The Ultimate Corpus Christi, Texas Travel Guide

Let’s talk about the most sparkling city on the Gulf of Mexico. Our little family has now lived in Corpus Christi twice… once without kiddos and once with kiddos! So, we have experienced it enough to share what the ultimate Corpus Christi, Texas, travel guide can be.

Why Visit Corpus Christi, Texas

I will be honest: the first time we moved to Corpus Christi, I was skeptical of why anyone should visit. However, the more time I spent and the more invested I became in the community, I quickly realized that Corpus is RICH in character, which any traveler should get to experience. From the food to the experiences to individuals who give Corpus a face, this little gem of a town is a must-add to your list of destinations. On top of all the fun, Corpus Christi, Texas, is the birdies city in America, and you can even find rare birds like the Cattle Tyrant from South America!

What To Do

Alright, let’s dive into what there is to do in Corpus. If you ask a local, they will tell you there isn’t anything to do here, but that is FAR from the truth. There is so much to do with and without kiddos!

Things to Do in Downtown Corpus Christi:

Explore the Texas State Aquarium! It is the fifth-best aquarium in the country, and its splash pad is the best for kids.

Walk where heroes once flew on the USS Lexington. They offer overnight experiences and have an escape room.

Explore the exhibits at the Art Museum of South Texas (peep me in their 10×10 exhibit) and enjoy lunch at their waterfront-view restaurant, Elizabeth’s.

Make a splash at Hurricane Alley Water Park during the summer and enjoy their Dive-In movie nights.

Catch a game with the Houston Astros minor league team, the Corpus Christi Hooks.

Stroll through the heart of Downtown Corpus Christi during the First Friday ArtWalk Block Parties (an event very near and dear to my heart).

Learn about local history at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History. Pro tip they have a fantastic play area for the kids.

Enjoy views of the city and bayfront at Cole Park.

If you are in town for the holidays, their Christmas events are UNMATCHED!

Things to Do off the SPID:

Step into South Texas Heritage at the Corpus Christi Trade Center. A corn cup, a handful of rocks, and a horchata, please.
Lamar Park
Explore the South Texas Botanical Gardens.
Bingoland… y’all, they offer bingo four times a day!

Things to Do on Padre Island:

Take on a few rounds of putt-putt at Treasure Island Golf.
There is nothing like visiting the Padre Island National Seashore.
Live like a tour Texas Tourist and explore Port Aransas.

Always be sure to check out the Visit Corpus Christi events calendar to find activities while you’re in town!

Where to Eat in Corpus Christi

Now, let’s talk about food! We are big foodies in our house, so we strive to only eat at restaurants that will truly wow our taste buds (and wallets)! It is safe to say we have eaten our way around Corpus Christi!

Thai Cottage
The Post at Lamar Park
WaterStreet Oyster & Sushi Bar
Elizabeth’s at the Art Museum
Central Kitchen Bakery
Executive Surf Club
El Camino Comida & Bar
Republic of Texas Bar & Grill Rooftop Restaurant
Switchgrass Landing at the Omni
Bien Mérité Bakery and Restaurant
The Exchange Bar & Grille – honestly their food SMACKS!
BUS Tasty Bites‘
Marty Mcpies
Lucy’s Snack Bar
Creature’s Coffee
Marty Mars Food Truck

Where to Stay

There are tons of places to stay throughout Corpus Christ! I might be biased, but the Omni in Downtown Corpus Christi is the best, but here are a few other options.

The Omni In Downtown Corpus Christi
Holiday Inn Marina
Airbnb or VRBO