismFriendlyTexasCommunity
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Yahoo
Nacogdoches named as Top Tourism Friendly Community in the state
NACOGDOCHES, Texas (KETK)– The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program recently recognized the City of Nacogdoches a Tourism Friendly Community. 'Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas,' Texas Governor Greg Abbott said. 'Travelers to and within Texas generate more than $193 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. Every region of the state offers endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty, rich history and true Texas hospitality that draws visitors to our communities. I congratulate the City of Nacogdoches and Visit Nacogdoches on earning this designation.' Often referred to as the Garden Capital of Texas, the city features multiple tours and trails that showcase flowers and gardens including one of the largest azalea gardens in the state. 'Nacogdoches is a place where history, culture, and community come together to create an unforgettable experience for visitors and residents alike,' Nacogdoches Mayor Randy Johnson said. 'Becoming a Tourism Friendly Texas Community recognized by the Governor's Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office is not just an achievement, it's a promise to continue sharing our rich heritage, warm hospitality, and vibrant local spirit with the world. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our businesses, organizations, and citizens who make Nacogdoches a destination worth exploring. The future of tourism in the Oldest Town in Texas has never looked brighter.' The city prides itself on gardens and nature while also offering a variety of attractions that bring in visitors from all over. Some of these attractions include: Sterne Hoya House Museum Nacogdoches Visitor's Center Millard's Crossing Historic Village Splash Kingdom Family Waterpark The Blueberry Place The SFA Planetarium 'Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Community designation is a proud moment for Nacogdoches,' Nacogdoches City Manager Rick Beverlin said. 'Tourism is a vital part of our economy, and this achievement reflects the hard work of our community partners, city staff, and residents who showcase the very best of Nacogdoches every day. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to make our city a premier destination in Texas.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Brownwood designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community
BROWNWOOD, Texas () – Travel Texas has designated the City of Brownwood a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. Texas Governor Greg Abbott congratulated the city on this accomplishment, which acknowledges Brownwood's commitment to further developing tourism as an economic growth strategy, boosting local job creation, and drawing more visitors to its community. Abilene designated as 2nd Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community Governor Abbott, Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell, Senator Phil King, Representative David Spiller, Mayor Stephen E. Haynes, and City of Brownwood Economic Development and Tourism Division Director Ray Tipton spoke about the significance of this achievement for Brownwood in a press release: 'Travelers to and within Texas generates more than $193 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. Every region of this great state offers endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and true Texas hospitality that draws visitors to our communities. I congratulate the City of Brownwood and Visit Brownwood on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state', said Governor Abbott. 'In Brownwood, visitors find a destination where Texas flavors, outdoor adventure, and small-town appeal come together,' said Travel Texas Director Fennell. 'Whether dining in a restored train car, paddling along the Pecan Bayou, or catching a show in a beautifully preserved 1920s theatre, Brownwood offers an eclectic mix of experiences. This designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Community recognizes the city's dedication to making every visit feel like home.' Tourism brings $555 million to Abilene 'Brownwood is a welcoming city that offers plenty of outdoor activities and a flourishing downtown district, providing the perfect mix of historical sites and modern attractions. I am excited to see how the Tourism Friendly Texas designation will bring more engagement to this wonderful part of Senate District 10,' said Senator Phil King. 'Brownwood is a welcoming city that offers plenty of outdoor activities and a flourishing downtown district, providing the perfect mix of historical sites and modern attractions. I am excited to see how the Tourism Friendly Texas designation will bring more engagement to this wonderful part of Senate District 10,' said Senator Phil King. 'This certification reflects the dedication of our staff, businesses, and community partners in making Brownwood a welcoming home for visitors. Tourism plays a vital role in our community, supporting local businesses and enhancing both the visitor and resident experience,' said City of Brownwood Economic Development and Tourism Division Director Ray Tipton. 'Brownwood is more than just a place to visit; it's a community that welcomes you with open arms,' said Mayor Stephen E. Haynes. 'From our rich history to our genuine hospitality, we invite travelers to explore all the elements that make Brownwood feel like home. Whether you're enjoying the waters of Lake Brownwood, discovering our charming downtown, or participating in our local events, you'll find that you are never just a visitor in Brownwood.' Texas Governor Greg Abbott endorses Stan Lambert for re-election to House District 71 The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is open to local governments or non-profit organizations that serve as the lead entity for tourism promotion and development efforts. Benefits of the designation for tourism entities seeking certification on behalf of their community include the opportunity to strengthen or establish relationships important for tourism development, educate local leaders on the importance of tourism to the state, identify and prioritize locally driven strategies, and learn more about opportunities provided by Travel Texas and other state government programs available to support both communities and the travel and tourism industry. For more information on the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program, visit: The mission of Travel Texas in the Governor's Office of Economic Development & Tourism is to enhance and extend local economic development efforts by marketing Texas as a premier travel destination in out-of-state and international markets, generating non-Texan travel to Texas, and creating revenue and jobs for local communities and the state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
