Texas Recycling Summit

Welcome to San Marcos!

We are so excited that you chose San Marcos as your home for the 25th Annual Texas Recycling Summit! While you're here learning and networking we would love to show you what we love about San Marcos. From our colorful art scene, delicious restaurants, crystal-clear river, gorgeous natural areas, vibrant Downtown, and so much more - you're in for a great SMTXperience.

People paddling in clear kayaks at night with colored lights

Things To Do

San Marcos, Texas is a groove. An experience. Where you can dip a paddle, day or night, in the spring-fed San Marcos River and hike trails in nature preserves, all right in the center of town. Immerse…

Open face sandwiches plated on slate platters

Restaurants

The infusion of cultures and lifestyles in San Marcos brings a surprising range of flavors to the table. Soak up some local art while sipping your perfectly blended cup of joe.

Outdoors & Nature

San Marcos is a natural beauty and the most intriguing feature is her river. The San Marcos River bubbles to life from hundreds of springs right in the center of town. Always a refreshing 72 degrees…

Arts & Culture

No matter where you go, there it is - art, culture and history are entwined in the spirit of San Marcos. Whether sipping a cup of joe at a coffee shop or catching a bite to eat downtown, you'll not…

FUN FACTS ABOUT SAN MARCOS

Did you know San Marcos is the Mermaid Capital of Texas? That may seem a little strange for a city in Central Texas, but the mermaid has a fun history in these parts. Aquarena Springs was an amusement park from the 1950s - 1990s. Visitors could be submerged in Spring Lake in the submarine theater to watch the "Aquamaids" perform underwater. Aquarena Springs may no longer exist, but you can still take Glass-Bottom Boat Tours on Spring Lake and spot all 10 Mermaid March statues around town!

Of course, it's hard to talk about San Marcos without mentioning the San Marcos River. The river runs through the middle of town (after forming at Spring Lake). The water is crystal-clear and stays 72 degrees year-round! This makes it the perfect spot to relax, kayak, dip your feet, or even go for a pretty chilly swim during the more moderate fall weather. Cold plunge, anyone?

Shop big, and we mean BIG, in San Marcos! Home to one of the largest outlet shopping centers in the country, you're going to want to come with plenty of room in your suitcase.

With more than 850 acres of natural parkland, San Marcos is a great place to become one with nature. From leisurely strolls on ADA-accessible trails to more challenging hikes on rugged terrain, San Marcos has trails for outdoor adventurers of all fitness levels. Explore scenic parks that make you feel like you are miles from civilization but are really still in the heart of town.

While you're out exploring Downtown San Marcos make sure you peek in alleyways, behind buildings, and in other unsuspecting areas. From mini murals to murals that take up the full sides of buildings, you never know what colorful surprise you'll find! Check out our art map for a full map of murals, sculptures, and more.