San Marcos, Texas

What to See & Do

San Marcos River — Fed by springs that maintain a constant 72°F temperature, the river flows through the heart of the city and provides tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming year-round. The San Marcos Springs are among the oldest continuously inhabited sites in North America — archaeological evidence suggests human habitation for over 12,000 years.

Wonder World Park — Sits atop the Balcones Fault and offers cave tours through a cavern formed by an actual earthquake, plus an anti-gravity house and wildlife park. One of the more unique roadside attractions in Texas.

Texas State University — The 38,000-student campus sits on a hill above the river and adds significant cultural and economic energy to the city. The Wittliff Collections at the university library houses the manuscripts and photographs of Cormac McCarthy and other Texas writers.

Aquarena Springs — The spring complex at the headwaters of the San Marcos River is managed by Texas State as an environmental learning center. Glass-bottom boat tours reveal the crystal-clear spring system below the surface.

Food & Drink

San Marcos has an excellent restaurant scene driven by the university population and growing residential community. Zelick's Icehouse is a classic Texas outdoor bar on the river. Centerpoint Station brings creative Texas cooking downtown. The square and the areas near campus have numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants serving the student population and beyond. The San Marcos Premium Outlets nearby add extensive retail options.

Music & Events

The university brings a steady stream of concerts, performances, and cultural events. The downtown square hosts music and events regularly. Cheatham Street Warehouse has been one of Texas's great listening rooms for decades, launching the careers of George Strait and many others.

Getting There

San Marcos sits directly on I-35, about 30 miles south of Austin and 50 miles north of San Antonio. The city is easily accessible from both metros and serves as a natural stopping point between them.