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2020TEXASGUIDE YEE-HAW Cowboy Culture Thrives at the Lone Star State’s Rodeos and Ranches

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NANCY YAWN, CSEE, CDME Director, Round Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau

WELCOME TO TEXAS, Y’ALL! The Biggest Host in the Country! On behalf of my colleagues across the great state of Texas, we would be thrilled to share our southern hospitality with you! Texas has invested smartly in infrastructure to support a plethora of events. Our all-star venues range from the iconic Texas stadiums professional sports teams call home, to regional indoor sports facilities and versatile multi-purpose complexes. The Lonestar State has a site for every event of any size.

The variety of lodging for every budget, convenient travel options, award-winning restaurants and top-notch leisure activities make Texas an exceptional destination for sports associations and organizations. From Super Bowls and World Series, to Little Leagues and everything in between, we have helped our sports events planners with a game plan to ensure event success. We take great pride in going the extra mile so every visitor has a home run experience in Texas.

In short, the people of Texas are your biggest fans, champions, and hosts. We believe that our state-of-the-art facilities, central location and Texas hospitality make us the perfect destination for your next event. We are excited for you to team up with Texas!

Sincerely,

Nancy Yawn, CSEE, CDME Director, Round Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau

TEXAS 6 Home on the Range 8 Best BBQ in the West

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10 Arlington, TX 18 Round Rock, TX 12 Bryan College Station, TX 20 Midland, TX 14 Portland, TX 23 Abilene, TX

16 Fort Worth, TX Cover Photo Courtesy of Travel Texas

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Come for the competition. Stay for the coast. Bring your best game to Portland’s Sports Complex and our Municipal Park, the premier sports venues on the Texas coast. Play on all artificial turf fields for baseball, softball, soccer, or football. For great competition and coastal fun, it’s a win for everyone. PlayPortlandTexas.com

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ON THE RANGE THE INN AT DOS BRISAS ygone days of the rampant lawlessness that governed Texas in the Wild West may be gone, but the lore of the cowboy, tales of the Nestled between Houston, Austin and College Station, The Inn at Dos HOMEOld West and a tradition of ranch and rodeo life live on within the Brisas is a culinary oasis in the hills of Washington County. Here you’ll find LoneB Star State. A paragon backdrop for a myriad of Hollywood films, the only Forbes five-star restaurant and Relais & Châteaux property in all of Texas’ natural beauty and unique landscape serve as a fantastic stop for Texas, where a luxurious hotel meets the peaceful scenery of a landscape those who’d like to hit the trails on horseback, while its vibrant cities bring framed by lakes, wildflowers and pecan trees. Enjoy wine tasting, baking the showmanship and skill of the modern-day cowboy to the biggest stage. and cooking classes, indulge in upscale rooms, take a riding lesson from one of the largest equestrian facilities in the state or stroll leisurely through RANCHES the gardens. For the sports enthusiast, engage in clay target shooting, hunt- FLYING L RANCH RESORT ing or fishing, as well as tennis and golf with access to nearby private clubs. Bandera is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World” and Flying L PRUDE RANCH Ranch Resort delivers that experience and much more. Horseback and pony riding adventures along the San Julian Creek will give every buckaroo Here’s a challenge; try not to have the Dixie Chicks stuck in your head the chance to spot the whitetail and axis deer, black buck antelope, road while cruising around Prude Ranch in Fort Davis. Surrounded by the runners, wild turkeys, armadillos, owls, hawks and more that populate incredible rolling mountains of Big Bend, the ranch is the perfect stop for the region. When you’ve spent enough time on the trail and just want to a family vacation, corporate retreat or much-needed breath of fresh air. relax, this full-scale resort caters to your every need, offering four-bed- Horseback riding through rustic trails rewards riders with the serene room villas, five restaurants, and a 3-acre water park and 18-hole golf beauty of scenic West Texas, while a bevy of housing options are course. Enjoy wagon rides, champion Western entertainment, live music, available upon your return to the ranch. Relax in the pool and take in the roaring campfires and more in Texas’ Hill Country. breeze while learning about the ranch’s historic roots.

