Corpus Christi is a great place for a weekend stay, offering more than 70 miles of gorgeous Gulf Coast shoreline and plenty of kid-friendly attractions. Often you will find the more inland neighbors of Dallas, Houston, and Fort Worth heading on over to Corpus Christi for a beautiful Texas beach weekend. Come dive in with us as we explore our top 15 things to do in Corpus Christi with kids!
Our Favorite Things to Do in Corpus Christi with Kids
Texas State Aquarium
Why You Should Go
The Texas State Aquarium has been part of USA Today’s Top 10 Aquariums numerous times, and is a must-visit if you find yourself vacationing in Corpus Christi. You’ll find plenty of things to do with over 6,000 animal species to look at and unique aquatic exhibits. If it’s a hot day, you can even take your little one to the splash park to cool off!
USS Lexington
Why You Should Go
The USS Lexington served in World War II and had more than 3,000 men stationed on it near Pearl Harbor. The great thing about this ship is that now sits in the Corpus Christi harbor, allowing for public tours. Your little ones will love sitting in the aircraft seats and messing around with the controls while your older ones will enjoy checking out the self-guided tours where they can climb ladders and explore the sleeping quarters.
North Beach Boardwalk
Why You Should Go
Right next to the USS Lexington lies the North Beach Boardwalk, which provides more than two miles of walkway next to the calm Gulf Coast waters. This boardwalk is great for biking, walking, and running, and plenty of parents push their strollers along the path to get their toddlers out for some fresh air.
South Texas Botanical Gardens
Why You Should Go
With more than 180 acres of land to explore, your kids will love running around the South Texas Botanical Gardens. The butterfly house is a must-see, and there are plenty of unique animals that you wouldn’t expect, including parrots and reptiles. Whther you climb up the Observatory Tower, visit Gator Lake, or walk around the nature trail, is up to you!
San Jose Island
Why You Should Go
One of the best ways to get to San Jose Island is by ferry. The ferry takes about 10 minutes to get to the island, where you’ll have more than 21 miles of peaceful shoreline to enjoy. You won’t find many facilities on the island, though it’s a wonderful spot to go seashell hunting and picnic.
Mustang Island
Why You Should Go
If you didn’t get enough of an island experience from San Jose Island, then you can try and catch some waves on Mustang Island. This island is a bit more developed, offering trash cans and port-a-pottiese. Plus, with clear blue waves, you can go bodysurfing, jump around in the waves, or enjoy the surrounding bird life.
McGee Beach
Why You Should Go
McGee Beach is a small yet well-maintained Corpus Christi beach with plenty of amenities, including rentals, bathrooms, and more. The water is shallow here, perfect for young children who want to swim. Just a short walk from this beach is the downtown area, where you can find several charming restaurants and shops!
Padre Island National Seashore
Why You Should Go
You’ll find more than 70 miles of shoreline to explore on Padre Island National Seashore, which is the biggest barrier island in the world. One of the unique things about this beach is that you can even take your car on it! There aren’t any facilities on the beach, though you will find restrooms and a shop in the visitor center if you need something! We recommend camping there if you want to get a real stargazing experience!
Dolphin Watching
Why You Should Go
Getting out on the water in Corpus Christi is easy, though one of the best activities you’ll find at sea is dolphin watching. In the Gulf of Mexico alone, scientists estimate that there are well over 10,000 bottlenose dolphins. There are plenty of unique spots to go dolphin watching, which you can check out here.
Whitecap Beach
Why You Should Go
Whitecap Beach is a local favorite and a wonderful place to escape the crowds of tourists during the summer. The beach is far more quiet and peaceful than the others, and requires that you bring your own games and entertainment if you plan on spending the day there!
The Original Whataburger
Why You Should Go
Whataburger got its start in Corpus Christi, and the original restaurant is still there to this day! Stopping at this Whataburger to grab a bite is a must if you’re in Corpus Christi. Of course, if you want to enjoy your burger with an oceanside view (and who wouldn’t?), then we recommend going to the bayfront location to grab a seat on the outdoor balcony.
Whataburger Field
Why You Should Go
When you’re finally beached out, head to Whataburger field to catch a local baseball game. This stadium hosts the Corpus Christi Hooks, a minor league Double-A affiliate team for the Astros. You’ll even find a playground where your little kids can explore, and a climbing wall for the older ones!
Hurrican Alley Waterpark
Why You Should Go
Hurricane Alley Waterpark is one of the most kid-friendly places in Corpus Christi! The kids will enjoy splashing around in the wave pool and hitting the slides while you cool off in the lazy river for some low-key fun. While you’re there, make sure to check out The Diamond, which is the park’s baseball-themed water deck.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Why You Should Go
The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History was established in 1957, offering a unique way to introduce young children to the history of Corpus Christi and Texas. You’ll find plenty of unique exhibits, some of which rotate throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to learn about Texas history, native explorers, or paleontology, this museum has it all!
Red Dragon Pirate Cruise
Why You Should Go
The Red Dragon Pirate Cruise is an exciting experience for everyone! This is the chance to be a pirate that you’ve been waiting all your life! There are plenty of awesome onboard activities, including treasure hunts, sword fighting, and dolphin watching!
Map of Things to Do in Corpus Christi with Kids
Frequently Asked Questions about Corpus Christi
What is Corpus Christi best known for?
Corpus Christi has plenty to do for the whole family, but they are one of the best places in the US for kiteboarding, wind surfing, kite flying and sailing.
What is there to do in Corpus Christi?
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center
Texas State Aquarium
Art Museum of South Texas
Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge
USS Lexington
Surf Museum
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Whataburger Field
What can I do in Corpus Christi for free?
Spend Some Time at the Beach
Visit the Selena Memorial
Explore the Texas Surf Museum
Wander Around the Farmer’s Market
Go Bird Watching at the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail
Check Out the Loteria Corpus Christi Mural
Relax in the Watergarden
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