23 Best & Fun Things to Do in San Marcos, CA

Looking for the best things to do in San Marcos, CA?

Between Austin and San Antonio, the lovely college town of San Marcos boasts the biggest outlet mall in the nation, a picturesque downtown area, and a variety of waterways for kayaking, paddle boarding, and floating.

You might not be aware of some entertaining and fascinating things to do in San Marcos, CA. Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, your trip to this city will be one of the most memorable.

Planning a trip to San Marcos, CA? Here are some of the interesting places to visit. Let’s check them out.

Things to Do in San Marcos, CA

1. Regal Edwards

Don’t leave San Marcos without visiting the Regal Edwards San Marcos, CA, to see your favorite blockbuster film.

There are around 4,200 seats in the Regal Edwards San Marcos theater, which has 18 screens.

The theater is well constructed and furnished with excellent TV and sound equipment so patrons can enjoy their movies.

Concession stalls at Regal Edwards San Marcos provide mouthwatering hot popcorn, cool beverages, and other goodies. The movie theater’s surroundings and facilities are always clean and well-maintained.

Location: 1180 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

2. Sunshine Mountain Vineyards

Sunshine Mountain Vineyard, which offers breathtaking views of the Southern California terrain, is one of the attractions that has made an effort to stay as natural as possible.

A skilled winemaker is on staff at the vineyard to plan and manage the year’s detailed tasks. Starting with the wine’s harvest, de-stemming, crushing, aging in barrels, fermentation, filtering, and bottling.

Ten acres of hillside terrain make up Sunshine Mountain Vineyard, and its exceptional soil features give each product a flavor of the natural California wilderness.

Visitors may choose from a wide variety of wines at the vineyard that have distinctive characteristics they won’t find anywhere else and are perfect for any occasion.

Sunshine Mountain Vineyard provides wine sampling to guests, and their helpful and polite staff is available to assist you at all times.

Location: 2286 Sunshine Mountain Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

3. Stumblefoot Brewery

One of the most excellent spots in San Marcos to hang out and speak with your friends is Stumblefoot Brewery, which offers a welcoming environment for its guests.

According to the brewery’s philosophy, every tale should share a beer since they think each beer has a unique backstory.

Due to ownership changes, Stumblefoot Brewery has undergone significant alterations; nonetheless, the brewery’s management and brewer have remained.

People typically anticipate a drop in goods and services after a change in ownership, but Stumblefoot Brewery is still in the lead in creating high-quality beers.

The crew at Stumblefoot Brewery is kind and very knowledgeable about the beers they offer, plus there is fantastic music for the patrons to enjoy.

Location: 1784 La Costa Meadows Dr #103, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

4. Discovery Lake

Add a trip to Discovery Lake to your list of things to do in San Marcos, CA, for an exceptional experience.

Discovery Lake is a location that accurately captures the beauty of nature and provides several possibilities for you to enjoy being outside.

Numerous hikers, cyclists, and joggers are welcome at the lake; if you’re looking for a location to take a stroll rather than a challenging climb, this lake is a great choice.

A nice playground for kids is available near Discovery Lake, with benches all over the place. This location is for you if you prefer throwing your lines and waiting for the ideal catch. The lake is available for fishing.

Location: 650 Foxhall Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

5. Mediocrity Mead

Drinking Mediocrity Mead is one of the entertaining things to do in San Marcos, CA; the owners are beekeepers who look after more than six million bees.

Award-winning mead, commonly referred to as honey wine and created only from honey and water, is produced by Mediocrity Mead.

Mediocrity Mead is a traditional beverage made by Mediocrity Mead using premium honey and beekeeping practices.

Mediocrity Mead works with local farmers and ranchers in Diego to choose and gather the unique nectar primarily responsible for creating the acclaimed mead.

They have something for everyone, whether you enjoy wine, beer, spirits, or seltzer. Mediocrity Mead has a mead garden outside and comfortable inside seats.

Drinks from mead include sangria punch, blueberry waffle, pomegranate, fire berry, strawberry, hibiscus tamarind, mango ginger, and others.

Location: 1365 Grand Ave Ste 100, San Marcos, CA, United States

6. Rip Current Brewing

Through their unwavering enthusiasm for crafting delicious lagers and ales of the highest caliber, two friends, Paul Sangster and Guy Shobe, founded Rip Current Brewing to fulfill their aspirations.

