Texas Commemorates National Travel and Tourism Week with a Focus on Economic Impact

Texas Commemorates National Travel and Tourism Week

May 1, 2026, Austin, Texas - This week, Texas proudly joins the nationwide celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW). This year's festivities are particularly significant as the U.S. gears up for landmark events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, the commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, and the centennial of Route 66, positioning Texas communities on an international stage. In acknowledgment of the travel sector's critical contributions to the state's economy, Governor Greg Abbott has officially proclaimed May 3-9, 2026, as Travel and Tourism Week in Texas.

Since its inception in 1983, NTTW has served as a platform to demonstrate how travel fosters connections and underpins the truly American experience. With the theme "Postmarked Essential," this year's celebration underlines the importance of travel across the nation as a cornerstone for economic growth, leaving a lasting impression on local economies and their cultures. The impact of the travel industry cannot be overstated.

In 2025, Texas welcomed 52 million seekers of adventure from various parts of the country and beyond, while also witnessing 69 million fellow Texans exploring local destinations for overnight visits. Travel and tourism in Texas boasts an impressive total economic impact of $201.8 billion, generating 1.3 million jobs and yielding $80.8 billion in earnings for the residents of Texas.

Furthermore, revenue generated from travel contributes an astounding $9.2 billion in state and local taxes, which in turn supports essential public services and sustains employment for educators, first responders, and community infrastructure across Texas.

To commemorate this year's special occasion, numerous destinations throughout Texas will acknowledge the tourism sector’s positive impact on local communities. For instance, the Kerrville Convention and Visitors Bureau, in collaboration with the Museum of Western Art, is hosting a Celebration Lunch for National Travel and Tourism Week on Friday, May 1, from 11 AM to 1 PM, while Dallas will spotlight Can-Do Spirit Day on May 7, engaging hospitality industry members, civic leaders, and community partners in a beautification project at Fair Park ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™.

"Travel across Texas plays a crucial role in generating economic momentum and reinforcing community bonds," said Tim Fennell, Director of Travel Texas. "National Travel and Tourism Week offers us the opportunity to recognize the partnerships, businesses, and destination leaders responsible for these outcomes and to celebrate the enduring influence of travel on Texas's growth and long-term prosperity."

For travelers planning their next adventure in Texas, more information can be found at TravelTexas.com and by connecting with Travel Texas on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. To learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week and the economic impact of travel in Texas, visit Travel.Texas.gov.

About Travel Texas

The mission of Travel Texas, which operates under the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office in the Office of the Governor, is to enhance local economic development efforts by promoting Texas as a premier travel destination in both domestic and international markets. Their efforts are designed to draw non-Texans to travel to Texas, thereby creating revenue and jobs for local communities and the state.