Understand

San Marcos is known for being a vibrant college town, with a large portion of its population either attending or supporting Texas State University-San Marcos. The town's bars, restaurants, and attractions are primarily designed to cater to the college crowd. In addition to the lively college scene, there is also a strong conservationist mindset in San Marcos. The local rivers and their role in supporting endangered species are highly valued. In fact, several species can only be found in the headwaters of the San Marcos river.

Get in

San Marcos is a hidden gem located between Austin and San Antonio, perfect for a memorable visit. If you're coming from Austin, take Interstate 35 South for approximately 23 miles. You can easily access the town by taking exits 206-204. On the other hand, if you're coming from San Antonio, head North on Interstate 35 for around 46 miles. Take exits 204 through 206 to reach your destination. Keep an eye out for Texas State University and the vibrant town square on the West side of the freeway. While in San Marcos, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy. The city is famous for its large outlet malls, located just 5 miles south of town in the direction of San Antonio. These malls are impossible to miss from I-35, so be sure to make a pit stop and shop till you drop. If you're traveling from Houston, take IH-10 West and make your way to Luling. From there, turn right onto SH-80 and continue heading north. Just before you reach San Marcos, be cautious of any speed traps in Martindale. Now that you know how to reach San Marcos from different cities, get ready to explore this charming town and all it has to offer!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing