Sandy shores along the Corpus Christi Bay and Gulf of Mexico provide a peaceful spot for sunbathing and a jumping-off point for water-based adventures such as kayaking and wakeboarding. Corpus Christi entertains kids as well via its world-renowned aquarium and gardens, where little ones can come nose-to-nose with dolphins or walk through butterfly homes fluttering with activity. Bring your family, go on a trip to the shore with friends and enjoy the many things to do in Corpus Christi.
Sports and Entertainment
America’s pastime is on display at the intimate Whataburger Field, home to the city’s minor league baseball team. Highlights play out magnificently on the enormous 972-square-foot video board while boats sail past the outfield wall. For the ultimate fan experience, order the Babe, the park’s signature dish—a cheddarwurst wrapped in hamburger and bacon. Still need your sports fill? The 8,000-seat American Bank Center Arena hosts a junior hockey league, indoor professional football team and roller derby matches and can accommodate up to 10,000 people for major concerts.
Nature and Wildlife
A lush, 182-acre landscape awaits you at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center. Embark on a leisurely stroll through orchid-filled greenhouses, vibrant roses, plumeria and sensory gardens. At the Texas State Aquarium, little ones will fall in love with wildlife, including furry otters and majestic eagles. A series of interactive exhibits lets them touch animals, such as stingrays and bamboo sharks, while the Wildflight Theatre exposes them to a variety of feathered friends. Pack a change of clothes so your kids can frolic in the outdoor splashground.
Beach and Water Adventures
Experience a bit of American history with a visit to the USS Lexington, an Essex-class carrier that saw action in the Pacific during World War II. Climb aboard the iconic vessel and learn more about the ship at the attached museum. Kids will love the virtual battle stations, where they can engage in aerial combat and attempt to land on a carrier ship. Stretching 70 miles along the Gulf Coast, Padre Island National Seashore offers dunes, prairies and tidal flats for exploration. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including sea turtles and 380 different species of birds. If you’re in the mood for water sports, set out for an afternoon of boating, windsurfing or swimming.
Dining Around Town
Order your meal at the counter at Snoopy’s Pier (13313 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi) and munch on such fresh catch as fried shrimp, oysters and fish tacos. Dine outdoors and soak up the waterfront view and cool bay breeze. If you go on a Sunday, take advantage of the restaurant's "free sundae" coupons. Open for just breakfast and lunch, Andy’s Country Kitchen (5802 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi) serves down-home cooking, from country fresh egg dishes to Southern fried chicken strips. Adding to the laid-back feel is a model train that travels throughout the restaurant.
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