THROWBACK EPISODE - This episode originally aired on PBS on October 17, 2013. Some of the locations may have changed. Check thedaytripper.com for the most up-to-date information.
If you’ve only seen I-35, then you haven’t seen San Marcos. This laid back college town deserves a day (or more) to explore. So jump on in, the water's nice and cold...
The beautiful San Marcos river pops out of the ground at the Meadows Center and travels downstream until it merges with the Guadalupe River. On its journey through town, it is one of the most pristine and stunning rivers in Texas. Take a glass-bottom boat ride and be amazed at all you can see, such as plants, fish and the Texas River Cooter (it’s a turtle).
If you are dying to get into the water, then swimming abounds at Sewell Park (where the college kids hang out) or Rio Vista Park (where everyone hangs out). Rent a tube from the Lion’s Club, hit the water and ride the river to your heart’s content.
If you’re looking for a more extreme adventure, take a whitewater kayak lesson from skilled instructors at the Olympic Outdoor Center. This is some of the most fun you can have in Texas and who knows - you might just be the next medal-winning champ…
For the cultural side of town, you can always walk the square, shop at those famous outlets or head to Texas State University and pretend you’re still in college…. But my favorite thing to do is visit The Wittliff Collection at Texas State on the top floor of the library. This artist’s retreat has amazing works including a phenomenal collection of Lonesome Dove memorability - museum founder Bill Wittliff was the producer and screenwriter for this epic TV series.
Legend has it that this bridge that crosses over the San Marcos River near Sewell Park is protected by a Confederate Soldier who died here during the Civil War. If you float too far past the pickup point at the park, you might just find this ghostly spot.
Once you dry off, you’re sure to be ravenous so head up the street to Herbert’s Taco Hut and grub on some delicious, authentic and secret recipes. The carne guisada plate is amazing and they’ve also been voted “Best Enchiladas” in Hays County multiple years running.
For something completely different every day and completely fresh, head to the Root Cellar Cafe and Brewery just off the square. Everything on this chef-inspired menu is amazing. I always just go with the special, and I’ve never gone wrong!
Thanks for subscribing - bit.ly/3TL61AO
FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES.
www.thedaytripper.com
Instagram : / chettripper
Facebook : / thedaytrippertv
Twitter : / chettripper
Check out our Texas-sized collection of day trip gear at The Daytripper Online Store: store.thedaytripper.com/
And be sure to visit the NEW Daytripper World Headquarters store in Downtown Georgetown, TX! Get directions here: thedaytripper.com/daytripper-...