The Village of Salado has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a certification process. The designation reflects Visit Salado’s efforts to use tourism as a means 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 Village of Salado and Visit Salado 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.”
Salado also holds the status of Music Friendly Texas Certified Community.
Senator Pete Flores highlighted Salado’s history as a tourist destination: “Salado has been a destination of tourism since its inception as a stagecoach stop in 1860,” said Senator Pete Flores. “The community has defined Texas tourism friendly for generations of travelers, including the great General Sam Houston. Whether enjoying the cool springs of the creek at Pace Park in the summertime or competing in the Highland Games at the Gathering of the Scottish Clans, it’s only fitting for Salado to be recognized as it continues to showcase Texas hospitality.”
Representative Brad Buckley expressed his support for the new designation: “I am pleased to see the Village of Salado and Visit Salado receive this exciting designation,” said Representative Brad Buckley. “Salado is one of the most charming towns in Texas, combining a rich heritage of early Texas settlement and historic markers with the modern appeal of art, entertainment, and shopping. I am proud to call Salado home, and I hope everyone will join us here for the legendary Salado Stroll in early December to see why it is the perfect place to honor with a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation.”
Mayor Pro Tem Zach Hurst accepted the recognition on behalf of Salado: “On behalf of the Village of Salado, I am honored to accept the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Mayor Pro Tem Zach Hurst. “This recognition underscores our ongoing commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for visitors, promoting our historic and cultural assets, and supporting the growth of local tourism. We look forward to continuing to enhance our community as a premier destination, providing memorable experiences for all who visit.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program is open to local governments or non-profit organizations that lead tourism promotion efforts within their communities. The benefits include building partnerships important for developing tourism strategies locally, educating leaders about tourism’s role in economic development statewide, identifying priorities specific to each community’s needs, and accessing resources from Travel Texas along with other government programs.
Travel Texas operates under the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with an aim to market Texas as an attractive travel destination outside its borders while generating revenue and employment opportunities throughout local areas.
For more information about becoming certified under this program, details are available at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