The proprietors of the brewery first made beer at home before deciding to spread their love of craft beer to the rest of the globe.

Over the years, Rip Current Brewing has expanded and attracted a lot of attention, earning a spot in the “Top 10 brewers in San Diego County.”

Due to its handcrafted beers’ exceptional quality and distinctive flavors, this brewery has received several honors.

The Deep Reef Dry Stout, Barrel-aged Black Lagoon, Choppy Surf Czech-style Pilsner, and more beverages are available from Rip Current Brewing.

They provide guided tours so guests may not only learn about the brewery’s history but also get a close-up look at how the great beverages are created.

Location: 1325 Grand Ave #100, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

7. Double Peak Park

Double Peak Park’s top provides stunning views of Downtown San Diego, Catalina Island, and the San Bernardino Mountains.

Many visitors and residents looking for an adventure to pump adrenaline into their veins frequent the park as a favorite place.

Numerous paths in Double Peak Park are great for biking and hiking. However, only the south trail uses the double peak road and can carry cars.

You may also jog here, but be aware that the east side’s rock and the route are the most difficult because of its high climb and short exploration. You will be enthralled and enchanted by the breathtaking scenery once you reach the pinnacle.

Location: 900 Double Peak Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078-2805, United States

8. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park is ideal for spending the day with family and friends because it is family-friendly.

Sky Slam basketball, open jump, dodgeball, and trampoline programs are just a few of the enjoyable features and entertainment options available at the park.

For children, teenagers, and adults, Sky Zone Trampoline Park also provides camps and special group events of various sizes.

The birthday package includes party invites, a party host, your private party room, materials, and more. This is the ideal location to organize that memorable birthday party without worrying about yourself.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park is open every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Location: 860 Los Vallecitos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

9. Jack’s Pond Park And Nature Center

Visit the Jack’s Pond Park & Nature Center for a close encounter with nature as one of the great things to do in San Marcos.

Jack’s Pond Park & Nature Center is a twenty-three-acre natural preserve that allows visitors to learn about their environment. The park offers a variety of fun activities and events and is accessible to people of all ages.

The environment center at Jack’s Pond Park & Park provides treks, ecological studies, and a variety of other cutting-edge outdoor educational activities.

Adult and kid visitors can take part in the instructional excursions to foster their mental creativity and curiosities, respectively.

Numerous picnic sites at Jack’s Pond Park & Nature Center showcase various bird species, regional animals, the beach, etc.

Location: 986 La Moree Road San Marcos, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

10. Sabaidee Thai Massage And Spa

Sabaidee Thai Massage and Spa is a location that has a calming, peaceful atmosphere.

The sole purpose of Sabaidee Thai Massage & Spa is to relax, rejuvenate, and eliminate tension from your body.

Using the standard traditional Thai massage techniques and talents, the magnificent environment is filled with the sounds, scents, and views of Thailand while providing healing and rejuvenation for its clients.

The most effective hot stone therapy, facial treatments, massage therapy, and other services are provided by Sabaidee Thai Massage & Spa.

Their staff members are state-certified graduates of the massage curriculum developed by the Los Angeles consulate of Thailand and are knowledgeable and professional.

Location: 819 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

11. Antique Village

If you’re looking for a spot in San Marcos to buy unusual stuff, look no further; the Antique Village is the best option.

A 10,000-square-foot area called The Antique Village is jam-packed with stunning items that will catch your eye.

The shop always has something new for the clients since they only deal in everyday items, which they provide in a continuously changing assortment.

The Antique Village has incredible discounts on items, including china, glass, tools, antiques, and more. Rest assured that you could linger longer than expected looking over the exciting goods on show.

Visit the Antique Village to browse for presents for your loved ones and souvenirs for yourself.

Location: 850 Los Vallecitos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

12. Twin Oaks Golf Course

Include a trip to Twin Oaks Golf Course on your list of things to do in San Marcos, CA, for a ton of fun.

Golfers of all skill levels may enjoy the picturesque, slightly difficult-yet-not-difficult Twin Oaks Golf Course.

There is a driving range with 20 mats or grass tees and a weather station on the property to conserve water.

A full-service golf shop with modern golf gear and apparel is available at Twin Oaks Golf Course.

You may also locate the Two Oaks pub, which provides a superb eating experience and tasty meals on a patio and in a relaxed indoor setting.

A banquet room at Twin Oaks Golf Course is available for any occasion and can accommodate parties of up to 225 people.

The Twin Oaks Golf Course is completely furnished, kept in excellent condition, and has all the amenities required to provide visitors with an enjoyable experience.

Location: 1425 N Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

13. Locked Adventures

Playing games at Locked Adventures with friends and family is a great way to spend the day.

Locked Adventures offers multiple escape rooms with varying degrees of difficulty for maximum fun and excitement.

You and your colleagues will be trapped in a room to play this game, which requires a minimum number of players.

You have a limited time to look for hints and ideas, carry out chores and solve puzzles to discover a method to leave the chamber before it’s too late.

The five escape rooms of Locked Adventures, including “the Quest for the Throne,” which is about battling to reclaim the throne your younger brother took from you and the others, have sixty minutes each.

This game fortifies the bonds between friends, coworkers, families, and marriages for improved cooperation.

Location: 844 W San Marcos Blvd Suite 103, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

14. Dos Desperados

Visiting the Dos Desperados Brewery, a family-run brewery, is one of the best things to do in San Marcos, CA.

When founder Steve Munson created his first batch of beer, a Mexican-style lager that quickly became a neighborhood favorite, the Dos Desperados Brewery was born out of a pastime.

When he could no longer meet the overwhelming demand at this backyard BBQ in 2014, he decided to start this brewery.

Some of the most incredible beers are available at the Dos Desperados Brewery, including Double Dealer Brown Ale, Homicidal Maniac Stout, etc.

Monday and Tuesday from 2 to 7 pm, Wednesday to Friday from 2 to 9 pm, Saturday from 12 to 9 pm, and Sunday from 1 to 8 pm are the hours of operation for the brewery.

The Dos Desperados Brewery is a great place to get together with friends or work colleagues and hang out.

Location: 1241 Linda Vista Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

15. St. Mark’s Golf Club

With a golf facility that is 6,400 yards long, St. Mark’s Golf Club offers one of the top courses in the state.

It is an 18-hole, par-17 golf course that is appropriate for players of all skill levels and is rather complex, which adds to the excitement of playing here.

You can take in the splendor of the St. Mark Golf Club by utilizing additional amenities or features, such as the driving range.

The golf club also holds several events, provides clinics for men and women of all ages, provides private lectures by knowledgeable golf instructors, and sponsors various tournaments.

It is worthwhile to stroll around the site; you’ll also get a better perspective of the picturesque slopes of San Marcos.

Location: 1750 San Pablo Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

16. Invasion Laser Tag

One of the exciting things to do in San Marcos, CA, when you want to have a ton of fun with your family and friends is to go to Invasion Laser Tag.

A family-friendly amusement center, Invasion Laser Tag, guarantees visitors a fantastic time thanks to the exciting amenities offered.

This facility has a multi-level, 5,000-square-foot laser tag arena. Laser tag is a high-tech game that is essentially a computerized version of hiding and seeking.

The game’s primary goal is to increase your score while defending your region and yourself from other players.

The laser tag stadium is technologically advanced, with sporadic light flashes, music, and themed decorations.

Numerous arcade games are offered at Invasion Laser Tag, a venue for various events, including birthday parties, family trips, gatherings, business events, and more.

Location: 1290 W San Marcos Blvd #101, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

17. Albertsons

You must include a trip to the Albertsons on your list of things to do in San Marcos, CA. Almost all of your needs, if not all, are met by this shop.

Albertsons makes grocery shopping enjoyable and stress-free with a wide selection of fresh produce.

Their bakery sells delicious baked goods for any occasion, including party platters and exquisite delights like cupcakes and bespoke cakes.

Additionally, Albertsons provides flowers and home furnishings, including a wide selection of fresh bouquets that add lovely blooms to your homes, businesses, and other locations.

Due to a hectic schedule or fatigue, you don’t have to worry about going to the shop to pick up your things personally because Albertsons offers delivery and drive-up.

Location:1929 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

18. Bowlero Bowling Alley

How does playing bowling at one of San Marcos’ top bowling alleys sound? The ideal bowling alley is Bowlero Bowling Alley.

You may showcase your bowling prowess at Bowlero Bowling Alley, owned by the Bowlero Corporation.

