The Gulf Coast Capital is known for its beaches, cuisine, and all sorts of attractions and activities. So much so that many visitors don’t realize they are visiting an arts and culture mecca, too! Home to artwork by local Corpus Christians and world-renowned contemporary and modern traveling exhibitions, the city’s offering of enriching experiences through the arts is something you don’t want to miss.

Fine Art

The Art Museum of South Texas (AMST) is Corpus Christi’s fine arts destination. With more than 1,900 works of art in the permanent collection, the museum curates several exhibitions populated from its vault each year. Alongside the collection, AMST invites dynamic temporary exhibitions from various art museums and galleries across the nation.

AMST sits on the edge of Corpus Christi Bay on North Shoreline Boulevard, an anchoring part of the vibrant arts community of Corpus Christi. The exterior architecture is a piece of art in and of itself. It’s easy to delve into the galleries and discover the arts of the Americas and the Texas region. From paintings, photographs, and sculptures to glass, ceramics, crafts, and large installation pieces, the works will surely captivate you and leave you inspired. Enjoy free admission at the Art Museum of South Texas this holiday season from November 1 – December 31 courtesy of H-E-B and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions.

Museums

Established in 1957, the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History is dedicated to exploration and education that transcends the classroom. Steps away from the iconic Harbor Bridge, the museum has historical collections on view that represent the South Texas culture unique to the city. Explore the exciting history of the shipwrecks from early explorers and learn about the decorative arts of native Corpus Christians. Revel in the immersive experience of studying hundreds of thousands of artifacts and historically significant items in its nearly 100,000-square-foot facility. Enjoy free admission at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History this holiday season from November 1 – December 31 courtesy of H-E-B and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions.

The Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures and Education Center is nestled right across from the Selena Auditorium, located at the Hilliard Center, and the Harbor Playhouse. Plan your day to explore Asia and learn about the art, history, and culture of Japan, India, Thailand, and many more countries along the Asian continent. The museum is a feasting ground of knowledge where you can have a hands-on experience with the history and art of many Asian cultures, participate in storytelling and Asian folklore, and even view live weapon demonstrations. They offer a wide variety of activities for kids and families of all ages such as origami, calligraphy, games, chopstick lessons, and more! Enjoy free admission at the Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures and Education Center this holiday season from November 1 – December 31 courtesy of H-E-B and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions.

The Instituto de Cultura Hispánica was created in 1976 and is located in the Lichtenstein House in Heritage Park. Here, you will find folkloric dresses, art, and artifacts from several Hispanic countries, plus rotating exhibits throughout the year. This museum provides visitors with a better understanding of the diverse cultures represented in our community through programs such as art exhibits, folkloric displays, English and Spanish recitals, cultural celebrations, and fundraising activities.

Celebrate the life and legacy of Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla-Pérez at the Selena Museum, lovingly curated by her family. Step inside the studio where she recorded her hits, and explore personal treasures like her Grammy Award, red Porsche, and signature stage costumes, including the famous purple jumpsuit. This heartfelt collection offers an intimate look at Selena’s artistry, style, and enduring impact on music and pop culture.

Performing Arts

There’s nothing quite like live theatre, baby! Aurora Arts Theatre is a quaint, 108-seat theatre that produces stunning performances sure to excite and enrich their audiences. Buy tickets to the must-see annual rendition of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” which is presented each October. Speaking of community, the Harbor Playhouse is a local theatre that’s been around since the 1920s! View the fabulous showcases of talented actors in classical and contemporary performances and original plays year-round.

Discover diverse musical selections through the inspirational live performances of the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra. Located on the island that is home to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, the Performing Arts Center is the symphony orchestra’s home venue. The orchestra has anywhere from 60 to 70 musicians and brings high-quality concerts like Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 to audiences in the Coastal Bend.

Grab tickets to the gorgeous productions by the Corpus Christi Ballet. Be a part of the hometown holiday tradition by catching “The Nutcracker Sweets” in December. These incredible dancers train year-round to perfect their performances and bring visitors and the local community famous ballets like “Sleeping Beauty.”