Location, location, location – it’s the top rule of real estate. When deciding what makes the best place to call home, it’s important to look beyond the neighborhood and dive into the city itself. Known as “Hill Country” because of the tall rugged hills of limestone, San Marcos, Texas offers a variety of outdoor activities, great local dining options, and is full of history, arts and culture.

Nature and Outdoors

For the outdoor enthusiast, there is no shortage of things to do in San Marcos. The San Marcos River is the perfect place for those drawn to the water. From kayaking to fishing, paddle boarding to canoe racing there is plenty to choose from whether you want adventure or relaxation. At a perfect 72° all year round, the San Marcos River is always an option for something to do. Don’t want to get in the water? You can experience the area’s natural beauty in a glass-bottom boat tour at The Meadows Center – by far the coolest way to learn about the San Marcos River and all its underwater species.

For the hiking enthusiast, there is no shortage of trails. Some are simple, some are challenging, but all feature incredible views and a chance to experience something new. If you’re looking for an easy hike or scenic picnic spot close to town, the Purgatory Creek Natural Area is perfect. Featuring 570 acres of meadows, wetlands, and canyon bluffs, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see wildlife including white-tailed deer. For a little more challenge, try the Spring Lake Natural Area where there are almost seven miles of trails for you to choose from. Due to the peaceful setting and being a relatively unknown gem, the area gives the impression that it is worlds away from civilization.

Food and Wine

If you consider yourself to be more of a foodie, don’t worry, there’s a vibrant dining scene that offers a wide variety of delicious food and wine to enjoy. From home-cooked treats and comfort food, to international cuisine, you’ll find just what your belly is looking for. Located on a 50-acre ranch, family-owned brewery Roughhouse Brewing serves refreshing farmhouse brews that complement the Texas backdrop – dry, crisp, and refreshing. More of a wine enthusiast? Discover the Texas Hill Country Wineries. With over 50 unique and visually stunning wineries scattered throughout the Hill Country, there’s someplace new to explore around every bend.

Let’s not forget about barbecue! San Marcos is now home to the newest location of the famous Black’s Barbecue. Ranked as one of the Top 50 Best BBQ Place to Taste in Texas, family-owned for over 80 years, and some of the best BBQ sauce around, Black’s Barbecue is certainly a “must try.” If you’re looking for even more options, San Marco is less than 15 minutes and a right turn to Lockhart, Texas – BBQ capital of Texas!

History, Arts, and Culture

There is plenty of history, arts, and culture to learn about and explore. Discover the Commemorative Air Force Exhibit which is housed in a World War II-era hangar and showcases historic military aircraft. Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson Museum and see how LBJ’s experiences as a college student in San Marcos and school teacher impacted his landmark legislation. Enjoy live theater at the Wimberley Players or watch a glass-blowing demonstration at Wimberley Glass Works. With plenty of historic museums, cultural centers, dancehalls, and more, there is no shortage of things to do in San Marcos.

San Marcos has been listed as one of “Forbe’s Best Places to Retire” (four years in a row!) as well as one of the “Best Places to Raise your Kids” by Business Week. With so much to explore, see, taste, and do, it’s easy to see why San Marcos, Texas is one of the best places to call home. Live life on your own terms in one of Brookfield Residential’s new neighborhoods at Kissing Tree in San Marcos.