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Cowboy culture and the MAYAN DUDE RANCH Wild West live at Texas’ Another staple of Bandera, the gorgeous Mayan Dude Ranch is in the heart of Texas Hill County, where you’ll find refreshing rivers, scenic ranches and rodeos horseback rides and delectable breakfast treats. Be a part of the West- ern tradition that has produced seven world champion rodeo cowboys while you wander through 348 acres of picturesque trails, traversing the Medina River and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Swim in the pool, reconnect with family and friends and indulge in farmhouse favorites like sliced bacon, cowboy sausage, oven-fresh biscuits and more. WILDCATTER RANCH

Overlooking the Brazos River, Wildcatter Ranch in Graham is merely 90 minutes away from DFW International Airport and close to Possum Kingdom Lake. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience luxurious ranch life, where an infinity pool and hot tub are ready to relax you after a long day exploring the great outdoors via horseback. The Wildcatter Steakhouse serves hand-cut, mesquite grilled steaks, while chicken fried steak is a local favorite. Multiple accommodations are available, ready to host every guest need. RODEOS FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW AND RODEO

For 23 days each year Fort Worth makes its case as the most authentic Western lifestyle experience in the country when the show comes to Dickies Arena. Held annually since 1896, the Stock Show features livestock and horse shows, kid-friendly activities and exhibits, live music, carnival midway, shopping, great food and much more. HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO

World-renowned as the largest indoor livestock exhibitions and rodeo on the planet, the Houston Livestock Show and Radio is not to be missed. The 2019 rodeo drew more than 2.5 million people over 20 days, with the 2020 event slated for March 3-22. The show features championship rodeo action, livestock competitions, concerts, a carnival, pig racing, barbecue and the Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition, as Mayan Ranch, Courtesy of Travel Texas Travel of Courtesy Ranch, Mayan well as shopping, sales and livestock auctions. Traditionally the event San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo draws some of the world’s biggest recording artists. RODEO AUSTIN

With a family-friendly fairground, Rodeo Austin is “Where Weird Meets Western”. One of the country’s top ProRodeos comes to town every March, where top-ranked athletes compete in bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Plus, aspiring young cowboys and cowgirls can compete in the fan-favorite Mutton Bustin’ event, where kids receive a score no matter how long they stay on a friendly sheep. SAN ANGELO STOCK SHOW AND RODEO

The San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo is one of the largest live- stock shows in the nation, featuring the fourth-most entries between total contestants and the livestock show. More than 5,500 4-H and FFA exhibitors travel to appear at the show from more than 200 Texas counties, WEST 1077 GUEST RANCH annually drawing more than 150,000 spectators. SAN ANTONIO STOCK SHOW AND RODEO Just 10 miles outside of Bandera this dude ranch has a relaxed schedule, enabling you to completely engage in the peaceful tranquility As one of the most prestigious single events in San Antonio, the San of the Hill Country at West 1077 Guest Ranch. Here you’ll find nearly Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo annually attracts more than two million 230 acres teeming with wildlife, hiking, running and mountain biking visitors. Held from February 6-23 in 2020, the 14-time PRCA large trails, while Hill Country State National Area is nearby and offers an ad- Indoor Rodeo of the Year features a carnival for kids and musical per- joining 5,400 acres to roam. West 1077 always has something new to formances from some of the globe’s biggest names at Rodeo After Dark, do at the place where the old west meets today’s modern world. on top of a slew of amazing competitions. SPG

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THESE EIGHT GREAT BARBECUE SPOTS WILL BEST SATISFY THE TEXAS-SIZED APPETITE YOU’LL WORK UP DURING BBQIN THE YOUR NEXT TOURNAMENT IN WEST THE LONE STAR STATE

verything is bigger in Texas, including your appetite. Fortunately, the Lone Star State has plenty of five-star options when you’re in search of your next mouthwatering meal, and no one does slow-cooked meat quite like Texas. Whether you’re a fan of pulled pork, beef brisket or tender ribs, visitors’ mouths will be watering when you visit any of these fantastic eateries during your next tournament. With a bevy of unique smoking techniques, savory rubs and sauces, these barbecue joints are must-stops on your tour of Texas. Here are eight great optionsE to consider when you’re in town next.

Photos by KD’s Bar-B-Q

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The Big Room at KD’s Bar-B-Q in Midland

