About the Company
rating: 4.8
Glass-bottom boat tours with focus on local aquifer & marine life, plus a small museum & aquarium.
Categories
- Boat tour agency
- Education center
- Park
- Tourist attraction
Contact Information
Phone: +1 512-245-7570
Website: http://www.meadowscenter.txstate.edu/Education/Glass-BottomBoats.html
Address: 201 San Marcos Springs Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666, United States
- Monday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
Photos
Reviews
Review №1
Rating: 4
Definitely needs more information about and involvement with local native people, but obviously beautiful experience.
Date: a month ago
Review №2
Rating: 5
It was fun and very informative! I loved looking at the fish below the boat!
Date: a month ago
Review №3
Rating: 5
Oh my gosh, I learned soo much and I had the best time connecting with nature! My boyfriend surprised me with this little tour and it was so cute!
Date: a month ago
Review №4
Rating: 5
Date: a month ago
Review №5
Rating: 5
Water so clear, tour guide was informative, we were able to see turtles, fish and little aquarium was fun, esp sand part.
Date: a month ago
Review №6
Rating: 4
Nous n avons malheureusement pas pu faire le tour complet en bateau à cause du temps (orage qui arrivait). Le personnel fait donc vraiment attention à ses clients! (Ils nous ont proposé de revenir un autre jour ou de nous rembourser). Les 5 minutes de bateaux se sont cependant bien déroulés et nous avons aperçu des poissons ainsi que plusieurs tortues de mer! Je recommande cette activité (pour tous les âges)
Date: a month ago
Review №7
Rating: 5
Date: a month ago
Review №8
Rating: 1
Rachel! You knew 100% I was going to give you this review! I overheard you telling your employees just that! I didnt think it to be appropriate to argue with you in public in front of your customers on site! You Rachel and you alone, are not a law maker. You Rachel, are not a politician. You Rachel, are not a police officer! You Rachel run the glass bottom boats. Thats it! Period! Your customers service is horrible. You give misinformation to customers. You should be fired! You Rachel would be better located underwater with a wetsuit on where you can not talk to people. You Rachel give the state of Texas a bad look! Your college campus makes Policys! Not Laws! It is unconstitutional to invoke your schools policys as Law! As of April 2024, most state and local smoke-free laws do not include college campuses. However, some states and the Northern Mariana Islands have laws that require smoke-free indoor and outdoor public campuses, including college campuses: Arkansas: The Arkansas Clean Air on Campus Act of 2009 made all public institutions smoke-free Illinois: Has a law requiring smoke-free indoor and outdoor public campuses Iowa: Has a law requiring smoke-free campuses that applies to both public and private institutions Louisiana: Has a law requiring smoke-free indoor and outdoor public campuse As you can clearly see no Texas Laws! Ill go one step further.. I walked the entire property.. there are 0 no smoking signs! You know why Rachel? Because its unconstitutional to put up no smoking signs at said location. The state of Texas would get a lawsuit! As of right now I could sue you Rachel, so you should stay in your own lane. Be silent to customers and give directions to the unfortunate people that must work with you! I suggest you Rachel apologize promptly... I have lots more reviews to write... Oh and by the way.. Ive seen, in person, Ralph the swimming pig.. Ive seen the mermaid show in real time.. Texas State University/Rachel and the state of Texas have ruined Aquarena Springs! It is now and will forever be a shadow of its former glory! With people like Rachel leading the way, it will be ran into the ground and destroyed, no different than Blue Hole! If you know, you know... Rachel... Shame on you! get a different job with no customer service!
Date: a month ago
Review №9
Rating: 5
Amazing view all around, loved this place just a calm & peaceful nature here, #2024 August, It was just a random visit with my family, but we liked it
Date: a month ago
Review №10
Rating: 5
Amazing there are turtles a very sweet driver And fish it was so cool loved it!!!!!!
Date: 2 months ago
Review №11
Rating: 4
I loved the vintage charm of this place. The building is about 100 years old, which adds to its unique appeal. However, the third floor and some other areas need more restoration work. Overall, its a great spot to visit.
