Things to Do in San Marcos, Texas
Located just a short drive from the more famous Austin, Texas, San Marcos is a hidden gem worth exploring. This vibrant city offers an exciting mix of shopping, entertainment, history, and natural beauty.
In the urban areas, you’ll find museums, galleries, shops, cafes, restaurants, and live music venues. Meanwhile, the San Marcos River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, tubing, and other water-based adventures.
Whether you’re stopping by for a day trip from Austin or planning a longer stay, there’s plenty to do. In fact, you could easily spend an entire vacation exploring San Marcos alone!
Below is our guide to 15 of the best things to do in San Marcos, TX.
Museums and Galleries
If you love history and art, San Marcos has plenty to offer. These are some of our top picks for immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture:
1. Calaboose African American History Museum
Address: 200 Martin Luther King Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Saturday: 10 AM – 3 PM; also by appointment
This historic building once served as the county jail in the late 19th century. Today, it’s the Calaboose African American Museum, one of the best places to learn about African American history in Texas.
The museum uses a variety of exhibits—including historic artifacts, photographs, and letters—to tell both the broad story of Black Texans and the personal stories of notable individuals. Among the museum’s collection are items that belonged to Eddie Durham, a pioneering jazz musician.
2. Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos
Address: 211 Lee St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 2 PM – 6 PM; Saturday: 10 AM – 2 PM; Closed Sundays & Mondays
Celebrate the city’s rich Hispanic heritage at the Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos. Housed in a historic building that once served as a Mexican school during Texas’ segregation era, this center is a must-visit for Latinx art, culture, and history.
The museum features a gallery of historical artifacts, an art gallery, a library, and a book exchange. They also regularly host educational and cultural events—check their website for current offerings!
3. Charles S. Cock House Museum
Address: Veramendi Park, 400 E Hopkins St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Friday: 11 AM – 1 PM; also by appointment or during special events
Built in 1867, the Charles S. Cock House Museum is the oldest residential structure still standing in San Marcos. Its Greek Revival architecture and original furnishings make it a fascinating stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
The house features a beautiful kitchen, known as the Cottage Kitchen, where visitors can even schedule a lunch—a unique opportunity to dine in a room that’s over 150 years old!
4. LBJ Museum
Address: 131 N Guadalupe St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Thursday – Saturday: 11 AM – 5 PM; Closed Sunday – Wednesday
You might be wondering about President Lyndon Baines Johnson’s connection to San Marcos. Interestingly, he attended Texas State University in San Marcos as an undergraduate!
The LBJ Museum celebrates this connection by focusing on his years as a student and the broader era he lived in. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring photographs, paintings, statues, and artifacts, including a 1930s voting machine.
Even if you’re not specifically interested in LBJ, the museum provides fascinating insights into life in San Marcos during his time, making it one of the best historical attractions in the city.
5. Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force
Address: 1841 Airport Dr Bldg 2249, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM; Closed Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays
For aviation enthusiasts, the Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force is a must-see. This museum showcases historic aircraft and preserves the legacy of military aviation. Visitors can explore the planes up close, learn about their history, and gain insight into the technology and stories behind these incredible machines.
Editorial credit: Holly Kuchera
If you’re a World War II buff, one of the best things to do in San Marcos is visit the Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force! Housed inside an authentic wooden airplane hangar from 1942, it’s now a museum for WWII aviation history.
On a trip here, you’ll get up close and personal with a lot of actual historic aircraft from the time period. You’re literally allowed to sit in the cockpit of one of the actual planes!
You’ll also get a to see a lot of historical military artifacts as well as browse through their comprehensive library. And book in advance for an actual flight experience!
6. The Witliff Collections
Address: Alkek Library, 7th Fl, Talbot St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM; Sat: 11 AM – 4:30 PM; Sun: 12 PM – 4:30 PM
If you’re interested in exploring the art not only of San Marcos but the entire Southwest, come here! The Witliff Collections is one of the best cultural things to do in San Marcos, TX.
Part of Texas State University, it’s a great way to explore the art and culture of the area. And it’s also an opportunity to explore this famous campus!
In the collection, you’ll find all sorts of fascinating things including art, photography, music, film, literature, and historical archives. For a university museum, they have a genuinely impressive permanent collection. Delving through it paints a beautiful picture of the culture and spirt of the Southwest, and Texas in particular!
Attractions
While San Marcos has a lot of culture, it also has lots of opportunities for adventure as well. These are some of the most fun, adventurous things to do in San Marcos for the whole family. We hope you have a blast exploring them!
7. Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park
Address: 1000 Prospect St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Fri – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM; Closed Mondays through Thursdays
One of the most exciting, unique things to do in San Marcos is easily Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park. Other places may have theme parks, but this one includes America’s only earthquake cave that’s actually accessible!
