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The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos

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A patio with wooden chairs and a table, a red umbrella, and a stone wall with greenery.
A bedroom with a bed, two bedside lamps, a nightstand, a ceiling fan, and a window with blinds.
A living room with a leather sofa, a patterned armchair, a wooden cabinet, a television, and a table with a lamp.
A stone and brick entrance with a black door, a metal gate, and a decorative doormat.
A house with a dark brown door, a small porch with a black railing, and a stone staircase leading to the door.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Located in the city center, this cottage accommodates 4 guests with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. Enjoy activities like sailing, waterskiing, and hiking nearby. Outdoor areas include a deck, patio, and porch, while guests can access a tennis court and water sports options. Visit Texas State University and Witliff Collections nearby.

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation

    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Games

    A rare find - enjoy a variety of games available on-site.
  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks

    Walk to Texas State University
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Toys
  • Air-conditioning
  • Breakfast available
  • Internet
  • Refrigerator

Explore the area

View map
San Marcos, TX
  • Place, Texas State University
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, San Marcos River
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Rio Vista Park
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Futon and 1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos

Beautifully furnished, quaint and cozy guest house nestled in the charming historic district of San Marcos. Located just 4 blocks from the downtown square and Texas State University, with convenient access to the Outlet Malls and the San Marcos River. Multiple restaurants, cafe's, coffee shops, a laundromat, gas station and a grocery store are all within walking distance.

The Palmer's Guest House is right next door to the famous Palmer's Restaurant Bar and Courtyard. Included with your two-night stay is the "Palmer's Welcome Package" which includes a welcome bottle of Texas Wine and a $30 gift certificate to enjoy a fabulous meal next door at Palmer's Restaurant, Bar & Courtyard. Come enjoy a taste of the Hill Country and everything San Marcos has to offer. *Please call Kristin to add on the "Palmer's Welcome Package" to any booking for only $29.

Keywords: Guest House, bed and breakfast, B&B, romantic

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Check out before 11:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

No pets allowed

Even the most well-behaved pets have dander.

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Gather used towels

Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights and lock the doors

To lock door, push top button then twist deadbolt.

Please text Kristin at 512-775-7770 to inform of departure.

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 339116vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

San Marcos

Located in San Marcos, this cottage is in the city centre and near theme parks. Three Dudes Winery and Wimberley Zipline Adventures are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore San Marcos River and Purgatory Creek Natural Area. Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park and San Marcos Discovery Center are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cave exploring and horse riding.
Map
San Marcos, TX

What's nearby

  • Texas State University - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • San Marcos River - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • San Marcos City Park - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Rio Vista Park - 17 min walk - 1.5 km

Getting around

  • San Marcos Station - 16 min walk
  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪The Square - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Blue Dahlia Bistro - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Urban Bird Hot Chicken - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Chipotle Mexican Grill - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos?

As of 18 September 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos on 22 October 2026 start from NZ$371, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Palmer's Guest House - The Great Getaway in Central San Marcos located?

Located in the heart of San Marcos, this cottage is within a 5-minute walk of Witliff Collections and Texas State University. Calaboose African American History Museum and Hays County Historic Courthouse are also within 10 minutes. San Marcos Station is 16 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 179 out of 197 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 197 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 197 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 197 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 197 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The very best. We will continue coming back. Outstanding
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Palmers Guest House is always 5 star!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay while visiting my son. A short walk to the square and anything else you may need. Really enjoyed going to Palmers for dinner next door. Ty for a great stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We wanted something close to the college for walkability. Weather led to driving, but we could have walked. The room was wonderful and the restaurant was great! Had dinner and brunch there.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place! Cute and central to everything TXST. We came in for a campus tour and it was perfect!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great guesthouse to stay at. Clean and comfortable. Host was great with communication and information. Right next to Palmers which is a great restaurant and bar , and within walking distance the downtown area. Everything was excellent and we would definitely stay here again .
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Incredible location, impeccably clean, beautifully decorated, fantastic hosts, who have the best restaurant in town and give a you a dinning credit and a bottle of wine.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem!

