A calm lake reflecting the sky and surrounding trees.

Cheap Hotels in San Marcos

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Cheap Hotels in San Marcos

A hotel named La Quinta with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a modern building facade.

A lobby with a mural of a street scene, a vending machine, and two blue reception desks.

A modern reception area with a long counter, a coffee machine, and a beverage dispenser.

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a window with curtains.

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Mall

San Marcos

$91

$105 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 28 - Sep 29

A buffet setup with various food items and utensils.

A hotel with a prominent entrance, a large American flag, and a 'Welcome' sign.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a TV, and a view of the outdoors.

A hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a garden with pink flowers.

2. Hampton Inn & Suites San Marcos

San Marcos

$85

$98 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 5 - Oct 6

A hotel entrance with a green sign, a parking lot, and landscaping.

A gym with cardio machines, weight benches, and dumbbells.

A hotel room with a desk, chair, television, two beds, a sofa, and a lamp.

A hotel room with a large bed, a television, a desk, and a window with curtains.

3. Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos

San Marcos

$79

$91 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 27 - Sep 28

A bar area with a long counter, multiple seating options, and a variety of bottles and glasses.

An outdoor patio area with seating arrangements, stone pillars, and a view of the building's exterior.

A spacious hotel lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a view of the outside.

A spacious living area with large windows, a stone wall, and modern furniture.

4. Hilton Garden Inn San Marcos

San Marcos

$106

$122 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A modern building with a sign reading "LIVAWAY SUITES" and a covered entrance area.

A hotel room with two beds, a kitchenette, and a separate bathroom.

A modern living room with a brown leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, a white armchair, and a large abstract painting on the wall. There is a grey storage unit with lockers and a floor lamp.

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a built-in dishwasher, and a stainless steel sink.

5. LivAway Suites Austin San Marcos

San Marcos

$79

$91 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 16 - Sep 17

A modern hotel lobby with a bar area, seating arrangements, and a large TV screen.

A sign for Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott with a clear view of the hotel entrance and parking area.

A reception area with a modern design, including a reception desk, a refrigerator stocked with beverages, and a wall with a tree branch pattern.

A modern living room with a stone wall, a fireplace, a sofa, a round coffee table, and a view through large windows with sheer curtains.

6. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Austin San Marcos

San Marcos

$98

$113 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 27 - Sep 28

A multi-level hotel lobby with a central atrium, multiple dining areas, and a pool.

A large hotel with multiple floors, a prominent 'E' on the building, and a well-lit entrance.

A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a stone building with multiple windows, and a clear blue sky.

A spacious hotel lobby with a long corridor, modern chandeliers, and seating areas.

7. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel Conference Center

San Marcos

$130

$151 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 27 - Sep 28

An indoor swimming pool with wooden walls and a balcony overlooking the pool.

A hotel reception area with a reception desk, a clock, and a ceiling fan.

A gym with exercise equipment, a treadmill, and a wall-mounted TV.

A breakfast counter with cereal dispensers, coffee machines, and a sign for the breakfast corner.

8. Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Malls

San Marcos

$65

$75 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 28 - Sep 29

A circular stone fire pit with seating around it, set in a courtyard with a fence and trees.

A hotel lobby with a large orange sofa, a grey armchair, a coffee table, and a reception desk.

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, and a small table.

A Courtyard by Marriott hotel with a covered entrance, parking spaces, and a landscaped area.

9. Courtyard San Marcos

San Marcos

$98

$113 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 22 - Sep 23

A hotel room with a large bed, a smaller sofa, a bedside table with a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.

A modern hotel entrance with a covered walkway, numbered 1053, and a red "No Parking" sign.

An indoor swimming pool with lounge chairs and tables, marked depth lines, and an exit sign.

A modern kitchen with a coffee station, bowls of fruits, and a coffee machine.

10. Comfort Inn & Suites San Marcos near Outlet Mall

San Marcos

$66

$76 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 5 - Oct 6

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, a window with curtains, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a covered area, surrounded by a building with a red and white facade.

A reception desk with a digital kiosk, a sign offering free Wi-Fi, and a pet policy notice.

A Red Roof Inn with a large neon sign, a parking lot, and a building with multiple windows.

11. Red Roof Inn San Marcos

Rio Vista

$61

$70 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

A Holiday Inn Express & Suites building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance.

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, multiple computer stations, and orange chairs.

