Photo by: @ashwick_

While it’s hard to beat summer in San Marcos, autumn just might give it a run for its money. The temperature drops to a comfortable range, comfort food graces restaurant menus, football gives us something to look forward to weekly and seasonally flavored beverages become autumnal rites of passage.

Outdoor Adventures

Fall in San Marcos means you may need a light jacket in the morning, but you’ll be pretty comfortable in short sleeves during the day, thus making it the perfect time to explore! Whether you plan on getting out on the water in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard or hitting the trails (or both), you’re sure to have a great time.

While San Marcos isn’t a “leaf peeping” destination, taking a leisurely walk along the river or in one of our natural areas can’t be beaten. Also, this is the perfect time to explore the outdoor markets (Art Squared and the Farmer’s Market) that take place on the second Saturday of the month.

Fall Weather in SMTX

San Marcos is HOT in August. In fact, it's the hottest month of the year with temperatures averaging around 96 degrees. September, however, starts to usher in the cooler temps where the average temperature drops to 86 degrees by the end of the month. October begins what we'd consider the comfortable months with average highs ranging from 86 to 77 degrees. And finally, November brings in an average high of 76-67 degrees right before the holiday season kicks off. Also, October is one of the wetter months of the year, so perhaps pack an umbrella or waterproof shoes. We recommend bringing layers to be prepared for whatever the Texas weather decides to throw our way. You may start off the day with a light jacket and end the day with shorts and sandals. 

 

Kick Back with a Cold One

Craft beer just tastes better in the fall – we don’t make the rules. We are lucky to have three local craft breweries that have outdoor spaces and patios for you to enjoy alfresco. Create your own brewery adventure by getting a brew at each or plop yourself down somewhere cozy where there’s live music, good food, or even a fire pit for a more laid-back experience.

Shopping San Marcos

Ah, fall shopping! Really, who doesn’t love buying cozy sweaters, chunky scarves, and pants with stretch in them? Find the season’s latest trends and locally made goods at a boutique here in town to kick off your fall shopping before heading to the outlet center (the second largest in the nation, in case you didn’t know) for some deeply discounted finds. You'll also want to check out some of the great markets taking place around town! 

Football Weekends

San Marcos is home to Texas State University, which means home game weekends are electric around here. Whether you are headed to the home game, watching on a tv in a favorite watering hole or picking up some maroon and gold merch, it’s hard to not feel festive for football.

TXST Football

Fall Events

Some of the coolest San Marcos events of the year take place in the fall, making it the perfect time to plan your San Marcos adventure! Sacred Springs Powwow, Lost River Film Fest, Frights and Sounds Music Festival, Hogtoberfest, Eddie Durham Jazz Fest, and Hangar Dinner Dance are just a few of the fun events you can participate in and enjoy this fall season. 

Comfort Food Season

The cooler weather and cozy clothing make it really easy to indulge in our favorite local comfort foods! While there are way too many delicious dishes to list, we decided to list our staff’s personal favorite cozy cuisines.

Sarah: Chicken tikka masala taco with a side of curry queso from North Street

Rebecca: Burger and fries from Café on the Square

Charlotte: Pad Thai with chicken, spicy set on 4, and extra limes from Shai Yo Thai

Steve: Chancer Plate at Herbert’s Taco Hut

Denise: Bacon-wrapped meatloaf from Palmer’s

Jared: Chicken fried steak at Grins 

San Marcos Spiced Lattes

Not just your average Pumpkin Spice Lattes (PSL), San Marcos’ local coffee shops get really creative with their seasonal offerings. From the Favorite Things About Fall specials at The Coffee Bar to a Butter Beer Latte (for the Harry Potter fans) at Mochas and Javas, you never know what fun and tasty creation you’ll find.