≡-Austin, Dallas, and Houston Lead a Record-Breaking Texas Tourism Boom While Top Destinations in New Braunfels, Fort Worth, Amarillo, and Port Aransas Report Critical Overcrowding Concerns – Viral of Today

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Home » America Travel News » Austin, Dallas, and Houston Lead a Record-Breaking Texas Tourism Boom While Top Destinations in New Braunfels, Fort Worth, Amarillo, and Port Aransas Report Critical Overcrowding Concerns Wednesday, July 16, 2025Texas is experiencing a historic tourism surge, with Austin, Dallas, and Houston emerging as the primary engines behind a record-breaking influx of over 62 million visitors in the past year. This explosive growth in travel has fueled economic gains across the state but has also triggered critical overcrowding concerns at top destinations like New Braunfels, Fort Worth, Amarillo, and Port Aransas. As millions of tourists flock to Texas’ urban landmarks, natural wonders, and coastal getaways, infrastructure and popular attractions are being pushed to their limits, revealing the growing need for sustainable crowd management and travel planning solutions.In the latest reports, Texas hosted more than 62 million visitors last year. Their presence generated approximately $97.5 billion in direct visitor spending, while the wider tourism economy produced nearly $200 billion in economic activity. This massive contribution supports around 1.3 million jobs across the state, reinforcing the importance of tourism as a cornerstone of Texas’ growth.Alongside job creation and business expansion, the industry also brought in $9.2 billion in tax revenue, strengthening the fiscal foundation of cities and communities that rely heavily on travel.However, with this historic surge in visitation comes an increasing concern: overcrowding. A recent review of travel feedback and online commentary has highlighted which places in Texas are feeling the pressure from these waves of tourists.Study Reveals Texas’ Most Packed Tourist HotspotsA data analysis compiled from TripAdvisor reviews, using terms like “packed,” “too crowded,” and “overwhelmed,” reveals the 24 most overcrowded attractions in Texas. Topping the list are destinations that have become icons of summer leisure and cultural exploration.RankAttractionCityCrowding Mentions (%)1Schlitterbahn WaterparkNew Braunfels17.14%2Comal RiverNew Braunfels15.12%3Port Aransas BeachPort Aransas14.65%4Perot Museum of Nature and ScienceDallas13.43%5Barton Springs PoolAustin13.07%6The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey PlazaDallas11.65%7Cadillac RanchAmarillo9.95%8Enchanted RockFredericksburg7.87%9Lost Maples TrailVanderpool7.67%10San Antonio River WalkSan Antonio7.43%11Houston ZooHouston6.59%12Moody GardensGalveston6.47%13The AlamoSan Antonio6.26%14Space Center HoustonHouston5.64%15Japanese Tea GardensSan Antonio5.62%16Dallas Arboretum and Botanical GardenDallas5.16%17The StrandGalveston4.08%18Kimbell Art MuseumFort Worth3.89%19Fort Worth StockyardsFort Worth3.47%20Palo Duro CanyonAmarillo3.36%21Grape Creek VineyardsFredericksburg3.34%22Museum of Fine Arts, HoustonHouston2.88%23Texas State CapitolAustin2.56%24Reunion TowerDallasData not providedNew Braunfels Leads in OvercrowdingOf all locations listed, New Braunfels stands out. Home to both Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Comal River—ranked first and second, respectively—it has become a go-to summer escape. But its popularity may be overwhelming its infrastructure, as online reviews consistently note long wait times, traffic congestion, and overcrowded amenities.Port Aransas Beach ranks third, pointing to the Gulf Coast’s rising status among beachgoers. Meanwhile, attractions in Dallas, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio dominate the rest of the list, suggesting that Texas’ major cities are experiencing heightened pressure from both domestic and international tourism.A Growing Need for Tourism ManagementWith visitation climbing to historic highs, managing footfall has become a critical challenge. Overcrowded attractions not only affect the visitor experience but also place stress on local resources and staff. City planners and tourism boards are now exploring strategies such as capacity limits, digital reservations, entry scheduling, and infrastructure upgrades to help ease congestion without turning visitors away.Travel experts say that these challenges are common among popular global destinations—but they also present opportunities. With proper planning and smarter visitor flows, Texas can continue to grow while preserving the charm and accessibility of its most beloved spots.What to Expect in 2025Looking ahead, analysts expect even more tourists to pour into Texas throughout 2025, spurred by rising travel demand, increased marketing campaigns, and enhanced accessibility. This growth is expected to benefit businesses, airlines, and local governments—but only if capacity issues are proactively addressed.Visitors are encouraged to plan off-peak visits, book ahead, and explore lesser-known alternatives that offer the same beauty and culture with fewer crowds. As the state expands its hospitality offerings and introduces new attractions, travelers may find exciting new places that have yet to appear on overcrowding lists.With tens of millions of visitors, billions in spending, and over a million jobs tied to the sector, Texas’ travel and tourism industry is more than just a vibrant part of the culture—it’s a major economic engine. But as the state reaches new heights in popularity, the need for sustainable and smart tourism practices has never been greater.Whether soaking in a natural spring, strolling through a historic museum, or relaxing on a coastal beach, visitors are advised to research crowd levels and time their trips wisely. Texas will always be big—but smart travel decisions will ensure it remains just as enjoyable.

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