Corpus Christi in Texas might be the most underrated city in the South

About 350 miles long, the Texas Gulf Coast draws visitors in droves each year to enjoy the surf and sun—and when it comes to finding natural wonders, top-tier gastronomy, and fascinating historic sites all packed into one city, there’s arguably no better destination than Corpus Christi.

It is believed that the name of the seaside settlement dates back to 1519. The city offers many recreational activities, both on and off the water, including bay beaches, nature reserves on the ocean, and the downtown seawall which is popular with pedestrians. After a day of jet skiing, paddleboarding or exploring the area’s diverse dining options, including Texas barbecue, fresh fish, and a thriving Tex-Mex culture that comes from the locals, visitors can enjoy the varied dining options in the region.

Corpus Christi is a city that continues to attract a variety of visitors, despite not being the largest in Texas. In the morning, bird-watchers are often seen along the shoreline searching for rare waders. History buffs can spend the day aboard one of America’s most famous museums ships. Selena was a pioneer in Tejano music and her voice has earned her worldwide recognition.

Corpus Christi offers both natural beauty and rich culture, whether you are a frequent Gulf Coast traveler or planning your first trip.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

The hotel offers guests a spectacular view of the water during their stay. Omni Corpus Christi HotelEach of the 465 rooms, suites and apartments boasts a private balcony. Switchgrass landing, just outside the lobby of the hotel, is a favorite for Sunday brunches, as well as evening cocktails. The indoor racquetball facilities are perfect for staying active during rainy weather.

Lively Beach

Lively Beach The spacious suites feature kitchens and outdoor decks. The boardwalk allows you to scan the beachfront in the morning for wildlife. Weekends bring wine and music for free on the rooftop terrace.

Port Royal Ocean Resort

Port Aransas has a few properties that are worth mentioning. One is located on Mustang Island, just outside of Corpus Christi. “One really good hotel is Port Royal Ocean Resort“, says Susan Trevino a Corpus Christi resident who owns and runs Enjoy Corpus Christi Tours Rene is her husband. It has an incredible swimming pool. Port Royal has a swimming pool that everyone wants to visit.

Residence Inn Corpus Christi Downtown

The hotel is located just a few minutes from the beach. Residence Inn Corpus Christi Downtown It is close to the marina, which has many restaurants. The property offers guests the opportunity to start the day by strolling along the coast and admiring the many ships.

What to do?

Texas State Aquarium

Opened in 1990, the Texas State Aquarium The exhibit provides a wealth of information about the marine life that lives in the Gulf. The acrylic tunnel of the H-E – B Caribbean Sea exhibit allows visitors to see reef sharks, eels and other marine animals as they walk through. The institution operates a wildlife rehabilitation centre next to its main building, which is a major force in conservation.

USS Lexington Museum

Just off the coast from downtown Corpus Christi is the USS Lexington The USS Constitution is a monument to the military might of America. This World War II aircraft carrier served in the Pacific Theater for most of the 1940s. It then spent many years as a carrier that was used to train pilots before it was decommissioned in 1992. Trevino says that the USS Lexington has a wonderful display of different aircraft types on its flight deck. “One of the planes that people enjoy is the Maverick aircraft, which was used in the very first Top Gun film. “His actual plane is on our flight deck.”

Selena Museum

Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, Corpus Christi native Selena Quintanilla captured the hearts of countless Americans with her roster of Tejano ballads, and today, the city honors her ongoing legacy through the Selena Museum. The colorful shop is housed in the same studio as the one where she recorded her song “Dreaming of You”. It’s packed with merchandise and fan mail.

Padre Island National Seashore

The crown jewel in ecotourism for Corpus Christi has to be the Ecotourism Center of Excellence. Padre Island National SeashoreA protected preserve that stretches for nearly 70 miles along Gulf. The area is popular with birders, fishermen, and sunbathers, but there’s more to see. Trevino says that sea turtles in Texas are protected, and we release the babies whenever they nest on the beach. “Rangers take eggs, put them in incubators and then, when the hatching turtles are ready to enter the ocean, there is a big release where everyone gathers on the beach. “It’s a fantastic adventure.”

Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve

Few places can rival Corpus Christi as the “America’s Birdiest City.” Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve. This 162-acre park is home to a variety of Texas wildlife, including the great kiskadee and the crested caracara.

Best Nightlife

Tapology Texas Pub

Tapology Texas Pub is a casual bar that offers more than 40 craft beer options. Bar trivia is also offered throughout the month. Patrons can grab a pint and enjoy the dart board and pool tables.

Nueces Whiskey library

Spirit aficionados, take note: Nueces Whiskey Library It is a must for any bourbon fan visiting the Gulf Coast. The guests can enjoy a variety of whiskies from Texas and other states, as well as rum, gin and mezcal.

The Hidden Door

There aren’t many places to hang out in Corpus Christi that are considered queer, but there is one. The Hidden Door. This lively bar has been in operation since 1979. It attracts locals and tourists with its drag shows, cheap drinks and karaoke performances. Charity events are also held frequently to support the local gay community.

Best Restaurants

Water Street Oyster Bar

The variety of seafood options includes everything from shrimp po’boys to spicy salmon rolls. Water Street Oyster BarThis polished spot shines in the area of shellfish. You can choose from wood-grilled or pecan-crusted oysters. Rockefeller oysters are a great way to discover a new appreciation for seafood.

Hi-Ho Restaurant

Operating since 40 plus years. Hi-Ho Restaurant Its Tex-Mex menu has made it a local favorite over the years. On arrival, guests may order beef enchiladas, chicken chalupas or a variety of other dishes. However, this legendary location is most famous for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. carne guisada.

Elizabeth’s

The Art Museum of South Texas is located within. Elizabeth’s Crafts flavorful Mediterranean food with stunning scenery. Trevino says that you can have a delicious lunch at the museum, as the aroma is amazing. The views are some of best in Corpus Christi Bay. It’s an enjoyable place to dine.”

Little Manila Lumpia House

You can find out more about the tastes of the Philippines by visiting Little Manila Lumpia House. The staff at this Flour Bluff restaurant is extremely friendly and they serve a variety of Filipino favorites. Lumbia The crispy spring rolls are a popular type. sinigang A savory soup with a hint of tamarind.

Guajillos on the island

Corpus Christi, while known for Tex-Mex food, is not a slouch in the traditional Mexican cuisine department. Guajillo’s On The Island Over the past two decades, I have been creating delicious dishes. Yucatan food lovers will love the Yucatan cuisine. cochinita Tacos are a must, and breakfast guests can enjoy a wide range of chilaquiles.

When is the best time to visit?

Corpus Christi is a popular tourist destination all year round, but some people prefer to avoid the summer months due to high temperatures and humidity. Consult the local community’s page to find out if any major events coincide with your visit.

Trevino says, “We have a lot of festivals.” We’re always going to celebrate festivals if they’re for a good reason. Day of the Dead plays a huge role in our Tex-Mex tradition, and the Texas Jazz Festival is a fantastic free event that we hold every October. Buc Days is a spring two-week event that includes barbecue cook-offs and a carnival with a rodeo. It also features a nightly illuminated parade.

How to get there

Most visitors to Texas prefer to start their vacation by flying directly into Corpus Christi International Airport. Equipped with just six gates, the venue doesn’t offer a whole lot of routes—direct flight destinations include just the Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth areas, but it certainly beats a lengthy drive from one of the Lone Star State’s larger cities. For those who want to do a Texas roadtrip, they can drive from Houston or Dallas/Fort Worth up to Corpus Christi. The journey along I-37 takes about two hours from San Antonio. Visitors coming from Houston will take just under three hours.

How to Get Around

Renting a car is the best way to explore Corpus Christi. The airport offers rental car services, or visitors can take a rideshare to the various centers along State Highway 358, which are located near the airport. Corpus Christi, unlike some Texas cities, is not plagued by slow traffic. Trevino: “Corpus Christi is a small city that is big.” “We have all the amenities of big cities, but at a smaller scale. We also don’t usually have traffic jams.”