Granbury Recognized As Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community

January 28, 2026 | Austin, Texas | Press Release

AUSTIN – The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor today announced the City of Granbury has been recognized by Travel Texas as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community after completing the multi-step certification process. Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation shows the commitment of Visit Granbury to further develop tourism as an economic growth strategy, boost local job creation, and draw more visitors to their community and to Texas from across the nation and around the world.
 
“Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 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 Granbury and Visit Granbury 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.”
 
Granbury is now a Film Friendly Texas, Music Friendly Texas, and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.
 
“For my hometown of Granbury to be named a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is quite fitting as it is often called the ‘Best Historic Town in America’ and was designated by the Legislature as the Celebration Capital of Texas in 2023,” said Senator Brian Birdwell. “I am proud of everyone involved for their efforts in earning this recognition and know this type of designation cannot happen without the extensive efforts and determination of the local community. Congratulations to Mayor Jarratt and the entire Granbury community, as their dedication to preserving history, celebrating culture, and welcoming visitors has earned them this outstanding achievement.”
 
“Granbury is proud to be the Celebration Capital of Texas, and we are equally proud to now exceed the requirements to be recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Granbury Mayor Jim Jarratt. “This designation reflects our ongoing commitment to hospitality, customer service, and creating a welcoming experience for every visitor.”
 
“Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation is a meaningful milestone for Granbury,” said Visit Granbury Director Tammy Dooley. “It reflects the hard work and hospitality-focused commitment of the Visit Granbury team, who serve this community with heart every day on behalf of the city. We are proud of this recognition and deeply humbled to receive it.”
 
“Being certified as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community highlights the hard work of our staff, our businesses, and our residents,” said Granbury Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Wadley. “Granbury has always taken pride in its vibrant identity as the Celebration Capital of Texas. This certification further demonstrates that we value the visitor experience at every level.”
 
“This certification acknowledges the effort our staff puts into making sure Granbury is a great place to visit,” said Granbury City Manager Chris Coffman. “Our focus on building strong partnerships, improving services, and supporting local tourism is paying off. As the Celebration Capital of Texas, we strive to deliver exceptional experiences, and this recognition affirms that dedication.”
 
“Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas certification shows that our processes, training, and community partnerships are aligned to support a strong and sustainable tourism environment,” said Granbury Deputy City Manager Michael Ross. “Granbury’s identity as the Celebration Capital of Texas speaks to the spirit of our community, and this certification reflects the professionalism behind the scenes that helps make that possible.”
 
The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is open to local governments or non-profit organizations that serve as the lead entity for tourism promotion and development efforts. Benefits of the designation for tourism entities seeking certification on behalf of their community include the opportunity to strengthen or establish relationships important for tourism development, educate local leaders on the importance of tourism to the state, identify and prioritize locally driven strategies, and learn more about opportunities provided by Travel Texas and other state government programs available to support both communities and the travel and tourism industry. For more information on the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program, visit: gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas
 
The mission of Travel Texas in the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor is to enhance and extend local economic development efforts by marketing Texas as a premier travel destination in out-of-state and international markets, generating non-Texan travel to Texas, and creating revenue and jobs for local communities and the state.
 
The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office (EDT) within the Office of the Governor is tasked with marketing and promoting the state of Texas across the nation and around the world as the premier business location and travel destination. EDT works closely with communities and local, regional, and statewide economic development and tourism organizations, as well as partnering state agencies, to ensure Texas remains the best place to live, work, and visit.

Media inquiries should be directed to the Governor’s Press Office at (512) 463-1826.