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23 Fabulous Things to do in Corpus Christi Texas

Let’s face it: there are a lot of great weekend getaways in Texas. I mean, you can get away to a Texas small town, or get your adrenaline fix in a big city.

No matter what you are looking for, Texas has it!

If you are looking for a fun Texas coast getaway, look no further than Corpus Christi, Texas.

There are so many fabulous things to do in Corpus Christi that you might find yourself returning repeatedly!

Corpus Christi offers a great coastal climate, sandy beaches, unique museums, and great Southern hospitality!

All of this explains why Corpus Christi is one of Texas’s top places to visit!

Keep reading to discover all of the Corpus Christi attractions that are just waiting to be discovered!

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    Outdoor/Nature Attractions in Corpus Christi

    North Beach

    What is today known as Corpus Christi’s North Beach used to be named Corpus Christi Beach. That makes sense since it is on the north side of town.

    This 1.5-mile stretch of beach is located in a prime downtown location close to Corpus Christi’s Harbor Bridge.

    Spending time at North Beach should be on your list of things to do in Corpus Christi.

    During your time at North Beach, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, or just wasting the day away in the Texas sun.

    Padre Island National Seashore

    turtle on the beach
    Photo from Padre Island National Seashore Facebook Page

    One of the favorite things to do in Corpus Christi for both visitors and locals is to explore the Padre Island National Seashore, one of the best beaches in Texas.

    The Padre Island National Seashore is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world!

    That means you have plenty of room to stretch out, relax, and find your private piece of the island.

    Spanning 70 miles and comprised of over 130,000 acres of land, this barrier island would take more than just a day to explore.

    The diverse landscape includes miles of dunes, grasslands, and beaches as far as the eye can see!

    On one side of the island, you will find the calm, protected waters of the Laguna Madre, the perfect area for birdwatching and paddle boarding!

    On the other side of the island, you can enjoy the sand and surf of the Gulf of Mexico.

    Try out windsurfing on the calm Laguna Madre side or fishing on the Laguna Madre or the gulf side during your time on Padre Island National Seashore.

    Of course, you could also spend the day relaxing on the Laguna Madre or the Gulf.

    If you are here during the summer months, be on the lookout for the hatching of baby sea turtles from the beach.

    This nature park is home to the rare species of Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle. If you can witness them hatching, you are in for a special treat!

    The Padre Island National Seashore is at 20301 Park Rd 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418.

    Read Next: Spring Break at South Padre Island: the Ultimate Guide

    South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center

    One of the things to do in Corpus Christi that will have you falling in love with the city is a visit to the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

    The South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center has over 180 acres of housing, including a butterfly house, an orchid conservatory, numerous flower gardens, and a hummingbird garden!

    Roaming around the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center allows you to get up close and personal with the various species of flora and fauna the area is known for.

    Kids will love burning off some energy at the nature center’s on-site playground and getting up close and personal with the birds and reptiles that call the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center home.

    The Botanical Gardens are at 8545 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 78413.

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    Texas State Aquarium

    dolphins jumping at an aquarium
    photo courtesy of the Texas State Aquarium Facebook page

    Kids of all ages will agree that visiting the Texas State Aquarium is one of the fun things to do in Corpus Christi.

    The Texas State Aquarium’s mission is to inspire people to engage with the sea and support wildlife conservation. Thanks to its educational programs and interactive exhibits, the aquarium lives up to this mission every day.

    Dolphin Bay is one of the most loved marine life exhibits at the Texas State Aquarium.

    Dolphin Bay is a 40,000-gallon, 12-foot deep saltwater pool that is home to the aquarium’s four Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

    Visitors can view the dolphins throughout the day from the Underwater Observation Area.

    The real treat is to catch their twice-daily performance, which happens at the top level of Dolphin Bay.

    This performance allows the dolphins to show off their skills to the admiring crowd while teaching about the importance of preserving and protecting our ocean environments.

