Itching to get out of town, Austinites? Skip those pesky airport security lines and jump in your car for a day trip to the riverside town of San Marcos instead.
From floating the river to eating avocado coconut ice cream at Rhea’s — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in the Mermaid Capital of Texas.
Essential info
Drive time: ~40 minutes
Year city was established: 1851
Est. population: ~71,500
Experience
Float the San Marcos River
Grab your sunscreen and get ready for this beloved local pastime. Head to Lions Club, Don’s Fish Camp, or Texas State Tubes to rent a tube, grab your drink of choice (in a reusable container), and strap in for a few hours on the water. Fun fact: the San Marcos River stays at a cool 72º year-round.
Visit Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park
This unique theme park (which boasts the title of the first commercially opened show cave in Texas) has visitors traipsing through rock formations and gazing at fossils on guided tours. When you emerge, head to the anti-gravity house and take a train ride through the wildlife park.
Take a glass-bottom boat tour
See some of San Marcos’ aquatic beauty in a 30 or 45-minute guided boat ride that allows you to see the river from the top down. The tours have been running in San Marcos since 1945 and run daily.
Eat
The Root Cellar Cafe
Have a seat in this underground dining room, which will soon celebrate 20 years in business. The Root Cellar Cafe offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and makes its own baked goods), serving upscale American fare. Psst — don’t miss the attached UpRoot speakeasy.
Rhea’s Ice Cream
This shop sells the (self-proclaimed) best small-batch ice cream in the world. With unique flavors — including Circus Animal cookie, vegan avocado coconut, Big Red, and goat cheese with raspberry jam — this spot is perfect to visit after a long day in the sun.
Grins Restaurant
Frequented by students and locals alike since 1975, Grins is famous for its legendary happy hour specials (like $1 margaritas) and Tex-Mex fare. Pro tip: sit outside because Grins is located atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of Texas State’s campus.
Stay
Crystal River Inn
Stay a hop, skip, and a jump from Downtown San Marcos at this eight-room, 1880s Victorian estate and event venue.
Mermaid Retreat
An “enchanting” stay, the Mermaid Retreat provides space for six, a covered patio, and a fire pit for chilly nights.
Palmer’s Guest House
This Vrbo in the center of town has all the amenities, including a private patio and a hot tub for ~$92 per night.
Wait a minute, Austinites. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from Buc-ee’s. Also, bookmark this map so you have no trouble finding all of our recommendations while visiting San Marcos.
Cruise
No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.
- With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
- You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
- Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
- Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
- Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
- Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.
