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.
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.
