Summer in San Marcos
San Marcos, a beautiful city in the Texas Hill Country located between Austin and San Antonio, is the perfect destination for a summer road trip. Located right along I-35, San Marcos, population just under 70,000 residents, is known for its historical buildings, quaint downtown and world-class outlet shopping. It is also home to Texas State University and has two rivers that flow through it, the San Marcos River and the Blanco River.
Visitors to this central Texas city are in for a treat. There is so much to do in San Marcos in all seasons. Outdoor enthusiasts as well as shopaholics will find plenty of activities to entertain them, and families will love all the ways that kids can enjoy the city, too. From unique caves to exciting watersports, San Marcos has it all. If you’re looking for a family-friendly Texas road trip, here are six reasons to put San Marcos on your itinerary.
Six exciting activities in San Marcos
- Set sail on a glass bottom boat tour operated by The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University. Boat tours run daily and are a great way to explore the waterways around San Marcos. There are several add-on options available to extend your time on the boat and help you learn even more about the water around you.
- Shop til you drop at the San Marcos Premium Outlets, the largest outlet mall in Texas. Luxury lovers will enjoy all the high-end brands that adorn this outdoor shopping area, including Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Burberry. Get ready to find some serious treasure at this San Marcos hotspot.
- Tube the San Marcos River with Texas State Tubes. Grab your friends, stuff the cooler with drinks and snacks and pack loads of sunscreen- you’re going tubing! This Texas tradition is a fun way to enjoy the sunshine and outdoor life in San Marcos. Don’t forget to stay hydrated- it gets hot out there!
- Grab a delectable bite of Texas barbecue at Black’s BBQ in San Marcos. Slow-smoked meats and southern desserts await at this outpost that also offers live music to boot. Sit indoors or outside, eat and go or stay awhile, just get ready for Texas BBQ that will blow you away.
- Be amazed at the Wonder World Cave and Adventure Park. Go underground and explore one of Texas’ show caves, the Balcones Fault Line Cave. Examine the stalagmites and stalactites up close and then head above ground for fun at the anti-gravity house, the petting zoo and more.
- Try your hand at water sports at Texas Ski Ranch. Try surfing or wakeboarding. Or hit up the aqua park! Prefer activities on dry land? They’ve got those, too! You can play paintball, check out axe throwing or grab a bite to eat and just hang out. This is a spot you definitely don’t want to miss!
San Marcos area lodging
Planning a trip to San Marcos? You need to book a stay at Pecan Park Riverside RV. Located along the San Marcos River, Pecan Park Riverside RV is loaded with amenities to make you comfortable no matter how long you plan to stay. Check out the onsite pool and playground or explore the natural area around you. You’ll love this Texas Hidden Gem in the picturesque Texas Hill Country.
