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Corpus Christi is a coastal city in the Lone Star State. Many visitors flock here to enjoy the beach, however, there are great museums and outdoor activities to explore beyond the salt-washed shores. Commonly referred to as “Corpus” by Texans, this coastal city is a great place for a week-long family vacation or a romantic weekend getaway. Explore more of what this city has to offer by experiencing these top things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Texas State Aquarium
Don’t only visit the Texas coast but learn about the marine life that thrives here at The Texas State Aquarium. This top aquarium in Texas features a variety of underwater creatures that live in the Gulf of Mexico. Home to bottlenose dolphins, jellyfish, stingrays and a colorful array of fish, there is plenty to see and explore among the exhibitions that span 14 acres. One of the most interesting and largest exhibits in the aquarium is Islands of Steel, which is a recreated habitat formed around an oil platform.
U.S.S. Lexington
The U.S.S. Lexington, once a World War II aircraft carrier, is now a military museum. This massive vessel has become one of the top attractions in Corpus Christi and is even recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Visitors are encouraged to go on five self-guided tours throughout the vessel’s eleven decks, combat rooms, bridge and barracks.
Padre Island National Seashore
One of the main attractions drawing visitors to Corpus Christi is Padre Island National Seashore. This 70-mile stretch of picturesque Gulf sees beachgoers, fishermen and birdwatchers alike. The National Park Service protects this pristine area full of grassy dunes and sandy beaches. This area is also a crucial wildlife habitat for migratory birds and sea turtles. Padre Island National Seashore is actually the largest natural barrier island left in the entire world.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History
Learn more about Texas’ interesting history at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History. View the Gulf of Mexico’s largest shipwreck or learn more about the microscopic world. Perfect for both children and adults, a visit to the Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History will fascinate all members of your family. For more than 50 years, visitors and locals to Corpus Christi have been captivated by the over 40,000 square feet of exhibition space.
South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
Enjoy Corpus Christi’s gorgeous weather without having to deal with a sandy beach at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. This 180-acre garden features a wide variety of plant life teeming with insects and birds. A perfect place for a stroll or a picnic, this botanical gardens features tropical plants, roses and approximately 2,500 different types of orchids.
Whataburger Field
Baseball fans who find themselves in Corpus Christi should not miss out on visiting Whataburger Field. Home to Corpus Christi’s minor league team, the Corpus Christi Hooks, Whataburger Field is regularly filled with thousands of fans. The view from inside the stadium boasts scenic views of the city bridge and the U.S.S. Lexington. Even if there isn’t a game going on, the bronze statue outside of Whataburger Field is still a sight to see, as it claims to be the largest bronze baseball player statue found in America.
Selena Museum
Fans of the Tejano singer Selena will love visiting the Selena Museum. Selena’s tragic end is something that many Texans will never forget. Her lively tunes and dance moves will remain in the hearts and minds of Texans forever. Therefore the Selena Museum was created at the request of fans. Here you can view Selena’s achievements, outfits, her red Porsche and many of her other notable possessions. Known as “The Mexican Madonna,” Selena lives on through this unique museum found in Corpus Christi.
Texas Surf Museum
Texas may not be as famous for surfing as California or Hawaii, but surf culture is alive and well in Corpus Christi. Therefore learn all about Texas surf at the Texas Surf Museum. View a video of Texas swells in the theater or browse the rotating surf exhibits that range from Texas women surfers to Texas surfing in the ’70s.
Art Museum of South Texas
Art lovers visiting this coastal city will find a remarkable art museum located in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi. Art Museum of South Texas features over 1,500 pieces of art and sculptures in its permanent collection. This museum strives to focus on works that focus on Mexico, America’s South and of course Texas. Also look into the museum’s events and programs, which include lectures, workshops, live music and art classes.
Bob Hall Pier
Bob Hall Pier has grown as a popular attraction for fishermen in Corpus Christi. However, you don’t have to fish to enjoy all that the pier has to offer, which also has picnic tables, restrooms and great views of the Gulf. This 1,240-foot pier is long enough that fishermen can actually catch deep-sea fish that don’t regularly come near the shore.
