Art, animals, and history, oh my! Corpus Christi is home to various attractions suitable for all ages and interests. Whether you're wanting a deep dive into military history at the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay or looking to get inspired at the Art Museum of South Texas, we invite you to coast your own way in Corpus Christi on your next vacation.
Plunge into an adventure that inspires visitors of all ages. With playful dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays and many more sea creatures from all over the world, education and entertainment go hand in hand. Learn about marine conservation and immerse yourself in underwater worlds in the 4D theater.
The Texas State Aquarium strongly recommends guests 10 and older wear a face covering regardless of vaccination status. Learn more about what the Texas State Aquarium is doing to keep you safe here.
South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
Tranquility floods your senses in Corpus Christi’s botanical gardens where nature and art intertwine. Discover a collection of more than 2,500 different orchids, admire the fragrant rose garden and pavilion, and meet the butterflies, reptiles and parrots that call this place home.
Get outdoors and see the outdoor floral gardens and exhibits, Butterfly House, and Orchid Conservatory. Gaze out from the birding tower and socially distance on the wetland boardwalk.
For the health and safety of guests, the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center requires guests 3 years and older to wear a face covering while indoors only.
USS Lexington Museum on the Bay
Past meets present aboard the USS Lexington, a World War II–era Essex Class aircraft carrier that has earned a second life as a family-friendly museum. Step aboard the “Blue Ghost” to learn about its naval history, experience the flight simulator and 3D theater, and explore dark corridors and colossal compartments on a self-guided tour.
The USS Lexington Museum does not require face-coverings for guests, volunteers or crew, but does request that visitors who are unvaccinated wear a face-covering.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Explore 500 years of South Texas history, from early explorers and colonizers to notorious shipwrecks — including La Belle that sank more than three centuries ago. Set on a picturesque harbor, this nearly 100,000-square-foot space also enriches young scientists with interactive displays.
The Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History encourages unvaccinated individuals to wear a face-covering while indoors. Electronic tickets are encouraged and can be purchased online at: www.ccmuseum.com.
Art Museum of South Texas
Dive into art at this world-class museum whose architecture is just as stunning as the pieces inside. And situated along the waterfront, you'll find inspiration at every angle here. Don't forget to enjoy a delicious meal at Elizabeth's at the Art Museum -- you might even spot a dolphin and vessels during your lunch or dinner!
The Art Museum of South Texas strongly recommends and encourages all visitors to wear face coverings while visiting. Learn more about visiting the Art Museum of South Texas here.
Padre Island National Seashore
The Padre Island National Seashore offers more than 130,000 acres of dunes, grasslands, and beaches – a national park and a haven for all sorts of family-friendly activities. The park is an untouched paradise of federally-protected wildlife that's also the largest undeveloped barrier island in the world.
And afterward, be sure to grab a bite at one of the many restaurants that call the Island home.
If you're looking for even more beaches to visit during your stay, check out a number of beaches within driving distance.
Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Learning Center
The Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Learning Center is an expansive, 162-acre nature preserve dedicated to furthering knowledge of the flora and fauna of South Texas. Come and explore four miles of nature viewing trails and walk away with a newfound experience and understanding of the importance of protecting the wetlands for future generations.
Japonica at Harrison's Landing
All aboard! Sail away into the Corpus Christi Marina and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gulf Coast. The ride on this 50-foot, open-air touring boat is BYOB -- and be sure to check out the gift shop, Cathy's Boutique, after grabbing lunch along the water at Harrison's Landing, which houses the boat tours and boutique!
