Is parking available at the hotel?

Free self-parking is available on-site for guests.

What type of breakfast is offered?

A delicious breakfast is served, though specific details on the type and cost are not provided.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00. Early or late check-in/check-out may be available upon request.

What accessibility features are available for guests with disabilities?

The property offers limited wheelchair accessibility, including accessible facilities in public areas.

Where is the hotel located in relation to local attractions?

The hotel is located in the city center of San Marcos, close to Texas State University and the San Marcos River. It is also near cultural highlights like Texas Music Theater and Calaboose African American History Museum.

Are children allowed to stay at the hotel?

Children are welcome at the hotel, but the minimum age for free stays is not specified.

The Crystal River Inn

What guests think

The Crystal River Inn is a historic, centrally located property praised for its walkable proximity to downtown and Texas State University, charming rooms with comfortable beds, and generally friendly, responsive service, though several reviews highlight dated bathrooms and limited amenities.

Parking is a recurring pain point, described as tight or confusing by some and easy by others. Noise from nearby streets or a bar affects certain rooms, while overall cleanliness ranges from very clean to occasional issues in shared or outdoor areas. Expect a character filled stay in a prime location with comforts alongside quirks.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Parking ranges from easy to tight or confusing. Amenities are limited for a historic inn, with mentions of no elevator or microwave and no ice machine; some rooms use window A/C.

Related guest reviews

10

Terry

28 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful property and grounds. Walking distance to entertainment and places to eat. Nice porches to sit outside or garden to walk in.

4

Raja-Gebriil

8 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Lacks many amenities, such as but not limited to, elevator, microwave oven anywhere on the property or inside room, trash can, regular shower, empty space in the room is filled with multiple unnecessary chairs. We perticularly do not recommend this property for people over the age of 40.

2

Dana

30 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Parking is very limited due to small area. Then owner allowed several vehicles to park incorrectly causing other guess to seek parking else where!

8

Andrew

1 Jan 2026

·

Stayed 1 night

Room was clean needs updates and repairs. It would have been nice to know it next to an open air bar before reserving a room at least the provided earplugs. Parking was not dark and not well marked. It’s okay for one night

10

Shannon

26 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great place to stay! Very close to campus, which is what I needed. Parking was a little confusing, but once I called and they explained it not a big deal. Highly recommend staying here very convenient to everything.

10

James

26 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Clean, easy parking. Never saw the staff - didn’t matter check in/out was easy.

8

lesley

22 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Charming inn, full of character, a little tired but still lovely. Rickety door handles, locks and taps all could do with maintenance. Parking tight but ok. Bedding & towels lovely, room was largely clean but not pristine. Shared fridge on landing was manky. No ice machine available. Air con was good, nice breakfast. Easy walk to supermarket and town.

6

Emily

31 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful house. The innkeeper was so nice and the breakfast was great. Great location. I would say I didn’t realize there was not central AC but there was a window unit. I also was suprised that there was not a shower at all but there was a bathtub. Just be aware that it is an older home with older accommodations. My son locked the bathroom door and it wouldn’t unlock so after about 20-30 minutes of him being stuck with no AC I had to take the knob off the door. The innkeeper was able to bring me screwdrivers to use.

10

John

29 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

lovely rooms, parking was a little challenging

8

Sabine

7 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

It was confusing where to go for check in or to park. Room is nice ,Bath room had a leaking toilet.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Cleanliness

Many guests find rooms clean, but maintenance and cleanliness can be inconsistent, especially in bathrooms and some shared areas. Issues noted include clogged or leaking fixtures and grounds that need attention.

Related guest reviews

10

Anuradha

14 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The place was filled with old world charm. absolutely unique. I was a bit worried about the negative reviews in terms of noise and cleanliness. The place was very clean and more importantly so very quiet and peaceful. Live music on Saturday night ended by 9 pm. We had such an excellent, restful break at Crystal river inn. We absolutely LOVED this place! Thank you for hosting us.

8

Tiffany

16 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Cute, quaint, spacious, clean and convenient.

10

Linda

30 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great, walkable location! Quick, responsive communication from guest services when we had questions. They were low-key and easy, but quick to offer any assistance or housekeeping if needed. The room was clean and comfortable. We would stay here again.

10

Jessenia

7 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful house with character, the check-in process was very easy and convenient. The place is clean, provides toiletries and the main square is within walking distance. This home was a unique experience, a must !

