There’s no better way to wrap up the summer season than spending it here in the Gulf Coast Capital. From iconic attractions to top-notch dining establishments, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Read on to see what’s open on Labor Day and get the whole crew together for an unforgettable experience.
View the full Labor Day Weekend page here.
Attractions
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center
Head to the city’s Southside to enjoy a bright and early morning of nature and exploration. With 182 acres of gardens and exhibits, flora and fauna, birding spots, reptiles, parrots, and other wildlife throughout the garden, the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is the perfect place to revel in the beauty of nature. Make sure to stop by the Butterfly Garden and snap the perfect Instagrammable pic with the butterfly wings.
USS Lexington Museum
Jump aboard the USS Lexington Museum and enjoy hours of family fun and a memorable learning experience. Discover the history of her role in WWII, check out the Blue Ghost, try the escape rooms, catch a show at the 3D theater, and much more. For a more hands-on experience, test your skills at the virtual battle stations, get up close to vintage aircraft, climb the ladders, and walk the narrow passageways of the WWII Aircraft Carrier.
Texas State Aquarium
Immerse yourself in an underwater adventure with over 250 species of fish and reptiles, as well as mammals, birds, and invertebrates from the Gulf and the Caribbean. Take the kiddos to the newly expanded H-E-B Splash Park where they can release their energy amidst state-of-the-art water features. Make sure to stop by the new Wildlife Rescue Center for a behind-the-scenes look at treatment and rehabilitation of the animals while learning about conservation and sustainability.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Explore the history of the shipwrecks from early explorers, and dive into the museum’s innovative programs in history, culture, and science. Whether you’re a history or science fan you’re sure to revel in the immersive experience of studying hundreds of thousands of artifacts and historically significant items in this nearly 100,000 sq. ft. facility. Kids can even learn through interaction at the H-E-B Science Center and then head to the outdoor playground.
In the Game Funtrackers
From riding on go-karts and bumper boats to trying your skills at the batting cages, ropes course, and mini golf, there’s plenty of adrenaline-fueled fun for the whole family. Enjoy the adventures and then head inside for a cold beverage and pizza or burgers at the Raceway Café. Make sure to check out their specials – choose delicious food from their menu and then go crazy in the arcade with their Eat Well, Play Big combos.
Restaurants
Brewster Street Ice House
This Texas-themed bar has everything you need for a time well spent. Grab a bite to eat from their extensive menu filled with delicious options that will satisfy even the pickiest eater and enjoy a drink from the full bar. After your meal, introduce yourself to some good ol’ Texas Country while the kids enjoy Texas Blue Bell ice cream and a playground.
Sunset Island at Marker 37
Satisfy those hunger pangs at Marker 37 with the trifecta of good food. Stop at Snoopy’s Pier for old-fashioned seafood in a family-friendly environment and follow it up with a handcrafted dessert next door at Scoopy’s Ice Cream Shop. If it’s oysters you’re looking for, head to Snoopy’s Pearl Oyster Bar to try 15 varieties of oysters, served on a half-shell, flown in from all over the world.
Pier 99
Find a seat on one of the largest patios in Corpus Christi and prepare for some delicious coastal fare. Browse their menu of seafood, steaks, and more, and choose a drink from their impressive drink menu. Don’t forget to bring your canine companions and treat them to freshly cooked meals from the dog menu, too.
House of Rock
Located in the heart of downtown, the House of Rock is divided into three sections that combine to make it one of the best neighborhood hangouts around! Their dough-tossing, salad-crafting kitchen is in the Main Bar area and serves delicious specialty pizzas, assorted appetizers, sandwiches, and salads perfect for lunch or dinner. With live music every Wednesday to Sunday, the House of Rock is an ideal place to eat, drink, and jam out with your friends.
U&I Steakhouse
This full-service restaurant boasts steak dinners for all appetites – from 6 oz. sirloins to huge, hearty ribeye, all charbroiled over an open mesquite flame. It’s not just a steakhouse – there are also other styles of food from Mexican and Italian to Greek and seafood. Each menu item features scratch-made sauces, dressings, and homemade bread, and they offer a full bar and a lengthy list of wine and beer to complement your meal.
