San Marcos is a beautiful city located in the Texas Hill Country.
It is home to two rivers, the San Marcos and the Blanco, which offer scenic views and excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and canoeing.
The city also has several parks and playgrounds, as well as a municipal pool.
In addition, San Marcos is home to a number of historical sites, including the Hays County Courthouse.
The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several museums and art galleries.
With its many attractions, San Marcos is the ultimate day trip from Austin, Texas.
It also makes an excellent weekend getaway from San Antonio area.
Things to do in San Marcos, Texas:
Fun fact: San Marcos is home to the Texas State University and has a diverse and vibrant population.
The college town is also known for its historic downtown area, which features a number of shops, restaurants, live music venues, and bars.
There’s always something to do in San Marcos from historic buildings and nightlife to water sports and nature trails.
Here are our favorite things to do in San Marcos, Texas on your next trip.
Historic Downtown San Marcos
Historic Downtown San Marcos is a charming area with a rich history.
Founded in 1851, the town was once a center for trade and commerce, and many of the buildings in the downtown area date back to this period.
The courthouse square is the center of activity, and the surrounding streets are lined with Victorian-style buildings.
Today, the downtown area is home to a variety of businesses, including restaurants, shops, and galleries.
Downtown San Marcos is a great place to visit for its history, culture, and atmosphere.
Hays County Historic Courthouse
The Hays County Courthouse in San Marcos, Texas is a beautiful example of Classical Revival style of architecture.
Built in 1909, the courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The courthouse features an imposing façade and impressive interior.
The gardens surrounding the courthouse are great for a peaceful stroll.
LBJ Museum
The LBJ Museum in San Marcos, Texas is a must-see for anyone interested in American history.
The museum chronicles the life and times of one of America’s most influential presidents, from his childhood in the Hill Country to his time in the White House.
Visitors can see artifacts from Johnson’s life and learn about his legacy.
The museum also has an extensive collection of photographs, documents, and memorabilia from Johnson’s time in office.
San Marcos Kissing Alley
San Marcos is home to a number of Texas hidden gems, and Kissing Alley is definitely one of them.
This charming alleyway is located in the heart of downtown, and it’s said to be full of history and romance.
The story goes that the alley was once a popular spot for young couples to sneak a kiss or two.
These days, it’s a popular spot for photographers and Instagrammers alike.
The alley is lined with colorful murals, twinkling string lights, and offers charming views of the Hays County Courthouse.
San Marcos Art Center
The San Marcos Art Center is a community art center located in the heart of downtown San Marcos, Texas.
The Art Center offers a variety of art classes and workshops for all ages, as well as an array of rotating exhibitions in its art gallery.
The Art Center also plays host to a number of community events throughout the year, including the annual Art Walk, which is a celebration of the arts in San Marcos.
The San Marcos Art Center is an important part of the city’s cultural fabric and worth a visit for art lovers.
Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park
Wonder World Park in San Marcos is a must visit attraction for families.
It is home to the famous show cave in Texas, the Balcones fault line cave.
On a cave tour, visitors can view breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites formations.
The park also features several other attractions, including the Anti Gravity House, zip lines, a petting zoo, and more.
Whether you’re looking to explore the caves or take on an adventure, Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park is sure to exceed your expectations.
The Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force Exhibit
The Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force Exhibit is a must for aviation enthusiasts.
The Wing’s mission is to preserve and restore vintage World War II-era aircraft.
The Wing’s collection includes over 35 vintage aircraft, including a B-25 bomber and a P-39 fighter plane.
Visitors can tour the military museum facility and learn about the history of the airplanes on display.
The museum itself is located in a vintage World War II hangar.
Charles S Cock House Museum
The Charles S. Cock House Museum in San Marcos, Texas is a treasured landmark that is full of fascinating history.
The home is an excellent example of vernacular architecture, and it has been well-preserved over the years.
Visitors can see the historic house, admire the furnishings, and learn about the influential Cock family.
San Marcos Premium Outlets
The famous San Marcos Outlets is one of the largest outlet malls in the United States.
The outlets feature a wide variety of stores, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Gap, J.Crew, Nike, and Ralph Lauren.
In addition to the great selection of stores, San Marcos Premium Outlets also offers a food court and a children’s play area.
The outlet is one of the fun things to do in San Marcos on a rainy or hot summer day.
River tubing the San Marcos River
River tubing the San Marcos River is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike.
There are a number of companies that offer river tubing trips including Texas State Tubes, and most provide all the necessary equipment.
Tubing the river is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenic Texas Hill Country.
A trip down the river usually takes about two hours, and there are a number of stops along the way where you can swim or explore.
Kayaking and paddling with Paddle SMTX
Paddle SMTX is a local paddle sports outfitter that offers kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard rentals, tours and classes on the San Marcos River.
Paddle SMTX offers a variety of rental options for both beginner and experienced paddlers.
For those who want to explore the river on their own, kayak and canoe rentals are available by the hour or day.
