Lago Vista, Texas, November 29, 2025
Dairy Queen is investing $1.8 million to build a new restaurant in Lago Vista, enhancing its Texas presence. Simultaneously, Texas State University is developing a $70 million boutique hotel in San Marcos to boost local tourism and student amenities. Both initiatives aim to strengthen the local economy and create jobs, while providing new dining and lodging options for residents and visitors.
Lago Vista, Texas – The well-known fast-food chain Dairy Queen is set to enhance its presence in Texas with a new $1.8 million restaurant located in Lago Vista, a picturesque community situated along Lake Travis. This new establishment, measuring 3,000 square feet, is scheduled to begin construction in mid-January 2026, with an expected completion date by mid-June 2026. As community members eagerly await the new Dining options, this development will not only cater to the tastes of locals but also attract visitors drawn to the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities of the area.
San Marcos, Texas – In an exciting move for the local tourism industry, Texas State University has approved a significant $70 million development agreement with Midway Hospitality to construct a full-service boutique hotel on the south side of its campus. Nestled in the vibrant 400 block of Guadalupe Street, this hotel aims to provide a boost in tourism, expanding the amenities available for both students and visitors alike. The project is a part of the university’s broader strategy to enhance its facilities and bolster the local economy.
The upcoming Dairy Queen in Lago Vista will contribute to the chain’s already expansive footprint in Texas, boasting approximately 528 locations—the highest of any state in the nation. This new restaurant will feature a range of popular menu items, including its famous Blizzard treats, sundaes, and burgers, making it a go-to spot for both residents and tourists visiting Lake Travis and its surrounding attractions.
Simultaneously, the boutique hotel project in San Marcos reflects a forward-thinking approach aimed at revitalizing downtown economic activity. This new addition is expected to provide new lodging, dining, and event spaces, all of which will play a crucial role in enhancing the university experience while driving economic growth in the area.
Local Business Developments Fuel Economic Growth
Both projects—the Dairy Queen in Lago Vista and the boutique hotel in San Marcos—highlight the spirit of entrepreneurship that is thriving in Texas. These initiatives underscore the significant role local businesses play in driving economic growth in communities across the state. By fostering such developments, Texas not only improves its hospitality landscape but also nurtures an environment where small businesses can flourish.
Benefits of Local Investments
Investments like the Dairy Queen and the San Marcos hotel demonstrate the positive effects that local entrepreneurs and small-business owners bring to their communities. The new Dairy Queen is expected to create jobs and stimulate local spending, benefiting the neighborhood as families and visitors alike are drawn to the restaurant. Similarly, the boutique hotel is positioned to boost tourism, offering new business opportunities for nearby shops and restaurants, which can lead to further community growth.
The Role of Education in Business Development
Texas State University’s commitment to enhancing its facilities reinforces the importance of education in fostering a thriving local economy. The planned boutique hotel is just one part of a broader initiative aimed at creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracts both students and visitors. With increased tourism and improved amenities, students benefit from enhanced experiences while helping to stimulate economic progress within San Marcos.
Conclusion
As we look forward to the opening of the new Dairy Queen in Lago Vista and the boutique hotel in San Marcos, it is clear that these projects signify much more than just new dining and lodging options—they represent the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship and investment in Texas. Supporting local businesses and economic initiatives is vital for maintaining and enhancing the quality of life in our communities. Residents are encouraged to embrace these developments and continue to advocate for an environment conducive to business growth and resilience as we strive for a prosperous future for San Antonio and its surroundings.
FAQ
What is the Lago Vista Dairy Queen project?
The Lago Vista Dairy Queen is a new $1.8 million restaurant being built in Lago Vista, Texas, a lakeside community along Lake Travis. Construction is set to begin in mid-January 2026, with completion expected by mid-June 2026. The 3,000-square-foot establishment will offer a variety of menu items, including the popular Blizzard treats, sundaes, and burgers, catering to both locals and tourists visiting the area.
What is the San Marcos boutique hotel project?
The San Marcos boutique hotel is a $70 million development approved by Texas State University in partnership with Midway Hospitality. The hotel will be located on the south side of the university’s campus, in the 400 block of Guadalupe Street. It aims to boost tourism and provide additional amenities for students and visitors, contributing to the city’s economic development and enhancing the experience for students, faculty, and visitors.
How many Dairy Queen locations are there in Texas?
Texas has approximately 528 Dairy Queen locations, the highest number in the United States. The Lago Vista restaurant will be the latest addition to the chain’s extensive presence in the state.
What amenities will the San Marcos boutique hotel offer?
The boutique hotel in San Marcos is expected to provide new lodging, dining, and event spaces. These amenities aim to support the university’s growth and enhance the experience for students, faculty, and visitors, contributing to the city’s economic development.
When is the San Marcos boutique hotel expected to open?
The San Marcos boutique hotel is part of a broader initiative to revitalize downtown and support the university’s growth. The development is expected to provide new lodging, dining, and event spaces, contributing to the city’s economic development and enhancing the experience for students, faculty, and visitors.
| Project | Location | Investment | Size | Construction Start | Completion Date | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy Queen | Lago Vista, Texas | $1.8 million | 3,000 square feet | Mid-January 2026 | Mid-June 2026 | Blizzard treats, sundaes, burgers |
| Boutique Hotel | San Marcos, Texas | $70 million | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Lodging, dining, event spaces |
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