C&J BARBECUE IN COLLEGE STATION LOCKHART SMOKEHOUSE IN ARLINGTON From humble roots operating out of a gas station in 1981 sprang a In between the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field and the Dallas fledling franchise around the Bryan-College Station area, where this Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium sits Texas Live!, a hub for sports, entertainment local Aggieland favorite has been honored as the “Best of the Brazos” and some of the finest barbecue around the state. Lockhart Smokehouse award for barbecue restaurants. Chip and Jo’s fine food has drawn in delights fans on game day with Texas staples like brisket, ribs and other former president George Bush and his wife Barbara for a meal, while the smoked meats over Texas post oak, as well as daily specials like prime franchise has also catered events for some of the biggest names in rib, beef ribs and burnt ends. country music. RUDY’S “COUNTRY STORE” AND HEIM BARBECUE IN FORT WORTH BAR-B-Q IN COLLEGE STATION After starting with a single smoker and slowly transitioning into Rudy’s is a top-option for favorite BBQ eats in Aggieland, thanks in owning a sole food truck, Heim has grown through the years and opened part to its no-frills attitude. With a relaxed, casual indoor picnic table its doors in Fort Worth in 2016. Heim opened a second location in Fort setup, Rudy’s serves its food cafeteria-style, with all the usual fixings Worth in 2019 when the demand for fan favorites like jalapeno cheddar you’d expect to find plus delicious options like jalapeno sausage. If you sausage, beef brisket, burnt bacon ends, baked potato salad and green can’t wait until lunch, consider stopping in to try out the breakfast tacos chile mandated another store. as well, available in 14 different options.

HURTADO BARBECUE IN ARLINGTON SALT LICK IN ROUND ROCK After opening in the spring of 2019, Hurtado Barbecue quickly made Located adjacent to Dell Diamond—the home of the Houston Astros a splash in the Arlington scene with electic BBQ eats like barbacoa AA A affiliate Round Rock Express—the Salt Lick BBQ is a mainstay in sausage and smoked elotes will expand your purview, where an infusion town, no matter if there’s a game going on or not. Margaritas, music and of Mexican-inspired flavors mixed with Texas-style barbecue creates the meat are on the menu every weekend on the Salt Lick’s stone outdoor perfect blend of savory smoke and spice. patio, while freshly made pecan pie and blackberry or peach cobbler are available for those who’ve saved room for dessert. KD’S BAR-B-Q IN MIDLAND The best brisket in Midland can be found at KD’s Bar-B-Q, where THE SHED MARKET IN ABILENE melt-in-your-mouth options abound. Dine in at a classic sports bar and An entire pit devoted purely for smoking ribs, a meat market that patio where you’ll find plenty of smoky goodness like sausages, ribs, stays open in case the barbecue sells out earlier and a menu full of pork, ham and turkey, as well as a complimentary bean bar where you favorites to satiate your barbecue desire set The Shed Market apart can try any of KD’s four barbecue sauces. in Abilene. Speciality meats and custom burger patties built to your every whim ensure that your next meal here will be everything you want and more. SPG

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Arlington, TX ARLINGTON’S POPULAR VENUES, FEATURING STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, ARE NOTHING SHORT OF EXCITING COME GAME DAY

AT&T Stadium

Arlington is most accessible FACILITY SPOTLIGHT panels for other sports, concerts and truck from major cities and airports AT&T Stadium rallies and a massive high-definition Mitsubishi via I-20, I-30 or TX-360 N. Sports Football, boxing, basketball, soccer, video display board. planners looking to stay close wrestling, multipurpose to their tournament venues will AT&T Stadium can seat up to 100,000 Globe Life Park & Globe Life Field want to fly intoDallas/Fort Worth spectators and this 140-acre, three-million- Baseball International Airport, which is square-foot special events center, which Play ball at Globe Life Park, former home just 10 miles away from AT&T cost a hefty $1.3 billion, remains one of the of Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers. Stadium. Dallas/Fort Worth is most expensive facilities in sports history. Located down the street from AT&T Stadium, serviced by 24 airlines, including This climate-controlled stadium features the 270-acre facility cost $190 million in American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, dozens of high-tech amenities, including a 1992 and can seat up to 48,000 people. The Spirit and United Airlines. retractable roof panel, 300-foot steel arches, a stadium’s unique exterior is constructed from built-in turf with 26 interchangeable surface Texas Sunset Red granite and brick and tells

