4 New Outdoor Places in San Marcos to Visit (Safely)

By Ally Bolender
Assistant Web Content Manager

Many San Marcos businesses closed for the safety of its residents when the Coronavirus pandemic became apparent in the city; however, some outdoor recreations, businesses and events recently came back under CDC guidelines in an outdoor environment only.

If you have been driving around town recently, you’ve probably noticed a few new places popped up as well.

Here are five outdoor places to (safely) visit in San Marcos. Whether they’re opening up after being closed for months or brand new local businesses, these places will make a wonderful weekend activity while staying safe.

1. Davenport

Originating from the Montrose area in Houston, the Davenport Lounge is a new bar that recently opened up in the previous location of the Buzzmill. The Davenport is a nicer bar that San Marcos has welcomed, with long wooden outdoor seating, neon lighting, any martini you could think of and an impressive food menu.

The Davenport patio is a wonderful place to grab a sophisticated cocktail with pretty lighting right off the square. I recommend trying the strawberry shortcake cocktail for a delicious and creamy drink! If you’re looking for something to hold on to that summer feeling, try out the cucumber martini.

2. Putt-Pub

The Putt-Pub is an outdoor mini-golf business located south of the Square on LBJ Drive. It’s not open yet, but you may catch the owners hanging up a giant disco ball or setting up Central Texas themed putt-putt courses.

Putt-Pub will feature a full bar, food trucks, games, and of course, putt-putt. I certainly can’t wait to try out this new attraction when it’s safe to open. You can also expect mini-golf championships!

3. River

For the first time, The City of San Marcos announced that the rivers and parks will be opening on September 16. If you don’t have tubes, you can probably expect tubing locations to open shortly after.

The river is a great place to socially distance while enjoying the last bit of summer with close friends (or even a relaxing solo float); however, you will need to follow the city COVID-19 mandates which can be found here.

4. Art Squared Festival

The popular outdoor San Marcos art festival began again on September 12, featuring local art products.

To ensure the safety of visitors, Art Squared is requiring all attendees and vendors to wear a mask and all booths will be placed 10 feet apart.

You can find the festival on every second Saturday from March to December from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (talk about the perfect fall date)!

Come safely to support your local artists outdoors at the Art Squared festival. 

I hope this gave you a few more ideas to keep you busy and somewhat (safely) socialized during the pandemic. Just please remember to wear your mask, practice social distancing and don’t take part in something that seems dangerous.

If you’re feeling stressed with school and locked-up in your apartment, these places may help you feel a smidge of normalcy in an, unfortunately, abnormal time. Please stay healthy and safe this semester, Bobcats!

Featured image by Ally Bolender via Canva.