"But it was good to think he had this to come back to, this place which was all his own, these things which were so glad to see him again and could always be counted upon for the same simple welcome.”

Kenneth Grahame,
The Wind in the Willows

A photo collage featuring 6 photos. They are a mix of historic and modern photos. In the center, there is text saying 2026 TTBA Featured Businesses.

Six of the Texas Treasure Businesses that were featured in 2025 in The Texas Heritage Traveler e-newsletter

Credit: Sarah Page

Our 2025 Roll Call of Texas Treasure Businesses

This year, we proudly highlighted 10 Texas Treasure Businesses in the Heritage Traveler and approved 49 TTBA award recipients this year. These longstanding institutions have faithfully served their communities for decades. As we wrap up 2025 and embrace the holiday season, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to these valuable contributors to Texas’ business heritage. In 2026, expect more stories highlighting the local enterprises that keep our heritage thriving. And don’t forget to nominate your favorite business that has been in continuous operation for 50 years or more. Merry Christmas and warm holiday wishes from the Heritage Traveler editorial team.

Recap of 2025

December - Zummo Meat Company began in 1908 in Beaumont, Texas, growing from a small operation into a major plant despite an early fire that destroyed its original building. Today, its sausage and boudin are sold in 40 states, celebrated for their quality and inspiring countless recipes and serving styles.

November - CABOOTS, a fourth-generation El Paso bootmaker founded in 1925, carries on a rich tradition of craftsmanship—creating period reproductions for films like "3:10 to Yuma" and "Pirates of the Caribbean" and building boots for major brands including Justin and Nocona.

October - Greer's Western Store: Founded in 1935 in Ranger as Greer’s Boot Shop by brothers Holcomb, Chip, and Ben Greer, the business specialized in making and repairing boots and shoes. Greer’s Western Store continues to serve the ranching communities of Eastland and Mineral Wells with a full range of western wear.

September - San Antonio-based Bolner's Fiesta Products, Inc. was founded in 1955. The company produces a wide range of spices and seasonings, and many a Texan claims their "Uncle Chris' Gourmet Steak Seasoning" is the best you can get. 

July - Chico's Tacos has operated in El Paso since 1953. Chico’s Tacos is a longtime El Paso favorite best known for its signature rolled tacos served in a broth-like tomato sauce and finished with melted cheese. This flauta-style specialty has earned a loyal following, with some locals joking that it’s hearty enough to sip. Since opening in 1953, the restaurant has become a distinctive – and often hotly debated – part of the city’s food identity.

June - Copeland's Inc. has operated in Corpus Christi beginning in 1963. Celebrating more than 60 years in Corpus Christi, Copeland’s bills itself as Texas’ oldest dive shop and “southernmost ski chalet.” From scuba certification and gear sales to snow ski and snowboard apparel, it outfits adventure-seekers for both Gulf Coast dives and mountain getaways.

May - Wonder Cave was established in 1903 in San Marcos. Texas’s first show cave, this San Marcos landmark invites visitors into the Balcones Fault Line Cave to explore ancient geology. Above ground, families can enjoy scenic train rides, a petting zoo, and quirky attractions like the anti-gravity house. For generations, it’s been a Hill Country destination that blends natural wonder with classic roadside fun.

April – Health Camp in Waco, Texas: A beloved Waco tradition since 1948, this classic roadside diner began as a simple burger and shake stand. Today, it’s still known for its nostalgic atmosphere, hand-spun shakes, and no-frills comfort food. For generations, locals, Baylor students, and travelers have made Health Camp a must-stop along I-35.

March – Sammy’s Restaurant in Castroville, Texas: A third-generation, family-run favorite in Castroville serving steaks, seafood, burgers, and hearty breakfasts all day. Known for fresh ingredients, homestyle comfort food, and small-town hospitality, it’s been a local gathering spot for decades. From sizzling plates to scratch-made desserts, Sammy’s keeps tradition on the menu.

Cisco's Restaurant Bakery & Bar in Austin, Texas.

Are businesses historic sites?

History isn't confined to museums. In fact, stopping for a kolache at a historic bakery or trying on a pair of boots at a one-hundred-year-old boot shop are just about the most interactive historical experiences one could ask for.

Here we highlight businesses that have stood the test of time, so you know they're worth a visit. Look below for a searchable directory of historic Texas dining, shopping, lodging, and entertainment businesses

Many of the businesses featured here are recipients of the Texas Historical Commission's Texas Treasure Business Award, nominated by Texans and reserved for businesses that have been in continuous operation for at least fifty years, many of them family-owned.

Tap into the real, authentic Texas and do as the locals do...