Along with its famous arts scene, iconic river, and mouthwatering local cuisine, San Marcos is a high-energy college town that draws tens of thousands every fall for Texas State University football. The Bobcats’ recent move to the rebuilt Pac-12 means the vibe is more electric than ever, with conference rivals and other visiting teams poised to visit San Marcos, such as Colorado State, Fresno State, and Utah State.

And why not? The city is the perfect weekend HQ. Western state visitors can fly into Austin or San Antonio and drive less than an hour to SMTX, where affordable accommodations, breezy convenience, and vibrant things to do make for a winning weekend.

Views, Brews, & ‘Cues  

With the lovely San Marcos River often in eyeshot, it’s no wonder many restaurants and cafés offer riverfront dining. Grab a table at Ivar’s River Pub and watch paddlers float by while you munch on all-day breakfast or elevated pub grub. At Kerbey Lane Café, dive into casual eats while taking in a stunning view of Texas’ oldest operating dam, Spring Lake Dam.

Of course, you can’t talk about Texas cuisine without bringing up BBQ. And you can’t talk about BBQ without bringing up brisket. And you can’t talk about brisket without bringing up Black’s Barbeque, a slow-smoking Texas favorite. Their brisket is so good, it will have you writing letters to your local congressperson to get a Black’s in your neighborhood. Let’s not forget about the homemade sausage, too. Of course, San Marcos BBQ is another fantastic spot to pick up some local 'que. Their hatch gouda sausage and loaded mashed potatoes will knock your socks off! 

When it comes time to wash it all down, you have your pick of some of the best craft breweries in the state. Middleton Brewing comes with a rooftop patio, Roughhouse Brewing is located inside an old-fashioned barn, Sean Patrick’s Irish Pub will have it feeling always sunny in San Marcos, and the newest brewery addition - Thirsty Planet Brewery in Downtown San Marcos! 

Sips & Sounds

San Marcos is a bona fide music destination, known for hidden honky-tonks and intimate spots that offer a chance to hear real talent without big city lines and exorbitant ticket prices. As a state-designated Music Friendly Community, the city is swimming in venues that draw both familiar performers and emerging singer-songwriters. Don’t miss the legendary Cheatham Street Warehouse, which helped to launch the careers of George Strait and Stevie Ray Vaughan. At Wake the Dead Coffee House, catch energetic performers, along with a caffeine buzz! And make time for the classic dive, Jack’s Roadhouse, where live music mingles with old school pool tables. Here’s your chance to order a long neck and say, “rack ‘em!” 

Get Inspired by Local Arts

In ways large, small, quirky, and colorful, the arts are embedded in everyday life in San Marcos. Snap a selfie in front of many technicolor murals around town. Lose yourself in a gallery. Make your way through the self-guided Mermaid March, a collection of brightly-painted mermaid sculptures that—at seven feet high—are literally larger than life. Combine your visit to the Texas State game with a stroll through its School of Art & Design galleries featuring works by faculty, students, alumni, and visiting artists. The university’s Wittliff Collections holds exhibits on creatives like Larry McMurtry, Shawn Colvin, Selena, and others whose music, books, films, and more draw on the culture of the Southwest.

A Refreshing River, All Year Long

Imagine a crystal clear, spring-fed river winding through the center of town. Oh, and bonus: it always stays at an invigorating 72 degrees. The San Marcos River is exactly that, being one of the largest spring-fed rivers in the entire state of Texas (and that’s a lot of state). Come for the football, but stay for the chance to stand-up paddle, kayak, or swim in Rio Vista Park’s old school swimming hole. Talk about authentic Texas!

When the sun sets, you don’t have to. Not only does the river remain at that mild 72 at night, but new opportunities arise! Paddle SMTX and Get Up and Go Kayaking both offer glow-in-the-dark kayaking experiences in translucent boats. With the light and the transparent boat, it’s surprisingly easy to see into the river. The mesmerizing flora and fauna under the multicolored LEDs make this the grooviest boating experience in town.

Stay in Unique Accommodations

Gameday at Texas State University is a piece of cake when you opt to stay the weekend in SMTX. Rest and recharge in the cozy, boutique Crystal River Inn, or choose a large brand hotel like the Embassy Suites. With pet-friendly options, RV parks, and favorite hotel brands, San Marcos offers a range of options that set fans up for an unforgettable football weekend.