San Marcos, Texas, is a vibrant and welcoming destination in the heart of the Lone Star State. Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is the perfect place to explore the unique culture of Central Texas. With its rolling hills, live music, and college town atmosphere, San Marcos offers something for everyone.
The outdoor enthusiast can enjoy the crystal-clear San Marcos River, full of activities like swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Nearby parks, trails, and preserves offer plenty of opportunity for hiking, biking, and camping. And the nearby Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to spot some of the area’s native wildlife.
San Marcos is also home to Texas State University, which adds a youthful energy to the city. The campus is full of restaurants, coffee shops, and music venues, offering something for everyone. Additionally, the city is known for its live music scene, with artists from all over the world playing in venues around town.
San Marcos is also home to many unique dining experiences. From Mexican cuisine to farm-to-table restaurants, the city has something for everyone. Additionally, San Marcos is a great place to shop, with its downtown area full of stores, boutiques, and art galleries.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, music, dining, or shopping, San Marcos has it all. With its unique culture, friendly people, and vibrant atmosphere, San Marcos is the perfect place to explore the Lone Star State.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown San Marcos: This vibrant area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, as well as the iconic San Marcos River. It's the perfect place for a fun night out or a weekend of exploration.
2. Texas State University: Located on the San Marcos River, the Texas State University area is a great spot for students and visitors alike. Enjoy the campus' many attractions, from the Bobcat Stadium to the Splash! Waterpark.
3. San Marcos Outlet Mall: Shopaholics rejoice! San Marcos Outlet Mall offers premium outlet stores, including many top brands such as Nike and Coach. It's the perfect place to stock up on the latest trends.
4. The Square: At the heart of downtown San Marcos lies The Square, a public plaza surrounded by restaurants, shops, and other attractions. Visitors can enjoy the live music, take a stroll through the park, and explore the unique architecture.
5. San Marcos Riverwalk: The Riverwalk is a scenic walking path that follows the San Marcos River. Stroll along the waterfront while taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoy the many restaurants and shops along the way.
1. Purgatory Creek Natural Area: This natural area offers a tranquil environment with a variety of wildlife and plenty of hiking trails to explore.
2. San Marcos River: This river runs through the city and is home to several springs and creeks, as well as plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and tubing.
3. Wonder World: This theme park features a variety of attractions, including an earthquake-formed cave and a train ride.
4. Aquarena Center: Located on the banks of the San Marcos River, this center is home to a variety of educational activities, such as wildlife viewing, kayaking, and guided tours.
5. Texas State University: This university offers a variety of cultural, educational, and entertainment options, such as sporting events, performances, festivals, and art galleries.
1. Texas-Style Barbecue at The Salt Lick BBQ: The Salt Lick BBQ is known for their delicious Texas-style barbecue. They smoke their brisket for 18 hours and it is served with sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad.
2. Grilled Pimento Cheese Sandwich at Rebel Pies: The grilled pimento cheese sandwich at Rebel Pies is a must-have. It is served on a toasted bun with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
3. Donuts at Donut Palace: Donut Palace is a popular spot for donuts in San Marcos. They offer a wide selection of specialty donuts that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
4. Breakfast Tacos at El Milagro: El Milagro serves up some of the best breakfast tacos in town. They are known for their traditional Mexican style tacos that are made with fresh ingredients.
5. Pizza at Pie Society: Pie Society is a local pizzeria that serves up some of the best pizza in town. Their signature pies are made with fresh ingredients and are sure to satisfy any pizza lover.