Kilgore Earns Tourism Friendly Texas Designation, Boosting State’s $200 Billion Travel Economy
The small East Texas city of Kilgore has joined an elite group of communities recognized for their commitment to hospitality and visitor experience, securing the coveted Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation from Travel Texas.
Governor Greg Abbott congratulated city officials on the achievement, highlighting the economic significance of tourism to the Lone Star State. “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” Abbott said. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state.”
Triple Crown of Texas Tourism
What makes Kilgore’s achievement particularly noteworthy? The designation completes a rare trifecta of tourism-related certifications for the city, which now simultaneously holds Music Friendly Texas, Film Friendly Texas, and Tourism Friendly Texas designations. This combination positions Kilgore as a multifaceted destination within the state’s tourism landscape.
State Senator Bryan Hughes praised the city’s role in showcasing regional culture. “Tourism creates opportunity, drives economic growth, and shares our rich East Texas heritage with visitors from near and far,” Hughes stated. “This honor simply affirms what we already know — Kilgore is a destination that welcomes every guest, strengthens our communities, and proudly shares the spirit of East Texas with the world.”
Representative Jay Dean echoed these sentiments, noting that “Kilgore has been a shining example of what makes East Texas special — a community that honors its rich history while embracing new opportunities for growth.”
Local Leaders Celebrate Recognition
For Kilgore’s leadership, the certification represents more than just another accolade. Mayor Ronnie E. Spradlin III emphasized the human element behind the designation: “Our city thrives when visitors feel welcome, and this honor reflects the warmth, hospitality, and spirit of our residents.”
City Manager Rachel Rowe highlighted the experiential aspect of tourism in Kilgore. “Being a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community means creating experiences and memories for every visitor,” Rowe explained. “Kilgore is committed to making everyone feel at home while exploring all we have to offer.”
Perhaps the most revealing perspective came from someone who experienced Kilgore first as an outsider. “I began as a visitor to Kilgore, and I was struck by the love and commitment this town and Visit Kilgore has to making every visitor’s experience truly special,” said Visit Kilgore Tourism and Marketing Manager Megan Payne, who expressed honor at the recognition.
Economic Strategy Through Tourism
The Tourism Friendly Texas program represents a strategic approach to economic development. Launched as a new initiative, the program encourages communities across Texas to leverage tourism as an economic driver while providing resources and recognition for those efforts.
Can small towns really compete in the tourism economy? The program suggests they can—and should. Open to local governments and non-profit organizations that lead tourism promotion efforts, the certification process helps communities strengthen partnerships, educate local leaders about tourism’s economic impact, and gain access to state resources that can further boost visitor numbers.
The benefits extend beyond mere recognition, including opportunities to identify locally-driven strategies and learn more about support available through Travel Texas and other state government programs.
As Texas continues to position itself as a premier travel destination, communities like Kilgore are proving that hospitality isn’t just good manners—it’s good business in a state where tourism generates hundreds of billions in economic activity each year.
