Kick off summer with a Memorial Day weekend getaway to Corpus Christi, where beach days, coastal dining, live music, and family-friendly attractions come together along the Texas coast. Whether you're planning a long weekend on the sand or exploring the city between events, Corpus Christi offers plenty of ways to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and make the most of Memorial Day weekend. 

Note: Be sure to call ahead and double-check their hours of operation for this weekend. 

Day One: Beach It Up

Kick off the weekend with some fun in the sun. Head to Padre Island National Seashore (PINS) and find over 130,000 acres of dunes, grasslands, and beaches. Situated 30 miles south of Mustang Island State Park, it is the prime location for soaking up the abundant sunshine and taking in the gulf’s breeze.

Pack less and lounge more on your beach trip with a full-day tiki hut rental from Love Shack Tiki Hut. Each hut comes with a Margaritaville Margarita Machine, mini fridge with freezer, ice chest, 4 bar stools, 2 hammock swings, electronic capabilities, and lights atop the hut to party into the night.  

Want something more laid back? Savor the plush white sands, cool breeze, and waterfront views while enjoying a luxury pop-up picnic experience with Pretty Picnics. Whether you’re celebrating a major event or just a date with your loved one, this custom-built picnic is sure to create lasting memories. Explore their add-on options for an even more special experience! 

Day Two: Amazing Museums 

Jump aboard the USS Lexington Museum and discover the history of her role in WWII, check out the Blue Ghost, try out the escape rooms, and more fun for the whole family. Test your skills at the virtual battle stations, get up close to vintage aircraft, climb the ladders, walk the narrow passageways of the WWII Aircraft Carrier, and don’t miss special Memorial Day highlights like war birds and war ships, a flag retirement ceremony, and a moving Memorial Day ceremony on board.

Next, stop by the Texas State Aquarium and 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 H-E-B Splash Park where they can release their energy amidst state-of-the-art water spray jets, interactive water features, water cannons, and more.

While you’re at the aquarium, check out the new Port of Corpus Christi Center for Wildlife Rescue and see what goes on behind the scenes with treatment and rehabilitation of marine mammals, raptors, shorebirds, and sea turtles in this state-of-the-art hospital. Learn about their efforts with conservation and sustainability, along with understanding how the community can help protect wildlife. Admission to the park and rescue center is included in your aquarium admission. 

May is Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, so swing by the Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures and Education Center and immerse yourself in 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. There’s even a wide variety of activities like origami, calligraphy, games, chopstick lessons, and more for all ages.  

Visit over 1,900 works of art housed in the iconic Art Museum of South Texas (AMST) and enjoy a variety of paintings, photographs, ceramics, large installation pieces, and so much more. Grab a bite to eat at Elizabeth’s, located inside the museum, and choose from their selection of vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and cocktails, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the harbor.   

Swing by the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History and 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.

Day Three: Downtown Spots  

Live like a local and explore all things Downtown Corpus Christi!  Before exploring downtown, grab a quick bite to eat. Stop by Central Kitchen for a quick, delicious treat and choose from a wide selection of freshly baked breads and light, buttery pastries. Or, swing by Lucy’s Snack Bar for a yogurt bowl, avocado toast, or fresh coffee. 

Next, shop for some vintage items at Chel’s Marie Boutique, a beautiful 1800’s era home overlooking Artesian Park filled with vintage clothing and accessories, then swing by 20/20 Vintage to find items unique to Corpus Christi that are 50-70 years old and in great shape, ready for their new home. If you’re looking for some unique, quality vintage record collections, head to Hybrid Records and shop an assortment of vinyl LPs, 45s, turntables, CDs, cassettes, and more, from various artists, including indie artists and labels. Now it’s time for some entertainment. Head to RETRO Corpus, a two-story, family-friendly arcade, where you can fuel up on delicious pizza on the first floor, then head upstairs for all day play. You’ll find a variety of new and vintage games, a rooftop patio, bars, and a unique see-thru floor that resembles a galaxy and offers a view into the bar downstairs.

Memorial Day Weekend Events

Memorial Day Ceremony at the USS Lexington Museum

Honor Memorial Day aboard the USS Lexington Museum during a special Memorial Day Ceremony co-hosted with Seaside Memorial Park and Funeral Home. The free ceremony will take place Monday, May 25, 2026, at 2 p.m. in Hangar Bay II and will remember those who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Margarita Festival

Raise a glass and get ready to sip, sway, and celebrate at the First Annual Margarita Festival at BUS on May 23, from 12:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. This all-ages, free-entry fiesta is serving up 15+ unique margarita flavors and live music from start to finish. From frozen to fiery, sweet to salty, there’s a margarita for every taste. Bring your crew, your kiddos, and even your pups for a full day of flavor, fun, and laid-back vibes.

Ocean Odyssey Grand Opening

Looking for more? 

It’s a special weekend, so shake things up a bit and mix and match your activities. Enjoy a bright and early morning with some much-needed time in nature. The South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center has 182 acres of gardens and exhibits, flora and fauna, birding spots, reptiles, parrots, and other wildlife throughout the garden, making it easy to lose yourself in nature. Don’t forget to stop by the Butterfly Garden and snap the perfect Instagrammable pic with the butterfly wings.

Anytime is a good time for go-karts, batting cages, a ropes course, mini golf, and bumper boats at In the Game Funtrackers. Find everything you need to get in touch with the little (or big) kid in you. 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.

Don’t miss out on a Corpus Christi Hooks game at Whataburger Field, especially one with post-game fireworks.  See their Memorial Day Weekend game schedule below:

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.