Houston Daily

The City of Temple has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a multi-step certification process. The designation highlights Discover Temple’s efforts to use tourism as a strategy for economic growth, job creation, and attracting visitors from across the country and internationally.

Governor Greg Abbott commented on the importance of tourism in Texas: “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. I congratulate the City of Temple and Discover Temple 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.”

Temple now holds three certifications: Film Friendly Texas, Music Friendly Texas, and Tourism Friendly Texas.

Senator Pete Flores also acknowledged the achievement: “Congratulations to the City of Temple on achieving Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community status,” said Senator Pete Flores. “This well-deserved recognition highlights Temple's commitment to leveraging tourism to boost economic growth and create jobs. By attracting visitors, Temple strengthens its local businesses and enhances the quality of life for its residents. This is a win-win for the local community and for the entire state of Texas.”

Representative Brad Buckley added: “Congratulations to the City of Temple on being designated a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Representative Brad Buckley. “This designation speaks volumes to how the city has bridged from the beauty of its rich history to its current offerings to its citizens and those who choose to visit. From its charming historic downtown to its growing and thriving neighborhoods, it is wonderful to see Temple recognized in this way, and I am thrilled that more people will be able to experience what the community has to offer.”

City Manager Brynn Myers emphasized the significance of this recognition: “We are incredibly honored that Temple has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said City Manager Brynn Myers. “This achievement is a testament to the passion and dedication our team has poured into making Temple a destination that welcomes all with open arms. Tourism is not only a driver of economic growth, it’s also a reflection of our community’s spirit. This recognition reinforces our continued commitment to elevating the visitor experience while preserving the charm and authenticity that make Temple so special.”

Councilmember Jessica Walker shared her perspective on submitting the application: “This certification holds a very special place in my heart,” said Temple Councilmember Jessica Walker. “Being able to submit the application on behalf of our city was a meaningful moment for me. I’ve witnessed the hard work and heart Discover Temple puts into promoting our community day in and day out. To see our efforts formally recognized at the state level is both exciting and humbling. Temple is a city full of history, culture, and connection, and this designation affirms that we’re on the right path in sharing that with others. I couldn’t be prouder of our team and this milestone for our city.”

The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program allows local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts an opportunity for relationship-building important for tourism development, education about tourism’s value at state level, prioritization of locally driven strategies, as well as access to resources provided by Travel Texas through various government programs supporting communities along with travel industry stakeholders (more information can be found at https://gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas).

Travel Texas operates within Governor Abbott’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with a mission focused on marketing Texas as an attractive travel destination outside state borders—including international markets—while generating revenue streams for local communities statewide.