Looking for clear rivers, local charm, and outlet shopping? Head to San Marcos! Nestled between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is a vibrant college town with a laid-back vibe, famous for its spring-fed river, outdoor fun, and some of the best shopping in Texas. Whether you're floating the river, exploring history, or catching live music, San Marcos delivers small-town warmth with big-time appeal.
San Marcos, TX Highlights:
- For Water Lovers: Float the San Marcos River – Tube, kayak, or paddle through cool, crystal-clear waters fed by artesian springs.
- For History Buffs: Explore the LBJ Museum of San Marcos – Learn about President Lyndon B. Johnson’s college years and early political life.
- For Shoppers: Hit the San Marcos Premium Outlets – Find deals at over 200 stores including luxury, athletic, and designer brands.
- For Families: Ride the glass-bottom boats at The Meadows Center – View aquatic life and bubbling springs at this unique educational experience.
- For College Town Vibes: Explore Texas State University – Stroll the beautiful hilltop campus and catch a game or student performance.
Best Time to Visit San Marcos, TX
The best time to visit San Marcos is during the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when the weather is pleasant for tubing, hiking, and events. Summers are hot but popular for water activities, while winters are mild with fewer crowds.
How to Get to San Marcos, TX
- If you are traveling by car: San Marcos is located along I-35, about 30 minutes from Austin and 45 minutes from San Antonio.
- By Air: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is about 35 minutes away; San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is about 50 minutes.
- By Bus or Train: Greyhound and Amtrak serve San Marcos with connections to major cities across Texas.
Where to Stay in San Marcos, TX
- Recommended for Families: Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos – Spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and close to the outlets.
- For River Access: The Crystal River Inn – Historic B&B with themed rooms, spa services, and proximity to the river and downtown.
- For Budget Travelers: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Comfortable and affordable with a pool and easy freeway access.
Best Things to Do in San Marcos, TX
⮕ Explore Aviation History at the Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force
Tour vintage aircraft and explore aviation history on an exciting, educational family trip.
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What is the Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force?
- Founded to keep the aviation history of World War II alive, the Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force sits inside a vintage wooden airplane hangar built in 1942.
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What can visitors see at the museum?
- In addition to a collection of historic aircraft, the museum features a military museum and a library with a large collection of military books.
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Can visitors experience flying in a historic aircraft?
- Yes, visitors will have the chance to hop into a real airplane from World War II, and actual flight experiences are available if arranged in advance.
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Where is the Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force located?
- 1841 Airport Dr Blding. 2249, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 512-396-1943
⮕ Discover Local Heritage at the Calaboose African American Museum
Discover local heritage and explore powerful exhibits during a quiet, meaningful cultural visit.
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What is the Calaboose African American Museum?
- Located inside a building that was originally built as the county jail in the late 1800s, the Calaboose African American Museum houses a variety of letters, photos, and other artifacts that tell the story of African American life in the early days of Texas.
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What exhibits can visitors see at the museum?
- The museum boasts a number of permanent and temporary displays that showcase various aspects of African American history in Texas.
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What is a key highlight of the museum?
- One of the primary highlights is a collection of memorabilia that formerly belonged to jazz musician Eddie Durham.
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Where is the Calaboose African American Museum located?
- 200 Martin Luther King Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 512-393-8421
⮕ Immerse Yourself in Hispanic Art and Culture at Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos
Celebrate Hispanic culture and enjoy art, music, and history on an educational weekend trip.
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What is the Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos?
- For visitors interested in Hispanic art, culture, and history, the Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos is one of the town's must-sees.
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What is the historical significance of the building?
- Even the building that houses the center holds historical significance; it served as a Mexican school back when education in Texas was still segregated.
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What does the Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos include?
- The center consists of a museum, a small library with a free book exchange, and an art gallery. Guided tours are available upon request.
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What events and programs are offered?
- There are plenty of educational programs and interactive events for people of all ages, including children's art classes, accordion lessons, art receptions, and comedy nights.
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Where is the Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos located?
- 211 Lee St, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 512-878-0640
Attractions for Couples
⮕ If You’re a Craft Beer Lover, Relax With a Pint at Middleton Brewing
Sip craft beers and relax with friends during a fun, affordable evening outing.
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What is Middleton Brewing?
- Middleton Brewing in San Marcos, Texas, is a 10-barrel brewpub that creates a rather extensive selection of ales, along with the occasional lager, suited perfectly for the state’s Hill Country.
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What drinks does Middleton Brewing offer?
- Along with various craft brews, the brewery also offers a variety of locally made ciders and wines for guests to enjoy while visiting the taproom.
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What other experiences does Middleton Brewing provide?
- In addition to good beer, there’s often live music at Middleton Brewing, as well as food trucks, friendly staff, and a spacious patio area.
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Is Middleton Brewing dog-friendly?
- Yes, dogs are welcome, and many dogs owned by the brewery owners and staff can often be seen running around.
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Where is Middleton Brewing located?
- 101 Oakwood Loop, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 512-847-3435
⮕ Step Into Presidential History at the LBJ Museum
Explore President Johnson’s college years and discover local history on a quick educational visit.
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What is the LBJ Museum?
- The LBJ Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th President of the United States, particularly his early years in Texas.
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What is Lyndon B. Johnson’s connection to Texas State University?