A lobby with a sofa, armchairs, a reception desk, and a map on the wall.

A hotel room with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a TV on a desk.

12. Holiday Inn Express and Suites San Marcos South by IHG

San Marcos

$95

$114 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 13 - Oct 14

A modern kitchen with a long wooden table, bar stools, a built-in TV, and a brick accent wall.

A grocery store interior with refrigerated beverage dispensers, snack shelves, and a sign reading "The Market".

A hotel room with a sofa, a desk, a television, and a dining table.

A gym with treadmills, elliptical machines, a bench, and a red exercise ball.

13. Residence Inn by Marriott San Marcos

San Marcos

$121

$139 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 30 - Oct 1

A spacious lobby with a brown sofa, blue armchair, and a round coffee table with a decorative bowl.

A hotel reception area with a counter, self-service coffee machines, a bowl of fruit, and a sign indicating the swimming pool is closed.

A hotel room with two beds, a television, and a desk.

A well-lit gas station with multiple cars parked, a clear sky, and a building with a covered area.

14. Best Western San Marcos

Rio Vista

$71

$82 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 17 - Sep 18

A spacious lobby with marble flooring, large columns, and a red patterned carpet.

A hotel entrance with a brick facade, numbered 1611, and a covered entrance area.

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a chair, a framed picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.

A lobby with patterned chairs, a round table, and a large window.

15. Quality Inn University near Downtown

San Marcos

$60

$68 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 5 - Oct 6

A restaurant with multiple tables and chairs, a bar area with shelves of bottles, and hanging light fixtures.

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a computer, a chair, and a window with curtains.

A lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a large chandelier.

A bartender pouring a drink into a glass.

16. Holiday Inn San Marcos-Convention CTR Area by IHG

San Marcos

$102

$123 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 13 - Oct 14

A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a computer, a television, and a microwave.

A kitchen with orange cabinets, a coffee machine, and a clock on the wall.

A lobby with a leather sofa, a glass coffee table, a wooden reception desk, and a staircase.

A spacious lobby with a dining area, a leather sofa, and a glass coffee table.

17. Howard Johnson by Wyndham San Marcos

San Marcos

$60

$69 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 24 - Sep 25

A reception area with a marble counter, a security camera, and various decorative items.

A kitchen with a window, a refrigerator, a sink, a stove, and a potted plant.

A kitchen with a built-in microwave, a window with a view of the outside, a small refrigerator, and a potted plant on the counter.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a small table.

18. Executive Inn & Suites San Marcos, TX

San Marcos

$54

$64 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 16 - Sep 17

A hotel with a swimming pool, a covered area, and a sign indicating pool rules.

A hotel with a central entrance, multiple parking spaces, and a view of the surrounding area at dusk.

A modern lounge area with leather sofas, a round wooden table, and grey armchairs.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, a microwave, a refrigerator, and a kitchen area.

19. Candlewood Suites San Marcos by IHG

San Marcos

$99

$119 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 17 - Sep 18

A hotel with a modern facade, a prominent entrance with a curved roof, and a parking lot with marked spaces.

A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a desk, and a lamp.

A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a desk, a lamp, and framed pictures on the wall.

A lobby with a blue sofa set, two armchairs, a small ottoman, and two wall-mounted lamps.

20. Comfort Suites Near Texas State University

San Marcos

$70

$81 total

includes taxes & fees

Sep 20 - Sep 21

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Top neighborhoods in San Marcos

An aerial view of a city with various buildings, roads, and green spaces.

A river flowing over rocks with a waterfall, surrounded by trees and a park area.

A statue of a mounted figure, a building labeled "Owen's Pub," and a cactus plant.

A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and a large tree trunk on the left.

A river with a waterfall, rocky terrain, and a building in the background.

Downtown San Marcos

Downtown San Marcos blends collegiate energy with small-town Texas charm around its limestone courthouse and historic square. Students and locals mingle at live music venues, quirky shops, and riverside hangouts. The crystal-clear San Marcos River flows right through town, offering refreshing 72°F swimming holes perfect for beating the Texas heat. Texas State University's campus adds youthful buzz and cultural attractions like the Wittliff Collections. Food options range from $5 tacos to craft breweries, with most spots catering to student budgets. Accommodations include budget motels and charming B&Bs, though prices jump during graduation weekends. The walkable downtown core makes getting around easy, and the university's free shuttles connect major areas for visitors without cars.

