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San Marcos, Texas is a vibrant city nestled in between Austin and San Antonio, known for its rich history, beautiful river, and thriving local food scene. San Marcos is a hidden gem when it comes to culinary delights! This charming Central Texas city offers a diverse array of eateries that cater to every taste and occasion. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are endless options to satisfy your cravings. A Full Day of Eats Breakfast: Whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast on your way to work, or wandering around The Square on a Saturday morning, Babe's Doughnut Co. has the perfect breakfast options to kick-start your day. Babe's has great lattes, a variety of unique and filling doughnuts, and delicious breakfast sandwiches, including their very own Nashville Hot Chicken Biscuit. Lunch: For a hearty midday meal, head to The Root Cellar Cafe. This cozy basement eatery is famous for the its eclectic menu featuring items like the Better Than Mom's Meatloaf, a Marinated Eggplant Sandwich, and a Beet and Goat Cheese Salad. Pair your meal with one of their craft beers or a refreshing iced tea. Dinner: Cap off your day with a visit to Hays County BBQ. Renowned for its mouth-watering smoked meats, this barbeque joint serves up everything from brisket to sausage with delectable sides like mac 'n' cheese and potato salad. The laid-back, rustic vibe is exactly what you need to live your best Texan life. Dessert: For a post-dinner sweet treat, stop by Rhea's Ice Cream for unique homemade flavors including Goat Cheese & Raspberry Jam, Vegan Avocado Coconut, and Circus Animal Cookie. This delicious scoop on a homemade waffle cone will satisfy your sweet tooth after a full day of eats. Weekend Breakfast Spots Weekends in San Marcos are for leisurely strolls around The Downtown Square and floating down the San Marcos River. Here are some of the best breakfast and brunch spots to start your weekend the right way. Jo's Cafe: This hidden cottage offers a cozy setting and a menu packed with breakfast classics including the French Toast Plate, an incredible Breakfast Burrito, and the Pancake Plate. Jo's Cafe also has a unique coffee menu with a variety of specialty drinks, making this a perfect spot to stop by for a quick coffee run before heading to the river or hitting the Tanger Outlets to shop. Blue Dahlia Bistro: Start your day at Blue Dahlia Bistro, a charming spot known for its European-style breakfast. Blue Dahlia offers elevated options that use organic and local products such as Vegetarian Eggs Benedict, Blueberry Blintzes, and Pearl Sugar Belgian Waffles. The quaint atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect morning retreat. Cafe on the Square: For a hearty and classic breakfast with that old-timey dinner feel, check out Cafe on the Square. Right in the middle of Downtown, Cafe on the Square offers delicious options including Chicken Fried Steak, Huevos Rancheros, and Buttermilk Pancakes. This is a perfect spot to sit down for a delicious meal before checking out the San Marcos Farmers Market or popping into the vintage shops that are scattered around The Square. Post River Lunch Whether you spent the morning kayaking down the San Marcos River, shopping at the Tanger Outlets, or playing pickleball at Rio Vista Park, there are plenty of places to refuel for lunch. Alvin Ord’s: For a sandwich packed with flavor and history, stop by Alvin Ord’s Sandwich Shop. A beloved spot that has become famous for its delectable and hearty sandwiches for decades, Alvin Ord’s is committed to quality and flavor in every bite. Some must-try options include The Salvation and The Roast Beef. The casual, laid-back atmosphere at Alvin Ord’s makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch with friends or a quick bite after a morning full of activities. Ivar’s River Pub: Located right on the riverbank, Ivar’s River Pub offers a relaxed setting with a stunning view. Enjoy their famous River Pub Burger or the refreshing Ahi Tuna Salad. The outdoor seating area is perfect for soaking up the sun while you dine. Herbert’s Taco Hut: For an authentic Tex-Mex experience, Herbert’s Taco Hut is the place to go. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering Mexican dishes since 1976 and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Be sure to try the Herbert’s Special for a little bit of everything or the Beef Fajitas for delicious meat full of flavor. