Harlingen earns state tourism certification aimed at boosting local economic development

Harlingen has earned a state tourism designation recognizing its efforts to attract visitors and use tourism as an economic development tool.

Travel Texas has designated Harlingen a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community, the city announced earlier this week via a news release. The program recognizes Texas communities that complete a multi-step certification process focused on tourism development, partnerships and opportunities for future growth.

For Harlingen, the designation puts a state stamp on efforts to turn the city’s attractions, events and outdoor recreation into more visitor spending at local businesses.

Tourism supports hotels, restaurants, attractions and events throughout Harlingen, city officials said in the release. Visit Harlingen markets the city around birding, golf, fishing, parks and trails, shopping, dining and local events.

The certification program was created by Travel Texas specifically to encourage communities to treat tourism as part of their broader economic development strategies. Communities that complete the process receive state recognition and resources to continue developing their tourism industries. 

Harlingen has also been investing in projects that can support that strategy, including parks and trails, downtown revitalization, cultural and community events and outdoor recreation, according to the city. Local partnerships are another component of its efforts to strengthen the city’s appeal to visitors and residents.

The designation adds Harlingen to a growing group of Texas communities that have completed the Tourism Friendly Texas certification process.