MEADOWS CENTER
A glass bottom boat ride at The Meadows Center has been a rite of passage for Texas State students for years, but even though the university owns and operates the facilities at Spring Lake, The Meadows Center is open to everyone and anyone interested in learning about the preservation of the headwaters or those who wish to experience the clear blue water for themselves. The Meadows Center attracts tourists and locals every year, especially in the summer when the 72 degree water feels as refreshing as ever. Spring Lake has controlled access due to it being a preservation site, but one can book a snorkel, scuba, paddle or kayak tour for the opportunity to submerge in the waters. This summer the Meadows Center has partnered with other local attractions to offer the San Marcos Summer Savings Pass. This deal includes a tour at Wonder World Adventure Park, a tube rental through The Lions Club and a glass bottom boat tour at The Meadows Center. One can upgrade their package to include paddle boarding with PaddleSMTX.
The Meadows Center has something for everyone. One can experience Spring Lake above the water through their popular glass bottom boat tour. This tour has been running since 1945, giving people of all ages an in depth look at the natural beauty of Spring Lake and the San Marcos Springs. Tours are offered daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last boat going out 30 minutes before closing. Each boat holds about 20 guests, so it’s perfect for the whole family or your group of friends. The standard boat tour offers 30 minutes of cruising around the lake with a knowledgeable tour guide who shares the history of Spring Lake from the Aquarena Springs days when the lake functioned as a theme park with mermaids, diving pigs and an underwater clown by the name of Glurpo to the preservation and conservation efforts made by the university and its partners today. The guide will also point out the abundant wildlife that calls Spring Lake home; from swimming turtles to fish and birds, the water is a unique ecosystem.