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES ▶ Six Flags Over Texas offers teams the story of Texas’ baseball history. Globe Life Harold Patterson Sports Center the chance to fly like superheroes Park will soon be transformed into the home Baseball, football, softball, soccer, on its Marvel or DC-themed roller for the XFL team owned by the WWE’s Vince multipurpose coasters. McMahon. The new stadium, Globe Life Field, The 135-acre, multipurpose Harold will feature a retractable roof, air conditioning Patterson Sports Center is perfect for hosting ▶ Cool off with a splash at Hurricane and hundreds of concessions including some tournaments and events year-round. The site Harbor, Six Flags’ adjoined water exclusive to Arlington. features six baseball fields, six football fields, park equipped with over 40 types and an additional 15 multipurpose fields of exhilarating rides. Esports Stadium Arlington & EXPO suitable for soccer, flag football, lacrosse, Center kickball and everything in between. The ▶ Budding bowlers have the chance Esports, multipurpose complex is located only 20 minutes from to learn about the country’s With the arrival of the esports Stadium DFW International Airport. Off the field, teams leading participatory sport at the Arlington in fall 2018, Arlington’s entertainment can enjoy picnics at the pavilion, various International Bowling Museum & district is the home to the largest venue in the concessions or the plethora of dining and Hall of Fame. country dedicated to esports. The stadium entertainment options located across the street brings live entertainment and playing facilities at Arlington Highlands outdoor mall. ▶ Shop at more than 50 stores at for up to 3,000 fans and athletes alike. In Arlington Highlands or more than addition to the stadium itself, the venue 180 stores and eateries at Parks includes a production studio, a 6,000-square- ARLINGTON SPORTS COMMISSION Mall at Arlington. foot permanent stage with modern lighting Adam Wisniewski, and LED video walls, a hair and makeup Sports Account Director studio, player lounges and training rooms. 817-704-7596 Conveniently located less than a mile from AT&T [email protected] Stadium, Globe Life Field and Texas Live! www.arlington.org/sports

Globe Life Park & Field PLANNER PERSPECTIVE Working with the CVB here in Arlington has been a great experience for me and UTA. Not only am I on the CVB board but also a member of the Arlington Sports Commission, and what they are doing on both the board and the commission is amazing. Arlington is growing and is becoming the place for sports and entertainment, and the CVB has a big hand in the growth of both these areas.

— Jim Baker, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, University of Texas at Arlington

Texas Rangers Golf Club Esports Stadium

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BRYAN COLLEGE STATION, TX WITH A HOST OF IMPRESSIVE FACILITIES AND A LIVELY ENVIRONMENT, BRYAN COLLEGE STATION WILL APPEAL TO ATHLETES OF ALL AGES PLANNER PERSPECTIVE “The team at BCS Sports + Events Texas A&M Natatorium is there every step of way from the event planning process to on-site event execution. They truly invest in the event and ensure an unforgettable experience while visiting the area. BCS Sports + Events sets the bar high for sports commissions across the country.”

— Caila Roberts, AJGA Junior All-Star

Veterans Park & Athletic Complex

E.B. Cushing Stadum

Bryan College Station is located FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Off the field, athletes and spectators will find in the middle of the Dallas- Veterans Park Athletic Complex spacious pavilions, covered seating, onsite Houston-San Antonio triangle Softball, football, soccer, ultimate restrooms and over 1,500 parking spaces. and is in the center of 80 percent Frisbee, archery, lacrosse, kickball, of all of Texas’ population. quidditch Texas A&M Natatorium United and American Airlines Home to countless championships and Swimming, diving, water polo fly into Bryan College Station’s millions of spectators throughout the years, The Texas A&M Natatorium, host of the 2018 Easterwood Airport from Dallas Veterans Park & Athletic Complex is without SEC Swimming & Diving Championships, is and Houston. If you can’t make a doubt the place to play in Bryan College a world-class swimming and diving facility one of those connections, the Station. Veterans Park & Athletic Complex is that offers its athletes an eight-lane, 50-meter Austin or Houston airport are an award-winning outdoor facility that sprawls pool with graduated depths of 7-9 feet. The both about an hour-and-a-half across 150 acres and features nine grass fields, competition pool includes two moveable drive from Bryan College Station. four synthetic turf fields and five diamonds. bulkheads, an electronic timing system and an

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES underwater viewing window. The Natatorium Ford Hall Of Champions ▶ Visit the George H.W. Bush also boasts a state-of-the-art dive well with Powerlifting, wrestling, eSports, Presidential Library and platforms ranging from one to 10 meters in gymnastics, cheer & dance Museum for an intimate look height. Additional features include a dryland Home to the 2018 USA Powerlifting Collegiate at the life of the 41st president training area, poolside meeting rooms, heated Nationals, this massive 33,000-square-foot or spend an afternoon learning Jacuzzi spas and a seating capacity of 2,524. indoor event space serves as Bryan College about our nation’s military Station’s premier indoor venue. Located history at the Museum of the E.B. Cushing Stadium inside the famed Kyle Field, the Ford Hall of American GI. Outdoor track & field Champions stretches 100 yards in length, Redefining the norms of track & field stands boasts 60-foot ceilings and stands as an entirely ▶ Spend an afternoon at Century E.B. Cushing Stadium. Opened in April 2019, column-free structure. Customizable ribbon Square, an urbanized, central this “Cushy” $39.8 million stadium boasts an boards, video screens and built-in food and gathering spot filled with retail, IAAF certified Beynon track surface, a nine-lane beverage capabilities add to the versatility of restaurants and an activated oval, a nine-lane sprint & hurdle straightaway the Ford Hall of Champions. green space or along the streets and an initial seating capacity of 2,200. E.B. of Historic Downtown Bryan. Cushing Stadium features numerous hospitality amenities, official’s quarters and a cutting- ▶ Te ams feeling adventurous edge press box fit for full broadcasts. Already BCS SPORTS + EVENTS can take a comfortable drive established as one of the nation’s premier Dominique Powell through the 250-acre Aggieland track & field venues, E.B. Cushing Stadium will Director of Sports + Events Safari, Bryan College Station’s undoubtedly elevate your next event. 979-260-9898 newest attraction, and meet [email protected] exotic animals in the 20+ acre bcssportsandevents.com adventure zoo.

