If you are curious about traveling to the best-hidden gem of Texas, then Corpus Christi is just the place for you.
It is best known as the Sparkling City by the Sea, which is understandable given that the beautiful beaches are the heart and soul of the Texas Gulf Region.
And due to its proximity to water, it’s a great place for coastal and outdoor activities.
But let us not forget that it is home to the historic World War II battleship, USS Lexington, also known as ‘’The Blue Ghost,’’ which played an important role in the nation’s defense for nearly 50 years.
Want to know all of its history and other famous attraction?
Hop on! Let’s start with some of the best things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas, for a memorable trip.
Things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas
Learn World War II History at the USS Lexington
Address: 2914 N Shoreline Boulevard, Corpus Christi, Texas 78402, United States
Opening hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Costs: Admission rate range from $18 to $13 depending on ageIf you are a history buff and fond of seeing a little piece of the Naval past, you should definitely check out the USS Lexington.
It was once a warship that was used in many battles, including World War II.
Once aboard, visitors can venture on a self-guided tour of the 1000-square-foot interior of the ship.
It also offers a flight simulator, a 3D movie theatre, and an escape room for a great mix of fun and learning activities for the whole family.
Explore the Padre Island National Seashore
Address: 20420 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, Texas 78418, United States
Opening hours: open 24 hours
Costs: One day Pass range from $10 to $5 depending on the vehiclesUnlike other city beaches, Padre Island National Seashore is located in a natural setting that offers a variety of fun coastal activities and seaside restaurants with spectacular views.
Its 130,000 acres are home to beautiful beaches, sand dunes, grasslands, and various aquatic wildlife.
You could easily spend an entire day exploring it.
If you want to avoid crowds, go to the Laguna Madre waters, which is more of a quiet and calm beach.
It’s an ideal setting for the things like fishing, paddle boarding, kite surfing (you read that right), and even bird watching.
Tip: visit during summer, and you might be lucky enough to watch baby sea turtles hatching.
Visit Texas’ Largest Aquarium
Address: 2710 N Shoreline Boulevard, Corpus Christi, Texas 78402, United States
Opening hours: open daily 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Costs: Admission is $39.95 (adults 13+), $37.95 for seniors (65 and above), $29.95 for childrenThe best aquariums in the state are committed to providing exceptional care for animals while educating visitors about the wonders and life of the sea.
That is why it is one of the best places to visit while you are in Corpus Christi.
Make your way through the underwater world of Texas State Aquarium, where different species of animals are ready to entertain you.
Other fantastic exhibits include Dolphin shows, dive shows, feeding demonstrations, and Hawn Wild Flight theater (birds show).
Check it out because you will learn a lot and have tons of fun with everything it offers.
South Texas Botanical Garden and Nature Center
Address: 8545 S Staples Street, Corpus Christi, Texas 78413, United States
Opening hours: open daily from 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Costs: Admission is adult $9, seniors (60+) $7, children (3-12) $5, and free for children 3 and underThis beautiful piece of heaven boasts more than a 180-acres of nature-filled land that provide visitors with varieties of themed gardens for sightseeing and strolling around.
It is a colorful and vibrant way to explore the region’s floral offerings.
You may see many reptiles and birds as you walk around, as it is home to many species that are close to the botanical garden and nature center.
As for the kids, there is a playground on the inside property where they can break in some sweat while the adults can relax and enjoy the flowers and wildlife.
Catch a Game at the Whataburger Field
Address: 734 E Port Avenue, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401, United States
Opening hours: Box office opens from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Monday - Friday on non-game days)
Costs: Tiket prices vary according to matches and showsIf you like watching baseball games, head to Whataburger Field in downtown Corpus Christi.
Home to a minor league affiliate of the Houston Astros, it is the premier place in town to watch a good game and keep yourself entertained.
Not only are there baseball games, but it also hosts other events like movie nights and stadium tours.
Make sure to check out their website and book yourself a good seat.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Address: 1900 N Chaparral Street, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401, United States
Opening hours: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Tuesday - Saturday), 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm on Sundays, and closed on Mondays
Costs: Admission is $12 for adults and $9 for seniors/childrenCorpus Christi Museum of Science and History offers education and fun to the next level!
It features over 40,000 square feet of history and science exhibits showcasing the past 500 years of history related to south texas.
The Museum’s Interactive exhibits include artifacts from historical shipwrecks to decorative arts and items specific to Corpus Christi.
And not to forget many science-related hands-on activities for the little ones to enjoy and get creative.
Hiking and Biking at the Corpus Christi Bay Trail
Address: Corpus Christi, Texas, United States
Opening hours: open 24 hours
Costs: FreeThe Bay Trail is a 9-mile-long trail known for hiking and biking trails alongside a scenic view of the ocean.
It’s also a great way for visitors to stay in shape while seeing the city’s sights.
But wait, theres more to it!
Walkers and bikers can also visit many of the city’s parks and see the public art installations along the waterfront.
Don’t have a bike while you are here?
Don’t worry! You can rent one for less than $5 an hour from several convenient bike rental stations along the seawall.
Pay Tribute to the Iconic Popstar ”Selena Quintanilla Perez” at the Selena Museum
Address: 5410 Leopard Street, Corpus Christi, Texas 78408, United States
Opening hours: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
Costs: Admission is $5 (ages 3 and above), free for children 2 and underThis Museum is dedicated to the famous Grammy-winning artist Selena Quintanilla who tragically passed away when she was just 23 years.
