20 Things to Do in Corpus Christi Texas

Corpus Christi, Texas, is a vibrant coastal city that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in this Gulf Coast gem. From stunning beaches and scenic parks to world-class museums and unique local experiences, Corpus Christi is a destination that promises fun and discovery. In this article, we’ll explore 20 must-do activities that will help you make the most of your visit to Corpus Christi.

1. Relax at Padre Island National Seashore

Padre Island National Seashore is one of the most beautiful and pristine natural areas in Texas. Stretching over 70 miles, it’s the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. Here, you can relax on the sandy beaches, explore the dunes, go birdwatching, and even witness sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean. The park also offers camping, fishing, and kayaking opportunities, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Sea turtle releases (seasonal)
• Birdwatching along the Central Flyway
• Camping on the beach

2. Visit the Texas State Aquarium

The Texas State Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Corpus Christi, offering a fascinating glimpse into the marine life of the Gulf of Mexico. The aquarium features exhibits on dolphins, sharks, jellyfish, and sea turtles, among others. Don’t miss the popular Dolphin Bay, where you can watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins swim and play. The aquarium also emphasizes conservation and education, making it a great family-friendly activity.

Highlights:

• Dolphin presentations
• Touch pools with stingrays and other marine life
• H-E-B Caribbean Journey exhibit

3. Explore the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay

The USS Lexington, affectionately known as “The Blue Ghost,” is a World War II-era aircraft carrier that has been transformed into a floating museum. Located on Corpus Christi Bay, the USS Lexington offers a unique opportunity to explore the ship’s decks, engine rooms, and flight deck. The museum features exhibits on naval aviation, World War II history, and even a flight simulator. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and military enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• Touring the flight deck and aircraft exhibits
• Exploring the engine room and crew quarters
• Interactive flight simulator

4. Discover History at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History offers a deep dive into the history and culture of South Texas. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from shipwrecks and early explorers to the natural history of the region. Highlights include artifacts from the 1554 Spanish shipwrecks and the Children’s Wharf, an interactive area where kids can learn about maritime history through hands-on activities.

Highlights:

• Artifacts from the 1554 Spanish shipwrecks
• The replica Columbus ships, Pinta and Santa Maria
• Interactive exhibits in the Children’s Wharf

5. Take a Stroll Along the Corpus Christi Bayfront

The Corpus Christi Bayfront is a scenic promenade that offers stunning views of the bay and the city skyline. Stretching for miles, the bayfront is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling. Along the way, you’ll find several attractions, including the Selena Memorial, the Art Museum of South Texas, and the Corpus Christi Marina. The bayfront is also home to numerous restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Selena Memorial (Mirador de la Flor)
• Art Museum of South Texas
• Scenic views of Corpus Christi Bay

6. Enjoy a Day at Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is a 5-mile-long stretch of beautiful coastline located just a short drive from Corpus Christi. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and beachcombing. It’s also a great spot for camping, with both RV and tent sites available. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Mustang Island is a perfect destination for beach lovers.

Highlights:

• Camping near the beach
• Fishing in the surf or from the jetties
• Paddling the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail

7. Visit the Art Museum of South Texas

The Art Museum of South Texas is a cultural gem located on the Corpus Christi Bayfront. The museum’s striking architecture, designed by Philip Johnson, is a work of art in itself. Inside, you’ll find a diverse collection of visual art, including contemporary works, regional art, and pieces reflecting the cultural heritage of South Texas. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.

Highlights:

• Permanent collection of regional art
• Rotating exhibitions of contemporary and modern art
• Stunning views of the bay from the museum

8. Go Birdwatching at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center

The South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center is a paradise for plant lovers and birdwatchers. The gardens feature a wide variety of plant collections, including orchids, roses, and native Texas flora. The nature trails wind through natural habitats where you can spot a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The gardens also have a butterfly house and a collection of exotic reptiles.

Highlights:

• Orchid and bromeliad conservatory
• Hummingbird and butterfly gardens
• Nature trails with birdwatching opportunities

9. Explore the Padre Island National Seashore’s Laguna Madre

The Laguna Madre, located within Padre Island National Seashore, is one of the few hypersaline lagoons in the world. It’s an excellent spot for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The shallow waters are ideal for wading, and the area is home to a variety of marine life, including redfish, trout, and crabs. The Laguna Madre is also a prime location for windsurfing and kiteboarding, thanks to its steady winds.

Highlights:

• Fishing for redfish and trout
• Kayaking and paddleboarding in calm waters
• Birdwatching along the shores

10. Learn About Coastal Wildlife at the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Learning Center

The Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Learning Center is a 162-acre nature preserve that offers a peaceful escape from the city. The preserve is home to a variety of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands. Visitors can explore the nature trails, observe local wildlife, and participate in educational programs at the Learning Center. It’s a great spot for families and anyone interested in the natural environment of South Texas.

