Texas Joins Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, El Paso, and Corpus Christi in Revolutionizing Tourism with Billions in Economic Growth and Record-Breaking Visitor Numbers Starting 2026

Published on January 1, 2026

Texas is officially experiencing a tourism boom. In 2024, Austin joined six other major cities in the state—Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, El Paso, and Corpus Christi—to help drive record-breaking visitor numbers, setting new milestones for tourism spending, job creation, and overall economic growth.

As Texas continues to gain recognition as one of the United States’ top destinations, the state’s tourism sector is not only recovering from the pandemic but thriving, contributing billions to the economy, and creating thousands of new jobs. The growth in tourism is particularly significant across the featured cities, where the local economies are benefitting from diverse tourism sectors, including cultural events, business conventions, heritage tourism, and eco-tourism.

Austin’s Rising Popularity and Role in the State’s Growth

Austin, known for its vibrant music scene, innovative tech hub, and a host of annual events like South by Southwest (SXSW), is emerging as a key driver of Texas’ tourism economy. With millions of visitors flocking to the city each year, Austin has quickly become one of the most visited destinations in the state. In 2024, the city recorded a significant increase in both domestic and international tourists, thanks to its expanding tourism infrastructure and internationally renowned cultural events.

For instance, SXSW, which blends technology, entertainment, and culture, continues to attract thousands of international visitors. According to Visit Austin, the festival generates millions in economic impact each year, with attendees from over 100 countries. This event, along with Austin’s status as a tech and innovation capital, has positioned the city as a global tourism hotspot, benefiting the city’s hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

Austin’s tourism growth also reflects broader trends across the state, with the city embracing sustainable tourism efforts, ensuring that it not only grows economically but also maintains a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. The city is focusing on attracting eco-conscious travelers by promoting outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling, all of which contribute to the city’s eco-tourism sector.

Houston and Dallas: Big Economic Impact from Business and Cultural Tourism

In Houston, Texas’ largest city and a global business hub, tourism has been propelled by international and corporate travelers. As the city continues to expand its appeal, particularly through its famous Museum District, Space Center Houston, and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, visitor numbers have skyrocketed. In 2024, over 50 million visitors arrived in Houston, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Similarly, Dallas, with its impressive mix of modern skyscrapers, historical landmarks, and entertainment venues, continues to solidify its status as a major tourism and convention destination. The city hosted several key conventions in 2024, attracting international business travelers and convention-goers, which contributed millions to the local economy. The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center is a key venue for these events, which span industries ranging from healthcare to technology. With its growing reputation as a global convention and events destination, Dallas is expected to see even more tourism growth in the coming years.

San Antonio: A Cultural and Historical Tourism Powerhouse

San Antonio, one of Texas’ most beloved cities, continues to attract millions of visitors annually thanks to its rich history and iconic landmarks such as the Alamo and the River Walk. The city’s cultural heritage has made it a standout destination for domestic and international travelers alike.

In 2024, San Antonio saw a rise in visitor numbers, with tourists coming from across the U.S. and beyond. The city’s thriving culinary scene, its historical significance, and annual events such as the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo continue to draw visitors year after year. The city is also becoming a major center for arts tourism, with numerous galleries and theaters hosting events that attract international visitors.

This combination of heritage tourism and modern amenities positions San Antonio as a tourism leader in Texas. Its ability to blend history with contemporary cultural offerings makes it a highly desirable destination for a variety of travelers.

Corpus Christi and El Paso: Coastal and Cross-Border Tourism Driving Growth

While many of Texas’ larger cities have long been tourism leaders, cities like Corpus Christi and El Paso are emerging as key players in the state’s tourism boom. Corpus Christi, with its stunning Gulf Coast beaches and eco-tourism attractions, has seen a significant increase in visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. The city’s proximity to Mexico and its thriving fishing, boating, and bird-watching industries have made it a popular coastal destination.

El Paso, located on the U.S.-Mexico border, benefits from a unique cross-border tourism dynamic. Visitors from Mexico and other international markets are increasingly flocking to the city for its combination of cultural tourism and international commerce. El Paso is also gaining traction as a destination for outdoor tourism, with visitors exploring nearby national parks, hiking trails, and the rich history of the region.

In both cities, tourism has become a key economic engine, helping to revitalize local businesses, boost hotel occupancy rates, and create thousands of new jobs.

Fort Worth: A Western Tourism Tradition Meets Modernity

Fort Worth, Texas’ “City of Cowboys and Culture,” has long been a draw for visitors seeking to experience the Western spirit of Texas. Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards National Historic District continues to attract tourists with its preserved cattle-drive routes, rodeos, and western-themed entertainment. Fort Worth’s rise as a cultural tourism hub can also be attributed to its modern art scene, with venues like the Kimbell Art Museum and Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth helping the city appeal to art lovers from around the world.

Fort Worth’s blend of Western heritage and contemporary culture makes it a key destination in Texas’ tourism landscape. It continues to see steady growth in tourism, helping to diversify the state’s visitor base beyond the traditional attractions of larger cities like Houston and Dallas.

Future Outlook: A Record-Breaking Tourism Sector

With the state showing no signs of slowing down, Texas is poised to continue leading the nation in tourism growth. As visitor numbers and spending continue to rise, the tourism industry’s role in driving economic growth cannot be overstated. The Texas Tourism office projects that the state’s tourism economy will keep expanding, creating jobs, and stimulating local economies.

The commitment to sustainable tourism development is also a key factor in Texas’ long-term success. As cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Houston focus on eco-tourism, responsible travel initiatives, and cultural preservation, Texas will continue to attract new visitors from around the globe.

For Texans, the tourism boom is a win-win—creating opportunities, generating revenue, and enhancing the state’s international reputation. With its diverse attractions, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant economy, Texas is well-positioned to maintain its place as a tourism leader in the U.S. for years to come.