She was the best record-selling Mexican-American artist of her time, also known as the Queen of Tejano music.
Today visitors from all around the world come and pay tribute to the iconic pop star.
The museum exhibit showcases the late singer’s stage outfits, recording studios, awards, and even a Porsche she owned.
Visiting here will undoubtedly give you insight into how much the city still loves and misses Selena’s music.
Get Creative at the Art Museum of South Texas
Address: 1902 N Shoreline Boulevard, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401, United States
Opening hours: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Tuesday - Saturday), 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm on Sundays, and closed on Mondays (might vary on programs and events)
Costs: Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for students, and children 12 and under are freeIf you enjoy art museums, you should definitely see the best of southern Texas at the Art Museum of South Texas.
It is one of the top cultural attractions in the city and is housed in a modern building set right on the waterfront.
Home to seven art galleries, artist studios, and rotating exhibits of fine artwork in different mediums, this is where you want to take your creativity to the next level.
The museum also hosts educational programs, lectures, and musical performances on special occasions.
And you will be happy to know that there is free admission on the first Friday of every month, from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Tip: It’s worth a stop in while you are nearby the Corpus Christi Bay Trail.
Admire the view from the Harbor Bridge
Address: 1620 N Port Avenue, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401Look no further than Harbor Bridge for a spectacular view of the sunset and a scenic view of the downtown area.
The bridge has six traffic lanes, but if you’re walking, you won’t have to worry about vehicles because it has a pedestrian walkway across the main road.
Best of all, it is protected by a guard rail and a brick wall, allowing visitors to take their time and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the top of the bridge.
Tip: visit in the evening and stay a little longer to see the many lights of Corpus Christi lighting the bridge and the night sky.
Rejuvenate at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Address: 1 Wildlife Cir, Austwell, Texas 77950, United States
Opening hours: visitor center opens daily from 9:00 am - 4:00 p, closed on major holidays
Costs: vary from vehicle and groups. Generally costs $3 (one adult in a vehicle)
Distance: 77.6 miles from downtown Corpus ChristiIf you want to get away from the ocean and city life for a while, take a two-hour drive from downtown Corpus Christi to Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
It’s a fantastic outdoor area that will immerse you in nature, with numerous hiking and wildlife observation opportunities available throughout the Refuge.
And while you explore more, take a 16-mile auto tour, fish from the pier, walk up to observation towers and relax with a picnic overlooking San Antonio Bay.
check out: Things to do in San Antonio, Texas.
Horses on the Beach
Address: 19136 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas 78418, United States
Opening hours: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Costs: one-hour horseback ride costs $79 during the day and $109 at sunset (Ages 8+).Are you looking for a way to spend a perfect romantic evening with your partner? Or are you simply looking for a place to test your horseback riding skills?
Dont worry! Horses on the Beach is committed to providing a unique horseback riding experience that will create lifelong memories.
It offers a variety of horseback riding experiences and adventures, allowing you to see the sights of the city and oceans while riding a steed.
For lovers, take the sunset ride as the ocean waves will be calm and steady, with the sunset reflecting the water.
After a whole hour of horseback riding, stop to pet the horses and other animals at the animal farm of the horses on the back.
Check out: Things to Do in Houston,Texas for Couples.
Check out the Best Places to Eat at Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi never disappoints when it comes to fine dining and outstanding cuisine. Our top recommendations include the following:
Andy’s Kitchen: It is a highly experienced neighborhood diner that serves homestyle comfort food such as Mexican dishes and breakfast.
Black Diamond Oyster Bar: It is a small, wood-accented seafood restaurant and bar with picnic tables and live music outside.
The Blue Clove Seafood Bar and Grill: It is a laid-back, family-friendly outpost that serves American seafood and meat plates, as well as vegetables and sides.
Price’s Chef: It is a long-running breakfast and lunch spot in retro digs that serves the best eggs, burgers, and Texas-shaped waffles.
Note: For making a reservation, we recommend visiting the official website.Check out the best places to stay in Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi has something to suit every budget and preference regarding the best service and amenities. Our top recommendations include the following:
Hilton Garden Inn Corpus Christi is a modern hotel with an outdoor pool and an excellent American restaurant serving breakfast and dinner.
Port Royal Ocean Resort & Conference Center: It has upscale condominiums with kitchens and patios, as well as a lagoon-style pool with swim-up bars.
Residence Inn by Marriott Corpus Christi Downtown: It offers visitors modern accommodations in a relaxed all-suite hotel with a lounge and an outdoor pool, as well as scenic bay views.
Aloft Corpus Christi: It has relaxed rooms in a modern hotel with a 24-hour trendy eatery restaurant, a hip bar, and an outdoor pool.
Note: For bookings and accomodations, we reccomend visiting its official website.Start Planning A Memorable Holiday at Corpus Christi
Whether you explore the city with your friends or on your own, you will leave many memories in this Sparkling City filled with many sea adventures.
And now that you’ve gotten an idea of our top recommendations and itinerary of the best things to do and see, your visit will be worthy of mentioning as the ‘’best place I have ever been to.’’
So, whatever you want to do, Corpus Christi will likely have it all.
Good luck!
Note: Keep in mind that information about travel can change quickly. To make sure your trip is fun and safe, we encourage you to double-check official websites and government/travel advisory sites for the latest information on travel restrictions, entry requirements, and safety measures.