Although San Marcos is considered a “small town,” it is full of things to do! It’s definitely more than a college town people seem to think they know it for. Known for its refreshing river, rich history, and vibrant community, San Marcos offers a plethora of exciting activities and places to eat for locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to San Antonio makes it an ideal destination for a quick getaway.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures along the sparkling San Marcos River, exploring the charming downtown area with its unique shops and eateries, or immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of the city, San Marcos has something to captivate every interest. The Tanger Outlets, a major shopping attraction, draw millions of shoppers with their wide variety of bargain options and dining choices. Looking for something indoors? We got you covered! Want to be surrounded by the natural beauty of San Marcos? We’ve got you covered there too! As the top Travel blogger who has visited over one hundred Texas cities, I’m here to help you find all the best things and lesser known gems for your ultimate Texas San Marcos weekend getaway.
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Groupon for the best deals for things to do in San Marcos!
Best Restaurants to Eat in San Marcos
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Outdoor Activities for Nature Lovers
Take a Long Kayak Trip
Go on an adventure with a long kayak trip along the scenic San Marcos River. One popular entry point is the City Park Recreation Hall. You can also rent kayak sat Canoe SMTX.
Hang Out with Texas State Tubes
Spend a fun-filled afternoon tubing down the river for three hours with Texas State Tubes. They are open every day from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Students/military/first responders are even eligible for a discount on tube rentals.
Do Yoga on the Water
Experience ultimate tranquility by renting a stand-up paddleboard from SUP SMTX and taking a yoga class on the water. You can also take them out for a spin on the San Marcos River just for fun!
Make a Difference
Volunteer to monitor and maintain all of the San Marcos Greenbelts and natural areas to protect the wildlife. Volunteers focus on trash pick-up, removing invasive species, planting native plants, protecting endangered species and building amenities around the greenbelts. If you’re interested, you can sign-up on their website.
Visit Sewell Park
This 6-acre park is technically owned by Texas State University but is actually open to the public! It’s s a popular area for college students hang out here, to relax and soak up the sun! An added perk is the San Marcos River runs right through it!
And Eddie Durham Park
At Eddie Durham Park you’ll find a unique and interactive xylophone installation where you can create beautiful melodies while enjoying the outdoors. It’s pretty small so I recommend having a little picnic too. It’s also super close to the downtown square.
Hike to a Grotto
Enjoy the scenic Purgatory Creek Natural Area by parking at the Upper Purgatory Trailhead before and going on a 2.8-mile round-trip hike to the enchanting Grotto. Along the way, make sure to capture a memorable photo at Grandmother’s Tree and enjoy the breathtaking views from the pretty overlook. It might require a small search, but that’s part of the fun. It’s also perfect for a little lunch break right in the cave. It does get really muddy when it rains so come prepared. There is a South and North entrance to the area as well.
Swim in the Clearest Water
Experience the tranquility of Thompson Island Dam and Stokes Park, where you’ll find a hidden gem with clear water, peaceful surroundings, and the occasional stunning waterfall. This low-key, dog-friendly spot is great for paddleboarding adventures or simply enjoying the nature. It’s a great place if you want to get in the water, but not be surrounded by a big crowd. Keep in mind that only street parking is available.
Explore Five Mile Dam Park
Depending on the season, Five Mile Dam Park offers diverse experiences – from dry hiking trails during the dry season to a picturesque landscape with flowing water during the rainy season. Explore the park’s natural beauty, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply find a peaceful spot to relax. They have also opened up a 43-acre soccer complex!
Swim & Picnic at Pyramid Park
At the beginning of Lion’s Club, Pyramid Park provides a great place to swim in the water with your furry friend. The water isn’t too deep at this part so it could also be a great place for children or non-swimmers. Bring some food, drinks, and enjoy the river without having to pay for a tube! You’ll have to park on the street and walk to the park.