Highlights:

• Walking trails through diverse ecosystems
• Educational exhibits at the Learning Center
• Wildlife observation, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians

11. Experience the Local Food Scene at the Corpus Christi Downtown Farmers’ Market

The Corpus Christi Downtown Farmers’ Market is a weekly event that showcases the best of the local food scene. Held every Wednesday at the Art Center of Corpus Christi, the market features fresh produce, baked goods, artisan products, and prepared foods from local vendors. It’s a great place to pick up some local flavors, meet the farmers and artisans, and enjoy live music and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Fresh, locally grown produce
• Unique artisan products and crafts
• Live music and community events

12. Take a Day Trip to the Texas Surf Museum

The Texas Surf Museum, located in downtown Corpus Christi, celebrates the history and culture of surfing in Texas. The museum features exhibits on the evolution of surfboards, the history of Texas surfing, and the sport’s influence on art and music. You’ll also find vintage surfboards, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of surfing along the Texas coast.

Highlights:

• Exhibits on the history of Texas surfing
• Vintage surfboards and memorabilia
• Surf culture-themed art and photography

13. Tour the Historic Heritage Park and Cultural Center

Heritage Park is a collection of historic homes in downtown Corpus Christi that have been beautifully restored and preserved. The park is home to several cultural organizations and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Visitors can take guided tours of the historic homes, which showcase different architectural styles and the city’s rich history. The park is also a venue for cultural festivals, art exhibits, and performances.

Highlights:

• Guided tours of historic homes
• Cultural events and festivals
• The multicultural experience at the Cultural Center

14. Attend the Annual Buc Days Festival

The Buc Days Festival is one of Corpus Christi’s most anticipated annual events. Held every spring, this 11-day festival celebrates the city’s pirate history and coastal culture with a carnival, rodeo, parade, and various other festivities. The event also includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Buc Days has been a Corpus Christi tradition since 1938 and is a great way to experience the local culture and community spirit.

Highlights:

• Rodeo performances and competitions
• The illuminated night parade
• Carnival rides and games

15. Enjoy Water Sports at Cole Park

Cole Park is a popular waterfront park in Corpus Christi that offers a wide range of recreational activities. The park’s location on Corpus Christi Bay makes it a prime spot for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The park also features a fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic areas, and an amphitheater where you can catch live performances. It’s a great place for a family day out or a relaxing afternoon by the water.

Highlights:

• Water sports rentals and activities
• Fishing pier with views of the bay
• Summer concerts and movies at the amphitheater

16. Go on a Fishing Charter in Corpus Christi Bay

Corpus Christi is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and one of the best ways to experience it is by going on a fishing charter. Local charters offer guided fishing trips in Corpus Christi Bay, the Laguna Madre, and offshore waters. Whether you’re targeting redfish, trout, or snapper, a fishing charter provides an exciting way to explore the area’s rich marine life and enjoy a day on the water.

Highlights:

• Guided fishing trips with experienced captains
• Opportunities to catch redfish, trout, and other local species
• Scenic views of the bay and Gulf of Mexico

17. Visit the Selena Museum

The Selena Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of the “Queen of Tejano Music,” Selena Quintanilla, is a must-visit for fans and music lovers. Located in the studio where Selena recorded many of her hits, the museum features memorabilia, including her iconic stage outfits, awards, and her famous Porsche. The museum offers a deeply personal look at the life of a beloved artist who left an indelible mark on music and culture.

Highlights:

• Selena’s stage costumes and awards
• The pink Porsche Selena famously drove
• Exhibits on her music career and personal life

18. Explore the Coastal Bend Distillery Trail

For those who enjoy craft spirits, the Coastal Bend Distillery Trail is a fun way to explore the local craft distilling scene. The trail includes several distilleries in the Corpus Christi area, each offering tours, tastings, and a chance to learn about the distilling process. From whiskey and rum to vodka and gin, the distilleries on the trail showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the region’s spirit makers.

Highlights:

• Distillery tours and tastings
• Learn about the distilling process and local ingredients
• Sample a variety of craft spirits

19. Kayak the Corpus Christi Paddling Trails

Corpus Christi offers several paddling trails that provide a unique way to explore the city’s natural beauty. The paddling trails, which wind through the bay, wetlands, and along the coast, are suitable for kayakers of all skill levels. These trails offer opportunities to see local wildlife, including birds, fish, and even dolphins, in their natural habitats. Kayaking the Corpus Christi paddling trails is a peaceful and scenic way to connect with nature.

Highlights:

• Paddling through calm bays and coastal areas
• Wildlife spotting along the trails
• Opportunities for fishing and photography

20. Enjoy the Nightlife in Downtown Corpus Christi

After a day of exploring, head to downtown Corpus Christi to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. The area is home to a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues, offering something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back evening at a waterfront bar, dancing the night away at a club, or catching a live band at a local venue, downtown Corpus Christi has plenty of options to keep the fun going into the night.

Highlights:

• Live music at House of Rock or Brewster Street Ice House
• Craft cocktails at the Gold Fish or BUS
• Dancing at Havana Club or Whiskey River

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Conclusion

Corpus Christi, Texas, is a city brimming with diverse attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking to relax on a pristine beach, delve into the city’s rich history, or enjoy its vibrant cultural scene, Corpus Christi offers something for everyone. With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, this coastal city is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.