According to a press release from the governor’s office, Bandera City has been designated as a Texas Tourism-Friendly Texas Accredited Community.
According to a press release, the designation awarded by Travel Texas in the first year of the program recognizes the commitment to strengthening the economic driving force of the Bandera County Treaty & Visitors Bureau.
“Tourism is important to both the local and state economy, supporting 11 jobs in Texas,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in the release. “Texas travelers generate over $193.8 billion annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. Every region of this great state offers endless opportunities to experience natural beauty, rich history and true Texas hospitality that attracts visitors to our community. We congratulate Bandera, the world’s cowboy capital, and Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau for achieving this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state to become a tourism-friendly Texas accredited community.”
“Bandera, the world’s cowboy capital, is a place where Texas’ rich Western traditions come to life for visitors,” said Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell. “Whether you’re on the trail at a work ranch or just two stops at a classic honkyton or exploring the natural beauty of the hill country, Bandera offers a true connection to the state heritage. The recognition of a tourism-friendly Texas community reflects the town’s dedication to inviting travelers to experience the timeless charm while maintaining this heritage.”
“I am proud of Bandera’s recent designation as a tourism-friendly Texas accredited community,” said Sen. Pete Flores. “The results underscore their commitment to showcasing the rich history, natural beauty and vibrant culture that Bandera has to offer. By becoming a certified tourism destination, they not only increase the visibility of their communities, but also create new opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs and the tourism industry as a whole.”
“One of my favorite things about the world’s cowboy capital is the people who live there every day,” Vice President Wes Wildel said. “I love every minute I can spend there. As a motorcycle enthusiast, Bandera is one of my favourite places and thousands of people enjoy riding Bandera like me. In a world where great things and regions are disappearing, I hope that Bandera will stay exactly as they have been for a long time. Bandera is absolutely worthy of this recognition.”
“In Bandera, we recognize the economic impact of tourism and tourism-related activities,” said former Mayor Rebecca Gibson, who was released from the governor’s office, where she was cited as the current mayor. “Our local economy relies heavily on the cooperation of local businesses, individuals and organizations that nurture tourism ecosystems.”
“We are known as the world’s cowboy capital, and that’s why many people come here,” said Deb Breen, a member of the city council and the Economic Development Committee. “We want everyone to have the opportunity to become a cowboy, even if it’s a day or a week. Our town is dependent on tourism and has a big impact on our economy. Many of our restaurants and retailers rely heavily on tourist dollars. Of course, these tourist dollars create a trickle-down approach to the rest of our local economy.”
“In Bandera, the world’s cowboy capital, the cowboy spirit is more than history. It’s a way of life,” said Carita Jant, director of the Bandera County Convention and Visitors. “Bandera Friendly is still governed by those then. The familiarity of our hometown is greatly helpful in the world’s cowboy capital, encouraging visitors from all over the world to experience this unique and classic anomaly called Bandera. ”
The tourism-friendly Texas Community Program is open to local governments and nonprofits focused on tourism development. According to the governor’s office, the benefits of accreditation include strengthening relationships within the tourism industry, educating local leaders on economic opportunities, and access to state resources for promoting tourism.
For more information about the program, see gov.texas.gov/Tourism-Frendly-Texas.