Date: 2 months ago
Review №12
Rating: 5
Date: 2 months ago
Review №13
Rating: 5
This was such a great experience. No wait time. No long lines. You have to pay when you get there in person. They don t allow pets only service animals. Take advantage of the free activities they have for the whole family. We were a group of 10 but the max they hold is 20 people per boat. Our guides were very knowledgeable. Only thing I would recommend or suggest is for them to use megaphones or mics. There were small children on the boats and we couldn t hear everything they were saying. Other than that, it was a great experience!
Date: 3 months ago
Review №14
Rating: 5
We visited Aquarina Springs several times many years ago. So happy to find out that the glass bottom boats are still operating. Our guide was Ashley. She was a doll. She was so sweet and patiently explaining the Springs and all the information about them despite some of the loud interruptions. Nice to see how proud she was to be a part of the tour and a senior of the college. Great job Ashley and good luck!
Date: 3 months ago
Review №15
Rating: 5
It was my third time on the tour and Captain Neves was the best ever!!
Date: 3 months ago
Review №16
Rating: 5
Knowledgeable crew. Lot of cool sightings. Maintained boat slots and better handling. Tour is for all the ages. There is something for each age group.
Date: 3 months ago
Review №17
Rating: 5
Such an amazing experience for all! We have taken this tour twice now, once with our 5 year old and again after our 2nd came along so with a 3 year old and a 9 year old. Both kids loved getting to hike around the property and check out the native plants, birds and waterway. The boat tour itself if informative and fun with beautiful views above and below the water. We purchased tickets off of Groupon this past spring and that was a nice way to save a little on tickets, which honestly are pretty reasonable to begin with. Highly recommend visiting!
Date: 3 months ago
Review №18
Rating: 3
Nature is gorgeous, and the water is expectscular. The tour guide, was wonderful but the boat ride was soooo boring. It just circles a tiny area. Boring!!!!
Date: 3 months ago
Review №19
Rating: 5
just amazing, hidden gem near the austin area, for me it was a very new experience and calming feeling
Date: 3 months ago
Review №20
Rating: 5
Went there for a field trip in 2023
Date: 3 months ago
Review №21
Rating: 2
Not worth
Date: 4 months ago
Review №22
Rating: 5
My kids mostly definitely enjoyed the boat tour.
Date: 4 months ago
Review №23
Rating: 5
Absolutely beautiful out on the lake. Very friendly and informative staff. Will be doing this again. The aquarium is cute and loved rosa the eel.
Date: 5 months ago
Review №24
Rating: 5
Date: 5 months ago
Review №25
Rating: 5
Date: 5 months ago
Review №26
Rating: 5
Date: 5 months ago
Review №27
Rating: 4
My boyfriend and I visited the Meadows Center as we headed back home from a short getaway to the New Braunfels area. The grounds itself is very relaxing, peaceful and well kept. We did the boat tour of the spring, which was 30 minutes long and informative, and neat to see clear waters, fish, and the actual location of the ground springs feeding the waters. While we certainy enjoyed ourselves, spending about 2 hours total at the Meadows Center, I felt the information online portrays a bit more about the tour itself, than what was actually experienced, as well as about the aquarium (which I would hardly consider impressive, but it does have some educational opportunities and would offer a welcome reprieve from the heat of a hot summers day). However, the cost of the tour is commensurate with the experience itself, particularly given access to the full grounds (which everything but the boat tour is free to enjoy at no cost). We also enjoyed a relaxing picnic lunch at the public tables just before we hopped on the road back home.
Date: 5 months ago
Review №28
Rating: 5
Lovely boat tour and very educational.
Date: 5 months ago
Review №29
Rating: 5
I absolutely enjoy taking my daughter and her friends here! It was a very informative as well as beautiful! We learned a lot and got to see even more!
Date: 6 months ago
Review №30
Rating: 5
Date: 6 months ago
Review №31
Rating: 5
We did a group on for twelve dollars for two people. 100% worth paying full price for and would have. It was very nice, and Annabelle was a fantastic guide!
Date: 6 months ago
Review №32
Rating: 5
Beautiful experience! Will definitely be coming back!
