SPRING BREAK STAYCATION: TOP 5 FUN & AFFORDABLE SAN MARCOS TO DO'S

by Natalie Gattuso

SPRING BREAK STAYCATION

 

    We know you are so busy working during the semester that you don’t get a chance to enjoy all that San Marvelous has to offer, but if you are balling on a budget and want to have a staycation here is a list of the top 5 fun and affordable things that you can do in San Marcos over your Spring break!

 

  1. DON’S FISH CAMP

    Welcome to the best float in Texas!! Escape the Texas heat into the refreshing river. Here it’s always spring break!! Enjoy your favorite drink while floating carefree!! They will take care of the driving and the tubes to float. Parking is FREE and they are doing a deal this year - $10 for EVERYTHING!! This is a full day of fun in itself, or you can enjoy camping, fishing, sun tanning, rope swings, bbq’s and more! I personally love just hanging out afterwards. The DJ and food trucks make it feel like a beach party you and your friends can get lit at, but remember to #Keeptheriverclean 

 

  1. San Marcos River

(Sewell Park, photo courtesy Erica Fuchs)

    Other river attractions you can get wet at are visiting the waterfall at Thompson's Island, strolling down 5-mile dam, or laying out for a sun bathe at bikini hill. The opportunities to get immersed in nature are limitless here. And the best part? IT'S ALL FOR FREE!! Bring a picnic, dog, towel, sunscreen, and escape the world somewhere close but so beautiful. 

 

  1. Sunsets at Purgatory

    Ready to break a sweat? Dust off your Nikes and new years resolution workout clothes and go explore nature. Purgatory has a wide variety of trails fit for everyone and beautiful views when you finally find them. This is a great way to enjoy the day and be outside and it is cost efficient. It's free to go and the memories are priceless. Be weary of the time for after that beautiful sunset on the ridge, it gets dark real quick. Stay safe and keep our trails and rivers clean <3

 

  1. Shopping at Outlets

    San Marcos has the largest outlet shopping center in the U.S. and features 240 designers and name brands stores sprawled over 1.2 million square feet of shopping heaven. This is the ultimate one stop shop for everything you haven’t been wanting but just realized you needed cause it's too affordable! Here you can treat yourself without actually blowing the bank. Hold all your discount bags proudly. Finally snag those designer shoes you’ve been eyeing at markdowns you and your wallet can’t say no to. Pick out an outfit you can take over the night in for your epic spring break staycation.  

 

  1. THE SQUARE

(The Square, photo courtesy Andy Heatwole)

    One of the many treasures in San Marcos is its collection of locally owned shops, restaurants, bistros and nightspots that fuel the liveliness of this happening little town. No prices can compete with the dollar dos deal on Tuesdays as well as the popular weekly $3 dollar you call its. You can keep it chill with the fun indoor outdoor vibes of the bars that makes you want to grab a beer and snack with the friends. It’s an easy walk to make the full bar crawl if you want to hit them all. The streets are filled with live music in the air as well as the smell of pizza. Every place has something unique to offer but our favorite gathering spots (watering spots away from the watering hole) are Louie’s for their oysters and beer, or hit Daiquiri Factory for New Orleans fat Tuesday vibes and add your underwear to the wall.

 

    So when planning your spring break this year - just say WHY NOT. Why not have the ULTIMATE staycation right in your own backyard? You finally have time to explore the beauty of San Marcos. From river floating and hiking trails to the best shopping and restaurants to fill not only your stomachs, but your souls.

 

…. And you wonder why we call it #SANMARVELOUS

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