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the incredible food, makes Herbert’s Taco Hut a perfect lunch destination for anyone in town. Date Night Dinners When it’s time for a romantic evening out, San Marcos has several options that set the perfect mood. Cody’s Bistro and Lounge: This upscale bistro offers a refined dining experience with a menu that blends modern American and Mediterranean flavors. Start with the Seared Scallops and then go for the Rack of Lamb or the Grilled Salmon. The intimate ambiance and excellent wine list makes Cody’s Bistro and Lounge an ideal spot for a special night. North Street: For a more relaxed date night with incredible and unique curry dishes, check out North Street Curry Shop. Nestled in the heart of Downtown San Marcos, North Street is definitely a favorite among locals, as the warm and inviting atmosphere along with the delightful array of comforting dishes including Chicken Tikka Masala and Saag Paneer, both served with coconut rice and papadum, as well as delicious Samosas and Chicken Wings, make this a perfect spot to enjoy a special evening out, or a carryout night in. Pair your meal with one of their many craft beers or a fantastic latte to elevate this cozy date night experience. Palmer’s Restaurant, Bar & Courtyard: Known for its Southern-inspired cuisine and beautiful courtyard, Palmer’s is perfect for a romantic dinner. Try the Crispy Brie to start, then move on to the Garlic Confit Ribeye or the Pecan Crusted Chicken paired with delicious sides chosen by the Chef, and don’t miss out on their signature cocktails. The outdoor seating under the twinkling lights creates a magical dining experience. San Marcos, Texas is a treasure trove of many things, including culinary delights, offering something for everyone. From breakfast to dinner, these top spots ensure you’ll enjoy every bite as you explore this charming city. Bon Appetit!

Welcome to San Marcos, Texas—where the sun shines brighter, the rivers run clearer, and the weekends are filled with endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation. As March unfolds its vibrant colors and warmer weather, there's no better time to explore all that this charming city has to offer. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie in search of culinary delights, San Marcos has something to delight everyone. Friday: Whether you're looking to unwind after a long week or kickstart the weekend with a burst of energy, there's no shortage of options for a night out on the town. Start your evening with a culinary adventure at one of San Marcos' many acclaimed restaurants, where you can indulge in a feast of flavors. For a taste of authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, head to Herbert's Taco Hut, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering tacos, enchiladas, and frosty margaritas. Once you've satisfied your appetite, it's time to quench your thirst with a round of drinks at one of San Marcos' bustling bars or pubs. For a laid-back vibe and an extensive selection of craft beers, head to Zelicks Icehouse. If cocktails are more your style, make your way to The Rooftop on the Square, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of downtown San Marcos. Saturday: Rise and shine early on Saturday morning and hit the trails at Purgatory Creek Natural Area for a scenic hike through lush woodlands and rolling hills. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, and marvel at the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Stroll a little bit further in the Downtown Square to check out the San Marcos Farmer’s Market. From 9 am to 1 pm, this beloved community event transforms the streets into a bustling marketplace, brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and the unmistakable charm of small-town Texas. After working up an appetite, indulge in a hearty brunch at Cafe on the Square, or for organic and local ingredients built into a unique breakfast menu, walk over to Blue Dahlia Bistro before spending the afternoon cooling off with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the San Marcos River, where you can kayak, paddleboard, or simply float the day away beneath the warm Texas sun. Finish your day with dinner at one of the best pizza joints in town, Valentino’s Pizza, where there’s something for everyone. For a more upscale dinner with an elevated traditional menu, call ahead for a spot at Palmer’s Restaurant, Bar & Courtyard. Sunday: As the weekend comes to a close, treat yourself to a leisurely morning exploring the city's vibrant arts scene. Take a stroll through the downtown area and discover eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and quaint coffee shops, where you can sip on a steaming latte and peruse local artwork at your own pace. Enjoy a Sunday lunch with river views at Ivar’s River Pub where you can share a few appetizers and drinks or indulge in a delicious entree. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, one thing is certain, San Marcos has a way of capturing the hearts of all who wander its streets.

Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, San Marcos, Texas, is a hidden gem for exploring the outdoors, including a spring-fed river that stays a refreshing 72 degrees year-round, scenic parks and hiking trails throughout the town and surrounding areas, and a variety of outdoor activities perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or tranquil nature escapes, this little Texas town located between Austin and San Antonio has an outdoor activity for everyone! Floating the San Marcos River Beat the Texas heat by taking a leisurely float down the crystal clear San Marcos River. You can embark on a public tubing trip with one of the many local outfitters including Texas State Tubes and Lion's Club Tube Rental. Explore the different floating options around town for a variety of float lengths, locations, pricing, and shuttle options. Kick back, relax, and the enjoy the beautiful vegetation, wildlife, and rejuvenating atmosphere of the San Marcos River. Crystal Kayak Glow Tours Looking for a unique nighttime activity in San Marcos? Experience the crystal clear waters of the San Marcos River at night with a crystal kayak glow tour! PaddleSMTX offers one of the coolest experiences in Central Texas with translucent kayaks equipped with underwater LED lights. The crystal kayaks offer a clear view of the amazing aquatic world beneath you, and you can choose from seven different color and setting options to light up your tour. This trip is led by experienced guides that offer fascinating discoveries of the San Marcos River throughout the tour, enhancing this surreal experience under the stars. PaddleSMTX offers nightly tours March - October with four tours per evening that last about 1.5 hours each, and don't forget to BYOB! Glass Bottom Boat Tours For a family-friendly outdoor activity, experience a glass-bottom boat tour with The Meadows Center! Learn about the history of Spring Lake with a crystal clear view of the underwater ecosystems, including a variety of species, even a few that can only be found in the San Marcos River. The Meadows Center is open daily with tours running every 30 minutes (hours may vary depending on weather and time of year). There are different price ranges for adults, children, seniors, and students, making this a perfect activity for all ages. Hiking in San Marcos If you are looking for an outdoor activity on land, San Marcos is home to some amazing hiking trails. For a more leisurely walk that is ADA friendly and perfect for families, Purgatory Creek Natural Area has a variety of trail options that are easy to follow and offer a unique scenery of wildlife and woodlands without straying too far out of town. For a slightly more challenging terrain, check out Spring Lake Natural Area where you can find a steep and rocky hill on the Blue Heron Trail. Finally, there are many great walking trails and local parks that are great for leisurely strolls or family outings such as the San Marcos River Walkway. Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park Come explore the underground history of an ancient earthquake cave, where you can take a glimpse into the geological eras of the Wonder World Cave. Along with the unique underground cave experience, this family-friendly activity also includes a Texas Wildlife Petting Zoo, an Anti-Gravity House, and a variety of exciting activities for all ages. You can get all-in-one tickets to experience the entirety of the Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park with a fully guided tour, or you can specify your experience with a cave-only or train ride-only ticket option. Downtown Square For a more lively glimpse of what San Marcos has to offer, take a trip to the Downtown Square, where you can check out some awesome vintage shops, get a tasty meal at any time of day, explore the weekend outdoor markets, and see what the downtown nightlife has to offer. For a Saturday morning outing, stop by Cafe on the Square for a hearty breakfast or Babe's Doughnut & Coffee for a delicious latte, then stroll over to the local farmer's market from 9am - 1pm. Walk around the shops for some vintage gems, fun boutique items, and unique pieces from local artists. For a nighttime experience, have dinner and drinks at Sean Patrick's Irish Pub, then see what the nightlife has to offer by visiting an outdoor patio at some of the local bars including Zelick's Icehouse and Chimy's Cerveceria. Whether you're a long-time local or visiting for the weekend, San Marcos, TX has all of the outdoor activities to kick-start your summer. With family-friendly entertainment, one-of-a-kind date ideas, and tranquil evening journeys, the outdoor activities in San Marcos will leave you feeling refreshed, fulfilled, and ready for the next adventure!

