Understand
San Marcos is often considered a college town, with the huge percentage of the population attending or supporting Texas State University-San Marcos. Most bars, restaurants, and attractions are centered around services to a college crowd. There is also a considerable conservationist mindset associated with the local rivers and endangered species. Several species live only in the headwaters of the San Marcos river.
Get in
Access to San Marcos is primarily by car. From Austin, find IH-35 and take it south. About thirty to sixty minutes later, you will see several signs for San Marcos. You can easily remember to take the exit for Texas Highway 80. From San Antonio, find IH-35 and take it north. Again, about an hour later you'll see signs for San Marcos and SH-80. From Houston, take IH-10 west to Luling (exit 632, about two hours), turn right (on to SH-80) and go though Luling. Continue on SH-80 north (the designated highway turns left, just after the railroad tracks). Beware of the speed traps in Martindale, just before San Marcos.
Get around
By Car
Travel in most American cities, especially outside of major metro areas, is primarily by private vehicle. Parking is almost always abundant and free. The average tourist would be well-advised to rent a car from a rental agency if they don't already have their own vehicle. Traffic is usually light. Take caution at some low water bridges. Never drive through a flooded low water crossing. Even a couple of inches of water can wash your car into the river. You then stand a good chance of losing your life.
By Bus
Capital Area Rural Transportation System offers limited bus service. The fare is 50 cents.
By Bicycle
Most attractions are very close to the down town and campus areas. While the hills sometimes get steep and can present an athletic challenge, many destinations are a very short ride away.
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