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PORTLAND, TX A GROWING HUB FOR BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL IN THE TEXAS REGION, PORTLAND IS MAKING A NAME FOR ITSELF IN THE SPORTS WORLD AND OFFERS PLANNERS A VARIETY OF OPTIONS TO MAKE THEIR EVENT A SUCCESS

Municipal Park

Perched above the sparkling FACILITY SPOTLIGHT mind. The park has a total of five baseball fields, waters of Corpus Christi Bay, Municipal Park along with a basketball court, playground, Portland is 10 minutes from Baseball, softball, basketball splash pad and shade structures that are Corpus Christi across the Harbor Opened in 2017, this baseball complex has perfect for congregating. Bridge and Nueces Bay Causeway. already hosted its fair share of impressive San Antonio is just over two hours events, including the 2018 USSSA World Portland Sports Complex away along Interstate 37, and Series, USSSA Baseball State Tournament, Baseball, football, softball, soccer Houston is around three hours DFW Fastpitch-Texas A&M Kingsville/South Another recent addition to the Portland away along US-59. Corpus Christi Texas Championship and the USA Baseball community, the Portland Sports Complex International Airport is 20 minutes South Texas Region Team Identification Series has provided a second great venue option for away and offers direct flights to (NTIS). The park has been a great asset to the sports planners looking to bring their event and from both Dallas/Fort Worth community since its grand debut and was to the region. As a co-host of the 2018 DFW (DFW) and Houston. designed with both athletes and spectators in Fastpitch-Texas A&M Kingsville/South Texas

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES Championship, the complex made a name for Ray Akins Wildcat Stadium ▶ Explore the largest aquarium in itself in the sports world less than a year after Football, track, soccer the great state of Texas just 10 opening. On site you will find four softball fields, This stadium is named for legendary football minutes from Portland. The Texas a youth football/soccer field, all-purpose turf coach Ray Akins, who put the Gregory-Portland State Aquarium has it all — a field and picnic area. Like its counterpart the High School football team on the map. He dolphin bay, a stingray lagoon, a Municipal Park, the complex is outfitted with a coached the Wildcats from 1965 to 1988. During shark touch pool, an otter creek playground, splash pad and shade structures his tenure, Gregory-Portland won 16 district and much more. that make it the ideal layout for hosting an titles and played for a state championship event. Both players and fans will love the in 1971. This stadium has a capacity of 8,000 ▶ Just next door to the aquarium impeccable facilities and the amenities that go people and features an artificial turf playing is the dock site of the USS along with them. field. It also has a video scoreboard and can Lexington, a WWII aircraft carrier host soccer games, football and track & field and naval museum where visitors Portland Aquatic Center events. It is also wheelchair accessible. can explore historic aircraft, test Swimming, diving their skill in the flight simulator, The Portland Aquatic Center is a year-round prepare for takeoff at the virtual outdoor facility featuring two pools. The battle stations and feel the power recreation pool includes a boat slide, dual slide, of flight in the MEGA Theater. bubblers, palm tree splashers, and a zero depth entry. The heated competition pool measures CITY OF PORTLAND ▶ Go outside at Indian Point Pier 25 meters by 25 yards and ranges from 4-13 feet Jonathan Besinaiz & Sunset Lake, where you can in depth. It features diving boards, lily pads and Sports Director boat, bird watch, kayak, swim floating play structures. The facility also features 361-777-4680 and hike throughout this unique four large shade structures with pool furniture [email protected] saltwater wetland, home to many to help you relax after your workout. www.playportlandtexas.com species of migrating waterfowl.

