Glass Bottom Boats

Texas State University-San Marcos operates Aquarena Center, a 90-acre nature preserve, educational center and research facility at the headwaters of the San Marcos River. Since 1946 the glass bottom boat tours at Aquarena Center have given people an “in-depth” look at the wildlife and beauty of the river. As the boats glide across the crystal waters of Spring Lake, riders can view native species of fish, birds, plants and reptiles as well as many of the 1,000 springs that feed the river.

Aquarena Center also features a large aquarium, an archaeology exhibit featuring artifacts excavated at the site, a floating boardwalk over wetland habitat, and the Texas Rivers Center exhibit hall. The center is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily in the winter, but check the schedule for holiday closures in advance.