The City of Kilgore has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas. This certification follows Kilgore’s completion of a multi-step process aimed at supporting tourism development, job creation, and attracting visitors from across the country and internationally.
Governor Greg Abbott commented on the importance of tourism to 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 Kilgore and Visit Kilgore 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.”
With this latest recognition, Kilgore now holds three certifications: Music Friendly Texas, Film Friendly Texas, and Tourism Friendly Texas.
Senator Bryan Hughes highlighted the significance of this achievement for East Texas: “Congratulations to Visit Kilgore and the City of Kilgore on achieving this Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Senator Bryan Hughes. “Tourism creates opportunity, drives economic growth, and shares our rich East Texas heritage with visitors from near and far. 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 also praised the city’s efforts: “I’m proud to see the City of Kilgore recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Representative Jay Dean. “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. This certification is a testament to the city’s commitment to welcoming visitors and supporting the local economy through tourism.”
Local officials expressed their pride in receiving this recognition. Mayor Ronnie E. Spradlin III stated: “Kilgore is proud to be recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Kilgore Mayor Ronnie E. Spradlin III. “Our city thrives when visitors feel welcome, and this honor reflects the warmth, hospitality, and spirit of our residents.”
City Manager Rachel Rowe emphasized visitor experience: “Being a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community means creating experiences and memories for every visitor,” said Kilgore City Manager Rachel Rowe. “Kilgore is committed to making everyone feel at home while exploring all we have to offer.”
Visit Kilgore’s Megan Payne reflected on her personal connection with the community: “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. “We are honored to be recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.”
The program is available for local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts in their communities. The benefits include fostering partnerships important for tourism development, educating leaders about tourism’s role in economic growth statewide, identifying strategies tailored locally, as well as accessing resources provided by Travel Texas.
More information about becoming certified can be found at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates within the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with an aim to market Texas as an attractive travel destination outside its borders while supporting local economies through increased revenue generation.
