The USS Lex was once used in military expeditions throughout the world, but today it functions as a floating museum. It is docked pleasantly on the Corpus Christi Bay, and it's quite impressive to see from any angle. To board, you are whisked away in a free shuttle that takes you right to the ship's hangar entrance. The tour allows visitors to see the flight deck, the control and navigation rooms and even the captain's quarters. There is also a mega-theater on board as well as a flight simulator and an interactive exhibit entitled 'Virtual Battle Stations'.
Located in beautiful Bayfront Park, the Harbor Playhouse consists of hundreds of volunteers and actors that perform about four productions each year. Since 1925 it has entertained city dwellers as well as tourists who happen to stumble upon a performance. Some interpretations include contemporary drama, musicals and comedies. Additionally, the theater has special events scheduled throughout the year. One of the most popular is the annual Halloween open house featuring actors dressed as ghosts and goblins.
Quite possibly the most famous musician to come out of Corpus Christi, Selena Quintanilla's life journey can be seen through this museum. Her family built the museum after receiving letters from fans expressing their interest in a museum to commemorate the legendary Tejano singer. On display you will find several of Selena's stage costumes, most of which she designed herself, awards and other memorabilia. The museum even has Selena's red Porsche for visitors to see. All admission revenue goes to the Selena Foundation, which helps to aid children in need and provides scholarships to promising students.
Meet and greet this magnificent mammal in its natural habitat within the Gulf of Mexico's warm waters. In fact, it is the only place in Texas to see dolphins at such close range, which makes Dolphin Connection worth the 25-minute drive from Corpus Christi. The tours last from between one to two-hours and almost each ride guarantees seeing a few dolphins. The guides simply love what they do, and are as passionate about these wonderful creatures. All in all, an unforgettable encounter.
Founded in 1995 as a cooperative artist's studio, the gallery gets its name from the Kress Five and Dime shop that was the former tenant of the building. Today, this non-profit organization aims to advance and cultivate contemporary art in South Texas. Various special exhibits are organized throughout the year, where guests will see paintings, sculptures and multi-media works on display, everything created by local artists. Be sure to visit the gift shop for one-of-a-kind, hand made souvenirs and small pieces of art.
This nature center in southwest Corpus Christi houses more than 180-acres (72.84 hectares) of exotic and native plants. The site features an Orchid House, Bromeliad Sanctuary, a Rose Garden and many other designated flower areas. Another benefit to the gardens, include the fact that the center works as a conservationist for exotic and abandoned animals. The botanical gardens house reptiles, birds and fish all in their respective exhibits and habitats. Don't forget to take a walk down the Bird & Butterfly Trail which overlooks Gator Lake! Moreover, the gardens often host special events, educational classes and tours.
Founded in 1995 as a cooperative artist's studio, the gallery gets its name from the Kress Five and Dime shop that was the former tenant of the building. Today, this non-profit organization aims to advance and cultivate contemporary art in South Texas. Various special exhibits are organized throughout the year, where guests will see paintings, sculptures and multi-media works on display, everything created by local artists. Be sure to visit the gift shop for one-of-a-kind, hand made souvenirs and small pieces of art.
House of Rock fulfills all the requirements for a good night. With a full bar, entertainment venue and a kitchen that churns out better-than-average pizza, you really never have to leave. The main bar allows guests 21+ and the venue allows all ages to listen to live music. Thursday through Saturday is when you can see shows, and in addition to pizzas, House of Rock offers salads and sandwiches while the bar stocks more than 80 beers.
One of the main attractions in downtown Corpus Christi is its bustling marina. Here you will find sailboats docked in neat rows, snow cone vendors, restaurants and tour ship cruises. During the day you can walk down the piers and find local fisherman selling the day's catch. During the summer months, it becomess especially busy with families walking up and down the wooden piers and at night, it is particularly stunning when the marina is illuminated.
Just steps from the museums of Bayfront Park, visitors will find a collection of homes surrounded by beautiful greenery on North Chaparral Street. Visitors who walk through this neighborhood will feel as if they have stepped into the Victorian era and visiting one of the twelve homes will only enhance that sentiment. It is recommended to take the guided tour of these homes in order to better understand the full history of these architectural gems. The Galvan House is the yellow center house from which all tours depart and there is a fee when you take a tour, however if you wish to walk around the neighborhood, that is free.
Home of the North American Hockey League's Corpus Christi Ice Rays, the American Bank Center located in Bayfront Park hosts hockey as well as various other, eclectic events. This structure by the Gulf is comprised of three different sections: the Selena Auditorium, the Arena and the Convention Center. Some of the other events here include concerts, trade shows, rodeos and even weddings. Covering an area of 500,000 square feet (46451.52 square meters), the American Bank Center is well equipped for any major event along the coastal bend.
Located in beautiful Bayfront Park, the Harbor Playhouse consists of hundreds of volunteers and actors that perform about four productions each year. Since 1925 it has entertained city dwellers as well as tourists who happen to stumble upon a performance. Some interpretations include contemporary drama, musicals and comedies. Additionally, the theater has special events scheduled throughout the year. One of the most popular is the annual Halloween open house featuring actors dressed as ghosts and goblins.