Portland Sports Complex

Municipal Park

Portland Sports Complex

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FORT WORTH, TX THE 13TH-LARGEST CITY IN THE U.S., FORT WORTH OFFERS ALL THE LUXURIES OF A BIG CITY WITH THE CONVENIENCE OF A SMALL TOWN

Amon Carter Football Stadium

Sitting at the crossroads of three FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Fort Worth Convention Center major interstate highways (I-35, Dickies Arena Indoor events, basketball, volleyball, I-20 and I-30), Fort Worth is easily Indoor events, basketball, hockey, cheer, dance, wrestling accessible through any mode of cheer, dance With more than 250,000 square feet of event transportation. Dallas/Fort Worth The new, $650 million state-of-the art space and a 13,000-seat attached multipurpose International Airport, located 17 multipurpose Dickies arena features 14,000 arena, the Fort Worth Convention Center is the miles from Fort Worth, is one seats, two premium clubs spaces, 40 suites, ideal venue for your event. Located in the heart of the most convenient airports 10 loge boxes and six locker rooms. The arena of Fort Worth’s award-winning downtown, the in the world, with an average also has more than 100,000 square feet of FWCC is positioned within blocks of more than of 1,900 daily departures and attached exhibit space along with outdoor 2,500 world-class hotel rooms and more than arrivals and service to more than green space for fan fests and other enhanced 60 restaurants and retail outlets. 200 destinations worldwide. experience opportunities.

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES Amon Carter Football Stadium Texas Motor Speedway ▶ The Fort Worth Cultural Football Car racing District is home to five world- The Amon Carter Football Stadium is home The Texas Motor Speedway is equipped class museums in a beautiful to the Texas Christian University football team. with 1.5 miles of racing surface, over 200,000 park-like setting. In 2010, the stadium was renovated for the first seats, multiple racing tracks and has hosted time since 1956, and the renovation included the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and ▶ Stoc kyards National Historic new concessions stands, adding elevations and the Verizon IndyCar Series. The facility covers District hosts the world’s only escalators, new seating areas, the addition of 1,500 acres and has over 6,700 camping spaces. year-round rodeo: the Stockyards suites, club seating and a new press box. The The speedway has multiple buildings that Championship Rodeo. The field is a natural grass field and the stadium can hold media rooms, office space, kitchens, district is filled with sites from seat up to 45,000 people. concessions stands and a restaurant. the Old West, with Texas-themed shopping and cuisine, rodeos, Will Rogers Memorial Center City of Fort Worth Parks & Rec. cattle drives and Western saloons. Indoor events, equestrian, livestock Soccer, softball, baseball, lacrosse, shows flag football ▶ Following the Old West theme, This massive 105-acre multipurpose complex Rolling Hills Soccer Complex is one of the visit Billy Bob’s Texas: the of event facilities and exhibit halls is located biggest soccer complexes in America. It “World’s Largest Honky-Tonk” in the heart of Fort Worth’s Cultural District. features 24 outdoor soccer fields and a 12,000- and the world’s only twice-daily The Will Rogers Auditorium features 2,856 seat stadium. Gateway Park features six lighted cattle drive, presented by the Fort permanent seats, a proscenium stage and softball/baseball fields and 11 soccer fields. Worth Herd. extensive dressing room capacity. The Amon G. Carter Jr. Exhibits Hall includes the Texas Room ▶ Downtown/Sundance Square is a (with over 94,000 square feet of contiguous FORT WORTH CVB 35-block shopping, entertainment exhibit space), the 18,000-square-foot Round Jason Sands, CSEE and dining district featuring 60+ Up Inn ballroom and four meeting rooms. Director of Sports restaurants and retail outlets, 817-223-7827 three live theaters, an AMC movie [email protected] theater, art galleries and more. www.fortworth.com

Dickies Arena

Will Rogers Memorial Center

Texas Motor Speedway

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KNOWN AS THE “SPORTS CAPITAL OF TEXAS,” ROUND ROCK HAS CLEARLY MADE A NAME FOR ITSELF AS ONE OF THE TOP DESTINATIONS FOR SPORTS EVENTS IN THE COUNTRY

Round Rock Multipurpose Complex

Located off Interstate 35, Round Round Rock Sports Center Rock is less than a three hour Round Rock Multipurpose Complex Basketball, volleyball, wrestling, table drive from most major cities in Soccer, football, lacrosse, Ultimate tennis Texas. By air, Austin-Bergstrom Frisbee, rugby The Round Rock Sports Center has International Airport is closest Located within Old Settlers Park, the welcomed numerous sports events. Some of and offers service to more than Round Rock Multipurpose Complex is an elite those events have included the 2018 USA Deaf 70 domestic and international sports facility that has hosted several major Basketball National Tournament, the 2018 iSET destinations. events, including the US Quidditch Cup and College Table Tennis National Championships USA Ultimate College D-1 Championships. It and the 2018 USA Judo Senior National features four natural grass multipurpose fields Championships. The facility boasts 82,800 and one natural grass championship field, four square feet of indoor space, with more than synthetic turf multipurpose fields and one 47,000 square feet of flexible, playable space synthetic turf championship field. that can be configured in several different