Date: 6 months ago
Review №33
Rating: 5
The tour was great. Organized, clean, and informational. It was easy to get on and off the boats, and our little enjoyed looking through the glass bottom and seeing the fish. There were lots of divers there too. The water was so clear, it reminded me of the South-Asian Pacific Ocean.
Date: 6 months ago
Review №34
Rating: 5
Very informative and had a nice time with the family.
Date: 6 months ago
Review №35
Rating: 5
Date: 7 months ago
Review №36
Rating: 5
Date: 8 months ago
Review №37
Rating: 5
Calm, beautiful, marvelous place for a day field trip. Rich colors and history. Nice family spot too.
Date: 9 months ago
Review №38
Rating: 5
Nice little excursion!
Date: 10 months ago
Review №39
Rating: 5
Date: 10 months ago
Review №40
Rating: 5
Date: 10 months ago
Review №41
Rating: 5
Peaceful, beautiful. Fun to see fish, turtles, cormorants, even a deer and a heron! The water color is pretty, and its cool to see the springs, the fault line, and all the underwater vegetation that looks more like undersea vegetation.
Date: 10 months ago
Review №42
Rating: 5
Beautiful.
Date: 10 months ago
Review №43
Rating: 5
Fun ride experienced staff knows current stats and historical information
Date: 11 months ago
Review №44
Rating: 5
Enjoyed the view of the lake.
Date: 11 months ago
Review №45
Rating: 5
Very informative tour with friendly guides!
Date: 11 months ago
Review №46
Rating: 5
Very enjoyable and relaxing. Got to see difference wildlife
Date: 11 months ago
Review №47
Rating: 5
Date: 11 months ago
Review №48
Rating: 5
Great place to come with family. Beatiful place, great history, awesome staff.. Just one con.. the dont accept gpay or apple pay, come prepare with card or cash
Date: 11 months ago
Review №49
Rating: 5
The tour itself is only 30 minutes, but it is very informative and entertaining. Our guide, Amanda, was very personable and knowledgeable about the springs, aquatic life, surrounding areas, etc. and the boat ride is very smooth and calm. During the tour, we saw several fish and turtles as well as plant life that indicated a healthy ecosystem. We also saw some divers that are part of a volunteer scuba diving/garden group and a grey/brown fox after we got off the boat. There was a cute little aquarium off to the side of the springs that housed several species that we couldn t see on the tour and we got to experience some kinetic sand play as well. Definitely recommend this experience for families and outdoorsy types.
Date: 11 months ago
Review №50
Rating: 5
Super fun attraction The lake is beautiful and the tour guides are very knowledgeable
Date: a year ago
Review №51
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №52
Rating: 5
Beautiful scenery and awesome tour guides are very informative. They have soda machines and an air-conditioned info center to wait in until you get on the boat. Wildlife abundant, we saw turtles deer and lots of fish. Great quick outing.
Date: a year ago
Review №53
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №54
Rating: 4
Date: a year ago
Review №55
Rating: 5
So much fun. Been back several times
Date: a year ago
Review №56
Rating: 5
Fun and educational. We waited in the exhibit hall for 15 min before our tour. The lake is beautiful and clean. Our guide gave a great tour and it was fun seeing the turtles, fish, and springs through the glass bottom. So blue!
Date: a year ago
Review №57
Rating: 4
Wonderful experience to enjoy with friends and family. The bottom glass boat immerse you into a relaxed mind state while watching the underwater wildlife.
Date: a year ago
Review №58
Rating: 5
Amazing
Date: a year ago
Review №59
Rating: 5
I enjoyed it was my first time there I lived in San marcos for 2 years now and finally got to go. It was a great experience got to check out the wetlands area, aquarium, and the glass bottom tour was great especially the guide was friendly as well very informative
Date: a year ago
Review №60
Rating: 1
Wasted 1h waiting for the boats in the heat. They never said the boarding number. I had a 3:00B ticket. The staff said now boarding 3:00A. After 30min they said now boarding 3:30B. I was told I needed to exchange the ticket and Im not allowed on that boat. The next boat would involve waiting another 30min. Rather than waste another 30min in the baking sun, I left empty haded. As a Texas State Alumni, Im disappointed in the service.