4

KELLY

25 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The bathroom is atrocious to be so expensive. Outdated and barely functional. The shower barely put out water, and was only useable after I cleaned the showerhead myself. The sink faucets were both clogged and barely put out any water. The rooms and beds were great, but the desks and chairs were uncomfortable and old. This place needs some serious updates to continue demanding such a high price.

8

Andrew

1 Jan 2026

·

Stayed 1 night

Room was clean needs updates and repairs. It would have been nice to know it next to an open air bar before reserving a room at least the provided earplugs. Parking was not dark and not well marked. It’s okay for one night

10

James

26 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Clean, easy parking. Never saw the staff - didn’t matter check in/out was easy.

8

lesley

22 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Charming inn, full of character, a little tired but still lovely. Rickety door handles, locks and taps all could do with maintenance. Parking tight but ok. Bedding & towels lovely, room was largely clean but not pristine. Shared fridge on landing was manky. No ice machine available. Air con was good, nice breakfast. Easy walk to supermarket and town.

8

Sabine

7 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

It was confusing where to go for check in or to park. Room is nice ,Bath room had a leaking toilet.

6

Pam

12 Apr 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The staff was very friendly. This property does not work well for people over 60 plus. The claw tub looks cute but is not practical for someone older. The club down the street was not a problem. However, road noise did not ease up until after midnight and some incidents even much later. Grounds were not kept and need some attending..

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Rooms

Rooms are charming and often spacious with very comfortable beds, but several note impractical bathroom setups (no standing shower, low showerheads) and some street or bar noise in certain rooms. Furniture can feel dated, and pillows are quite firm for some.

Related guest reviews

4

Brian

4 Feb 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The room was at the front of the house very loud. The whole time I was there I never saw anyone who worked there. It’s a bed and breakfast with no breakfast. What a rip off I should’ve just stayed at the la Quinta like always.

10

Kendall

12 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

If you like historical architecture and elegance without the extreme modern upgrades, I highly recommend. I always look for a place like The Crystal River Inn when I travel for a unique experience. This is a college town and the streets do get loud with chatter, but I was unbothered by it having lived in NYC for many years. The only ‘quirk’ that might be a bother is the shower head. I am 5’ 3’’ and it was directly in front of my forehead. It needs to be changed as there is a lot of calcium build up, but it got the job done. LOVED the French Press coffee I could make in my room, excellent. An employee named Regina was so kind and helpful, the staff was lovely and the text communication was perfection.

10

Lezlee

3 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Comfortable bed and room. The location was very convenient to TXST and downtown San Marcos.

10

Linda

30 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great, walkable location! Quick, responsive communication from guest services when we had questions. They were low-key and easy, but quick to offer any assistance or housekeeping if needed. The room was clean and comfortable. We would stay here again.

6

Janna

5 Aug 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Door was locked to outside when we tried to check in. We were in the Thomas House and I thought we were actually staying in the Crystal Inn pictured on website next door. Bottom floor was business. The bathtub is huge jet tub with a pull out handle to shower and the water sprayed all over the room when you used it. Being 5'4 I had a hard time climbing over the bathtub to get in and my mom had a difficult time. Told person who was texting me that they should change that to regular tub/shower combo. She gave me info on different room could book the next time in the main house on first floor so will try it. Beds were amazing!!! Best I have ever slept in hotel. Room was Cypress Suite and it was beautiful, huge with sitting area. Loved it except being upstairs for my mom to walk and jet tub experience.

4

KELLY

25 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The bathroom is atrocious to be so expensive. Outdated and barely functional. The shower barely put out water, and was only useable after I cleaned the showerhead myself. The sink faucets were both clogged and barely put out any water. The rooms and beds were great, but the desks and chairs were uncomfortable and old. This place needs some serious updates to continue demanding such a high price.

8

Andrew

1 Jan 2026

·

Stayed 1 night

Room was clean needs updates and repairs. It would have been nice to know it next to an open air bar before reserving a room at least the provided earplugs. Parking was not dark and not well marked. It’s okay for one night

6

Emily

31 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful house. The innkeeper was so nice and the breakfast was great. Great location. I would say I didn’t realize there was not central AC but there was a window unit. I also was suprised that there was not a shower at all but there was a bathtub. Just be aware that it is an older home with older accommodations. My son locked the bathroom door and it wouldn’t unlock so after about 20-30 minutes of him being stuck with no AC I had to take the knob off the door. The innkeeper was able to bring me screwdrivers to use.

