Visiting Texas State University: A Complete Guide

Texas State University, located in the heart of San Marcos, is one of the largest universities in Texas with over 38,000 students. Whether you’re visiting for a campus tour, attending a sporting event, or celebrating a graduation, Wingate By Wyndham San Marcos is your perfect home base - just 10 minutes from campus!

Campus Tours & Admissions

Prospective Student Visits

Campus Tours:

Duration: 90 minutes
Availability: Monday-Friday and select Saturdays
Registration: Book online in advance
What’s Included: Academic buildings, residence halls, student center, recreation facilities

Bobcat Day:

Large-scale open house events
Multiple times per year
Includes campus tours, information sessions, and student panels
Great for high school juniors and seniors

Virtual Tours

Can’t make it to campus? Texas State offers:

360-degree virtual campus tours
Live virtual information sessions
Department-specific virtual meetings

Sporting Events

Football at Bobcat Stadium

Season: August - November Capacity: 30,000+ Parking: Multiple lots available (arrive early!) Tailgating: Popular tradition before games

Game Day Tips:

Wear maroon and gold to show your Bobcat spirit
Arrive 2-3 hours early for parking and tailgating
Check the weather - games happen rain or shine

Other Sports

Basketball: Strahan Arena
Baseball: Bobcat Ballpark
Volleyball: Strahan Arena
Soccer: Bobcat Soccer Complex

Graduation Ceremonies

Commencement Information

Ceremonies: Held in May and December Location: UFCU Stadium (outdoor) Parking: Limited - plan to arrive very early Hotel Booking: Reserve rooms months in advance!

Family Tips:

Book your hotel room 6+ months ahead
Plan for traffic and parking delays
Bring sunscreen and water (outdoor ceremonies)
Celebrate at local restaurants (make reservations!)

Campus Highlights

Must-See Spots

Old Main:

Historic building and campus icon
Great photo opportunity
Central location on campus

The Quad:

Beautiful green space
Popular gathering spot
Surrounded by academic buildings

Alkek Library:

Modern study facility
Open to visitors
Impressive architecture

LBJ Student Center:

Food court and dining options
Bookstore
Meeting spaces

Bobcat Statue

Don’t leave without a photo with the iconic Bobcat statue - it’s a Texas State tradition!

Dining on Campus

Student Center Food Court:

Chick-fil-A
Panda Express
Starbucks
Various other options

The Woods Coffee:

Local favorite
Great study spot
Specialty drinks

Nearby Attractions

Combine your campus visit with these San Marcos attractions:

San Marcos River: 5 minutes from campus
Downtown San Marcos: Historic square with shops and restaurants
Wonder World Cave: Unique geological attraction
San Marcos Premium Outlets: Shopping destination

Parent & Family Resources

Parent & Family Association

Texas State offers resources for families:

Parent orientation programs
Family Weekend events (October)
Parent newsletters and updates
Online parent portal

Move-In Day

When: Typically mid-August What to Bring: Bedding, toiletries, school supplies Parking: Designated move-in parking areas Help: Student volunteers assist with unloading

Where to Stay

Why Choose Wingate By Wyndham San Marcos?

Perfect Location:

10 minutes from Texas State campus
Easy access to I-35
Close to restaurants and shopping

Family-Friendly Amenities:

Complimentary hot breakfast
Free WiFi
Outdoor pool
Fitness center
Spacious rooms (great for families!)

Special Rates:

Ask about university visitor rates
Group rates for sports teams
Graduation weekend packages

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

Spring (March-May):

Beautiful weather
Campus in full bloom
Graduation season

Fall (September-November):

Football season excitement
Family Weekend
Comfortable temperatures

Avoid if Possible:

Move-in weekend (very busy!)
Finals weeks
Major home football games (unless that’s why you’re visiting!)

Getting Around

Parking:

Visitor parking available in designated lots
Pay stations accept credit cards
Download the ParkMobile app

Walking:

Campus is walkable
Wear comfortable shoes
Allow extra time between buildings

CARTS Bus System:

Free public transportation
Connects campus to downtown
Multiple routes available

Local Tips

Eat Like a Student: Try Caffeine & Octane, The Taproom, or Sean Patrick’s
Explore Downtown: Just a few minutes from campus
Visit the River: Cool off at Rio Vista Park
Shop Local: Browse unique stores on the square

Book Your Texas State Visit

Ready to explore Texas State University? Book your stay at Wingate By Wyndham San Marcos and enjoy comfortable accommodations close to campus!

Special Services:

Early check-in available (subject to availability)
Late check-out options
Luggage storage
Local area information and maps

Book Your Stay | Contact Us | View Rooms

Go Bobcats! 🐱