Date: a year ago
Review №61
Rating: 5
This place is gorgeous due to the natural spring, and extremely rich with history. If you re expecting a paddle boat with a glass bottom that is not the case. It is a boat that has many seats with the glass in the center to look down with a view of the clear water. This does not change how beautiful and amazing this experience is. I recommend going on a cooler day as the Texas heat does drain everyone of their energy. Also if you go in the morning there isn t as much algae as in my pictures.
Date: a year ago
Review №62
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №63
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №64
Rating: 5
Friendly and very knowledgeable staff. A memorable experience
Date: a year ago
Review №65
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №66
Rating: 4
Fun & Relaxing!!!!!
Date: a year ago
Review №67
Rating: 5
Very nice place, cool, relaxing and educational, there is also a small aquarium and green areas to walk, I recommend them
Date: a year ago
Review №68
Rating: 5
This place is a must go place if you come to San Marcos the ticket price was like 9-10$ its really worth it the boat ride will be 30-40 mins god its really beautiful you can see under the river through the glass first time in my life i had seen so very interesting the such a mind relaxing and clam place and the person taking the boat explains a lot about the place and its history he told like a tons of gallons of water comes to that river for a day and under the boat u can se beautiful fish and colorful tortoises i had never seen different color shining tortoise before really worth it must try with your familu
Date: a year ago
Review №69
Rating: 5
Great place to take graduation pictures!
Date: a year ago
Review №70
Rating: 5
Well worth the stop off the interstate. Learned about the interesting history related to the lake. Texas State students do a great job of pointing out underwater wildlife - especially the turtles.
Date: a year ago
Review №71
Rating: 5
Good time with the family
Date: a year ago
Review №72
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №73
Rating: 5
Great place to take your family for something different. Went with a group to go on the glass boats and it was awesome! Our tour guide was very nice and very helpful. They had a free aquarium and museum as part of the tour. Will definitely come again.
Date: a year ago
Review №74
Rating: 5
Cristal clear water and lot of history behind . The glass boat tour is cheap and worth it. More details: Archaeologists believe that the San Marcos Springs area may be the oldest continually inhabited site in North America, with sediment core evidence of human activity dating back approximately 11,500 years. Excavations at this location uncovered Paleo Indian artifacts dating back as much as 19,000 years.
Date: a year ago
Review №75
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №76
Rating: 5
Absolutely love this place. So many childhood memories here, growing up in Austin getting to see Ralph the swimming pig, the submarine and and watching the mermaids perform. None if this is really there any more but its still a beautiful place, our tour guide was very informative, friendly and outgoing. Thanks Texas State for all your hard work and dedication its made going back very pleasent.
Date: a year ago
Review №77
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №78
Rating: 5
Amazing place. Beautiful and educational.
Date: a year ago
Review №79
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №80
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №81
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №82
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №83
Rating: 5
OMG this is a must see for all age groups... you will not be disappointed... check this out for yourself... Well until next time signing off Two Peas
Date: a year ago
Review №84
Rating: 5
A well organized tour by Texas State University. It is very informative and they have made an optimal use of the resources they have available at hand.
Date: a year ago
Review №85
Rating: 5
What a fun experience! Our guide was a local college student, and she had lots of interesting history and tidbits to share. Very beautiful and informative, and relaxing.
Date: a year ago
Review №86
Rating: 5
This was a nice experience! We learned a lot from our tour guide, and we saw a lot of interesting things along the route. The view through the glass bottom is better than simply seeing from the above. The boat and waiting area were shaded, which I loved, and the timing was excellent. The tiny aquarium next door was the ideal continuation and Wetlands boardwalk.
Date: a year ago
Review №87
Rating: 5
Lots of fun
Date: a year ago
Review №88
Rating: 1
If you join a family member on a field trip here beware. You will have to pay parking and if you want to ride the boat of course there is a fee for that as well. But if there is not enough room on the boat for the kids in the field trip and the parents you will be turned away at the boat and they will not issue you a refund for the boat ride. They claimed that we paid an entry fee since we were with the field trip but the Meadows does not charge an entry fee and if they considered us as part of the field trip then we should have been accommodated and included as such. They were capable of splitting the group into two so that everyone could enjoy the experience with their kids but the young lady loading the boats told our teacher no. We were disappointed but understanding however it was not understandable to deny us the boat fee refund. I asked to talk to a supervisor since theyre all students running the place, but the lady wouldnt even come down to speak to us she just told the girls to tell us no. Its perfectly fine to say that a boat is at capacity, safety first, but a refund should have been issued for the parents who missed out.