October is a magical time in Austin, Texas. As the scorching summer heat gives way to cooler temperatures, the city comes alive with vibrant fall colors and a plethora of exciting activities. Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a visitor exploring the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers a diverse range of events and attractions to enjoy during this beautiful month. Here are some of the best things to do in October near Austin. Pumpkin Patch Fun: Families will enjoy visiting local pumpkin patches like Sweet Berry Farm and Barton Hill Farms. These venues offer more than just pumpkin picking; they often feature corn mazes, hayrides, petting zoos, and other family-friendly activities. Austin Pumpkin Nights is a new attraction of Halloween Light walk-through at night! Explore the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Discover the beauty of native Texas plants at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. In October, you can see a variety of fall-blooming wildflowers and enjoy the peaceful garden trails. Get Spooked at Haunted House Attractions: With Halloween just around the corner, October is the ideal time to get your scare on at some of Austin's haunted house attractions. Places like House of Torment and Scream Hollow Slaughterhouse provide hair-raising experiences that are sure to send shivers down your spine. Attend Austin City Limits Music Festival: Every October, Zilker Park hosts the Austin City Limits Music Festival, a two-weekend event featuring an impressive lineup of artists across various genres. It's a must-visit for music lovers, offering a chance to groove to live music in a stunning outdoor setting.

If you're looking for a night out on the town in San Marcos, you're in luck. This college town has a vibrant bar scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a craft beer at a local brewery or a cocktail at a cozy rooftop bar, San Marcos has something for you. Without further ado, here are the best bars in San Marcos: The Root Cellar Cafe & Brewery - This local brewery is a great spot for craft beer lovers. They have a wide selection of beers on tap, as well as a full menu of pub grub. The atmosphere is laid-back and the staff is friendly, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a few beers with friends. The Tap Room - This bar has a great selection of local and imported beers, as well as a full menu of pub favorites. The atmosphere is lively and the bar often has live music or other events. It's a popular spot for college students and locals alike. The Spot - Located on the rooftop of a hotel, The Spot offers stunning views of the city. They have a full bar and serve a variety of cocktails, as well as a small menu of appetizers. The atmosphere is upscale and romantic, making it a great spot for a date night. AquaBrew - This microbrewery and taproom is a great spot for craft beer lovers. They have a variety of beers on tap, as well as a full menu of pub grub. The atmosphere is laid-back and the staff is friendly. They also have a large outdoor patio, perfect for sipping a beer on a warm day. The Black Sheep - This cozy bar has a great selection of beers and cocktails, as well as a menu of pub favorites. The atmosphere is intimate and the staff is friendly, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends. Overall, San Marcos has a diverse and vibrant bar scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for craft beer or cocktails, this college town has something for you.

Lady Bird Lake is a beautiful man-made lake located in the heart of Austin, Texas. It is a popular spot for a variety of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP). If you're interested in trying paddle-boarding, Lady Bird Lake is a great place to do it. Here's what you need to know about paddle-boarding on Lady Bird Lake: Where to Rent Equipment There are several places to rent paddle-boarding and kayaking equipment on Lady Bird Lake. You can find inflatable stand-up paddle-boards (iSUPs), hard stand-up paddle-boards (SUPs), and paddles at several local outdoor outfitters. Prices vary depending on the type of equipment you rent and how long you rent it for. Some notable outfitters are The Rowing Dock, Zilker Boats, and The Texas Rowing Center. Each of these outfitters has their own docks on the water. Pro Tip: All of these docks are public access, meaning you can launch from there with your own equipment. Where to Launch There are several places to launch your paddle-board on Lady Bird Lake. The most popular launch points are located at the following parks: Zilker Park - Zilker Park is located on the south side of Lady Bird Lake and is a popular spot for paddling. The park has a large, grassy area where you can set up your equipment and a concrete boat ramp where you can launch your paddle-board. Auditorium Shores - Auditorium Shores is located on the south side of Lady Bird Lake and is another popular spot for paddling. The park has a large, grassy area where you can set up your equipment and a concrete boat ramp where you can launch your paddle-board. Red Bud Isle - Red Bud Isle is a small island located on the north side of Lady Bird Lake. It is a popular spot for paddling and is a great place to explore. You can launch your paddle-board from the small boat ramp on the north side of the island. The Walnut Creek Paddling Trail - The Walnut Creek Paddling Trail is a 10-mile paddling trail that follows the north side of Lady Bird Lake. It is a great place to explore by paddle-board, with several access points along the way. No matter where you choose to launch your paddle board, you're sure to have a great time exploring Lady Bird Lake. Just be sure to follow safety guidelines and check weather conditions before heading out on the water. Happy paddling!

