BAARE BBQ

7626 S. Staples St. | Open Thursday - Sunday

Get a taste of Texas barbecue at BAARE BBQ, where smoked meats, scratch-made sides, and bold flavors take center stage. Located on Corpus Christi's Southside, this local barbecue spot serves up favorites alongside creative offerings like jambalaya, cheesy potato casserole, beer cheese mac and cheese, and honey butter cornbread. Be sure to check out the rotating Sunday specials for something new.

Discount:

10% off for military members and first responders

Water Street Oyster Bar

309 N. Water St. | Open Daily

Savor fresh Gulf Coast seafood at Water Street Oyster Bar, a longtime downtown Corpus Christi favorite. From freshly shucked Gulf oysters and seafood-stacked po'boys to rich seafood jambalaya, the menu showcases coastal flavors in every bite. Check out the daily blackboard specials and pair your meal with a signature cocktail for a memorable dining experience.

Discount:

10% military discount

Executive Surf Club

306 N. Chaparral St. | Open Daily

Enjoy live music, coastal vibes, and casual dining at Executive Surf Club, an iconic downtown Corpus Christi hangout. Dig into seafood favorites like fried shrimp baskets and fresh fish tacos while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and a cold drink. With live entertainment and a welcoming outdoor setting, it's a great place to unwind after a day exploring the coast.

Discount: 

10% military discount

Railroad Seafood & Brewing Co.

1214 N. Chaparral St. | Open Monday - Saturday

Fresh Gulf Coast seafood and locally brewed beer come together at Railroad Seafood & Brewing Co. in downtown Corpus Christi. Enjoy flavorful dishes like Snapper Ponchartrain and seafood pasta bowls, paired with craft beers brewed in-house. The lively atmosphere and menu of coastal favorites make it a great stop for lunch, dinner, or a casual night out.

Discount:

10% military discount

Doc's Seafood & Steaks

13309 SPID | Open Daily

Enjoy waterfront dining and fresh Gulf Coast flavors at Doc's Seafood & Steaks on North Padre Island. The menu features seafood favorites like blackened fish, buttery crab cakes, and stuffed flounder, along with hearty steaks and coastal classics. Grab a seat on the outdoor deck, sip a classic margarita, and take in scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Discount:

10% military discount, plus Military Monday menu specials

Snoopy's Pier

13313 SPID | Open Daily

A beloved island staple, Snoopy's Pier serves classic coastal favorites in a casual waterfront setting. Enjoy crispy fried shrimp, flaky fish sandwiches, and hush puppies while watching boats pass along the Intracoastal Waterway. After your meal, head next door to Scoopy's for a sweet treat made with Blue Bell Ice Cream.

Discount:

10% military discount

Hardknocks Sports Lounge and Grill

15401 SPID | Open Daily

Catch your favorite teams in action at Hardknocks Sports Lounge and Grill, a local sports bar featuring 83 HD televisions, handcrafted cocktails, and plenty of beers on tap. The menu offers a variety of classic bar bites and casual favorites, making it a lively spot to grab a meal, enjoy a drink, and catch the big game.

Discount: 

15% military discount

Marty McPies

300 N. Shoreline Blvd. | Open Daily

Located in downtown Corpus Christi, veteran-owned Marty McPies serves handcrafted pan pizzas loaded with flavor. Each signature McPie starts with house-made dough and rich tomato sauce, topped with combinations like spicy pepperoni and hot honey or creamy ricotta and sausage. Grab a slice or share a whole pie while taking in the restaurant's laid-back, mural-covered setting.

Discount:

20% military discount

RETRO Corpus

326 N. Chaparral St. | Open Daily

Bring a little nostalgia to your night out at RETRO Corpus, a downtown barcade combining arcade games, dining, and nightlife. Challenge your friends to classic games while enjoying New York- or Chicago-style pizza, burgers, wings, and other casual favorites. Afterward, head upstairs to the rooftop patio for drinks and a different view of downtown Corpus Christi.

Discount:

10% off all food and soft drinks for military members and veterans

USS Lexington Museum

2914 N. Shoreline Blvd. | Open Daily | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Step aboard the historic USS Lexington Museum, a World War II-era aircraft carrier permanently docked on Corpus Christi's North Beach. Explore the flight deck, discover historic aircraft, and navigate exhibits showcasing naval aviation and life at sea. From the immersive Pearl Harbor exhibit to the 3D MEGA Theater and flight simulator, the Blue Ghost offers a fascinating look at American military history.

Discount:

Military admission is $16. Military ID required.

Texas State Aquarium

2710 N. Shoreline Blvd. | Open Daily | 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Explore the wonders of the Gulf of Mexico and beyond at the Texas State Aquarium on North Beach. Get up close to sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and other marine life through interactive exhibits, explore the Caribbean Journey, and catch one of the aquarium's popular dolphin presentations. With hands-on experiences and a focus on marine conservation, this waterfront attraction offers something for visitors of all ages.

Discount: 

Military personnel and veterans receive $5 off regular admission with valid proof of service. Discount must be redeemed on-site.

South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center

8545 S. Staples St. | Open Daily | 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Discover 182 acres of colorful gardens, native wildlife, and scenic nature trails at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. Wander through the Orchid Conservatory, home to more than 2,500 orchid varieties, explore the fragrant rose garden, and visit the Butterfly House. Along the way, encounter resident parrots, reptiles, and other wildlife throughout the property. Before you leave, snap a photo at the butterfly wings and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this Southside attraction.

Discount:

Active-duty military personnel receive $10 admission

Enjoy free admission every Friday in November and December 2026,

courtesy of H-E-B's Explore More program.