Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
City centre San Marcos blends collegiate energy with small-town Texas charm around its limestone courthouse and historic square. Students and locals mingle at live music venues, quirky shops, and riverside hangouts. The crystal-clear San Marcos River flows right through town, offering refreshing 72°F swimming holes perfect for beating the Texas heat. Texas State University's campus adds youthful buzz and cultural attractions like the Wittliff Collections. Food options range from $5 tacos to craft breweries, with most spots catering to student budgets. Accommodation include budget motels and charming B&Bs, though prices jump during graduation weekends. The walkable city centre core makes getting around easy, and the university's free shuttles connect major areas for visitors without cars.
Rio Vista
Rio Vista combines peaceful residential streets with gorgeous natural spaces centred around the San Marcos River. Parks like Ramon Lucio offer perfect spots for morning strolls or afternoon picnics. This authentic Texas area gives you a break from tourist crowds while keeping you close enough to explore San Marcos' highlights, including the premium outlets just a short drive away. Most visitors stay in holiday rentals or cosy bed & breakfasts scattered throughout the neighborhood's tree-lined streets. You'll need a car to get around since public transit is limited, but the trade-off is plenty of peace and quiet. The river provides excellent opportunities for swimming, paddling, and cooling off on hot Texas days.
Dunbar
Dunbar area offers a glimpse into San Marcos' African American heritage through quiet, tree-lined streets and significant cultural landmarks. The Calaboose African American History Museum stands as the centrepiece for travellers seeking to understand local Black history. Community events occasionally bring this residential haven to life with celebrations that showcase its deep-rooted traditions. Getting around requires a car or ride-share service, as public transit options are limited. While dining and shopping opportunities are scarce within the area itself, city centre San Marcos is just a short drive away. Most visitors explore Dunbar's historic character during daytime hours before returning to accommodation elsewhere in the city.
Heritage
Heritage area offers a peaceful residential retreat away from San Marcos' city centre bustle. Families can enjoy the nearby Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park for unique underground exploration. The Witliff Collections and Purgatory Creek Natural Area provide cultural and outdoor experiences just a short drive from these quiet, tree-lined streets. Holiday rentals and private homes dominate accommodation options, offering full kitchens and multiple bedrooms at budget-friendly rates. A car is essential as public transit is limited, but you'll find ample parking and easy access to city centre attractions, Texas State University, and San Marcos River adventures.
Millview East
San Marcos's Millview East neighbourhood has lots of places to visit, such as San Marcos River and Rio Vista Park.
Don't visit San Marcos without stopping off at San Marcos Premium Outlets, a top spot for shopaholics. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?
If you'd like to get a taste of San Marcos student life, check out Texas State University, located 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?
Rio Vista Park is worth a visit, located 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?
Enjoy a fun-filled day at Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park during your visit to San Marcos. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in the area.
John J. Stokes Sr. San Marcos River Park is just one of the places to see in San Marcos, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in the area.
Tube down the crystal-clear San Marcos River, keeping an eye out for turtles sunbathing on logs. Explore the vibrant town square, home to quirky shops and the LBJ Museum of San Marcos.
We had a delicious meal at the Blue Dahlia Bistro- The Square was so nice to walk around! We look forward to visiting again in the summer to take advantage of the river! My daughter really loved TXST and has moved it up to the top of her list!
Shirlee
10.0/10
Excellent
Está muy cerca de muchos outlets de buenas marcas, y también conectado a las autopistas que te llevan a pueblos encantadores y muy cerca d lugares recreativos
Zoar Sarai
8.0/10
Good
Definitely should check out the glass bottom boat ride and the museum at the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment.
Linda
10.0/10
Excellent
San Marcos is beautiful with full of great restaurants and lots to do! Wonderful people and one of the best places of Texas!!!!!
Brent
10.0/10
Excellent
Small little college town. Safe travels with lots of shopping centers. I35 in right in the middle of it all. There's a lot of construction but it's just to make it even better
Yvette
10.0/10
Excellent
I totally love San Marcos but the amount of construction going on is ridiculous!! Absolutely inconvenient for getting around such a beautiful city and campus
Cynthia
10.0/10
Excellent
We had a great time. I worked while my partner shopped. Sad that the river is not cared for by the citizens and visitors to the river.
Kim
10.0/10
Excellent
I love the hilly and mountainous scenery. It's very peaceful and the people are super-friendly. I would come back anytime.
Jeffery
8.0/10
Good
Interesting town. The park by the river where the college students hang out like it's a beach was nice.
Andy
10.0/10
Excellent
It has grown so much and offers a lot of family activities including shopping the outlet mall.
Can I book a refundable accommodation option in San Marcos?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to San Marcos, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.
Where can I stay in San Marcos if I want a holiday rental instead of a hotel?
If you want to find a good alternative to a hotel, look over our selection of 88 holiday homes. You can also consider one of the 34 apartments or 16 cottages.
What will the weather in San Marcos be like during my visit?
The warmest months in San Marcos are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 28°C. January and February are the chilliest months, when the average temperature is 13°C. The rainiest months are May and September.
Why should I book my San Marcos hotel with Hotels.com?
There are plenty of reasons to book your San Marcos travel with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels* gives you the flexibility you're looking for, our Price Guarantee ensures that you always get the lowest price, and you can earn rewards on every booking.
Find out more about San Marcos
Find out more about San Marcos
There's a lot visitors like about San Marcos, especially its riverfront and restaurants. If you're hunting for the perfect souvenir, you may want to head to San Marcos Premium Outlets to shop. You might find that sights like San Marcos River and Strahan Coliseum are worth a visit.