Date: a year ago
Review №89
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №90
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №91
Rating: 5
The tours are usually guided by Texas State Students who are knowledgeable and love to interact with their guests. With that in mind some guides are more knowledgeable in their particular area of study which makes each tour a little bit different. One guide might talk about grass lands and mountains while another talks about the water geysers in the water. Overall, you cant beat the price for the experience. Thank you!
Date: a year ago
Review №92
Rating: 5
A very very beautiful relaxing area
Date: a year ago
Review №93
Rating: 5
Great, very informative and beautiful
Date: a year ago
Review №94
Rating: 5
Very cool and informative tour adventure; and, benefits a great cause.
Date: a year ago
Review №95
Rating: 5
Date: a year ago
Review №96
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №97
Rating: 5
The tour was very informative. Our boat captain was great and knew a lot! So interesting about the Texas blind salamander! I came here to see the mermaids as a kid. Im so glad the glass bottom boats allow us to still see the springs
Date: 2 years ago
Review №98
Rating: 5
Great value, well organized and a wonderful family experience.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №99
Rating: 3
My husband and I just went on the Glass Bottom Boats on September 17, 2022 Saturday. We enjoyed it but it isnt the same when we were growing up. When we were younger they had a lot more to do and to see. But it was still beautiful to see.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №100
Rating: 5
This was a very relaxing and interesting tour. The guide was humble and very knowledgeable, as well as patient with what she had to deal with. The group was the last 3 of 460 members of WWII bomb group. The Jolly Rogers Heavy Bomb Group thanks you. And thank you for your sacrifices and service.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №101
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №102
Rating: 5
One of the highlights of our trip. The tour didnt quite last the full posted time of 25 minutes, but I was still satisfied with the length. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and welcomed questions. We saw tons of aquatic life during our ride. My kids had a ball. Id definitely do this again.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №103
Rating: 5
I did the boat tour with my family. It was reasonably priced and had beautiful views, definitely recommend!
Date: 2 years ago
Review №104
Rating: 5
Nice tour, great for a family outing.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №105
Rating: 5
Beautiful location off of the river and the university, east to access and lots to see. Boat schedule was a little far between but worth the wait.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №106
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №107
Rating: 5
I loved this trip around the source of the San Marcos river! The boats are surprisingly nice, and the tour guide did a fantastic job. She covered nature, geology, conservation, archaeology, and local history. I could have stayed out there for much longer, watching the fish and turtles swimming around the springs. This was one of the highlights of my trip.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №108
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №109
Rating: 3
Had a wonderful time. Enjoyed the informative tour. Nice aquatic exhibit.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №110
Rating: 5
Birth place of the San Marcos river with awesome clarity. Lots of wildlife and great guided boat tours.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №111
Rating: 5
This was such a fun outing for my little ones (and me)! Our tour guide was really informative and we saw lots of cool things along the way. Timing was perfect (right around 30 minutes) and I appreciated that the boat and waiting area were shady. The little aquarium nextdoor was a perfect follow up!
Date: 2 years ago
Review №112
Rating: 4
Very calm, pretty views.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №113
Rating: 5
Very unique experience. Of you plan on visiting San Marcos, then check out this spot. The ride is about 10-15 minutes. Its not The lake is about 1 mile long, but they only take you about halfway through because of issues towards the end. We got lucky and saw scuba divers getting in the water.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №114
Rating: 5
Absolute beauty of nature here. Crystal clear lake with hot springs on the lake bed. The guide was so knowledgeable and we had a very wonderful time.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №115
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №116
Rating: 5
Scenic and educational. Should recommend.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №117
Rating: 5
Amazing! Must do this!!!!
