25 Best Things to Do in Corpus Christi, Texas

© South Texas Institute for the Arts

The South Texas Institute for the Arts collects, preserves, exhibits, and interprets works of visual art with a particular focus on the Americas and surrounding regions.

Established in 1945 to raise awareness of art and its role in society, as well as inspire an appreciation and enjoyment of art, the South Texas Institute for the Arts stands today as both a recreational and educational resource for students, educators, and the public alike.

The museum features a permanent art collection with over 1,500 works of art in various mediums, from painting, drawing, and sculpture to ceramics, collages, and textiles, as well as evolving exhibitions and architecture.

The South Texas Institute for the Arts is one of the best things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas. The museum also presents a variety of programs, which include lectures and bilingual gallery talks, workshops and art classes, and dance, theatrical, and musical performances.

1902 North Shoreline Boulevard, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-825-3500

© Courtesy of st_matty - Fotolia.com

The USS Lexington is a museum and education facility dedicated to the US warship by the same name, which played a significant role in the nation’s defense for over 50 years. The USS Lexington was converted into a naval aviation museum in 1992 with the aim of preserving the history and educating the public about naval aviation and the role of the aircraft carrier in the national defense.

Visitors can go on five self-guided tours around the vessel that explore the ship’s eleven decks and 1,000 square feet of space, including the flight deck, foc’sle, gallery deck, hangar deck, and lower deck. Watch an interactive show at the three-storey Joe Jessel 3D Mega Theater, stop by the Virtual Battlestations on the main Hangar Deck and take command of the ship, or take to battle in the Flight Simulator and find yourself in the pilot’s seat of a fighter jet.

The museum also offers a range of educational programs for all ages, including overnight camping on the ship and volunteering to help on board in various roles. The USS Lexington is one of the top Corpus Christi attractions.

2914 N. Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-888-4873

More Texas destinations: 45 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas, from Dallas, from Houston and from Austin.

© Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History was established in 1957 to inspire and encourage children of all ages to take an interest in science and exploration.

The Museum’s 40,000 square foot space features a range of historical collections that showcase more than half a century of South Texas history, from shipwrecks of early explorers to intricate decorative arts from local cultures. Signature exhibits include Seeds of Change, which takes a closer look at nature and the environment; Coastal Ecology, a display about life found on the coastal shoreline; and Explore the Nanoverse, which offers an in-depth look at the microscopic world.

The museum also presents several educational programs, workshops, and summer camps for children of all ages, as well as family-friendly events such as the Haunted Museum Tour for Halloween.

1900 N. Chaparral Street, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-826-4667

© Courtesy of sommai - Fotolia.com

The South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a community-based nature center and public garden located on South Staples Road.

Established in 1987 as a recreational and educational resource for the people of Corpus Christi, the gardens have been continually developed into what they are today and now include an arid garden, a modern Exhibit House featuring exotic species such as cycads, bromeliads, cacti, and succulents, a hibiscus and hummingbird garden, an orchid house with over 3,000 common and rare species of orchids, and a contemporary rose garden.

If you are wondering what to do in Corpus Christi, Texas with kids, this is a great place to visit. The gardens are also home to an outstanding collection of plumeria varieties, several landscape demonstration beds, a sensory garden, and water garden. Stroll along the Mesquite trail and take in the magnificent surrounding landscapes, which feature over 35 species of grasses, shrubs, herbs and woody trees, as well as some wildlife.

8545 South Staples, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-852-2100

© Courtesy of philipus - Fotolia.com

Dedicated to promoting environmental conservation and the rehabilitation of the wildlife of the Gulf of Mexico, the Texas State Aquarium is a must-see for a fun-filled family day out.

Enjoy daily dive shows, training sessions with the animals, feedings, and interactive programs with stingrays and sharks. Featured exhibits include Dolphin Bay, which houses two Atlantic bottlenose dolphins; Eagle Pass where rescued raptors live in tranquility, including a beautiful bald eagle named Grace; Floating Phantoms, which is filled with a variety of jellyfish and sea nettles; and Flower Gardens, home to magnificent coral reefs, green moray eels, tarpon, and cow nose sting rays.

The Hawn Wild Flight Theater presents an array of trained birds, including falcons, owls, hawks and parrots, while the aquarium’s largest exhibit, Islands of Steel, recreates the habitat formed around an oil platform and is home to grouper, amberjack, tarpon, nurse sharks, and barracuda.

In addition to the many exhibits and displays, the Aquarium offers several educational programs, such as Aquarium Discovery programs, overnight stays and camps and outreach programs.