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layouts. It has a total capacity of 3,053, with Dragon Stadium ▶ History buffs that are curious seats for more than 1,400 spectators. Football, track & field about how Round Rock got its Dr. R.L. Peters Jr. Field at Dragon Stadium name will be sure to check out Old Settlers Park is a great spot for a football or track & field THE Round Rock at Brushy Creek, Golf, soccer, tennis, sand volleyball, tournament. The venue features a regulation the beginning of everything the cross-country, baseball, softball football field and a track. The stadium has city has to offer today. A Round Rock classic, Old Settlers Park is several state-of-the-art amenities, as well as a well-known sports destination for local and concessions stands and plenty of parking. ▶ Get a glimpse of life during the national athletic events. The 645-acre park city’s modest beginnings when includes a 20-field baseball complex, a five- Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex you wander around Round Rock’s field softball complex, seven soccer facilities, Football, soccer Downtown Historic District. two football fields, 12 tennis courts, two sand Located in north Austin, the Kelly Reeves ISD volleyball courts, one aquatic center and a Athletic Complex is a convenient walk from ▶ Shop till you drop or grab some professionally designed disc golf course. nearby restaurants, accommodations and delicious grub at the more than attractions. The facility hosts high school soccer 125 shops at the Round Rock Dell Diamond and football games, as well as regional and Premium Outlets. Baseball international athletic events. There is seating for Home of the Round Rock Express—the 11,000 spectators, with 5,500 seats on each side. ▶ Dell Diamond, home of the Round Triple-A affiliate to the Houston Astros-—Dell Rock Express, is a home run for Diamond is a fan favorite among athletes and the whole family. Catch the game spectators. The stadium is designed to give in the seats or layout on the lawn. guests an amazing, up-close view of the action. Nancy Yawn, Director Not only is it the site for minor league baseball 512-218-7094 ▶ Cater to your sweet tooth with a games, but it also plays host to amateur [email protected] stop at the world- famous Round sporting events. www.sportscapitaloftexas.com Rock Donuts, a signature of the city since 1926.

Round Rock Sports Center

“We are so excited to be able to come to Round Rock again, especially after such a successful tournament in 2016. It is called the Sports Capital of Texas and we see very much why that is the case. Round Rock provides what I like to say is the best recipe for sport tournament success: great hospitality, great venues and great people!”

— Willy Leparulo, Board of Directors President National Collegiate Table Tennis Association

Champion Fields Complex Dell Diamond

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MIDLAND, TX THIS TEXAS TOWN HAS THE SPORTS SCENE DIALED IN, WITH A RANGE OF GREAT VENUE OPTIONS ALL DESIGNED TO HELP YOUR ATHLETES SUCCEED

Security Bank Ballpark at Scharbauer Sports Complex

Midland can be accessed via I-20, FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Championships, and is on course to not only which passes right through the Bush Tennis Center serve as a premier tennis destination in the city. Many visitors to the region Tennis state of Texas, but also across the entire U.S. The opt to minimize their travel time For tennis in Midland, look no further than center is set for upcoming expansion, which will by flying in to the local airport, the impressive Bush Tennis Center. The center make it the second largest tennis center in the Midland International Air & Space features 18 full-size courts, eight mini courts, world, with over 60 courts. Port, situated just a 15-minute and one lighted stadium court. At present, the drive from downtown. Bush Tennis Center has played host to such COM Aquatics events as the 2019 USTA Texas Junior Team Swimming, diving Tennis Spring Section Championship, Best When you enter the beautiful COM Aquatics of the West Weekend 2018, USTA, the Valor center, it’s clear this was a venue built with Farm Eagles & Aces Challenge, and the Oracle events in mind. COM’s newest addition is the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Regional FMH Foundation Natatorium, which opened