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A person standing by a river at sunset with a backpack.

Rio Vista

Rio Vista combines peaceful residential streets with gorgeous natural spaces centered around the San Marcos River. Parks like Ramon Lucio offer perfect spots for morning strolls or afternoon picnics. This authentic Texas neighborhood gives you a break from tourist crowds while keeping you close enough to explore San Marcos' highlights, including the premium outlets just a short drive away. Most visitors stay in vacation rentals or cozy bed & breakfasts scattered throughout the neighborhood's tree-lined streets. You'll need a car to get around since public transit is limited, but the trade-off is plenty of peace and quiet. The river provides excellent opportunities for swimming, paddling, and cooling off on hot Texas days.

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Dunbar

Dunbar neighborhood offers a glimpse into San Marcos' African American heritage through quiet, tree-lined streets and significant cultural landmarks. The Calaboose African American History Museum stands as the centerpiece for travelers seeking to understand local Black history. Community events occasionally bring this residential haven to life with celebrations that showcase its deep-rooted traditions. Getting around requires a car or ride-share service, as public transit options are limited. While dining and shopping opportunities are scarce within the neighborhood itself, downtown San Marcos is just a short drive away. Most visitors explore Dunbar's historic character during daytime hours before returning to accommodations elsewhere in the city.

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An aerial view of a campus with multiple buildings, roads, and surrounding greenery.

Heritage

Heritage neighborhood offers a peaceful residential retreat away from San Marcos' downtown bustle. Families can enjoy the nearby Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park for unique underground exploration. The Witliff Collections and Purgatory Creek Natural Area provide cultural and outdoor experiences just a short drive from these quiet, tree-lined streets. Vacation rentals and private homes dominate accommodation options, offering full kitchens and multiple bedrooms at budget-friendly rates. A car is essential as public transit is limited, but you'll find ample parking and easy access to downtown attractions, Texas State University, and San Marcos River adventures.

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Millview East

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Top landmarks in San Marcos

A cityscape at dusk with illuminated buildings, a prominent shopping center, and a distant tower.

San Marcos Premium Outlets

9.0/10 (2,184 reviews)

If you like shopping, take time out to go to San Marcos Premium Outlets when in San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?

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A calm river surrounded by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.

Rio Vista Park

8.4/10 (401 reviews)

Rio Vista Park is worth a visit, located 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?

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A cave with stalactites and stalagmites, a metal staircase, and a blue-lit area.

Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park

8.2/10 (346 reviews)

If thrills are what you're after, head to Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park, located 1 mi (1.7 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? If you have fun at Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park, you'll love Meadows Center for Water and the Environment and San Marcos Discovery Center, both located nearby.

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Texas State University

9.0/10 (1,220 reviews)

If you'd like to get a taste of San Marcos student life, check out Texas State University, located 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?

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Bobcat Stadium

8.6/10 (327 reviews)

You can catch an event at Bobcat Stadium, located 1 mi (1.6 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? If you think Bobcat Stadium is cool, you also might like Strahan Coliseum and Bobcat Ballpark, both located nearby.

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Strahan Coliseum

8.2/10 (203 reviews)

You can catch an event at Strahan Coliseum, located 0.7 mi (1 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? If you think Strahan Coliseum is cool, you also might like Bobcat Stadium and Bobcat Ballpark, both located nearby.

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John J. Stokes Sr. San Marcos River Park

7.6/10 (68 reviews)

John J. Stokes Sr. San Marcos River Park is worth a visit, located 1.2 mi (1.9 km) from central San Marcos. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here?

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Aquarena Springs Museum

7.8/10 (17 reviews)

If museums are on your list of things to see in San Marcos, then you might want to head to Aquarena Springs Museum. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? If you want to see more of the museums in San Marcos, Calaboose African American History Museum isn't far either.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any cheap motels in San Marcos?

If you're eager to find a budget-friendly place to stay in San Marcos, consider booking a motel. Take a look at Motel 6 San Marcos, TX where you'll find free WiFi and free parking. Or, think about Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Marcos Outlet Malls or La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Marcos for a comfy, convenient base without a big price tag.

What are the best cheap things to do in San Marcos?

Sightseeing doesn't mean you have to blow the budget. For some affordable things to do in San Marcos, try a stroll along San Marcos River or plan a visit to attractions like Rio Vista Park. Be certain to include a visit to Meadows Center for Water and the Environment.