Since the invention of inflation, prices for groceries have skyrocketed and rivers have become traversable. Enjoy the scenic side of economics with today's Groupon to The Aquarena Center in San Marcos. Choose between the following options:
- For $20, you get a one-hour guided glass-bottom kayak tour for two adults (a $40 value).
- For $35, you get a three-hour guided glass-bottom kayak tour for one adult and one child, plus half off each additional guest (a $70 value).
- For $40, you get a three-hour guided glass-bottom kayak tour for two adults (an $80 value).
The Aquarena Center’s guides escort travelers over the serene waters of the San Marcos River, all the while examining the delicate ecosystems existing above the water and below. Fleets of sit-on-top glass-bottom kayaks depart daily, with paddlers of any age traversing the open waters in groups of four alongside tour guides who cater to customers’ interests in history, geology, biology, and sea-monkey breeding. Aboard the transparent steeds, visitors observe vast seaweed forests below the surface wavering from the bubbles of more than 200 artesian springs. Turtles flit about at velocities they only dream of on land as spotted gars pop up their heads to show off dental work, and migratory songbirds rehearse barbershop harmonies. Three-hour jaunts include a complimentary 30-minute walking tour through the center’s archaeology and endangered species exhibit, with guides expounding upon the regulations protecting eight listed endangered and threatened species.
The Meadows Center
Run by Texas State University, The Meadows Center introduces visitors to the lush diversity of the San Marcos Springs and intricate system of waterways. Glass-bottomed boats set out for guided tours of 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 springs, including beetles and two species of salamander. On land, visitors can explore gardens of native Texan plants or a hall of nature exhibit.