2710 N. Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 800-477-GUL

More places to visit: 10 Best Things to See & Do in Austin.

© Selena Museum

The Selena Museum was founded as a memorial to the famous singer Selena Quintanilla-Pérez and is dedicated to showcasing her achievements and life. Heralded as the Queen of Tejano Music, Selena became the best-selling Latin artist of the decade before one of her fans tragically killed her at the age of 23.

Built by the Quintanilla family at the request of thousands of fans, the museum takes fans on a journey through the singer’s life, with exhibits showing her recording studio, stage outfits, her beloved red Porsche, and her music awards.

5410 Leopard St., Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-289-9013

© Texas Surf Museum

The Texas Surf Museum showcases the history of surfing in general and the Lone Star State's unique place in the sport’s history. Established in 2005, the museum features an array of exhibits, displays, and stories that both surfers and non-surfers will find fascinating.

Catch a surfing film in the projection theater, explore the myriad photographs throughout the museum, or take some time to yourself and relax on a bench made from surfboards. Past exhibits have included Lenses of Aloha, Surfing Through the 70s, and Texas Women, Texas Waves, while the current exhibition is Endless Summer.

309A N. Water Street, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-882-2364

© The Art Center of Corpus Christi

Established as the Art Community Center in 1972 and now known as The Art Center of Corpus Christi, this center is a multi-purpose facility dedicated to promoting all forms of art within the community.

Located on North Shore Boulevard in the heart of Corpus Christi’s bayfront district, the Art Center features a variety of rotating exhibitions of original artworks, and it offers engaging art experiences, lessons, and classes for all ages. Enjoy classes on clay-making at the Barry Brown Clay Studio, which is located inside the Art Center of Corpus Christi and provides clay art classes for beginners and advanced artists in wheel throwing and in hand building for adults.

The Art Center also hosts a range of events for the community such as a Farmers Market, Wednesday Art Market, Art Walk and Art-in-Action.

100 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-884-6406

You may also like: 23 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas.

© Courtesy of philipus - Fotolia.com

Padre Island National Seashore is a pristine stretch of undeveloped barrier island that separates the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre, one of just a few hypersaline lagoons in the world. The national park protects over 70 miles of magnificent coastline comprised of rolling dunes, vast prairies, and windswept tidal flats that teem with life.

Boasting a rich history – Padre Island has been owned by no less than four nations, beginning with the Spanish in 1554 – the natural landscapes provide critical habitats for a variety of marine and terrestrial plants and animals, including a number of rare, threatened, and endangered species such as the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and over 380 bird species.

The Laguna Madre is a rare treasure - one of only six hypersaline lagoons in the world and home to more than 77% of North America’s wintering population of redhead ducks, as well as a wide variety of other bird species.

20420 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-949-8069

© Courtesy of MIKYIMAGENARTE - Fotolia.com

Horses On The Beach Corpus Christi offers horseback riding adventures and experiences on the beach to all ages and levels of riders. Enjoy long rides along the beach on well-trained, manageable horses led by expert guides and take in the beautiful seascapes and natural scenery along the way.

Horses On The Beach also offers nightly Ranch Cookouts, which include a range of fun activities such as horseback rides, hay rides, and the opportunity to visit a petting zoo, as well as a catered barbecue with meat and vegetarian options. Riding helmets are provided, and beach rides and Ranch Cookouts need to be booked in advance.

16562 SPID - Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, Texas, Phone: 361-949-4944

Next read: Art Museum of South Texas

© Courtesy of mtsaride - Fotolia.com

Whataburger Field is a minor league baseball field that is home to the Hooks, a Double-A Texas League affiliate of the Houston Astros. Completed in 2005, the much-loved ballpark rests on what used to be the site dominated by cotton warehouses at the seaport.

It pays tribute to the site's heritage through several of its design attributes, such as the left-center field scoreboard, which is framed by antique cotton presses that date back to 1920.

The 7,000-seater stadium features modern amenities, including a VIP Lounge, the Driscoll Children's Hospital Fun Zone, the Stripes Kid's Park (a youth baseball field), basketball courts, a climbing wall, trampoline, and an air-conditioned entertainment area called the Cotton Club. A variety of food stands and eateries offer everything from chopped beef sandwiches to gourmet pretzels, burgers, and beers.

734 E Port Ave, Corpus Christi, TX, Phone: 361-561-4665

© Republic of Texas Bar and Grill

Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, the Republic of Texas Bar & Grill steakhouse offers outstanding cuisine, first-class service, and breathtaking panoramic views.

