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San
Marcos
Pop.
28,743 Alt.
581
General -
Seat of Hays County at the edge of the Hill Country; was once
temporary site of two Spanish missions being relocated from East
Texas because of French and Indian difficulties. Laid out for
Anglo-American settlers in 1851. Clear cold San Marcos River
rises from mammoth springs within the town; noted for profusion
of both plant and animal aquatic life, river is ranked among
world's most fertile. White-tailed deer are numerous in the Hill
Country. Hunters also take dove, quail, squirrel, fox and an
occasional bobcat. Fishing is enjoyed year round in the San Marcos
and Blanco Rivers.
Home of San Marcos Baptist Academy and the alma mater of Lyndon
B. Johnson, Southwest Texas State Univ., whose campus commands an impressive
view of city.
Bed
and breakfast accommodations are offered in the historic district.
Aquarena
Springs -
situated along the headwaters of the San Marcos River, bridging
the foothills of the Texas Hill Country and the Black Prairie
lands is home to five endangered species, including the Texas
Blind Salamander, San Marcos Salamander, Fountain Darter, San
Marcos Gambusia, and Texas Wild Rice. This environmental education
center teaches people about the importance of water systems
through their connection to people and the environment. Exhibits
about the Edwards Aquifer, endangered and native species and
artesian springs can be viewed in the Natural Aquarium. The
Wetlands Walkway opened this spring illustrates the importance
and diversity of wetlands. Native plant trails and historical
sites grace the hillside but perhaps the most enduring experience
is viewing the San Marcos Springs through glass bottom boats!
The
Park is open daily from 9:30 AM until 6:00 PM and admission is
free .
Belvin
Street Historic District -
Superb examples of 19th-Century homes along street shaded by
huge live oaks. Well worth a drive or stroll (only a few blocks)
in southwest San Marcos. All are private residences not open
to public except during Tours of Distinction, first weekend
in May.
San
Marcos River Walkway -
Unites three city parks along the picturesque river, accented
by lush landscaping. Access from Juan Veramendi Plaza, C.M.
Allen Pkwy. at Hopkins St.
Scenic
Drives -
R.M. 12 northwest to junction with R.M. 32, the winding ridge
route called the "Devil's Backbone," offers exceptional
views of Hill Country scenery.
Visitor
Information Center -
Details about San Marcos attractions and events, accommodations,
and the Texas Hill Country. Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; closed
major holidays. North side of city on southbound I-35, exit
206.
Wonder
World -
Includes eartquake-formed cave, wildlife park, observation
tower, gift shop. Cave tours every 15 minutes; Anti-Gravity
House, elevator from cave to Tejas Tower that offers impressive
overlook of town and Hill Country. Miniature train through
wildlife park; animal feeding and petting areas. Open daily;
summer 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; winter 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Bishop St. within
city.
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