Rent a Tube
Embark on a fun-filled tubing adventure with Lions Club Tube Rental, offering a one-hour float down the San Marcos River, plus all-day access to tubes, shuttle service, and the opportunity to explore a little island before you reach Rio Vista Park. If you float all the way down the river and want to do it again, you don’t have to pay anything more! Swing from a rope, take refreshing jumps into the water, and enjoy a relaxing day on the river with the option to bring your dog along for the ride. This is one of the many amazing family friendly activities.
Visit the Meadows Center
Experience the wonder of Spring Lake’s crystal-clear waters with a glass bottom boat tour, a key attraction at the Meadows Center. This unique experience allows you to sightsee through a transparent panel in the boat while gliding over Spring Lake, showcasing local flora and fauna and enhancing your understanding of the area’s rich history. You can also enjoy kayaks, snorkeling, or a scuba-diving tour offered by the Meadows Center. We did the snorkeling tour and it was one of the coolest outdoor activities in the city!
Fun fact: This TX spot has been famous all around the country because it used to be the open of the mermaids and an unexpected celebrity animal, Ralph the swimming pig of Aquarena Springs. Unfortunately, despire the fun and unique attraction, it wasn’t the best for the delicate spring. San Marcos and the Texas State University converted it into preservation spot. Luckily, we still get to enjoy it with exciting attractions like the glass bottom boat tour.
When you ride on their glass bottom boats, you can marvel at the underwater ecosystems and vibrant marine life through the boat’s glass floor while learning about the rich history and preservation efforts at this unique natural spring. You can also hike around the Spring Lake Natural Area.
Slide Down the Rapids
This is another great entry point to the river at Rio Vista Park if you want to kayak or just enjoy a nice swim! There are three rapids you can slide down which is one of the main attractions. Some people take their tubes and other people just opt to body surf. The park also has a basketball court, tennis courts, pool, bathrooms, and a playground. They do have limited parking so I recommend carpooling if possible.
Thrilling Things to Do in San Marcos
Try Out the San Marcos Skatepark
Embrace the spirit of adventure and try out some rad tricks at the San Marcos Skatepark. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, this well-designed park offers ramps, rails, and bowls that cater to various skill levels, providing a thrilling and active date experience for skateboarding enthusiasts.
Go on a $20 Helicopter Tour
Led by experienced pilots, Leading Edge Helicopter Tours provides a captivating adventure and takes passengers over iconic landmarks, picturesque rivers, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Leading Edge Helicopter Tour promises stunning panoramic views and a memorable journey through the skies. The tours start as low as $20 and they can go as far as Canyon Lake. Note the $20 ride is about 90 seconds long, but it’s still something fun just to get up in the air and they do have other options for all budgets.
Drive a Race Car
The Longhorn Racing Academy provides participants the opportunity to learn high-performance driving skills and try them out on the track in a controlled and safe environment. With professional instructors and a fleet of powerful vehicles, the academy caters to individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced drivers. Whether you want to satisfy your need for speed, improve your racing technique, or simply enjoy the thrill of the track, San Marcos Longhorn Racing Academy delivers an unforgettable and adrenaline-pumping experience.
Book a Nighttime Kayak Tour
Go on a magical evening adventure with Glow Paddle SMTX, a 75-minute tour that takes you along the river with three stops to learn about the local ecosystem. As you paddle, keep your eyes peeled for an array of wildlife including beavers, raccoons, possums, deer, bats, and fish. The tour starts at Rio Vista Park, located at 555 Chatham St, offering a convenient and picturesque starting point.
Go Paintballing
Lost Paintball in San Marcos TX is an exceptional paintball facility that caters to both novice and seasoned players. With a variety of themed fields and scenarios, such as wooded areas, speedball arenas, and obstacle-filled battlegrounds, the park offers diverse and thrilling gameplay experiences.
Whether you’re visiting with friends, participating in group events, or looking for a unique date idea, Lost Paintball provides all the necessary equipment, including paintball markers, masks, and protective gear, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure.