The company also offers unique activities such as the stand-up paddleboard yoga classes.
Looking for more adventure?
Try their Glow Light Night Tours where you explore the river with the help of LED lights!
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, located in San Marcos, Texas, is a research and education center focused on freshwater ecosystems.
The center offers glass bottom boat tours for visitors.
The tour takes you through the crystal-clear waters of Spring Lake, giving you a close-up view of the diverse aquatic life that inhabits the lake.
You’ll see everything from native fish and turtles to alligators and waterfowl.
The tour is suitable for all ages and is a great way to get outside and learn about nature.
Rio Vista Park
Rio Vista Park is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors in San Marcos, Texas.
The park features a playground, picnic tables, grills, a basketball court, a sand volleyball court, a disc golf course, a walking trail, and a dog park.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the riverside trail, go for a swim, or just enjoy the nature.
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Admission to the park is free.
San Marcos Skatepark
The San Marcos Skatepark features a variety of obstacles, including rails, ramps, and stairs, that are perfect for practicing new tricks.
The smooth concrete surfaces are also ideal for cruising – it is fun to watch the experienced skaters tackle the challenges.
Black’s Barbecue San Marcos
Black’s Barbecue is a must-visit when in San Marcos, Texas.
The restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering BBQ to locals and visitors for nearly a century.
The secret to Black’s success is its slow-smoking process, which locks in the flavors of the meat and gives it a unique tenderness.
Whether you’re looking for succulent brisket, juicy ribs, or tender chicken, Black’s Barbecue is sure to hit the spot.
Purgatory Creek Natural Area
Purgatory Creek Natural Area in San Marcos, Texas is a hidden gem.
The area is home to a variety of plant and animal life, and the hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Purgatory Creek is also a great place to cool off on hot summer days.
The creek is fed by a spring, so the water is always refreshingly cold.
Purgatory Creek Natural Area is a beautiful place to enjoy nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Blanco Shoals Natural Area
The Blanco Shoals Natural Area is a beautiful spot in San Marcos, Texas.
The bluffs that line the banks of the Blanco River offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
The river banks are lined with tall grasses and wildflowers, providing a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely stroll or hike.
In addition to its scenic beauty, the Blanco Shoals Natural Area is also home to a variety of birds, including several rare and endangered species.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking in the natural area.
Five Mile Dam Park
Five Mile Dam Park is a another hidden gem in San Marcos, Texas.
Tucked away on the banks of the Blanco River, the park features scenic hiking trails, a picturesque dam, and an abundance of wildlife.
Visitors can also enjoy fishing, picnicking, and kayaking.
The park is a popular spot for birdwatching, and it’s not uncommon to see bald eagles, ospreys, and herons.
Things to do near San Marcos, Texas
San Marcos is the prefect place to explore the surrounding Hill Country.
Here are some of the bets things to do near San Marcos.
Austin
Just a short drive from San Marcos, Austin is the perfect place to experience all the best of Texas.
The city offers a variety of activities and attractions, including live music venues, world-class museums, and delicious restaurants.
Popular Austin attractions include the State Capitol, the University of Texas at Austin, and Zilker Park.
Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is one of the best places to visit in Texas.
The lake is fed by the Guadalupe River and is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, boating, and picnicking.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the many trails that wind through the area.
Canyon Lake is a beautiful place to visit all year round, but it is especially stunning in the fall.
The trees in the area turn a variety of colors, from deep reds to bright oranges.
Wimberley
Wimberley, Texas is a charming small town located in the Hill Country region of the state.
The town is situated on the banks of the Blanco River and is known for its scenic beauty.
Wimberley is home to a number of art galleries, shops, and restaurants, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Wimberley is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
There are several hiking trails and parks in the area, as well as swimming holes.
New Braunfels
New Braunfels is a charming city in Central Texas that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and recreation.
Founded by German settlers in 1845, New Braunfels has a rich heritage that is evident in its many well-preserved historic buildings and sites.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down Main Plaza, enjoy live music at Gruene Hall, or tour the Sophienburg Museum and Archives.
The city is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including Landa Park, Comal County Preserve, and the scenic Guadalupe River.
Gruene
Nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River, Gruene is a historic Texas town with a charming atmosphere.
Visitors can step back in time as they stroll down Gruene’s Main Street, lined with Victorian-style buildings housing eclectic shops, artist galleries, and restaurants.
The town is also home to the Gruene Music Hall, one of the most popular live music venues in Central Texas.
San Antonio
Love history and food? Head to San Antonio!
San Antonio is another great option for a day trip from San Marcos.
The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, and the San Antonio Zoo.
Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining in the historic Market Square.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy some scenic beauty, San Marcos is the perfect spot.
Nestled between Austin and San Antonio, this small city offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking.
There’s also a number of great museums and historical sites to explore.
And of course, no trip to San Marcos would be complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine.
So whether you’re looking to relax or get active, be sure to add San Marcos to your list of must-visit destinations.
Did you like our post on best things to do in San Marcos, Texas? Let us know below.