City of Bryan Recognized As Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community
Press Release provided by the Office of the Texas Governor
August 19, 2026
The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor today announced the City of Bryan 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 Destination Bryan 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 more than $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 Bryan and Destination Bryan 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."
Bryan is now a Film Friendly Texas, Music Friendly Texas, and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.
“Bryan is filled with rich history, lively local events, and thriving businesses that make the community a destination worth visiting,” said Senator Charles Schwertner. “This recognition is well-deserved and reflects Bryan’s commitment to sharing its hospitality and the best of the Brazos Valley with visitors from Texas and beyond.”
“Tourism plays an integral role in strengthening our regional economy and showcasing the rich history and hospitality that make Bryan such a special place to live and visit,” said Representative Paul Dyson. “This designation reflects the dedication of our local leaders, small businesses, and community members who work tirelessly to make Bryan a premier destination in the Brazos Valley. I congratulate the City of Bryan and Destination Bryan on earning this well-deserved recognition.”
“There’s a special charm in Bryan, backed by our thoughtfully revitalized Historic Downtown, the exemplary Legends Event Center, and the experiences and events that make our community unique,” said City of Bryan Mayor Bobby Gutierrez. “I want to personally thank Governor Abbott for his strong support of this statewide initiative, as promoting tourism is critical to local economies like ours. We welcome those from Texas and beyond to visit and enjoy Bryan.”
“Receiving the Tourism Friendly Texas Community Certification is a true testament to the work Bryan and its businesses have done over the years to establish Bryan as a premier destination,” said Destination Bryan Executive Director John Friebele. “It's an honor to be recognized for the work the entire community has put into making Bryan a welcoming and thriving destination. We look forward to continuing our efforts to make Bryan a vibrant place where visitors can experience history, art, culture, and tradition in the heart of the Brazos Valley.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified 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, 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.