Cozying Up to a Good Book

With so much to see and do in the Hill Country, sometimes it’s nice to pursue a more relaxing endeavor. For us at Kiss and Tell, this consists of grabbing a good book and a quiet spot outdoors.

First things first, you’re going to need a book and we’ve got just the place for that. Paper Bear, located in downtown San Marcos, is a quirky shop known for its eclectic style and goods. They offer interesting and unique books not always available in commercial bookstores. If you are looking for more traditional offerings, the San Marcos Public Library is expansive and the librarians are extremely knowledgeable and accommodating!

Ok, so you have your book. Now it’s time to pick out the perfect spot to sit back and relax! Luckily, the Hill Country is full of great outdoor reading locales. We’re going to give you two of our personal favorites in San Marcos; the San Marcos Courthouse lawn and the cozy corners of Jo’s Café.

If you haven’t been to the Square in San Marcos, then you have been missing the very heart of the city. Bright, colorful, and busy, the square consists of four sides of restaurants and businesses centered around the historic San Marcos Courthouse. The lawn surrounding the courthouse is bustling on the weekends with the farmer’s market or art market but during the week it is relatively peaceful, with soft grass and benches perfect for reading. Personally, we love taking a picnic blanket and sprawling out with our book while getting lost for hours in a good story.

However, as much as we love lounging on the courthouse lawn, it’s Texas y’all and sometimes it is just too darn hot to be outside for very long. Luckily, for all of us, there’s Jo’s Café. Locally owned by the same ladies who brought the city Jo on the Go, this spot is cozy, inviting and serves fantastic coffee and homemade goodies. On those hot summer days where you don’t even feel like walking never mind cooking, make your way to Jo’s and order their breakfast quesadilla and a cold brew. Before you know it, you’ll be sitting in a cozy corner table, lost in a book. It should be noted that Jo’s uses all fresh ingredients and has many gluten free and vegan options!

Whether inside or out, there are plenty of places to cozy up to a good book in SMTX. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your own special places and they will end up on this blog!

Locations:

• San Marcos Courthouse: Smack in the middle of the Square in downtown San Marcos
• San Marcos Public Library: 625 E Hopkins St.
• Paper Bear: 218 N LBJ Dr
• Jo’s Café: 310 Mary St