What to do
San Marcos Tourist Information Center
617 IH 35 North
San Marcos, TX 78666
(512) 393-5930
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Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
(except for major holidays)
About San Marcos
Whether you’re planning that family summer vacation, your next romantic getaway, a girls’ shopping marathon, or a professional conference with all the bells and whistles, San Marcos always has something to celebrate.
Conveniently located in Central Texas between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos truly is in the center of everything. So no matter where you are, you won’t have far to go.
San Marcos has been a favorite destination for more than 12,000 years. An underwater archeological dig in Spring Lake at the Headwaters of the San Marcos River uncovered artifacts dating back to the Clovis Indians, the oldest known inhabitants of the western hemisphere.
San Marcos boasts a unique multicultural heritage and history where Hispanic, African-American, German, Anglo and other cultural influences are a part of everyday life.
Texas State University is the state's fifth largest university with more than 38,000 students. Every day is a great day to be a Bobcat!
Check out a sampling of our Trips, Treks and Adventures - San Marcos Itineraries to find the perfect fit for your family or group. You can follow our path or mix and match and make up your own.
Click here for a great video history of San Marcos provided by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority in a partnership with the City of San Marcos.
For a free visitor information guide call (512) 393-5930 or email:cvb@sanmarcostx.gov
Facts & Trivia About San Marcos
Our Roots Run Deep: San Marcos has been a favorite destination for more than 12,000 years! An underwater archeological dig in Spring Lake at the Headwaters of the San Marcos River uncovered Indian artifacts dating back over 12,000 years to the Clovis Indians, the oldest known inhabitants of the western hemisphere. This is reportedly the longest continuously inhabited site in North America, according to underwater archeologist Dr. Joel Shiner.
Our People: With a population of more than 64,589 (2018), San Marcos boasts a unique multicultural heritage and history where Hispanic, African-American, German, Anglo and other cultural influences are a part of everyday life.
Bobcat Spirit: Texas State University, is the fourth largest university in the state with more than 38,849 students as of August 2016. Every day is a great day to be a Bobcat! The university participates in Division I of the Sun Belt Conference (FBS in football). Join us at a game and help celebrate our Bobcat Pride.
A Walk In the Park: 1200+ Acres - includes miles of hike and bike trails, children's park, skatepark, dog park, and beautiful public access river frontage.
Changes in Attitude, Changes in Latitude: San Marcos is in the perfect location with a latitude reading of 29 degrees and 53 minutes North and longitude of 97 degrees and 56 minutes West!
Just Another Day in Paradise: Average annual temperature is 68.8 degrees and the sun shines 300 days a year!
A FEW OF OUR HOMETOWN HEROES:
Lyndon B. Johnson: The 36th President of the United States
George Strait: Multi-platinum Award winning Country music superstar
Charles Austin: 1996 US Olympic Gold Medalist
Heloise: Nationally syndicated newspaper columnist
Eddie Durham: Pioneer American jazz guitarist, trombonist, composer and musical arranger
Ralph, the Swimming Pig: Ralph debuted at Aquarena Springs in 1969 and continued his show business career as an international tourism sensation until his retirement in 1994
Tomas Rivera: Internationally known Chicano author who set the standard for contemporary Mexican-American literature
Blue October: American Alternative Rock band
Terri Hendrix: Award winning Folk artist
Location: San Marcos is located on Interstate 35, 30 miles south of Austin, 47 miles north of San Antonio, 165 miles west of Houston, and 202 miles northeast of Laredo.
Geography: 29 degrees and 53 minutes North latitude
97 degrees and 56 minutes West longitude
Elevation: 619 Feet
Population: 64,589 (2018)
Taxes: 8.25% sales tax for goods and services; 15% for hotel occupancy.
Smoking Ordinance (Effective 1/1/2014): The use of smoking products, e-cigarettes and other inhaled vapor devices is prohibited inside all City facilities, as well as outdoor at City parks, athletic facilities, and grounds.
Hands Free Ordinance (Effective 2/1/2016): It is be against the law to use a cell phone or other handheld device while driving a motor vehicle or riding a bicycle in San Marcos unless a "hands-free" mode is engaged on the device.
Driving Laws: Persons must be 16 years of age or older to obtain a valid Texas Driver License. Texas state law requires seat belts be worn by every person sitting in the front seat of a vehicle.
Liquor Laws: The legal drinking age in Texas is 21. Some bars choose to remain open until 2 a.m. Liquor stores are closed on Sundays and major holidays. Beer and wine is sold in stores after 12 p.m. on Sundays.