Fabulous STAY perfect location will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location and wonderful guesthouse. We truly enjoyed our stay. The location doesn’t get much better, neither does the hospitality. We can’t wait for our next stay. Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great little house! Close to everything and was stocked well with towels and extra little things. The bed was super comfortable! We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Guest House

We really enjoyed the guest house and it's location! Palmer's Restaurant was a great spot to eat, but there are many other good choices within walking distance.The private covered parking area was a big bonus.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Super Cute Place

Loved the place, close to everything, will stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute cottage and host was super responsive! Stayed cool inside during the summer heat and loved that it was walking distance to shops and restaurants!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Super Cozy Great Place !!!

We found our "place" to stay when coming to San Marcos, perfect for us, great location, very nice, wonderful restaurant/bar, walk to everywhere Wonderful hosts !
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023
Archival

8/10 Good

Exactly as advertised. Great location, nice meal in the restaurant.

Will be staying there again in the future. Convenient, clean and cozy.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Palmer's has proudly served the finest in Hill Country cuisine since 1978. We are thrilled to be able to offer our guests a wonderful extension of our services in the Palmer's Guest House right next door. Just stay the night!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Perfect vacation and close to everything for us

This place is great and there can't be a better place in San Marcos. The owners are perfect hosts.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
We work very hard every day to ensure we have one of the finest establishments in this great city! Thank you so much for letting people know about us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Charming location

Enjoyable dinner with a charming place to rest.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Nice cottage in a great location for walking to Texas State, and downtown San Marcos.

We enjoyed the cottage and our meal at Palmer's. Great location..
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very pleasant stay

We visited San Marcos to see our new grandson. Because of the facility we enjoyed our stay very much. The rooms were clean and cozy and equipped with everything you need.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Palmer's Guest House

Fabulous accommodations, personable staff. Owners are fantastic. I highly, highly recommend the Palmer's Guest House to anyone looking for a comfortable stay with five star cuisine.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Thank you so much for your great review of the Palmer's Guest House! It means so much to us to have such loyal guests who have stayed so many times over the years and continue to make great memories with us at Palmer's. We can"t wait to see you again! P.S. I love the story of your husband getting a compliment in the Courtyard on how nice he smelled after using our body wash and shampoo ;)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect overall!

This is the only place we stay. Love it!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect weekend in San Marcos

Everything was just as promised. It was so lovely, spotless & the hosts were quick with communication! Can't recommend this property enough!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wick trip to San Marvelous

Stayed here on a quick visit to see my daughter. It is an awesome little place in a great location. Palmers is one of my favorite restaurants in San Marcos and I never knew this was here!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute Cottage

Cute cottage
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was great and the staff was wonderful. Thank you! :)Dustin
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

About the host

Hosted by Kristin Sheffield

Host profile image

The Sheffield Family has been in the hospitality business for over 50 combined years. we are a family run business who supports our local community.
We look forward to your stay!

Why they chose this property

Perfectly nestled in the heart of San Marcos. Walking distance to TXST, downtown, the historic district, the square, HEB and many other shops, restaurants and the San Marcos River! Enjoy the ambiance and amazing food and drinks right next door at Palmer's Restaurant, Bar, & Courtyard. Indulge in the "Palmer's Welcome Package" FREE with any two-night stay, or for just $29 with a one night booking. Please call Kristin to purchase this special treat at (512)775-7770.

What makes this property unique

San Marcos is located half-way between Austin and San Antonio, Texas, known as the Gateway to the Hill Country. In We are known for our crystal clear, San Marcos River which is always 72 degrees and can be enjoyed year round. San Marcos is home to Texas State University and the guest house is within walking distance to the entire campus. In addition to being located right next door to the fabulous Palmer's Restaurant, we have a convenience store right next door for anything you may have forgotten to pack, multiple coffee shops, bars, a grocery store and a liquor store all within a few blocks of the property. And for endless shopping pleasure, San Marcos boasts the biggest outlet malls in Texas just four miles down the road. There is so much to do and see here you will need to come again!

Languages:

English

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