Date: 2 years ago
Review №118
Rating: 4
Great, new experience passing by in our travels! A nice hidden gem in a convenient location. Boat rode was both relaxing and educational. Tour guide was helpful and fun! Thanks.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №119
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №120
Rating: 5
Our tour guides were very intelligent and informing. We learned a lot about spring lake and hope to return in the summer time for another tour with my daughters. 10/10 recommend.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №121
Rating: 5
A hidden gem in San Marcos...very informative tour guide and beautiful lake.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №122
Rating: 5
Wonderful experience blending with nature and had a good opportunity to learn about Balcones Fault,San Marcos river and about the Edwards Aquifer. Its an absolute fun for the kids as well. Boat leaves once in 30mins check out the timings before arriving. Last boat leaves around 3.30pm. Theres a discovery hall next to the boating area and the board walk where lot of migratory birds flock around. It gave a feeling of how awesome the nature is and the necessity to preserve this Aquifer. #HappyVisiting
Date: 2 years ago
Review №123
Rating: 5
That was really neat.. Usally Texas s waters are murky and black. Worth the trip I def would bring friends and family here to see
Date: 2 years ago
Review №124
Rating: 5
Fascinating experience well worth the price and time. Definitely a fun way to get close to nature and learn a little something about the hill country ecosystem. Props to our tour guide Sam, who is extremely knowledgeable and provided an entertaining tour.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №125
Rating: 5
The glass bottom boats tours are really fun and informative.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №126
Rating: 5
Date: 2 years ago
Review №127
Rating: 5
Excellent place! Very educational and informative. Beautiful scenery.
Date: 2 years ago
Review №128
Rating: 5
Really enjoyed this experience. Made me appreciate the San Marcos River so much more after going on the tour of Spring Lake. We learned about the history, saw the the spring bubbling right up from the ground, and so much of marine life! The water is a clear as tap water and you re able to see 20 feet to the bottom from the bottom of boat. Don t skip the small nature hike after, lots of wild life to see there too.
Date: 3 years ago
Review №129
Rating: 5
We had an amazing time... drove in from Houston on a day date....Tour guides were very knowledgeable & informative.. would definitely recommend..
Date: 3 years ago
Review №130
Rating: 5
Date: 3 years ago
Review №131
Rating: 5
Date: 3 years ago
Review №132
Rating: 5
Nice simple family boat tour. Clean boat. Staff was knowledgeable, of course. Great for little kids or anyone interested in marine life.
Date: 3 years ago
Review №133
Rating: 5
Date: 3 years ago
Review №134
Rating: 5
I work at the childrens shelter and we took the kids here on an outing. The tour guide was very kind and patient with them. It was overall a great experience for them
Date: 3 years ago
Review №135
Rating: 5
The boat tour is awesome. We also had the chance to see the divers underwater as well along with the springs. Veey Friendly staff and they were flexible to move us to a different date as we couldnt make it on the original reservation date.
Date: 3 years ago
Review №136
Rating: 5
Relaxing and interesting! Took the whole family here and loved it!
Date: 3 years ago
Review №137
Rating: 3
Date: 3 years ago
Review №138
Rating: 5
I love the way the staff and the boat drivers treat us. They try their best to accommodate everyone (who IS following their guidelines of wearing a mask and social distancing) to getting a ride on their boats. 10/10 would make another reservation
Date: 3 years ago
Review №139
Rating: 5
We were on our way home to Allen ,Texas from San Antonio and stopped by this San , Marcos river boat to Learn about springs and experience the glass bottomed boat ride .The best part we were able to get a private boat and the guide mark was super informative he answered all my kids questions and also showed his favorite snow globe spot in the river it was surreal super gorgeous and dreamy . We all enjoyed our tour the best part he mentioned about the Rio Vista pool area where my kids could swim as we didnt get access to indoor pools in Hilton hotels they were not open just yet but he made it possible by his knowledge on local entertaining spots . Thank you highly recommend this tour!
Date: 3 years ago
Review №140
Rating: 5
A beautiful place to relax with the family, they keep the area that one is going to occupy on the boat disinfected, they board a small group of people so that everyone is keeping a good distance. We hope to return
Date: 3 years ago
Review №141
Rating: 5
Date: 3 years ago
Review №142
Rating: 5
Awesome well worth the money and drive from North of Fort Worth!!!