The San Marcos River is a natural gem located in the heart of Texas. It's a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and other recreational activities, but it's also home to a diverse and fragile ecosystem. In this blog post, we'll explore the ecology of the San Marcos River and the ways in which it's being protected and preserved. The San Marcos River originates from the San Marcos Springs, which are home to several species of endangered fish and salamanders. These species are found nowhere else in the world and are dependent on the unique conditions of the San Marcos Springs. The water in the springs is consistently warm (around 72 degrees Fahrenheit) and clear, making it a haven for these sensitive species. The San Marcos River is also home to a variety of other plant and animal life. The river is lined with cypress trees and other native vegetation, which provide habitat for birds, mammals, and reptiles. The river is also home to a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. Despite its beauty and ecological significance, the San Marcos River faces several challenges. The biggest threat to the river is water pollution, which can harm the sensitive plant and animal life that call it home. To protect the river, local organizations have implemented a number of measures, including wastewater treatment plants, water quality monitoring programs, and conservation efforts. In addition to these efforts, there are several ways that individuals can help protect the San Marcos River. Here are a few things you can do: Practice proper disposal of waste and chemicals Support organizations that are working to protect the river Use environmentally-friendly products Volunteer to help with river clean-up efforts By taking these steps, we can all play a role in preserving the beauty and ecological significance of the San Marcos River.

Nestled in the heart of Texas, Austin is a vibrant and eclectic city that offers a unique blend of rich history, artistic flair, and a thriving music scene. As the capital of the Lone Star State, Austin boasts a plethora of exciting tours and activities that cater to every interest and passion. Exploring the Texas State Capitol No visit to Austin is complete without exploring the Texas State Capitol. Take a guided tour of this majestic building, which stands as a symbol of Texas history and government. Marvel at its stunning architecture, including the pink granite exterior and the picturesque grounds. Learn about the state's rich heritage, visit the legislative chambers, and view historical artifacts. The Capitol also offers beautiful views of the city skyline, making it a must-visit attraction. Tickets are $20 and tours are offered 6 days a week. Nature at Zilker Park Escape the bustling city and immerse yourself in nature at Zilker Park, a sprawling green oasis located along the banks of the Colorado River. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the park's scenic trails. Lounge on the grassy fields, have a picnic, or play frisbee with friends. Enjoy a refreshing swim in Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming hole that remains a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Zilker Park is also home to the beautiful Botanical Garden and hosts various festivals throughout the year. Bat Colony at Congress Avenue Bridge Each evening, just before sunset, spectators gather near the bridge or on boats along Lady Bird Lake to witness the breathtaking sight of the bats emerging in search of food. As dusk settles, the bats create a swirling, dark cloud as they fly out from under the bridge to embark on their nightly feeding frenzy. This is a seasonal event! Blanton Museum of Art Discover a world of art at the Blanton Museum, located on the University of Texas campus. Admire a vast collection that spans diverse periods and mediums, featuring works by renowned artists such as European masters, American painters, and contemporary creators. $15 admission.