10

John

29 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

lovely rooms, parking was a little challenging

6

Kim

22 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

The property was quaint and the rooms beautifully decorated. The property is a bit rundown and needs to be updated fairly soon. The beds were comfortable and the temperature good. My 2 biggest complaints are 1/ the pillows; extremely full, firm pillows that force your neck into unnatural positions. Asked for softer pillows and they do not carry any. 2/ There was no standing shower and you had to sit in the bathtub to take a shower. There was no instruction to turn on the shower and spent 20 min finally discovering a little latch behind the tub faucet not visible.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Service

Service is generally friendly and responsive, with easy self check in and quick help via text or in person. A few guests reported difficulty reaching staff or finding check in initially.

Related guest reviews

10

Julee

12 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

Innkeepers are very friendly and accommodating. Rooms are clean and quiet. Its a really old house with rustic charm, so if you’re into that aesthetic this is the place! Ive stayed here twice and will again every time i’m in SMTX

8

Michael

27 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Property was great! Very convenient to everything and had everything you would need if you forgot something. Very responsive hosts and made sure we had everything we needed.

10

Linda

30 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great, walkable location! Quick, responsive communication from guest services when we had questions. They were low-key and easy, but quick to offer any assistance or housekeeping if needed. The room was clean and comfortable. We would stay here again.

6

Janna

5 Aug 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Door was locked to outside when we tried to check in. We were in the Thomas House and I thought we were actually staying in the Crystal Inn pictured on website next door. Bottom floor was business. The bathtub is huge jet tub with a pull out handle to shower and the water sprayed all over the room when you used it. Being 5'4 I had a hard time climbing over the bathtub to get in and my mom had a difficult time. Told person who was texting me that they should change that to regular tub/shower combo. She gave me info on different room could book the next time in the main house on first floor so will try it. Beds were amazing!!! Best I have ever slept in hotel. Room was Cypress Suite and it was beautiful, huge with sitting area. Loved it except being upstairs for my mom to walk and jet tub experience.

10

Maria

20 Mar 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Excelente service friendly staff. Beautiful property with big rooms very comfortable. Breakfast was very tasty and delicious.

10

James

26 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Clean, easy parking. Never saw the staff - didn’t matter check in/out was easy.

10

brittney

23 Mar 2023

·

Stayed 4 nights

The staff is amazing! They made my stay so comfortable, it felt like a home away from home.

10

Laura

13 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Pretty interior design with a relaxed ambiance! Would definitely come back. Prompt responses through text for property communication!

6

Emily

31 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful house. The innkeeper was so nice and the breakfast was great. Great location. I would say I didn’t realize there was not central AC but there was a window unit. I also was suprised that there was not a shower at all but there was a bathtub. Just be aware that it is an older home with older accommodations. My son locked the bathroom door and it wouldn’t unlock so after about 20-30 minutes of him being stuck with no AC I had to take the knob off the door. The innkeeper was able to bring me screwdrivers to use.

8

Jacquelyn

16 Aug 2022

·

Stayed 1 night

Clerk was friendly. Appeared knowledgeable regarding history of the house. While old houses are creaky, didn’t hear other guest coming or going.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Location

Consistently praised central location within walking distance of downtown, restaurants, and Texas State University. Some guests experienced late night street or nearby bar noise.

Related guest reviews

10

Terry

28 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful property and grounds. Walking distance to entertainment and places to eat. Nice porches to sit outside or garden to walk in.

10

Jose

13 Aug 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Perfect spot in San Marcos

10

Shelbi

10 Feb 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Proximity to campus and old feel

10

Lezlee

3 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Comfortable bed and room. The location was very convenient to TXST and downtown San Marcos.

10

George

30 May 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Very nice room and later back stay. The hotel is right in the center of a bunch of restaurants and businesses so you can walk almost next door to get food and anything you need

10

Traci

27 Aug 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Perfect location, beautiful property!

10

Linda

30 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great, walkable location! Quick, responsive communication from guest services when we had questions. They were low-key and easy, but quick to offer any assistance or housekeeping if needed. The room was clean and comfortable. We would stay here again.

10

Clayton

18 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Cool old place in a great area for the square and university!

