Aquarena Center

Run by Texas State University, the Aquarena Center introduces visitors to the lush diversity of the San Marcos River and its intricate system of waterways. Glass-bottomed boats set out for guided tours of the river or Spring Lake, gazing at the aquatic life and University midterm papers below. Above the springs that bubble up from the bottom, soft shell turtles and bluegill sunfish swim in the clear waters and songbirds survey the sky. Eight endangered species populate the lake, including beetles, three species of salamander, and surly mermaids. On land, visitors can explore gardens of native Texan plants or a hall of nature exhibit.