- Johnson attended and graduated from Texas State University with a history degree and a teaching certificate.
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What exhibits can visitors see at the LBJ Museum?
- The permanent exhibits include old photographs, original statues and paintings, and fascinating artifacts like a sample voting machine from 1930. There is also a wide range of memorabilia from Johnson's time as president.
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Is admission to the LBJ Museum free?
- Yes, admission is free of charge.
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Are guided tours available?
- Guided group tours can often be arranged outside of regular operating hours.
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Where is the LBJ Museum located?
- 131 N Guadalupe St, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 512-353-3300
⮕ Experience Natural Wonders and Caves at Wonder World Park
Tour a cave, meet animals, and enjoy exciting attractions on a family-friendly trip.
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What is Wonder World Park?
- Wonder World Park is a unique theme park that holds the honor of being home to the only accessible earthquake cave in the United States.
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What can visitors experience in the earthquake cave?
- Guided tours first bring visitors underground, where trained guides provide information about the area's geological history and walk them past the cave's many unique formations.
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What is the observation tower experience like?
- After spending time beneath the Earth, visitors can shoot up to the park's observation tower on an exhilarating elevator ride.
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What other attractions does Wonder World Park offer?
- The park offers several other attractions, including a petting zoo, an anti-gravity house, and a trackless train that brings visitors underneath a waterfall.
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Where is Wonder World Park located?
- 1000 Prospect St, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 512-392-3760
⮕ If You’re Up for Outdoor Fun, Play a Round at Flying Armadillo Disc Golf Club
Play creative courses and enjoy an unusual, active outdoor adventure with friends or kids.
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What is the Flying Armadillo Disc Golf Club?
- The Flying Armadillo Disc Golf Club offers a family-friendly disc golf experience in San Marcos, Texas.
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What facilities are available at the club?
- Guests can get set up at the pro shop before heading out to either the big course or the mini-course, which is like "putt-putt golf for disc golf."
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What is the Mini Course like?
- The par 2, 18-hole Mini Course is designed for both beginner and skilled disc golfers of all ages, with holes averaging 100 feet in length.
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How does the Mini Course help with the Big Course?
- The Mini Course provides a good warm-up for the longer, 18-hole Big Course.
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When is the Flying Armadillo Disc Golf Club open?
- The courses are open daily to the public.
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Where is the Flying Armadillo Disc Golf Club located?
- 3115 Hilliard Rd, San Marcos, TX 78666, Phone: 737-266-3990
Where to Eat in San Marcos, TX
- Recommended for Families: Herbert’s Taco Hut – Local institution serving Tex-Mex favorites in a casual, colorful setting.
- For a Unique Experience: The Root Cellar Café – Farm-fresh breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a charming basement bistro downtown.
- For a Casual Meal: Grins Restaurant – Relaxed atmosphere with hearty burgers, cold beer, and a huge patio under oak trees.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Springtime Fun: Texas Water Safari (June) – Watch or join this legendary canoe race beginning in San Marcos and ending on the coast.
- For Music Fans: Summer in the Park Concert Series (June–August) – Free live music under the stars at San Marcos Plaza Park.
- For Families: Sights & Sounds of Christmas (December) – Holiday lights, food, music, and winter fun in downtown San Marcos.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of San Marcos, Texas:
- For Winery Hopping: Driftwood (25–30 min) – Visit scenic wineries like Duchman Family Winery and enjoy Texas Hill Country charm.
- For a Natural Escape: Wimberley (25–30 min) – Swim in Blue Hole, shop the Market Days, or hike Jacob’s Well Natural Area.
- For Big City Fun: Austin (30–35 min) – Explore live music, museums, and the Texas State Capitol.
- For Cave Adventures: Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park (5–10 min) – Go underground and ride a train through a wildlife park.
- For Antiques & BBQ: Lockhart (30 min) – Known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas, filled with historic charm and smoky eats.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is San Marcos located?
- San Marcos is located only 30 miles from Austin, making it an easily accessible destination.
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What are some highlights of San Marcos?
- The city boasts plenty of green space, a historic downtown core, and the largest outlet center in America.
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What shopping and dining options are available?
- Visitors can explore trendy shops, restaurants, and welcoming cafes throughout the city.
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What outdoor activities are available in San Marcos?
- Nature lovers can enjoy the nearby San Marcos River, which offers watersports like kayaking and fly-fishing.
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Is San Marcos worth more than a day trip?
- The city is worth more than a day trip from Austin, but no matter how long your visit is, there are plenty of great things to see and do.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and beautiful wildflowers.
Crystal River Inn – A charming bed & breakfast with historic charm.
Visit the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment – Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the crystal-clear springs.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and perfect for river tubing.
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos – A comfortable stay near downtown and the river.
Float the San Marcos River – Rent a tube and enjoy the refreshing spring-fed waters.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures and great for outdoor activities.
The Saint Martyn House – A boutique inn with a cozy atmosphere.
Explore Purgatory Creek Natural Area – Hike scenic trails through woodlands and limestone bluffs.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Holiday Inn San Marcos – A budget-friendly option with modern amenities.
Shop at the San Marcos Premium Outlets – Find great deals at one of the largest outlet malls in the U.S.
Plan Your Trip