Visiting San Marcos, Texas soon? Here's some attractions to add to your trip itinerary. San Marcos is a small town located in between of Austin and San Antonio. College town to Texas State University. San Marcos River The water of the San Marcos River is always 72 degrees. There are many spots that offer tubing, paddling, and kayaking. Texas State Tubes is a huge hit to float the river. The float is three hours and comes with a shuttle ride with tube purchase. Tanger Premium Outlets The Tanger Premium Outlets is combined with two adjacent malls that has more than 240 stores. With designer brands to your regular mall stores the outlets has many options for you and with discounted prices up to 65% off. Wonder World Cave and Adventure Park Wonder World Cave and Adventure Park is a perfect activity for all ages! It is the first commercial show cave in Texas. You discover the nation’s only true example of an earthquake formed cave on a guided tour and added activities. Train ride through wildlife park to feeding animals, anti-gravity house, arcade room and more! LBJ Museum Lyndon B. Johnson was the 36th president of the United States , he attended Texas State University. The museum shows his formative role as a student and as a school teacher in the Great Legislation. The museum is open Thursday through Saturday and admission is FREE!

River Tubing is such a fun adventure for the summer time! Wether you are looking for a chill float or a thrilling experience these tubing spots could be perfect for you. San Marcos River Tubing Texas State Tubes Texas State Tubes is located on 2024 N Old Bastrop Hwy, San Marcos, Texas 78666. This location meet up is for the Walk-Up tubing. The duration of this float is 3 hours. This float is $15 without a tube and $25 with a tube included. Both packages come with a shuttle ride back. You can also float the river from Downtown Austin with a guide down to the San Marcos river. The float last about 6 hours so it's a perfect all day adventure. This tubing trip is $69 per person including the shuttle ride. Dons Fish Camp Dons Fish Camp is located on 105 Nelle Ln, Martindale, TX 78655. A day floating pass is $28 which includes a tube, the shuttle ride, and a parking pass. To bring your own tube and ride the shuttle it is $19. Purchasing tickets at Dons can have a waiting time. This float last about 3 hours. Dons also offers camping! Comal River Tubing Comal Tubes Comal Tubes is located on 1880, I-35BL, New Braunfels, TX 78130. This float is $30 dollars per person for a tube, shuttle ride and free parking when available. This float does have a couple tube chutes meaning rapids, but you can pass on the chute. It is a 2 hour float along the Comal River. Guadalupe River Tubing Whitewater Sports Whitewater Sports is located on 11860 FM306 Suite 2, New Braunfels, TX 78132. The price per float is $24 which included the tube, free parking, and a shuttle ride back to camp. Whitewater also offers an amphitheater with performances on the weekends, condos to book out for your stay, and the Hideout which is cabins to book. Rockin' R River Rides Rockin' R is located on 1405 Gruene Road, NBTX 78130. Rockin' R has two options to float, the Gruene float which is a 2-3 hour float with 3 rapids. The Huaco Raft float which is a 5-6 hour scenic float. Huaco Raft meets at 4484 River Road, NBTX 78130. The price for both floats is $25 for a tube rental and shuttle rides , and $20 if you bring your own tube. River Rides offers rafting for $40 per person as well!