Jump Out of a Plane
Skydive Spaceland San Marcos is the number one skydiving center in Central Texas, offering tandem jumps, solo training, and advanced skydiving courses. With highly trained and certified instructors, state-of-the-art equipment, and a commitment to safety, Skydive Spaceland provides a secure and exhilarating skydiving experience.
Whether you’re a first-time jumper or an experienced skydiver, the center caters to all skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in the skies over San Marcos. It’s cheaper to book online! Be sure to check out Groupon before you book!
Explore A Cave
Wonder World Park features a guided tour of the historic and popular Balcones Fault Line Cave, Texas’s first commercial show cave, allowing visitors to explore intricate rock formations and experience a fascinating underground realm. It’s the only natural dry-formed cave in Texas that allows it to be touched by visitors.
Additionally, the park offers exciting activities like the Anti-Gravity House, where gravity seems to defy the laws of physics, & a train ride through a Texas Wildlife Petting Park. With a combination of educational elements and adrenaline-pumping adventures, Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park offers an unforgettable experience for people of all ages.
LBJ Museum
The LBJ Museum of San Marcos delves into the history of President Lyndon B. Johnson. There are exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that offer insight into the life and legacy of this influential figure. They are open Thursday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm and admission is free!
Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos
Dive into the rich cultural heritage of San Marcos by visiting the Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos, where you can explore exhibitions, art displays, and attend monthly cultural events that celebrate the city’s vibrant Hispanic community. They are open Tuesday through Saturday every week.
Silo Gallery
At the Silo Gallery, admire unique artwork from over 30 Texas artists and have the chance to meet Baxter, the resident cat who adds a little extra charm to the gallery. They also offer on-site classes, but make sure to reserve your spot online beforehand. They’re open everyday of the week besides Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Calaboose African American Museum
Take a journey through African American history by visiting the Calaboose African American Museum, where you’ll learn about the significant contributions of African Americans to the local community. Call ahead to schedule an appointment! Admission is free but they are solely run on donations.
Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing
Discover the fascinating world of aviation history at the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing. You’ll learn about different World War II planes and even experience a realistic C47 simulation that mimics the feeling of flying. Schedule a flight in one of their aircraft and soar through the sky while creating an unforgettable memory.
Take an Art Class
Eye of the Dog Art Center in San Marcos provides an enriching and engaging creative experience for individuals of all skill levels. Led by experienced instructors, their art classes use an array of mediums and techniques, allowing participants to explore their artistic potential. From painting and pottery to sculpture and mixed media, the center offers a diverse selection of art forms to delve into.
Pamper Yourself
San Marcos Blooming Day Spa is a tranquil oasis in San Marcos offering a range of rejuvenating spa treatments and services. Dedicated to providing a relaxing and pampering experience, the spa offers services such as massages, facials, body treatments, and nail care. With a soothing ambiance, luxurious amenities, and high-quality products, Blooming Day Spa is the perfect place to unwind, destress, and indulge in self-care.
Do Some Shopping
Renowned for its wide selection of retail stores and discounted prices, the San Marcos Premium Outlets offers 200 brand-name stores like Gucci. One of the popular brand-name stores is West Elm, attracting bargain hunters looking for deals on stylish home furnishings. Shoppers can find a diverse range of products, including fashion apparel, accessories, home goods, and more. Whether you’re seeking high-end designer brands or everyday essentials, San Marcos Outlets provides an extensive selection, great deals, and a pleasant atmosphere for a rewarding shopping trip.
Play Disc Golf
Enjoy a game of disc golf at Flying Armadillo, a unique 18-hole mini-course with themed sculptures at each hole, including a bird nest with wind chimes, a dock with boats and sharks, and a lighthouse as the target, ending with the iconic Texas Alamo. Challenge each other to a friendly competition while enjoying the outdoors and the artistic elements of this one-of-a-kind course. The cost varies from $5 to $10 a player depending on the day of the week.
