Things to Do in Vista and San Marcos This August Weekend |
From farmers markets and outdoor concerts to hiking trails and community events here is your go to guide for making the most of late summer in Vista and San Marcos. |
Summer is not over yet and there is plenty to do right here in Vista and San Marcos this weekend. Whether you are looking for family friendly fun live music or a quiet morning outdoors our local communities have you covered.
Farmers Markets The Vista Farmers Market runs every Saturday morning from 8 AM to noon at the County Courthouse off S. Melrose. You will find fresh local produce artisan breads flowers and prepared foods from North County vendors. It is one of the best farmers markets in the region and a great way to start your Saturdays.
San Marcos also hosts a weekly market at North City on Friday evenings, 4 to 8 PM. Along with some fun music, you'll find some great food artisans and produce. Something for every family.
Parks and Outdoor Fun If you want to get outside Brengle Terrace Park in Vista offers walking trails sports fields and a community garden with stunning views of the valley.
In San Marcos you can visit Woodland Park which just reopened its freshly renovated pool this Summer complete with water slides and a diving area.
Discovery Lake in San Marcos is a favorite for a gentle stroll around the water and is especially lovely in the morning before it gets hot.
Community Events Check the City of Vista and City of San Marcos event calendars for weekend programming.
Summer concert series events are still running at local parks and many are free to attend. Pack a blanket and some snacks and enjoy live music under the evening sky with your neighbors.
Local Eats This weekend is a great time to try something new. Beat the heat and get away from cooking.
Grab a table at one of the many family owned restaurants along Vista Village Drive or explore the dining scene near San Marcos State University or San Marcos Blvd. Many local spots offer weekend specials and patio seating if you still want to be outside.
Questions You Might Have About Weekend Things To Do
Are the farmers markets open year round?
Are dogs allowed at local parks?
What are the best free things to do this weekend?
How do I find out about last minute events?
Are there indoor options for hot afternoons?
What time do the farmers markets open and close? |
25 Comments
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Parking at Vista Civic Center gets full fast. I try to get there right at 8 for the market.
San Marcos park pool looks so different after the updates! Slides are a nice touch.
The Vista Library cooling center saved us last summer during that big heat wave. Glad they're open again.
Wish the concerts started a little later, too hot before the sun goes down sometimes.
Anyone been to the new restaurants by the university? Curious about the weekend specials.
Thanks for the dog info, was never sure if Brengle Terrace lets us bring Charlie.
Always forget about Discovery Lake! It is so peaceful in the mornings if you get there before 9.
Janice P.Same here! I usually walk there with my dog early. Hardly anyone around and the water is so calm.
Vista Farmers Market is always my go to for bread. Those sourdough loaves are the best around.
Always mean to check the city website for events and always forget. Thanks for all the tips!
Discovery Lake walks in the morning are so peaceful. Saw ducks there last weekend.
Love that the markets are year round. So many other places close down for the winter. We’re lucky here.
Is the Vista Farmers Market better than the Oceanside one? Haven’t been in years but maybe I’ll give it another shot.
The Vista Farmers Market is definitely worth a visit again, it’s one of the oldest and largest in the region, with a fantastic selection of local growers and unique food vendors.
I wish more events started later in the day. Hard to get out early with kids. Still, live music is tempting.
Good to know about the cooling centers at the library. The heat has been brutal lately.
We tried a new taco spot by San Marcos State last week and it was seriously good. Highly recommend trying something new in that area.
Appreciate the info about dogs. Wasn’t sure if Discovery Lake allowed pups. Rosie will love that walk.
Double Peak is gorgeous for a hike but the parking lot fills up fast. Go early!
Always forget about those free concerts. Thanks for the reminder. Picking up my guitar to get in the mood now.
Glad to hear the Woodland Park pool is open again! My kids love those slides.
We’re so glad your family enjoys Woodland Park Pool, the new renovations and water slides have been a big hit this summer!
Never been to the farmers market in Vista. Might check it out Saturday morning. Anyone tried the breads there?
Jason T.Yeah, their breads are really good! The focaccia from Prager Brothers always disappears quick. Definitely worth a stop if you like fresh bread.
Glad Woodland Park Pool is open again. My kids have missed swimming there all summer.