Mineral Wells has added a new feather to its cap as the fourth city in Texas to be awarded the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation by Travel Texas. This status, recognized by Governor Greg Abbott, showcases the city's ongoing efforts to bolster tourism and economic growth within the community.
In his announcement acknowledging the significant contribution tourism brings to the local and state economy, Governor Abbott highlighted that travelers within Texas generated an outstanding economic impact north of $193.8 billion and sustained 1.3 million jobs in 2023. "Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas," stated Governor Abbott in a press release. He further lauded Mineral Wells for its diverse offerings that cater to wellness aficionados and aficionados of history, embracing the state's natural allure and essence of hospitality.
The certification is a testament to the hard work and collaborated efforts of the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau in developing tourism as an essential strategy for economic vitality and employment. "We are thrilled to have Mineral Wells recognized as the fourth city in Texas to earn the prestigious Texas Tourism Friendly Certification," Rose Jordan, the City of Mineral Wells Director of Tourism, told gov.texas.gov.
Senator Phil King also praised Mineral Wells for its certified status, inviting people to experience the city's unique attractions, “Mineral Wells provides visitors a welcoming atmosphere and a completely unique array of local attractions. This designation is well deserved. I encourage everyone to visit and sample the famous Crazy Water, tour the beautiful Clark Gardens Botanical Park, and enjoy some of the many outdoor activities Mineral Wells has to offer,” King said in a statement obtained by gov.texas.gov.
As the Tourism Friendly Texas Community program continues to open its doors to applications from local entities in charge of tourism promotion, the designation aims to solidify relationships vital for tourism development, increase awareness of its economic importance, and spotlight opportunities for statewide support within travel and tourism industries. For aspiring cities and organizations, more information about the certification program and its benefits can be found at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas. The initiative is a strategic part of Travel Texas's mission under the Governor's Economic Development & Tourism Office to market Texas as a top-tier travel destination, boosting non-resident visits and thus supporting local communities and the state’s overall economy.
