Bandera Named Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community
The City of Bandera has been designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community, according to a press release from the governor’s office.
A press release said the designation, awarded by Travel Texas in the inaugural year of the program, recognizes Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau’s commitment to strengthening tourism as an economic driver.
“Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas,” Governor Greg Abbott said in the release. “Travelers to and within Texas generate more than $193.8 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 Bandera, the Cowboy Capital of the World, and the Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau 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.”
“Bandera, the Cowboy Capital of the World, is where Texas’ rich Western traditions come alive for visitors,” said Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell. “Whether it’s riding trails at a working ranch, two-stepping in a classic honky-tonk, or exploring the natural beauty of the Hill Country, Bandera offers a genuine connection to the state’s heritage. Its recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Community reflects the town’s dedication to preserving this legacy while inviting travelers to experience its timeless appeal.”
“I am proud of Bandera's recent designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Senator Pete Flores. “This achievement highlights their commitment to showcasing the rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture that Bandera has to offer. By becoming a certified tourism destination, they are not only enhancing the community's visibility but also creating new opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and the whole tourism industry.”
“One of the things I love most about the Cowboy Capital of the World is the people who live there every day,” said Representative Wes Virdell. “I love every minute that I get to spend there. As a motorcycle enthusiast, Bandera is one of my favorite places to ride, and thousands of people enjoy riding in Bandera as much as I do. In a world where great things and areas are disappearing, I hope Bandera stays exactly the way it is for a long time to come. Bandera absolutely deserves this recognition.”
“In Bandera, we recognize the economic impact of tourism and tourist-related activities,” said former Mayor Rebecca Gibson in a release from the governor's office in which she was cited as the current mayor. “Our local economy depends greatly on the collaboration of local businesses, individuals, and organizations who nurture our tourist ecosystem.”
“We are known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, and many people come here for that reason,” said City Council and Economic Development Board Member Deb Breen. “We want everyone to have the opportunity to be a cowboy, even if just for a day or a week. Our town relies on tourism, and it has a huge impact on our economy. Many of our restaurants and retailers rely heavily on tourism dollars. Of course, those tourism dollars create a trickle-down approach to the rest of our local economy.”
“In Bandera, the Cowboy Capital of the World, the cowboy spirit is more than history—it's a way of life,” said Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau Manager Carita Jundt. “What was then is still now, ‘Bandera friendly’ reigns. Hometown friendliness goes a long way in the Cowboy Capital of the World, bringing visitors from all around the world to experience this unique and classic anomaly called Bandera.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is open to local governments and non-profit organizations focused on tourism development. According to the governor’s office, benefits of certification include strengthening relationships within the tourism industry, educating local leaders on economic opportunities, and gaining access to state resources for tourism promotion.
For more information about the program, visit gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
