Lampasas, Texas Achieves Tourism Friendly Certification, Boosting Economic Hopes

The City of Lampasas, nestled in the rolling hills of Central Texas, has just earned a coveted designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. Announced on April 14, 2025, by Travel Texas, this recognition highlights the town’s growing reputation as a destination for travelers seeking history, natural beauty, and a warm welcome. For a community of just over 7,000, the certification feels like a nod to years of quiet effort to share its unique story with the world.

This milestone isn’t just about a title. It signals Lampasas’ commitment to harnessing tourism as a tool for economic growth, job creation, and community pride. From its spring-fed pools to its vibrant downtown, the town offers a glimpse of small-town Texas that’s increasingly catching the eye of visitors, both from within the state and beyond. But what does this mean for Lampasas, and why does it matter for Texas as a whole?

Tourism is a powerhouse for Texas, pumping over $193 billion into the economy each year and sustaining 1.3 million jobs, roughly one in every 11 across the state. For smaller communities like Lampasas, the impact is tangible. Local businesses, from cafes to boutique shops, thrive on visitor spending, which also fuels tax revenues for schools, roads, and public services. In places like Early, Texas, tourism generates millions in local sales taxes, easing the financial load on residents, and Lampasas is poised to see similar benefits.

The certification process, overseen by Travel Texas, required Lampasas to demonstrate a clear strategy for welcoming visitors. City leaders, alongside the Lampasas Chamber of Commerce, completed training, assessments, and interviews to prove their readiness. The effort paid off, positioning the town to tap into state resources and marketing support. For residents, it’s a chance to see their hometown celebrated, while for visitors, it’s an invitation to explore a place rich with stories, from its 19th-century roots to its modern-day festivals.

Lampasas’ appeal lies in its blend of history and hospitality. Travelers can stroll through a downtown lined with historic buildings, soak in mineral springs that have drawn people for generations, or join locals at events like the Spring Ho Festival. Yet, as tourism grows, so do questions about preserving what makes the town special. Some worry that increased foot traffic could strain resources or shift the community’s character, a concern echoed in other small towns seeing similar trends.

On the flip side, advocates for tourism argue it’s a lifeline for places like Lampasas. Jobs in hospitality and retail offer opportunities, especially for younger workers, while visitor spending supports local entrepreneurs. The state’s broader push for small-town tourism, reflected in the ‘Let’s Texas’ campaign, emphasizes authentic experiences over cookie-cutter attractions. By focusing on its unique heritage, Lampasas aims to grow without losing its soul, a balancing act that will shape its future.

Lampasas isn’t alone in its tourism ambitions. Across Texas, small towns are riding a wave of interest in ‘townsizing,’ where travelers swap crowded cities for quieter destinations. In 2024, Texas welcomed 115 million domestic visitors, many drawn to places offering local culture and a slower pace. This shift, fueled by remote work and a hunger for connection, has spotlighted communities like Marble Falls and Corpus Christi, also certified as Tourism Friendly.

State programs play a key role in this trend. Since the 1960s, Texas has worked to market its diverse regions, from coastal plains to desert mountains. The Tourism Friendly program, launched in 2024, builds on that legacy, equipping towns with tools to attract visitors while fostering local pride. For Lampasas, it’s a chance to stand out in a state brimming with options, drawing people to its springs, history, and small-town charm.

Earning the Tourism Friendly designation marks a new chapter for Lampasas. City leaders hope it will spark more jobs, boost local businesses, and put the town on the map for travelers seeking a genuine Texas experience. With state support, Lampasas can tap into marketing campaigns and partnerships to reach new audiences, all while showcasing its historic downtown and natural treasures. The challenge will be sustaining momentum without overwhelming the community’s resources or identity.

For now, Lampasas stands as a testament to what small towns can achieve when they lean into their strengths. Its story reflects a broader truth about Texas: every corner of the state has something to offer, whether it’s a historic landmark, a local festival, or simply a warm handshake. As more visitors discover Lampasas, they’ll find a place that’s ready to share its heart, one story at a time.