One of Corpus Christi's top dining destinations, this multi-level steakhouse presents a tempting menu featuring prime beef, wild game and seafood, and an award-winning wine list. Appetizers range from quail legs, shrimp cocktail, and crab cakes to French escargot, ahi tuna tartare, and fresh oysters.

If you are looking for romantic date night ideas, this is a great place to try. Enjoy choosing from a variety of entrées such as prime-cut grade steaks, venison, chicken, and seafood dishes such as lobster tails, jumbo shrimp, and seared tuna. Add soups, salads, and sides as an optional accompaniment to your meal, and enjoy a signature cocktail or a fine wine from the curated wine list as you take in the views.

900 North Shoreline Boulevard, Corpus Christi, TX, Phone: 361-887-1600

© Courtesy of raulbaena - Fotolia.com

Corpus Christi is a destination for bird lovers, as it has a variety of prominent places to enjoy bird watching. Located in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi, Blucher Park is a four-acre pocket of green that attracts birders and allows them to see dozens of species with a network of footpaths that provide an opportunity to explore the landscapes.

Hans & Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge, located on Ennis Joslin and Nile, is a shorebird’s heaven, packed with waterfowl, shorebirds, butterflies, and wildlife. An 800-foot nature trail and one-mile boardwalk wind through marshes, woodlands, and grasslands to offer spectacular birding and beautiful views.

Hazel Bazemore is home to several hawks, the majority of which are broad-winged hawks and can be seen from a comfortable hawk watch platform. The South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center offers another excellent place to watch birds with a variety of habitats and natural environments that attract myriad species.

© Courtesy of philipus - Fotolia.com

Bob Hall Pier is located in the 400-acre Padre Balli Park on the north end of Padre Island and offers visitors the perfect place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, surfing, and swimming. With a length of 1,240 feet, this pier extends far enough into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico to offer fishermen the opportunity to catch deep water fish and species that rarely come closer to shore.

There is a small fee to enter the pier and several vendors sell fishing supplies along the pier. Don’t know how to fish? Join the Tackle Loaner Program on the pier to learn more about the sport. Enjoy lunch at one of the many picnic tables or cabanas nearby, with clean restrooms and a Beach Bathhouse also available for use.

© Black Sheep Bistro

The Black Sheep Bistro is a friendly, inviting eatery and bar with an innovative menu of American cuisine, excellent steaks, and fresh seafood. Featuring casual, chic décor and a relaxed ambiance, the little bistro by the Bay is ideal for a family gathering or a romantic dinner for two.

Dishes are prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and include crisp garden salads, appetizers such as crab cakes, jumbo shrimp, and lamb chops, and entrées like grilled salmon, strip steak, and Cornish game hen. Vegetarian options include roasted bell peppers and homemade linguini with mushrooms while desserts of chocolate brownies, cheesecake, and crème bruleé really hit the spot.

A selective wine list features a range of reds, whites, sparkling wine, and ports, and the classic Sunday brunch is popular among locals and visitors alike.

15201 SPID, Corpus Christi, TX, Phone: 361-949-4819

Next read: Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures & Education Center

© Courtesy of wildner dpix - Fotolia.com

Formerly known as the Corpus Christi Beach, North Beach is a beautiful, white sandy beach close to the city center, and it is the perfect place to escape the crowds. Golden sands and the warm waters of the Gulf make this beach great for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply relaxing, while sheltered cabanas and picnic spots dotted about the beach are perfect for a shady lunch.

The beach is within close proximity to some of Corpus Christi’s most popular attractions such as the Texas State Aquarium and the famous U.S.S. Lexington and Museum, as well as excellent seafood restaurants for Gulf-based cuisine. North Beach is open 24/7 365 days a year and offers free parking, on-duty lifeguards, and public restrooms.

© Courtesy of fotek - Fotolia.com

Andy’s Country Kitchen is a home-away-from-home, family-friendly eatery that serves home country cooking at its best. Much-loved by locals, the restaurant boasts a warm and welcoming ambiance with friendly, attentive staff, some of whom have been at Andy’s since inception.

The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, and their delicious all-day breakfast includes the usual hearty fare of eggs, bacon, omelets, waffles, pancakes, cereals, and Mexican delights such as burritos and quesadillas.

The lunch menu features soups, salads, chili, and gumbo, as well as larger meat, chicken, and seafood dishes and Mexican favorites. Also on the menu are burgers, sandwiches, fruits, and salads, along with special kid’s menus and daily lunch specials. Don’t miss a slice of Granny’s Chocolate Cake or Andy’s homemade cheesecake.

5802 S. Staples Street, Corpus Christi, TX, Phone: 361-993-0251