Date: 3 years ago
Review №143
Rating: 5
Date: 3 years ago
Review №144
Rating: 4
Date: 3 years ago
Review №145
Rating: 5
Date: 3 years ago
Review №146
Rating: 5
A nice and quite lake with clear views of the lake floor. Relaxing with a peaceful atmosphere.
Date: 3 years ago
Review №147
Rating: 5
A calm and relaxing educational way to spend a couple hours one day. They also offer extended tours and a Christmas special tour. The Christmas tour comes with cookies and hot chocolate and the spring has some lights on the building. It s not a romantic thing though if that s what your thinking. It is kid friendly so there is always a lot of young kids unless you go in slow season or mid week. However, parking is not free during the TXST semester and weekdays. Never had a bad tour guide and it is quite nice. Groupon has deals and they do senior discounts. Local hotels have $1 off passes too. Fall is the best time to go cause the weather is nice and morning times have more active animal sightings.
Date: 3 years ago
Review №148
Rating: 5
Ethan took us on a 2 person tour, for my friends birthday treat during the time of Covid. He was fantastic, and so knowledgable about the springs because he is in school at TSU studying aquatic biology! He was a super star, and we were thrilled to see the beautiful Spotted Gar, and a diver! I would highly recommend this peaceful, relaxing, intimate look into the clear waters of The Meadows Center.
Date: 4 years ago
Review №149
Rating: 5
Date: 4 years ago
Review №150
Rating: 3
It was a very short boat ride. There wasnt much of narration. Most of the conversation was with the questions we asked.
Date: 4 years ago
Review №151
Rating: 5
Its a great place to check out. They tell you the history. The people are very knowledgeable.
Date: 4 years ago
Review №152
Rating: 5
This is an experience one should not miss. Crystal clear, pure water coming right out of the ground, spectacular.
Date: 4 years ago
Review №153
Rating: 2
We would have really enjoyed it except the holiday tour description had holiday lights included so we just kept waiting for lights. So disappointed in very few lights at all. Just basically the same tour with holiday music. Tour guide was great just very misleading about lights
Date: 4 years ago
Review №154
Rating: 4
Date: 4 years ago
Review №155
Rating: 5
Fascinating! Informative and enjoyable for all ages!
Date: 4 years ago
Review №156
Rating: 5
I take all my guests here. Its a water ride on a boat with a long narrow glass bottom in the middle. The guide explains what youre seeing underwater from fish, shells, water pressure fountains, etc. The guides are students from N.C. State and are well informed. Lots of parking, easy to find, and a museum right next to the parking area of underwater animals and the history of the area. A very nice restaurant on the water is close by. Ive gone often. Take your camera.
Date: 4 years ago
Review №157
Rating: 5
Date: 4 years ago
Review №158
Rating: 5
Date: 4 years ago
Review №159
Rating: 5
Being part of a UT Grad student film. Interestingly this is the same location where the original Piranha movie was filmed...