10

Jessenia

7 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful house with character, the check-in process was very easy and convenient. The place is clean, provides toiletries and the main square is within walking distance. This home was a unique experience, a must !

10

Shannon

26 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great place to stay! Very close to campus, which is what I needed. Parking was a little confusing, but once I called and they explained it not a big deal. Highly recommend staying here very convenient to everything.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Dining

Breakfast feedback is inconsistent: several reviewers say there is no breakfast, while others praise a tasty or amazing breakfast.

Related guest reviews

8

Roberto

1 Oct 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

We liked to visit this place because of its tradition and Victorian style. I understand it is now becoming modernized. I just wish in the future breakfast was more of an option choices of the traditional style. Yes, things change and I only hope traditions are not lost. We did enjoy our stay.

4

Brian

4 Feb 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The room was at the front of the house very loud. The whole time I was there I never saw anyone who worked there. It’s a bed and breakfast with no breakfast. What a rip off I should’ve just stayed at the la Quinta like always.

10

Philip

10 Jan 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Excellent little inn. Not really a bed and breakfast, since there’s no breakfast, but convenient to downtown and TSU

10

Samantha

21 Aug 2022

·

Stayed 1 night

The Crystal River Inn is a Beautiful place. So tranquil and comfortable and also very clean. The location is great. Breakfast in the morning was Amazing. Terry makes the absolute best pancakes I have ever had. Sausage was great too. I hope you have a fantastic time in Hawaii, Terry. I highly recommend the Crystal River Inn.

10

Kendall

12 Nov 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

If you like historical architecture and elegance without the extreme modern upgrades, I highly recommend. I always look for a place like The Crystal River Inn when I travel for a unique experience. This is a college town and the streets do get loud with chatter, but I was unbothered by it having lived in NYC for many years. The only ‘quirk’ that might be a bother is the shower head. I am 5’ 3’’ and it was directly in front of my forehead. It needs to be changed as there is a lot of calcium build up, but it got the job done. LOVED the French Press coffee I could make in my room, excellent. An employee named Regina was so kind and helpful, the staff was lovely and the text communication was perfection.

10

Maria

20 Mar 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Excelente service friendly staff. Beautiful property with big rooms very comfortable. Breakfast was very tasty and delicious.

10

Tonya

9 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is an amazing alternative to the hotels along i35. Home away from home... breakfast is amazing.

8

Maria

17 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

They use to offer breakfast before,it was bed and breakfast ,saddly ,not anymore!

8

lesley

22 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Charming inn, full of character, a little tired but still lovely. Rickety door handles, locks and taps all could do with maintenance. Parking tight but ok. Bedding & towels lovely, room was largely clean but not pristine. Shared fridge on landing was manky. No ice machine available. Air con was good, nice breakfast. Easy walk to supermarket and town.

6

Emily

31 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful house. The innkeeper was so nice and the breakfast was great. Great location. I would say I didn’t realize there was not central AC but there was a window unit. I also was suprised that there was not a shower at all but there was a bathtub. Just be aware that it is an older home with older accommodations. My son locked the bathroom door and it wouldn’t unlock so after about 20-30 minutes of him being stuck with no AC I had to take the knob off the door. The innkeeper was able to bring me screwdrivers to use.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1	2	3
4	5	6 $138	7	8 $163	9 $178	10 $165
11 $141	12 $143	13 $131	14 $155	15	16	17
18 $155	19 $145	20 $131	21 $160	22 $199	23 $361	24
25 $183	26 $145	27 $155	28 $145	29 $156	30	31

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
1 $143	2 $143	3 $143	4 $145	5 $174	6 $212	7
8	9 $131	10 $143	11 $155	12 $189	13	14
15 $143	16 $143	17 $143	18 $155	19 $189	20 $246	21
22 $143	23 $143	24 $155	25	26	27	28
29 $143	30 $143

The Crystal River Inn

About this property

Location

Room options

Classic Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Double Family Room

Classic King Room

Superior Suite

Family Single Room, 2 Queen Beds

Classic Room, 1 Queen Bed

Classic Queen Room

Classic Room, 1 Bedroom

Standard Room

Classic Room

Standard 2 Queen Or Single Family Room

Guest reviews of The Crystal River Inn

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property policies

Check-in instructions

Good to know

FAQs about The Crystal River Inn

Prices for upcoming dates