San Marcos

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Marcos's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore San Marcos
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll along the San Marcos River and enjoy the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the San Marcos Premium Outlets for some shopping. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant to refuel before continuing your shopping adventures.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant downtown, followed by a walk around the historic district. Take in the vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets.

day 2
Water Fun Day
morning
:

Kick off your day with a swim at Aquarena Springs. Enjoy the refreshing waters and take a nature walk through the lush surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch at Rio Vista Park, enjoying the outdoors. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the river.

evening
:

Relax with dinner at a riverside restaurant. End your day with a peaceful sunset view over the water.

day 3
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Visit the San Marcos Arts Center to explore local exhibits. Enjoy a light breakfast at a café nearby.

afternoon
:

Participate in a hands-on workshop or art class. Lunchtime will be perfect to grab something from local food trucks.

evening
:

Check out a local theater performance or live music event. Conclude with dessert at a popular ice cream shop.

day 4
Nature and Hiking
morning
:

Start early and head to Purgatory Creek Nature Park for a scenic hike. Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna along the trails.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy in the park's picnic area. Spend some time exploring more trails or birdwatching.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Spend the evening relaxing and unwinding with a good book or a movie.

day 5
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a well-rated diner. Plan a culinary tour of the best eateries San Marcos has to offer.

afternoon
:

Visit local markets for fresh produce and specialty foods. Enjoy lunch at a food truck or a popular taco spot.

evening
:

Indulge in a special dinner at an upscale restaurant known for its unique menu. Top off your meal with a dessert from a local bakery.

day 6
Shopping Bonanza
morning
:

Start your day with coffee at a local café before hitting the outlets. Spend the morning browsing deals at San Marcos Premium Outlets.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the food court before continuing your shopping spree. Explore boutique shops downtown for unique finds.

evening
:

Relax and refresh at a nearby bar or pub for dinner. Enjoy some live music or a fun trivia night to cap off your day.

day 7
Sports and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a sports-themed restaurant. Join a morning jog or fitness class at a local gym or park.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the San Marcos Activity Center with various sports activities. Grab a casual lunch and recharge.

evening
:

Play a friendly game at a bowling alley or arcade. Enjoy dinner at a craft beer pub for a fun close to your active day.

day 8
Discover Local History
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Calaboose African American Museum. Grab a quick breakfast in the nearby area.

afternoon
:

Learn more about San Marcos history at the San Marcos Historic Plaza. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café nearby.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner featuring local cuisine at a popular spot. Wind down the night with a ghost tour to learn about the city’s intriguing past.

day 9
Music and Nightlife
morning
:

Rise and shine with breakfast at a music-themed café. Spend some time exploring musical history at local shops.

afternoon
:

Attend a local music performance at a park or community center. Enjoy lunch from a nearby food truck offering live entertainment.

evening
:

Dine at a vibrant restaurant with live music and a lively atmosphere. Experience San Marcos nightlife at a local bar or live music venue.

day 10
Relax and Recharge
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in bed or at a serene café. Treat yourself with some self-care at a local spa.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon unwinding by the river or park, reading a book. Grab a light lunch at a health-focused eatery.

evening
:

Indulge in a peaceful dinner at a restaurant with calming vibes. Conclude your day with a cup of herbal tea to promote relaxation.

Discover San Marcos

Read more in our San Marcos 2024 Travel Guide.

San Marcos Travel Guide