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in 2016. It features an Olympic-sized 50-meter and soccer games, and has hosted events such POPULAR ACTIVITIES pool along with a 25-yard lap pool, spectator as the annual Texas Tech University Spring ▶ Visit the Permian Basin seating, separate bathrooms for athletes and Scrimmage, University of Texas of the Permian Petroleum Museum and spectators, two gyms and plenty of meeting Basin Football, the West Texas United Sockers, learn about local oil and gas space. The complex is also home to a world- and high school football playoffs. industry through exhibits class diving facility, featuring one and three- highlighting geology from meter springboards and five, seven and Security Bank Ballpark at the Permian period, race 10-meter platforms. Since this is one of the Scharbauer Sports Complex cars designed by Jim Hall at state’s premier swimming and diving venues, it Baseball the Chaparral Race Car Gallery has played host to such events as the 2019 USA Minor league action calls the Security Bank and more. Diving Zone F Championships, 2018 Southern Ballpark home, with Midland RockHounds games Zone Age Group Championships, the Ortolff known as a highlight of baseball season for local ▶ The Museum of the Southwest & Top Fin Invitational 2017, and the 2017 Texas fans. Sports planners can also take advantage of Blakemore Planetarium is home Swimming Associations All-Star Camp. this venue for tournaments and games, as it was to a children’s museum, sculpture home to the 2018 Texas League All Star Game garden, art museum, and more. Grande Communications Stadium at and is host of a variety of events throughout Scharbauer Sports Complex the season. The stadium can seat over 4,700 ▶ Indulge in sweet treats like rich Football, soccer people, with grass berm areas for ground seating fudge, gooey pralines, sweet You might be surprised to learn that Grande bringing the capacity to over 6,600. peppermint bark and more at Communications Stadium is home to various Susie’s South Forty Confections. high school leagues - despite looking like it’s straight out of the NFL. This is a testament VISIT MIDLAND ▶ The George W. Bush Childhood to the passion that Midland residents have Melissa Aguirre Home is open to visitors who wish for high school football, and the importance Sports Sales Specialist to learn more about this famous it plays in so many Texas communities. The 432-687-8295 family and the formative years stadium is a 15,000-seat (18,000 capacity) [email protected] that they spent in Midland. venue that can accommodate both football www.visitmidland.com/sports

COM Aquatics

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE “We are grateful to VisitMidland for their support which gives us an opportunity to be creative and to do things at our events that you won’t see in other aquatics venues!”

— Brad Swendig, Executive Director/President, COM Aquatics

Grande Communications Stadium Bush Tennis at Scharbauer Sports Complex

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ABILENE, TX CENTRALLY LOCATED ON INTERSTATE 20, ABILENE OFFERS ITS OWN TWIST ON TEXAS TOURNAMENT HOSPITALITY

Dodge Jones Youth Sports Center

Lake Kirby Softball and Baseball Complex

Abilene is directly accessible FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Lake Kirby Softball and Baseball from east and west along the Dodge Jones Youth Sports Center Complex road from Fort Worth to El Basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, Baseball, softball, fishing, boating Paso via Interstate 20. If you’re multipurpose indoors Catch a ballgame at Lake Kirby Park, home flying in, Abilene Regional With four regulation-sized basketball to both a baseball and softball complex, as Airport (ABI) is serviced by courts, eight regulation-sized volleyball courts, well as a picnic shelter, playground, restrooms, American Eagle flights to and professional hardwood court flooring and public boat ramp and fishing pier. This facility from Dallas-Fort Worth. state-of-the-art technology and equipment, features two lighted little league baseball fields, this facility has everything you need to host an two lighted senior league baseball fields and POPULAR ACTIVITIES awesome indoor sports tournament. Take a four lighted softball fields, with seating for 150 ▶ Go on safari with a visit to the quick 3-D tour at Abilenevisitors.com/sports spectators available on each field. The park was Abilene Zoo, home to more than the host site for the Texas West Little League 250 species including lions, black Taylor County Expo Center Baseball and Softball State Tournament, held rhinos, monkeys and more. Football, soccer, multipurpose outdoor from July 11-16, 2019. The Taylor County Expo Center has entered ▶ Stroll Abilene’s charming the final phase of a $55 million renovation and downtown to find Texas history at expansion, bringing exciting new facilities to Frontier Texas! plus arts venues, host equine and athletic events. The expansive ABILENE CVB craft beer and dining options. space has a new covered outdoor arena, Debi Schultz livestock barn and horse stalls. Work on the Director of Sales & Sports ▶ Get a full-body workout by jumping coliseum is projected to be completed at the 325-676-2556 all over the wall-to-wall trampolines end of 2020. [email protected] available at Maxx Air. www.abilenevisitors.com

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Arlington, Texas’s iconic sports venues and central location, less than 10 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, make it the premier destination for youth tournaments and sports events of every kind. Choose Arlington, Texas, where victory is pursued and champions are crowned. Visit Arlington.org/sports for info.