Rockport, Texas

Also see: Port Aransas, Corpus Christi, Aransas Pass

Rockport is nationally recognized in the birding world because it boasts over 500 species on record. From late August through September, thousands of tiny hummers from as far as Canada use Rockport and other nearby coastal communities as filling stations. They stop and refuel before the arduous, non-stop journey over the Gulf of Mexico on their way to warmer climes in Mexico and Central and South America.

During the fall migration, bird lovers come to see the hummingbirds, an annual pilgrimage which has become a festival -- the Hummer/Bird Celebration. The Coastal Bend Audubon Society together with the neighboring communities of Rockport and Fulton have come together to host the four day event, always scheduled for early September.

Attractions:

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is the prime wintering ground for the endangered whooping crane, plus hundreds of other bird species.

Copano Bay Causeway State Park.This state park entails fishing piers with concession stands and a public boat ramp. From Rockport, 5 miles north on Rte. 35..

Fulton Mansion State Historic Structure. An elegant 1876 home noted for its innovative features that included one of the first uses of central heat.

Goose Island State Park.This 314-acre park is the home of "Big Tree," the State Championship Coastal Live Oak. The park is also home to a variety of waterfowl and shore birds. Fishing, camping, picnic sites.From Rockport, 10 miles northeast on Rte. 35, then east on Park Rd. 13, partly on mainland and partly on nearby islands.

Texas Maritime Museum. This two-story museum chronicles Texas maritime activities, starting with Spanish shipwrecks off the coast and continuing through today's offshore oil industry. Special exhibits are devoted to shipbuilding, Texans of the sea, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Don't Miss:

Oysterfest. This March festival focuses on the Gulf oyster with everything from oyster shucking competitions to crafts booths.

Hummer/Bird Celebration. One of our favorite Texas festivals and a must for birders, this festival showcases the tiniest of Texas visitors: the hummingbird. You'll find educational programs, boat tours, birding trips, and a nature fair during this event.

Rockport Seafair. This October event pays tribute to the town's heritage with boat races, fresh seafood, and parades.

For More Information:

• visit Rockport-Fulton Area Chamber of Commerce