    Since the four dolphins at the Texas State Aquarium were born in captivity, they cannot be released into the wild. Instead, they serve as ambassadors for the aquarium to educate and entertain.

    Another popular attraction at the Texas State Aquarium is the Living Shores exhibit.

    The Living Shores exhibit provides information about the Corpus Christ seashore.

    The Living Shores also allows the guests to interact with and view various sea creatures.

    This area is also home to the largest touch pool experience in Texas!

    The aquarium is also home to various coral reefs, flora, fauna, and some birds of prey.

    During your visit, check out the Hawn Wild Flight Theater to see the birds of prey in flight and to learn more about them.

    Kids will also enjoy the fossil dig and splash park at the aquarium. See, Corpus Christi is such a cool coastal city!

    The Texas State Aquarium is at 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78402.

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    Bob Hall Pier

    You will find Bob Hall Pier on Padre Island in Padre Balli Park.

    The Bob Hall Pier is a long pier (over 1,200 feet) stretching out over the Gulf of Mexico.

    You can rent fishing gear here thanks to their on-site Tackle Loaner Program, making this one of the fun things to do in Corpus Christi.

    Of course, if catching deep-water fish isn’t your thing, you can just walk out and enjoy the serenity of the Bob Hall Pier during sunset!

    Another great thing about Bob Hall Pier is that it is a quick and easy visit from Corpus Christi, Texas, so you can easily combine it with other activities to complete your day.

    Mustang Island State Park

    Photo courtesy of Mustang Island State Park Facebook page

    Nature lovers will want to visit Mustang Island State Park while in the coastal city of Corpus Christi, Texas.

    This 18-mile stretch of Golden Sands barrier island is about 30 miles south of downtown Corpus Christi, so it is one of the quick and easy things to do in Corpus Christi.

    Mustang Island State Park is the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor activities.

    People love to come to Mustang Island to spend a day at the beach sunbathing and building sandcastles.

    Of course, if you are the more adventurous type, Mustang Island also has you covered.

    Mustang Island State Park is the perfect place to try fishing, kayaking, or birdwatching.

    Like Padre Island National Seashore, Mustang Island State Park is also a great place to see baby sea turtles hatching during summer.

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    Corpus Christi Bay Trail

    If getting some exercise is important to you during your time in Corpus Christi, Texas, then you are in luck. The Corpus Christi Bay Trail is the perfect place to do this!

    The Corpus Christi Bay Trail is an 8.8-mile paved trail that runs from Oso Bay to Corpus Christi’s downtown area.

    The Corpus Christi Bay Trail is perfect for running, walking, or cycling.

    You will not only be able to get some exercise, but you will also see some great views of Corpus Christi.

    Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

    three pink birds in the marsh
    Photo courtesy of Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Facebook page

    A visit to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge should be on everyone’s list of things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas.

    Head about an hour outside town to find the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.

    Here, you can enjoy interacting with nature in its protected environment.

    The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is the winter home for the endangered bird, the whooping crane.

    If you visit in winter, you will see the whooping cranes all over the refuge.

    In addition to the whooping cranes, you will also find alligators, snakes, bobcats, and numerous other species of birds calling the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge home.

    Enjoy the many nature trails that can be found throughout the park.

    These nature trails are great for hiking or biking the day.

    There are also areas where you can enjoy a picnic, go fishing, or just enjoy the serenity of the preserve.

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    Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge

    Another great wildlife refuge in the area is the Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge.

    This Wildlife Refuge tops the list of places worldwide for sea bird watching. Yes, you read that correctly, in the WORLD!

    The refuge is on the shore of Oso Bay. It is a great vantage point from which to see the many sea birds that frequent the refuge.

    Species of birds to look out for include herons, spoonbills, pelicans, and more.

    There are also some great trails, a picnic area, and a pier for visitors to enjoy.

    Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge

    One of the fun things to do in Corpus Christi at night is to visit the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge.