At PaddleSMTX, we love sharing our appreciation for the stunning nature San Marcos and the Texas Hill Country have to offer. So, we have created a list of some of our favorite trails nearby for you to explore. The San Marcos River Walk This trail is a paved walkway that runs about 2.5 miles. Begin at City Park and follow the sidewalk along the beautiful San Marcos River until you reach Crook Park. Wearing sandals on this trail is recommended because there are a lot of great places to stop and dip your toes in the water. This is also a great trail to bike and skate on. If you are planning to join PaddleSMTX on the river, this trail follows alongside part of the river we guide you through! Be sure to check out all the infomative signs that share fun facts about the critters in and around the San Marcos River. Spring Lake Natural Area There are a few different access points for this trail. Our favorite starts next to the Meadows Center! You will have to pay to park in their parking lot, but the trail itself is free and open to the public. There is also another smaller, free parking lot located at 685 Lime Kiln Road. This 251-acre park has miles of winding, rocky, and well-maintained trails full of gorgeous flora and fauna ready to be discovered. Don't forget to check out the sundial located a little less than a mile down Tonkawa trail. Pay attention to signs about respecting wildlife in the area. Some of the trails are closed from March 1- May 31 to protect the endangered golden-cheeked warbler's nesting season. Purgatory Creek Natural Area This area is 830+ acres of rocky trails that lead to a large grotto of limestone carved by Purgatory Creek. The park is so big the map has been divided into Upper and Lower Purgatory. Mountain biking and trail running are a more popular form of recreation in Lower Purgatory due to the more rocky, intermediate skill level required to navigate the trail's terrain. Access to this part of the trail is available at 2102 Hunter Road. Upper Purgatory, 7153 Valencia Way, is also a great spot for hiking and mountain biking. It's also a popular spot for birders. An ADA trail was built here in 2019! Texas State University Camp This camping and day use area is exclusively reserved for Texas State University students, staff, and alumni. If you have the opportunity to visit, don't hesitate!! Located on the Blanco River, this 126-acre property has about four miles of hiking and biking trails. There are bikes, kayaks, and other outdoor recreation gear for rent at headquarters. Follow the Inner Loop Trail to the Juniper Canyon/Grotto Trail to reach Lone Star Point Trail with stunning views of the Blanco River and Hill Country beyond. McKinney Falls State Park Located in the southeast region of Austin, this park is a quick 30-45min drive from San Marcos. It has 9 miles of a wide variety of terrain and trails to explore. Bring a swimsuit and take a dip in the serene pools by the upper and lower falls. Go camping, fishing, bouldering, and geocache. Bring your road bike or stroller and hit the 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail for a smooth, paved ride around the park. Hop on the Rock Shelter Trail to visit Old Baldy. The 100-foot tall, 500+ year old Cypress tree was voted Austin's Tree of the Year in 2012. Did you know scenes from the movie Predators were filmed here?

The Square is the heart of San Marcos with iconic restaurants, bars, vintage stores, and museums all within walking distance of each other. We've created a list of our favorite places to shop around the Square. Check it out! Solid Gold Address: 164 S Guadalupe St Eclectic is the perfect way to describe Solid Gold; this shop carries everything! If you're looking for gorgeous vintage furniture to freshen up your home this is the place to go. They also carry a wide variety of clothes, shoes, and jewelry. Spice up your walls with some new art pieces! There is a window full of houseplants looking for a home. Don't forget to check out the handcrafted mugs! Everyday Zen Address: 165 S Guadalupe St Stressed out? Love tea? Looking to share the gift of mindfulness with a friend? This is the shop for you! Check out everything Everyday Zen has to offer. The goal of this shop is to sell you a bundle of self-love in the form of herbal teas, tea pots and cups, attire, and other small gifts that are great for spreading love to your friends. Old Soul Exchange Address: 123 S. LBJ Dr This unique shop is a brick-and-mortar collaboration between a bunch of vintage vendors you may recognize from local vintage pop-up events. Each vendor curates a different section of the store to sell their products. Vintage, thrifted, and upcycled clothes are their main attraction with a section for accessories and home decor as well. Daughter of the Wild Address: 218 N Guadalupe St Follow the bubbles to an enchanting new shop on The Square: Daughter of the Wild! You will find lots of home decor expressing a strong appreciation for nature, crystals, and the stars. There is a back room with vintage items such as hankies, clocks, lamps, art, and other cool knick-knacks. Snag a stunning new houseplant while you're there! Vagabond Address: 320 N LBJ Dr Clothes, clothes, and more clothes! Experiment with a new look while trying on pieces from the broad selection of vintage clothing offered here. This shop is filled with different styles for you to discover. They carry a lot of boots and a few accessories as well.