For other entertainment, there are 40 modern bowling lanes, many billiard tables, and an arcade.

Local competitions are held at Bowlero Bowling Alley and are accessible to anybody who thinks they have what it takes to get a strike.

You may choose from various items on the lane-side menu at Bowlero Bowling Alley, such as pizza, sandwiches, spring rolls, lamb chops, mozzarella sticks, and more.

Location: 945 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

19. Levante Jewelers

Shopping for lovely, genuine jewelry at Levante Jewelers in San Marcos, CA, is a stress-free experience.

The owner of this retail jewelry company, a goldsmith with more than 40 years of expertise, offers various jewelry services.

Levante Jewelers provides a range of services, including watch repairs, polishing rings, soldering chains, resizing rings, laser welding, pleasing jewelry quality restorations, and returning vintage jewelry to its original state.

Levante Jewelers can convert your yellow gold jewelry into white gold with excellent quality, providing services like redesigning, stone placement, casting, and jewelry customization.

Location:1921 W San Marcos Blvd UNIT 130, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

20. California State University

Visit California State University if you want to learn more about the city of San Marcos. It should be on your list of things to do in San Marcos, CA.

A 300-acre public institution founded in 1989, California State University substantially impacts the advancement of the University of California system.

Twelve thousand students enroll at the public university each year to pursue more than sixty bachelor’s degree programs.

You may participate in some activities because California State University frequently conducts art exhibitions, theatrical productions, sports tournaments, and many more.

Location: 333 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92096, United States

21. Fish House Vera Cruz

The best seafood restaurant in San Marcos, Fish House Vera Cruz, is the place to go if you love seafood.

Since its opening in 1979, the reputable restaurant Fish House Vera Cruz has been around for over three decades.

This restaurant’s primary purpose was to offer the largest selection of fresh fish in the nation, and it has succeeded in this throughout the years.

Foods including Smoked Albacore, Smoked Salmon, Little Neck Clam Steamers, Steamed Mussels, Oysters On The Half, Snapper Ceviche, shrimp tacos, Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad, Pacific Rockfish, Atlantic Cod, crab cakes, and more are available at Fish House Vera Cruz.

The team is courteous and professional when serving clients and fostering a cozy atmosphere.

Location: 360 Via Vera Cruz, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

22. Buena Creek Gardens

Over 5,000 decorative flowers, trees, and plants may be found in the San Marcos landmark Buena Creek Gardens, which has been around for more than 30 years.

Visit if you’re interested in collecting plants and flowers, as this four-acre garden is a favorite spot for folks who enjoy cultivating and gathering plants.

Before being completely turned into a lovely garden, Buena Creek Gardens was once a farm and nursery for iris flowers.

The garden produces and grows the widest variety of exotic and familiar plants and flowers in Southern California, making it a significant source for the retail sale of unusual species.

Visitors may take guided tours of Buena Creek Gardens, and staff members are on hand to answer any queries. Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ( closed on Monday)

Add these activities to your list of things to do in San Marcos, CA.

Location: 418 Buena Creek Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069, United States

23. Mama Kat’s Restaurant

Add a trip to Mama Kat’s Restaurant to your list of things to do in San Marcos, CA, for an unforgettable dining experience.

A family-run business that opened in 2005, Mama Kat’s Restaurant is highly recognized around the city for its mouthwatering food.

Additionally, a pie shop offers a variety of pies, including strawberry-rhubarb, apple, whiskey, and other types.

Chubby chicken burgers, cold turkey sandwiches, buttermilk pancakes, chicken fried steak, cinnamon buns, chicken strip baskets, and more are available on Mama Kat’s Restaurant’s extensive food menu.

Additionally, they provide cold beverages such as dirty chai, strawberry lemonade, kombucha on tap, vanilla, sweet cream cold brew, and others.

Local artisans and sellers showcase and sell exquisite goods in Mama Kat’s Restaurant’s charming shop and succulent garden.

Location: 950 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92078, United States

Conclusion

All seasons are great for traveling to San Marcos, CA. The off-season offers a wealth of chances for leisure, outdoor pursuits, artisanal eating, and more.

Only a handful of the benefits of visiting San Marcos, CA, during the off-season are mentioned in the list above. So you could explore further, as this city is filled with lots of goodness.

Use this page as a helpful guide as you discover some of the fascinating attractions in the city.