The tours will take you underground into the cave system. There, the guides will teach you about the geological history of San Marcos and you’ll see breathtaking rock formations.
In addition to going underground, the park also has an awesome observation tower! Just riding the elevator up will give you an adrenaline rush, not to mention seeing the glorious views up there. Also don’t miss the zoo, the anti-gravity house, or the trackless train that takes you under a waterfall!
8. The Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours
Address: 201 San Marcos Spring Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9:30 AM – 4 PM
If you’re craving more adventure, another of the things to do in San Marcos is Meadows Center Glass-Bottom Boat Tours! They provide a unique opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring Spring Lake.
The boats take you down the lake while the glass bottoms let you peer down closer than you otherwise could. You’ll see all sorts of aquatic life from various fish to shrimp to turtles. Meanwhile, the tour guides will teach you about the lake’s ecosystem and archeological significance.
The best time of year to visit is the spring and summer, as the life there is more active then. And make sure you check out the on-site exhibits and their lovely gift shop!
9. Paddle SMTX
Address: 170 Charles Austin Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Another of the most adventurous things to do in San Marcos is Paddle SMTX. They provide kayaking and paddleboarding tours on the beautiful San Marcos River. It’s a great chance to experience the wonder of the river while having an adrenaline rush.
Paddle SMTX also offers Glow Light Night Tours, which we highly recommend. As beautiful as the river is during the day, there’s something really magical about it at night. Especially with the boat’s colorful LED lights illuminating the dark.
There are also options if you want to go out on the water during the day but try something calmer. For example, they have paddleboard yoga classes, which are a unique way to experience both this tradition and the river.
10. Texas State Tubes
Address: 2024 N Old Bastrop Hwy, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Mon – Fri: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM; Sat – Sun: 10 AM – 4 PM
River Fun: Texas State Tubes
If you want to enjoy the San Marcos River without breaking the bank, Texas State Tubes is a fantastic choice. Essentially, you’ll grab a large inflatable tube and float down the river for about three hours—a fun and relaxing way to immerse yourself in nature!
The facility has two parking lots, one at each end of the tubing route, and also provides a shuttle service to transport you to your car or the start of your journey. It’s an easy, low-stress way to experience the river and enjoy the outdoors.
Nightlife and Live Entertainment
San Marcos also boasts a vibrant nightlife, offering plenty of options for drinks, music, and entertainment. Here are some of our favorites:
11. The Marc
Address: 120 E San Antonio St, San Marcos, TX 78666
For a night out, The Marc is a must-visit. This multi-level nightclub and live music venue is housed in a historic downtown building and features DJs, live bands, and themed events. Whether it’s a full concert or a curated lineup, you’re guaranteed an exciting evening of music and dancing. The Marc is the heart of San Marcos’ nightlife and not to be missed!
12. The Cheatham Street Warehouse
Address: 119 Cheatham St, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 3 PM – 2 AM; Closed Sunday
Another iconic venue is Cheatham Street Warehouse, a historic hub for country music legends. From Willie Nelson to Stevie Ray Vaughan, this venue has hosted some of the biggest names in Texas music. While you might not catch a superstar every night, the venue keeps the local music culture alive with up-and-coming talent and themed events. It’s the perfect place to experience the history and future of Texas country music.
Shopping and Dining
Sometimes, a vacation is all about shopping and good food. San Marcos has plenty to satisfy both!
13. San Marcos Premium Outlets
Address: 3939 S Interstate 35, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM; Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
San Marcos Premium Outlets is one of the largest outlet complexes in the country, featuring more than 240 stores. Find luxury bargains at Saint Laurent, Valentino, and more, or shop for the kids at Nautica Kids and Gap Kids. For parents, Adventure Kids USA offers childcare while you shop. Afterward, grab a bite at local favorites like Anchor Bar or Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.
14. Grins Restaurant
Address: 802 N LBJ Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Grins Restaurant is a local favorite, located near Texas State University. Serving Texas-style cuisine, it’s known for burgers, steaks, fajitas, and chicken sandwiches. Don’t miss their “Texas-sized” onion rings or frozen strawberry margaritas! Weekend and Sunday specials, along with a lovely covered deck, make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a hearty meal.
15. Wake the Dead Coffeehouse
Address: 1432 Old Ranch Rd 12, San Marcos, TX 78666
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7 AM – 10 PM
For fans of the macabre, Wake the Dead Coffeehouse is a must-see. Beyond excellent coffee, the cafe offers sandwiches, baked goods, beers, and wines. They also host live music, art exhibits, improv workshops, and movie nights. Check their website for event schedules to make the most of your visit!
Conclusion
San Marcos, Texas, truly has something for everyone—from river adventures and historic museums to vibrant nightlife, shopping, and delicious dining. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer vacation, this city promises excitement, culture, and fun around every corner.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your San Marcos adventure today—you won’t regret it!