Planning a family getaway to Corpus Christi, the Gulf Coast Capital, means sunny skies, sandy beaches, and endless fun for all ages. From kid-friendly attractions to outdoor adventures and local favorites, families will find plenty to keep everyone smiling. Before diving into the weekend of excitement, it’s a good idea to secure your hotel stay so you can focus on making memories together.

 

Morning

Start your day with a hearty, country-style breakfast at Town & Country Café, a classic Corpus Christi diner that families have loved for generations. Grab a booth, sip on fresh coffee, and let the kids enjoy coloring pages while you choose from a menu packed with favorites like pancakes, hash browns, and hearty omelets. The best part? Breakfast is served all day. If you’re staying at a traditional hotel, you can also take advantage of a convenient continental breakfast before heading out.

After fueling up, dive right into fun at Hurricane Alley Water Park, located in downtown Corpus Christi. Thrill-seekers can race down the six-story CAT 5 water slide, while those looking to relax can float along the 750-foot scenic lazy river or rent a cabana for shade. Younger kids will love the USS Dusty splash deck, complete with water cannons and interactive play features that guarantee hours of entertainment.

Midday

When lunchtime rolls around, take a break at one of Corpus Christi’s family-friendly restaurants. Panjo’s Pizza serves up cheesy pies and a full arcade to keep kids busy, while Brewster Street Ice House features a kid-approved playscape alongside a menu full of crowd-pleasers. Both spots make it easy to refuel and recharge for the afternoon.

Next, head across the Harbor Bridge to explore the Texas State Aquarium , one of Corpus Christi’s top family attractions. Wander through immersive exhibits featuring coral reefs, jungle habitats, and colorful marine life. Be sure to stop by Dolphin Bay to see Shadow and Kai, two of the aquarium’s most beloved dolphins, and if you’re lucky, catch their exciting show. Don’t forget swimsuits for the kids, because admission includes access to the H-E-B Splash Park, the Coastal Bend’s first zero-depth wetscape water play area.

 

Afternoon

Keep the fun going with an educational twist at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, one of the city’s top family-friendly attractions. Inside, kids can explore the H-E-B Science Center, a 5,000-square-foot interactive play space designed for ages three and up. From touch tables and a shadow wall to oversized imagination blocks, there’s no shortage of opportunities for learning through play. Outdoors, little ones can climb and explore the shaded playground while parents relax nearby at picnic tables and benches.

Evening

Wrap up the day with a night of excitement. Baseball fans can head to Whataburger Field to cheer on the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. Friday night games end with a spectacular fireworks show that’s sure to wow the whole family. For basketball lovers, catch an Islanders Basketball Game and support Texas A&M–Corpus Christi’s NCAA Division I team, which is the only university in the nation located on an island.

If sports aren’t on your family’s agenda, spend the evening at In The Game Fun Trackers, a go-to spot for all-ages entertainment. Race go-karts, challenge each other in the arcade, and enjoy classic eats like burgers, pizza, and milkshakes. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day full of family fun in Corpus Christi.

 

Be sure to check out our upcoming events for even more ways to enjoy Corpus Christi. For insider tips and inspiration, explore our visitor guides packed with local favorites and hidden gems. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop on the latest happenings along the coast.