    During the day, the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge connects the city to its port, so it serves a great function and is pretty.

    But at night, the bridge comes alive with over 10,000 lights.

    These lights put on a great show for visitors to enjoy! That is why we said you have to visit the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge at night!

    Honestly, this is an easy addition to your things to do on the Corpus Christi list.

    Read Next: 24 Awesome Things To Do In Port Aransas

    Museums and Art Centers in Corpus Christi

    The USS Lexington Museum

    USS Lexington sign
    Photo courtesy of USS Lexington Facebook page

    The USS Lexington is a warship with its fair share of battles.

    The USS Lexington was a key component of Pearl Harbor during World War II and is now the USS Lexington Museum.

    The ship, nicknamed the Blue Ghost due to its color, was a key player in World War II and served as an aircraft carrier.

    Today, the 1943 vessel calls Corpus Christi Bay home and welcomes visitors to learn about its history.

    The USS Lexington is an excellent addition to your list of Corpus Christi, Texas, attractions!

    Once onboard the USS Lexington, guests can take a self-guided tour of the ship’s 1,000-square-foot interior to learn what life is like for sailors.

    There are also several opportunities to learn about the ship and naval history in general.

    The unique thing about the USS Lexington (the Blue Ghost) is that it also houses an escape room, a flight simulator, a 3D movie, and virtual battle stations!

    These components make the USS Lexington one of the fun things to do in Corpus Christi!

    The USS Lexington is at 2914 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78402.

    Art Museum of South Texas

    The Art Museum of South Texas started with a small art collection in 1944.

    Today, the Art Museum of South Texas is anything but small.

    The campus comprises two buildings, each with a permanent and rotating art exhibit.

    The Art Museum of South Texas also prides itself on showcasing local artists.

    The permanent collection at the Art Museum of South contains over 1,800 works of art!

    These works of art include art from North, South, and Central America.

    Visitors can enjoy a variety of art during their visit. The museum houses paintings, watercolors, sculptures, ceramics, and more.

    In addition to the great artwork, the Art Museum of South Texas welcomes the public to visit by hosting several events throughout the year.

    Come check it out and see why this is one of the top tourist attractions in Corpus Christi, Texas attraction.

    The address for the Art Museum of South Texas is 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

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    Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

    The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History is another fun thing to do in Corpus Christi.

    The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, founded in 1957, is a great way to get up close and personal with not only science but also South Texas history.

    This great museum allows visitors to learn all about the South Texas region, specifically about the history of the Corpus Christi area.

    Visitors can explore historic pictures, investigate local flora and fauna, and learn all about the history of South Texas.

    Kids will love the Science Center, which houses several hands-on exhibits and a playground.

    Of course, part of the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History’s community outreach efforts means hosting events and special programs throughout the year.

    The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History is located at 1900 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

    Texas Surf Museum

    old car in front of the surf museum
    Photo courtesy of Texas Surf Museum Facebook page

    If you are into surfing and the surf culture, you don’t want to miss the Texas Surf Museum in Corpus Christi, Texas.

    Even if you are not into the surf culture, the Texas Surf Museum is still a cool place, so check it out!

    You will find the Texas Surf Museum in the downtown Corpus Christ area.

    The Texas Surf Museum is a fun and quirky museum that originated in 2005.

    Their collection of surfing artifacts and paraphernalia rotates, so you never know what you’ll see when you visit!

    Add this to your list of Corpus Christi, Texas attractions!

    The Surf Museum is at 309 N. Water St., Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

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    Selena Museum

    Selena museum entrance
    Photo courtesy of Selena Museum Facebook page

    The Tejano music icon Selena is a legend in Corpus Christi, Texas.

    The singer and her family called Corpus Christi home for years.

    Let me tell you if you aren’t exactly sure who Selena is. Selena Quintanilla-Perez was a Grammy-winning Latin pop artist until the president of her fan club shot and killed her, taking a Latin singing sensation from the world far before her time.

