Rep. Rogers files bill aiming to designate Mineral Wells the ‘Wellness Capital of Texas’

AUSTIN – State Rep. Glenn Rogers has formally filed a pre-Legislative-session bill that, if approved, would designate Mineral Wells as “The Wellness Capital of Texas.”

State lawmakers will convene in January.

Austin news outlet KXAN on Tuesday first reported the bill’s filing on its website.

Rogers, R-Graford, was quoted as saying Mineral Wells and the surrounding area “has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking wellness experiences.”

Mineral Wells and Palo Pinto County are growingly popular destinations for health and wellness seekers who can enjoy outdoor fun and adventure in three local state parks, on Possum Kingdom Lake, the Mineral Wells Fossil Park and several hike and bike trails, including a 20-mile trail connecting Mineral Wells and Weatherford.

“Thanks to the discovery of our rich mineral waters, Mineral Wells was built on the health and wellness seeker,” said Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO David May. “People, including movie stars and professional athletes, traveled from around the world to drink up and soak in our water. With the recent reopening of the Crazy Water Hotel, and the planned reopening of the Baker Hotel and Spa, as well as other health and wellness attractions, assets and offerings, we are returning to those health and wellness roots. People of all ages and backgrounds are always seeking healthier living and lifestyles, especially outside major metropolitan areas. We are perfectly situated and suited for that, and we have a deep Texas historical experience to match.”

The proposed legislation reads, in part, “Through its burgeoning wellness industry and its abundance of natural attractions, Mineral Wells is building on its heritage as one of the Lone Star State’s premier destinations for wellness getaways and elevating its reputation as a haven for both recreation and relaxation.”

“We are very appreciative of Representative Rogers for authoring and carrying this legislation on behalf of Mineral Wells and Palo Pinto County,” May added.

Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce Tourism and Marketing Director Rose Jordan has been leading and creating the Chamber’s new health and wellness initiatives.

“Since deciding to return to our roots as a wellness destination just over a year ago, our community has been working diligently and enthusiastically to create a place where the healthy choice is the easy choice for locals and tourists,” said Jordan. “The number one thing a wellness traveler looks for is nature. With (almost) three state parks, four lakes, the Brazos River, more than 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, and the stunning hill country landscape, Mineral Wells and Palo Pinto County have so much to offer. Along with our natural assets, our community is working to improve our healthy dining options and fitness-based activities and we’re working with local farmers and makers to bring agritourism experiences.”

Jordan said she is excited about new community collaborations through creation of the Crazy Wellness Retreats. The first of what will be quarterly retreats took place earlier this month, which Jordan called, “a huge success.”

“We’re excited to be members of the Wellness Tourism Association,” said Jordan. “They’ll be coming to Mineral Wells in December to conduct a wellness tourism audit to help us identify our strengths and build a game plan to develop and attract the assets we need to fill our gaps.”

For more information about the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce, go to http://mineralwellstx.com. You can also learn what to do, where to eat and where to stay in Mineral Wells and Palo Pinto County at https://visitmineralwells.org/.