Top Attractions for First-Time Visitors
If you’re planning your first trip to Corpus Christi, be sure to include a mix of outdoor attractions along with indoor cultural sites. This will help you experience the best of what the Sparkling City has to offer. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
Beaches and Water Activities
With five bayfront beaches and sunny weather all year round, Corpus Christi was made to be enjoyed outdoors. Popular beaches like Whitecap Beach and North Beach await you, all with soft sand, calm waves, and clear waters perfect for swimming. Many beaches offer amenities like bait stands and equipment rentals for fishing right off the sand. Parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding adventures also launch from marinas near the beaches. Don’t miss the chance to get out on the beautiful waters of Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf.
Museums and Culture
In addition to beaches and outdoor activities, Corpus Christi has a lively arts and culture scene. Visit the Art Museum of South Texas to peruse painting, sculpture, photography, and installations from renowned Texas artists. History buffs will appreciate the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History with exhibits covering the region’s heritage. Texas Surf Museum spotlights the long history of surf culture along Gulf Coast, with vintage boards and memorabilia. Music fans of all ages will love the Texas Music Museum showcasing Texan musicians and genres.
Texas State Aquarium
One of the top attractions for families is the Texas State Aquarium located right on Corpus Christi Bay. Get eye-to-eye with sharks, stingrays, and green sea turtles in the 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico tank. Touch colorful starfish and urchins in the kids’ area. Plus see alligators, javelinas, and hundreds of birds native to the region at this world-class aquarium.
U.S.S. Lexington
Docked along Corpus Christi’s waterfront, this historic naval aircraft carrier from World War II allows you to explore the massive ship through engaging exhibits and restored aircraft. Kids can try out the flight simulators while adults examine artifacts from major battles. Boarding this floating museum is a memorable maritime experience.
Botanical Gardens and Nature Centers
In addition to sandy shores, Corpus Christi offers beautiful green spaces like the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. Wander through tropical gardens and exhibits on plants and wildlife native to the region’s coastal prairie habitat. Nearby, kids go crazy for the Aransas Pass Aquarium located right on the bayfront, with touch tanks full of rays and sea stars.
Restaurants and Food Tours
No trip to this coastal city is complete without indulging in succulent Gulf seafood. Local favorites include shrimp, red snapper, tuna, oysters and crab prepared fried, blackened, or grilled. Be sure to sample local cuisine on food tours offered by companies like Flavor Tours. And save room for Mexican food, BBQ, bistros, diners, and beachside cafes.
How to Get Around Corpus Christi
Now that you know the top things to do in Corpus Christi, let’s discuss the best transportation options for visitors. Here’s an overview of getting around by public transit, taxis/rideshares, or charter buses:
Public Transportation
The Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority operates a public bus system that covers most areas tourists will want to visit. Key routes include the Staples Street Station Line serving downtown and the Crosstown Route to popular North Beach. While the buses reach top attractions, service can be infrequent with routes operating just once per hour. Visitors staying outside the main city center may find buses impractical if they’re crunched for time. Traffic and limited bus stops can make rides take longer than ideal.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are available in Corpus Christi, however fares are not cheap. Wait time also adds $0.45 per minute. Visitors staying in outlying hotel areas can expect hefty fares. Popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Corpus, often with lower base fares than taxis. However, drivers may be sparse during peak times.
Charter Buses
For convenience, efficiency and group unity, chartering a private bus is an excellent transportation option in Corpus Christi. When you book group transportation with a company like Corpus Christi Party Bus Company, our personal team will pick up your group at your hotel, vacation rental or other location. A charter bus provides door-to-door service directly to the attractions on your itinerary, without stops at other hotels or locations. Your group can travel together in comfort with amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, entertainment systems, and restrooms. No waiting at crowded bus stops or being crammed into small taxis. Let us simplify your travels in Corpus Christi!
Ready to Get Started Exploring Corpus Christi?
We hope this first timer’s guide prepares you to see the best of the Sparkling City! Corpus Christi offers spectacular beaches, fascinating attractions, delicious food, and that welcoming Texas hospitality. Avoid the hassles of public transportation or rideshares and book easy group travel with Corpus Christi Party Bus Company. Our charter buses will keep your group united to experience all that Corpus Christi has in store. Call 737-237-7207 to start planning your sunny Texas travels today!