    Selena was the world’s highest-charting artist in her genre and all of this occurred prior to her death at 23 years old.

    Selena has a cult following of fans and is a true Latin pop sensation.

    After her death, Selena’s family chose to create the Selena Museum in her honor.

    The Selena Museum was created as an attachment to their recording studio, Q-Production Studio.

    A visit to the Selena Museum should be on your list of things to do in Corpus Christi, even if you know little about Selena.

    This museum allows you to learn about a young lady who was passionate about music and lived in the Corpus Christi community.

    During your visit to the Selena Museum, you can see items such as Selena’s most famous costumes, her awards, personal photos, and Selena’s prize possession, her red Porsche.

    There is also a bronze memorial to the singer at Seaside Memorial Park on the seawall.

    The Selena Museum is at 5410 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78408.

    Art Center of Corpus Christi

    Another great area for art lovers is the Art Center of Corpus Christi.

    The Art Center of Corpus Christi was founded in 1972 with the goal of bringing all forms of art to the Corpus Christi area.

    Today, the Art Center of Corpus Christi does just that. It not only brings in rotating art exhibits for the community to enjoy, but it also offers art classes.

    One of the most popular classes at the art center is at the Barry Brown Clay Studio.

    This class teaches participants how to create pottery, so it is easy to see why it is a favorite.

    In addition, the art community center also hosts a wide range of weekly events.

    The Art Center of Corpus Christi is located at 100 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

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    Harbor Playhouse

    A trip to the Harbor Playhouse should definitely add to your things to do in Corpus Christi.

    The Harbor Playhouse originated in 1925 and has entertained the Corpus Christi, Texas community ever since!

    Guests are treated to a wide variety of shows to choose from at the Harbor Playhouse.

    They offer musicals, dramas, comedies, and more, making this a fabulous Corpus Christi attraction.

    Check out their schedule and then plan a visit during your time on the Texas Coast!

    The Harbor Playhouse is at 1802 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

    Historic Sites in Corpus Christi

    Britton Evans House and the Sidbury House

    If you are a history lover, a visit to Heritage Park in Corpus Christi, Texas, should be on your list of things to do in Corpus Christi.

    Two houses in particular top this list: the Britton Evans House and the Sidbury House.

    Visiting these historic homes allows visitors to see what life was like in Corpus Christ in the 1800s.

    Forbes Britton built the Britton House in 1849, which is often referred to as the Centennial House.

    Britton was a prominent businessman in the 19th century who operated a freight line between Galveston and Corpus Christi.

    The Britton Evans House is a great example of an 1800s Greek Revival-style home, complete with period-specific furnishings and antiques.

    In addition, a tour of the Britton Evans House allows you to see the many roles that the house has served throughout history, including as a private home, a hospital during the Civil War, and now, a museum.

    Don’t miss the Sidbury House during your time in this area.

    Also built in the late 1800s, the Sidbury House is the city’s last remaining example of Victorian architecture from this era.

    Constructed for prominent community leader Charlotte King Cook Sidbury, the Sidbury House is a shining example of architecture and is now a Texas Historical Landmark.

    If you are a ghost hunter or just like fun ghost stories, then the Sidbury House should definitely be on your list of things to do in Corpus Christi. It is said to be the most haunted location on the island!

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    Recreational Activities in Corpus Christi

    Whataburger Field

    Whataburger Field is one of the fun tourist attractions in Corpus Christi, Texas.

    The ballpark is home to a minor league baseball team, with over 7,000 seats for fans to enjoy!

    Completed in 2005, Whataburger Field is home to the Corpus Christi Hooks, a Double-A Texas Houston Astros affiliate team.

    While watching a game at Whataburger Field, fans can get their junk food fix from the various stands on site. What is a baseball game without hot dogs, peanuts, and pretzels?

    That isn’t all Whataburger Field offers, though. There are also basketball courts, a climbing wall, and a recreation area on site.

