Corpus Christi, Texas Travel Guide

Also see: Port Aransas, Aransas Pass, Rockport, Kingsville, Padre Island

Corpus Christi was charted in 1519 by Spanish explorer Alonzo Alvarez de Pineda, who named the bay Body of Christ, or Corpus Christi. For several years, the coastal area was of interest mainly to pirates, men who used its bay and islands as hideouts.

Today the port is much friendlier, welcoming ships from around the globe and holding the title as the sixth largest port in the nation. A favorite with windsurfers, birders, and beach buffs, Corpus Christi makes a good home base from which to explore the city's many attractions and nearby Padre Island National Seashore.

Our Top Attractions:

Texas State Aquarium. A must-do in Corpus Christi, especially if you are traveling with kids.

USS Museum on the Bay Housed in the USS Lexington, the most decorated aircraft carrier in U.S. Naval history, this museum offers five self-guided tour routes that give visitors a close look at the ship termed "The Blue Ghost."

Padre Island National Seashore. This amazing stretch of beach has both bustling sections and quiet areas accessible only by four-wheel drive.

World of Discovery. This downtown museum is home to replicas of Columbus's famous ships.

Art Museum of South Texas. Located downtown, this collection features traditional and contemporary works.

Other Attractions:

Asian Cultures Museum and Educational Center. Asian art ranging from dolls to pagodas.Located at 1809 N. Chaparral.

Heritage Park. Tour historic homes dating back to the mid-1850s. P ´Site of nine historic homes dating back to 1851. Each has been restored and is used occasionally by civic groups for concerts and performances. Located at 1581 N. Chaparral, Heritage Park.

Tours:

Flagship Cruises. Narrated cruises of the Corpus Christi Bay. Located at Peoples St. T-Head.

In-Depth Travel Articles:

Corpus Christi for Groups

For More Information: www.corpus christi-tx-cvb.org