Glass-Bottom Boats
Exploring Spring Lake (the headwaters of the San Marcos River) via a glass-bottom boat is a classic SMTXperience. The boats have shown visitors the view from above since the early 1950s when the site was Aquarena Springs, a popular amusement park. Spring Lake is considered one of the longest continuously inhabited sites in North America with artifacts having been discovered from every era of human inhabitation for the past 12,000 years. You'll learn all about the history of Spring Lake and the flora and fauna that calls the crystal-clear water home.
Fish, turtles, prawns, and species that can be found only in Spring Lake or the San Marcos River, like the endangered Texas Blind Salamander, can be viewed up-close in Discovery Hall. Discovery Hall also houses some of the historical artifacts discovered in the lake and interactive exhibits about the Edwards Aquifer and the Water Systems of Texas.
The Wetlands Boardwalk is a self-guided trail that winds over the shallows and shows off the abundant plant and animal life that thrive there.
Ticket Prices
30-minute Glass Bottom Boat Tour:
Adults: $12
Seniors(65+): $10
Children 3-12: $8
2 and Under: Free
Annual Passes are available for $26.95
The annual pass covers 12 months of unlimited access to the standard 25-minute glass-bottom boat tour, 15 percent off gift shop purchases as well as 15 percent off extended, wetlands and specialty tours for up to six people. Guests of Annual Pass cardholders will also receive $2 off their boat ticket, for up to six people.
Other Meadows Center Adventures
Did you know you can explore Spring Lake via kayak, snorkel, or SUP? The Meadows Center offers several cool eco-tours that allow you to see the lake in a new way while also learning more about environmental stewardship and what makes this area so biodiverse.
No charge to explore the grounds of The Meadows Center
Parking Lot Fee: $3.00 paid on-site at Kiosk
Park Hours: 10am-4:30pm
Last tour leaves at 3:30pm
To speak to someone during regular park hours call the Ticket Booth at (512) 245-7570.
*Closed December 21 - 25, New Years Eve (December 31), New Years Day (January 1), January 4 - 8.
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