    Whataburger Field is located at 734 E Port Ave, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

    Hurricane Alley Waterpark

    If you have ever visited Texas in the summer, you know that air conditioning and water recreational areas are the only ways to escape the Texas heat.

    Luckily, Corpus Christi has you covered on this end, thanks to their Hurricane Alley Waterpark.

    The Hurricane Alley Waterpark is one of the fun things to do in Corpus Christi, especially if you are traveling as a family.

    Parents will love the affordable admission price, making it easy to have a fun-filled day at the water park. Kids (and kids at heart) will enjoy the wave pool, lazy river, and water slides that Hurricane Alley Waterpark offers!

    Visit Hurricane Alley at 702 E Port Ave, Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

    Places to Eat and Hang Out in Corpus Christi

    Republic of Texas Bar and Grill

    You have to go to the Republic of Texas Bar and Grill for dinner with a fabulous view.

    The Republic of Texas Bar and Grill is located in the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel.

    This restaurant offers delicious, mouthwatering food and one of the best views in Corpus Christi, Texas.

    The Republic of Texas is 900 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401.

    Lazy Beach Brewing

    When you need some downtown and want to explore the local beer scene, head to Lazy Beach Brewing.

    This microbrewery serves Corpus Christi some delicious, cold beer in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

    Locals and tourists have enjoyed visiting Lazy Beach since 2014, and it is still going strong today.

    The taproom offers a variety of beer, so you can try a few and decide which one is your favorite!

    Snoopy’s Pier

    Snoopy’s Pier is a casual eatery serving delicious seafood in a casual water-view atmosphere.

    Visiting Snoopy’s Pier will allow you to sink your teeth into some incredible fish and chips, Texas shrimp, and crab cakes!

    The view with lunch isn’t that bad either. Check it out during your time in Corpus Christi, Texas!

    Snoopy’s is at 13313 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78418.

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    About the Author

    Michelle Snell-Founder/Writer

    Born and raised in Texas, Michelle Snell graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and her Master’s Degree from Texas Wesleyan University. Her passion for travel has taken her all over the world. She has received multiple awards for her writing. She has been featured in numerous publications, including Travel AwaitsFort Worth MagazineFort Worth WeeklyNewsBreakVoyage DallasElla Inspires Magazine, and more. You can view her complete profile on MuckRacks.

    Michelle Snell founder of That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel

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      Kathryn

      Sunday 4th of September 2022

      What a great post! The head office for my company is based in Houston so I been spending more time visiting the state. I'll be using this guide for when I make it to Corpus Cristi. Thanks!

      Goya from goyagaleotta.com

      Saturday 3rd of September 2022

      So, fun fact... Up until this year, I had never even uttered the words "Corpus Christi". Then suddenly, I hear from a vineyard in Germany that they will not be open on a certain day for a visit because they are observing Corpus Christi. And a couple of months later, I stumble upon this article... I think it's clear what Jesus wants me to do... I must visit Corpus Christi! :)

      Jokes aside, thanks for this fantastic round-up and the introduction to Corpus Christi.... Texas - It sounds like a fantastic place with lots to see and do!

      texasonly

      Monday 5th of September 2022

      I love this and I think you are absolutely correct! You need to visit!!

      Anja

      Thursday 18th of August 2022

      This looks fabulous, a city by the beach! I wish I could go back to Texas easily and eat Mexican food on the beach!

      Kia

      Monday 15th of August 2022

      I've lived in Texas for 3 years, and must say that it has never really crossed my mind to visit Corpus Christi! This blog was definitely inspiration to make the trip. Looks like some great things are there! Thanks for sharing.

      texasonly

      Monday 15th of August 2022

      I am so glad to hear this, Kia. Thank you for reading and taking the time to respond.

      Elyse

      Monday 15th of August 2022

      Such an awesome list, definitely saving for when I can head back to the States. Thanks for sharing