Date: 4 years ago
Review №160
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №161
Rating: 5
My family and I stopped by for a tour on our way to Austin from San Antonio and this was probably our favorite thing we did that whole weekend! It was beautiful, educational and entertaining. Our guide was named Adam and we were all so impressed with his knowledge and his sincere thoughts on the environment. He told us about other cool things we could do there as well such as snorkeling and we will be back again! Cant forget to mention how inexpensive this was. I encourage everyone to go!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №162
Rating: 5
Deeply impressed with the pristine water! So beautiful to see such a well preserved lake. They have so much information to share with you and it really opened my eyes in a way which makes me appreciate this beautiful city even more. Theres also a museum and a boardwalk to enjoy as well as a gift shop with snacks. The prices were very reasonable and part of the ticket sales goes back to preserving the lake! Great way to spend your afternoon! I will surely be going back.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №163
Rating: 5
The tour on boat was awesome, the museum was nice, did not do the nature walk but overall impressive!! Do recommend it !!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №164
Rating: 5
Great experience! The glass bottom boat tour was very informative and fun. The indoor aquarium was cool and comfortable. Great family fun!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №165
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №166
Rating: 5
Beautiful experience for the whole family
Date: 5 years ago
Review №167
Rating: 5
Had a really awesome time here. Had a really great tour guide, Tuhin, who showed us the wetlands and surrounding area that went above and beyond what we expected!!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №168
Rating: 5
Honestly, the atmosphere was great, and the glass boats were cool, the absolute best feature, was the service. Our tour guide was a college student named Tuhin. He was super kind, interesting, and overall an awesome person. He gave us a super thorough tour and when we started talking afterwards, gave input into the conversation about our topic of discussion. Then he did us one step further and gave us a tour of the indoor aquarium. An amazing experience that was worth much more than the cost of the tours. And that is just the wetlands. The glass boats were also great. Our tour guide made jokes and references while also pointing out many things that we more than likely wouldn t have noticed without her. Overall, I would happily go again and would recommend it to any single, couple, or family looking for a mixture of fun mixed with a closer relation and understanding of our natural world.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №169
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №170
Rating: 4
This was fun for the family. Kids enjoyed seeing the aquatic life.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №171
Rating: 5
Great tours and the best tour guides and staff make this a number one water conservation and education stop. This is a must see if you live off the Edwards Aquifer and want to see one of the largest artesian springs in the country.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №172
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №173
Rating: 5
We stopped here to break up a long road trip and stretch our legs. I was worried the water would be cloudy and we wouldnt be able to see anything but the water is very clear. We saw tons of fish, many turtles, and the springs bubbling up at the bottom are very cool. There is also a small free aquarium that was pretty neat. They were closing but we definitely could have spent more time there.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №174
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №175
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №176
Rating: 5
Amazing view of water underneath the boat. Not only is the cause amazing but so are the people running it. My tour guide was a Texas State University Student who was doing this as a job as well as a hobby. They were very dedicated to their job. You dont see that a lot. Would highly recommend.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №177
Rating: 5
A very quiet and serene area to visit. I recommend taking the extended boat tours to watch a marine and geographical paradise. There are a few benches to have a small family picnic. Remember to pick up your trash!!!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №178
Rating: 5
This place is great. A must stop
Date: 5 years ago
Review №179
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №180
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №181
Rating: 4
Waterbug scenery
Date: 5 years ago
Review №182
Rating: 4
Date: 5 years ago
Review №183
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №184
Rating: 5
Amazing!!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №185
Rating: 5
So cool worth the trip.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №186
Rating: 5
First time coming here. I really like the area, feels so relaxing. Yall shall check out the aquarium and definitely get on a boat. Water so clear.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №187
Rating: 4
Date: 5 years ago
Review №188
Rating: 5
An unexpected treasure! The now protected area home to unique species was once a site for an underwater show viewed from a submarine . The crystal clear water allows for great visibility of turtles, fish and plants. The boats are still the same style as the original historic ones. A lovely boardwalk allows easy viewing of birds and fish also. Theres also a small gift shop and free aquarium.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №189
Rating: 4
Great place for families. Lots of history. Conservation efforts are on point. This location is home to 7 endangered aquatic species and 1 on the verge of extinction. All can only be found in this area.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №190
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №191
Rating: 5
Had a great tour guide and enjoyed the aquarium exhibits
Date: 5 years ago
Review №192
Rating: 5
Summary: Great place for a walk and some learning Details: while the boat ride looks like fun, just walking around the area is amazing. Take a quick visit inside the learning center too for some super cool interactive science exhibits. Parking is free on the weekends and there was a lot of parking when we arrived and left. Take a lunch to enjoy water side under a large shaded tree. Have the kids get some swing time and teeter totter time as well. Its a very neat place!
Date: 5 years ago
Review №193
Rating: 5
Get your ticket from Groupon.
Date: 5 years ago
Review №194
Rating: 4
Date: 5 years ago
Review №195
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №196
Rating: 5
Date: 5 years ago
Review №197
Rating: 5
Date: 6 years ago
Review №198
Rating: 4
Date: 6 years ago
Review №199
Rating: 5
Date: 6 years ago
Review №200
Rating: 5
I will definitely be coming here again and bringing everyone I know
Date: 6 years ago