Top Rated Attracties in Corpus Christi

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'.

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 building was designed by the renowned architect Philip Johnson, where he used a material called 'shellcrete', which is a combination of shells and concrete. The tri-level structure stands majestically by the bay and it houses an interesting permanent collection as well as constant temporary exhibitions. Most pieces are American contemporary and include paintings and sculptures from renowned artists like Georgia O'Keefe and Jackson Pollock. For the little ones there is a children's play area located downstairs and if art makes you hungry, step into the elegant Dobson Cafe for a light lunch.

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.

One of main attractions in Corpus Christi, the Texas State Aquarium is a sought-after favorite in this part of Texas. Located on Corpus Christi Bay right next to the entrance to the USS Lexington, the aquarium is a cool refuge away from the sweltering summer heat. The exhibits feature local sea life as well as exotic animals from all parts of the world. One of the other highlights is the dolphin training demonstration, it is held at varying times throughout the day.

For an educational day out with the kids, visit the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History located in Bayfront Park. What really draws visitors to this museum are the replicas of the Pinta, Niña and Santa Maria; the ships that Christopher Columbus sailed upon when he arrived in the Americas. Guided tours of the ships are available every hour and are included in the price of admission. Aside from the ships, the museum has a number of exhibits that highlight the region. From paleontology and ecology to agronomy and the history of Corpus Christi, this museum is a veritable treasure trove of education in the region.