Things to do in San Marcos

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

San Marcos
San Marcos
San Marcos
San Marcos
San Marcos

San Marcos Attractions

Smaller cities have an atmosphere you won't find in their larger counterparts. Check out all the fun and exciting things to do in San Marcos before you head away so you can squeeze the most out of your stay. You'll soon see that bigger isn't necessarily better!

If you're ready to discover the best of San Marcos, sign up for one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have an expert show you the most popular landmarks. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {28 fun activities in San Marcos fun activities in San Marcos} are also worth checking out.

Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.

Most popular activities in San Marcos

Tours & day trips

See all 20 activities
Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

Free cancellation available
Price is $40 per adult
Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike RentalOpens in new tab

Water activities

See all 8 activities
Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is $120 per adult
Leucadia Beach Surf LessonsOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 3 activities
Solana Beach: E-Bike Tour to Torrey Pines or North Coast

Solana Beach: E-Bike Tour to Torrey Pines or North Coast

Activity duration is 2 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is $90 per adult*
Solana Beach: E-Bike Tour to Torrey Pines or North CoastOpens in new tab

Attractions

See all 3 activities
LEGOLAND® California Resort

LEGOLAND® California Resort

Activity duration is 1 day
8.2 out of 10 with 500 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $79 per adult
LEGOLAND® California ResortOpens in new tab

What to do in San Marcos

Free Things to Do in San Marcos

Some say the best things in life are free. Check out the following around San Marcos:

Double Peak Park - Make this place among your first stops if you're looking for fun during your stay.

Double Peak Park - Recharge your body, mind and soul by spending some time with Mother Nature.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in San Marcos? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in San Marcos

Saw so many dolphins. They followed us almost the entire time. Great boat ride! #LikeALocal

California State University San Marcos

Walk around the campus at California State University San Marcos during your visit to San Marcos. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the surfing spots.

California State University San Marcos
There are so many different hiking trails to choose from in this area. You can’t get bored with this hike. And there’s a lake down below!! #LikeALocal

Double Peak Park

After visiting Double Peak Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Marcos. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its lively breweries.

Double Peak Park

Twin Oaks Golf Club

Play a round of golf in San Marcos at Twin Oaks Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.

Twin Oaks Golf Club

Palomar College

Explore the campus of Palomar College as part of your travels around San Marcos. Discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area, or enjoy its surfing spots.

Palomar College

Lake San Marcos Executive Course

Play a round of golf at Lake San Marcos Executive Course and enjoy other activities in San Marcos such as surfing. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

Lake San Marcos Executive Course

St. Mark Golf Club

Play a round of golf in Lake San Marcos at St. Mark Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively breweries.

St. Mark Golf Club

San Elijo Hills Dog Park

After visiting San Elijo Hills Dog Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Marcos. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

San Elijo Hills Dog Park

Hollandia Dog Park

After visiting Hollandia Dog Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Marcos. Stroll along the lakeside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Hollandia Dog Park

Regal Edwards San Marcos

You can take time to visit Regal Edwards San Marcos during your travels to San Marcos. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the shops in this relaxing area.

Regal Edwards San Marcos

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in San Marcos

Default Image

San Elijo Hills

While San Elijo Hills might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park and Stone Brewing.

San Elijo Hills
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from San Marcos

Vista

Vista

San Diego Botanic Garden featuring a pond and a park

Encinitas

Escondido

Escondido

Legoland California which includes rides

Carlsbad

Frequently asked questions

Is San Marcos worth visiting?
San Marcos has a unique mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or traditional food, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in San Marcos?
When you've checked off leading attractions like LEGOLAND® California and SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium, spend some time experiencing San Marcos's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Marcos?
The top tourist attraction in San Marcos is LEGOLAND® California, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in San Marcos?
You can easily tour leading sights like Stone Brewing, The Wave Waterpark and Moonlight Ampitheatre with a three-day escape to San Marcos. On average, most travelers plan three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stick around longer and check out San Diego County.
Is San Marcos a walkable city?
That all depends on what you'd like to do and see in San Marcos. Several must-visit attractions, like Twin Oaks Golf Club, are accessible on foot. If you feel like a wander around one of San Marcos's vibrant neighborhoods, Country Club is 3 miles away from the city center.
What are some activities to do in San Marcos with kids?
If you are after sights and activities for all of your group, here are some terrific ideas for what to do in San Marcos with kids.

What to do in San Marcos for adults?
Stone Brewing and Rancho Guajome Adobe are just two of the things to do in San Marcos. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in San Marcos?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in San Marcos. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.