Support Local Businesses
The San Marcos Farmers Market is a bustling community gathering in an inviting outdoor space where patrons can enjoy the best of local produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts every Tuesday from 3 pm to 7 pm.
You’ll find a diverse range of vendors who bring fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, baked goods, and more directly from local farms and producers. The market also provides an opportunity to connect with local artisans, showcasing unique handmade crafts, artwork, and jewelry.
Work on Your Golf Swing
A well-maintained facility, Bobcat Golf Range features a driving range, putting greens, and chipping areas. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to refine your skills or a beginner eager to learn, Bobcat Golf Range provides a welcoming and supportive environment at a convenient and accessible location.
Attend a Live Show
Cheatham Street Warehouse is one of the best places for live music in San Marcos. It’s a super cool music venue with multiple performances every week. Many iconic musicians such as George Strait and Terri Hendrix mastered their skills performing in this historical spot.
Experience the San Marcos Art Scene
On the second Saturday of every month in the downtown square, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local art scene at the San Marcos Art Market, conveniently located near the farmers market. It features a variety of talented artists showcasing their creations, from plants and pottery to jewelry and art pieces. Take a stroll, appreciate the creativity on display, and support local artists.
Learn to Blow Glass
Participants can learn the techniques and intricacies of working with molten glass to create beautiful and unique glass art pieces at Wimberley Glassworks. Despite the name, this is actually in San Marcos. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience in glasswork, the classes cater to all skill levels and offer a supportive and creative environment. Their classes are hosted during the months of October through April, but you can visit them at any point of the year to check out their demos and purchase amazing art.
Go on a Mermaid March in San Marcos
You can take yourself on a self-guided tour to find all of the 7-foot tall mermaid statues that are all around! These statues are related to the Mermaid Festival that happens in San Marcos every year. There is a fair and parade that is completely mermaid/merman themed! People from all over the world travel to San Marcos for this event!
Witness the World’s Toughest Boat Race
The Texas Water Safari is known as the “World’s Toughest Boat Race”. It’s an annual race starting in San Marcos and finishing at the shrimping village of Seadrift on the Texas coastline. In total, the contestants must travel over 260 miles on a boat. The first official race was held in 1963 and is run annually on the second Saturday of June. To get a good look, you can either see them start at the Meadows Center or at Rio Vista Park.
Where to Stay in San Marcos
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The Bohemian Hill Country Cottage – This larger, pet-friendly property at Mosaic Farms has the cutest pink exterior and is filled with quirky furniture, an upstairs loft, and even a record player.
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Lula the Camper – Perfect for a couple or a solo getaway with your furry friend, Lula is an affordable glamping option in San Marcos that doesn’t skimp on your favorite creature comforts. This cozy camper is also on-site at Mosaic Farms.
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The Downtown Abbey – Located in downtown San Marcos, this historic church is owned by the same couple that manages Mosaic Farms. Some of its standout features include a pink kitchen, antique furnishings, and a upstairs bay window.
Things to Do in San Marcos: Final Thoughts
I was impressed by how many fun activities there are to do in San Marcos! This small town is a great option if you’re looking to visit a location with more affordable options. Since many of its attractions are beautiful nature spots, you can do so much without spending a lot. You can swim along the San Marcos River and visit fascinating museums and historical landmarks.
With it’s proximity to San Antonio and Austin, it’s easy to go for a day or even a quick half day getaway. Although with how many things there are to do in San Marcos, I personally prefer and overnight stay to be able to take everything in.
With its vibrant downtown area, boutique shops, and delicious dining options, the city strikes a perfect balance between outdoor charm and urban appeal. Be sure to check out our list of the best restaurants in San Marcos to keep your tummy happy on your adventure!
Last Updated 12 months ago by | Published: July 3, 2023
Last Updated 2 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 16, 2025
