San Marcos Like A Local

It's Not a San Marcos Summer Without Downtown

Some cities have a downtown, but in San Marcos, Texas, Downtown is the heart of it all! Whether the plan is an early morning hike, a lazy afternoon flipping through vinyls, or a nighttime glowing kayak on the river, every great San Marcos adventure has one thing in common: it starts or ends in…

Read More

San Marcos Makes: Douglas-Smith Soap

There are some experiences that sneak up on you - the ones that sound fun on paper but turn out to be genuinely magical. The Visit San Marcos and Downtown San Marcos team recently had one of those moments, and let us tell you, it smelled absolutely divine! The team headed to Douglas-Smith Soaps for…

Read More

Celebrate Mother's Day in San Marcos, TX

Celebrate Mom in San Marcos, TX with, well, whatever you think she'd like to do! Maybe she wants to spend some time in the great outdoors with her family. Or maybe she'd prefer a quiet afternoon of pampering and spa treatments... Perhaps she'd like to end her day at a local nightlife hot spot or…

Read More

Best Brunch Spots In San Marcos, Texas

A leisurely brunch is a spectacular way to start, or end, your SMTXperience. Sweet or savory, caffeinated or boozy, San Marcos has several excellent brunch spots for you to try for yourself. People watch while you enjoy a mimosa or two, dine with a view of the San Marcos River, enjoy Downtown San…

Read More

3 Great Reasons to Visit Downtown San Marcos This Summer

Welcome to Downtown San Marcos, where every day feels like a weekend getaway! Discover the vibrant energy that fills the streets, whether you're seeking relaxed leisure or thrilling live entertainment. Prepare to be captivated by mind-blowing music performances, browse inspiring art markets, and…

Read More

Valentine's Day in San Marcos, TX

It’s February, the month of love! Whether you’re looking to celebrate with a traditional date night or a local adventure, we have some great ideas for your perfect Valentine's Day. The Traditional Date Night Ah, the classic date night dinner and drinks. You really can’t go wrong with treating…

Read More

A Presidential Guide to San Marcos, TX

A fun fact about San Marcos is that at one point it was home to a future US President! Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President of the United States, was a student at Texas State University back when it was Southwest Texas State Teachers College and became a San Marcan. From a museum in his name to his old…

Read More

Legend Has It...

From tall tales to totally true and everything in between, San Marcos is full of interesting, quirky and downright thrilling stories. Bank robberies, brave citizens, old rivalries and more than our share of mischief – we’ve rounded up a couple of local legends to share with you. Click here to watch…

Read More

MLK Day in San Marcos, Texas

Whether you observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day on your own or via a community-wide celebration, with art or a time of reflection, we have some ideas for how you can honor and recognize the holiday. MLK Day Celebrations MLK Kid's Event January 17 | 10:30am Join the Dunbar Heritage Association for a…

Read More

Celebrate The New Year In San Marcos

2026 is calling, and San Marcos is ready to celebrate! Enjoy delicious deals at local restaurants, or simply relax and dine at some of the best spots in town to welcome the new year! NYE Bash Patio Dolcetto Celebrate the coming of 2026 with two complimentary champagne toasts (one to kick things off…

Read More