The city of Corpus Christi, Texas, is a coastal city in South Texas that has much to offer with a variety of options to fill your calendar. Whether it’s visiting beautiful beaches or learning about the city’s history or strolling through farmers’ markets, Corpus Christi is primed to deliver memorable experiences. And the good news is that many can be had for free!
Here are some of the best free things to do in Corpus Christi that won’t stress your travel budget.
Corpus Christi Art Center
For art connoisseurs, the Corpus Christi Art Center should be at the top of your list of things to do in Corpus Christi for free. More than 200,000 people visit the Center each year to see its paintings and sculptures. However, visitors also can have a hands-on experience. There are free art classes, including painting and clay building, for people of all ages. The Center also hosts art shows, charity events, dinner parties, wedding celebrations, and more.
Art Museum of South Texas
The Art Museum of South Texas is on the bayfront and was designed in 1972 by Philip Johnson, a world-renowned architect. This upscale venue offers diverse exhibits and educational programs that represent the region’s multicultural heritage. The Museum features programs such as bilingual gallery lectures, videos, dance, theatrical, and musical performances. The museum also hosts free events, including poetry nights and yoga classes.
Water Sports
Water sports are plentiful with options for fishing, surfing, boating, and kayaking at the city’s many beaches and parks. Sailboat regatta races are held on Wednesday evenings and provide great opportunities for photography enthusiasts as boats glide across the beautiful bay at sunset. You can watch the races for free at the Municipal Marina, a gorgeous location that is home to shrimp boats and yachts.
Downtown Seawall
The Corpus Christi downtown seawall runs along the waterfront’s scenic shoreline. It is a great area for biking or walking, and there are eight relaxing gazebo areas known as “Miradores del Mar” that offer a great view of the Gulf. The gazebos are similar to structures found in Morocco and Spain.
In 2009, the city added a Journey Through Our Solar System Exhibit to celebrate astronauts such as Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong.
Texas State Aquarium
The Texas State Aquarium is one of the biggest wildlife rescue centers and conservation areas in the United States. You can take guided tours to see everything up close! One of the coolest parts is that there are interactive exhibits with sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, alligators, dolphins, otters, and stingrays. The Texas State Aquarium also provides kid-focused activities and games. If you become a member, admission is free.
Marine Life Releases
The Texas Sealife Center gives visitors a chance to see the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of aquatic animals, including sea turtles, dolphins, and birds! Be sure to check the Texas Sealife Center’s webpage and social media channels for upcoming releases and other events.
Farmers Markets
When looking for fun cheap things to do in Corpus Christi, check out one of the four farmers markets. Each has its own unique atmosphere. The Southside, Downtown, Water Street, and Padre’s Island markets feature a variety of options for visitors who seek locally grown food and handmade goods such as art, health supplements, flowers, and jewelry. To add energy to these events, there are food trucks and live music, and the beach is nearby.
Heritage Park
Ready for some history? Heritage Park is a historical landmark and features a quaint touring area of 12 Victorian homes. The Lawerence House, built in 1840, is the oldest house on the block. Each house has a historical backstory about the owners, and some are museums or host special events. Heritage Park also offers picnic, biking and walking opportunities.
South Texas Music Walk of Fame
The South Texas Music Walk of Fame was founded by a local oyster bar owner on Water Street. It’s a scenic courtyard area with shiny tiles of the names of local stars and people who have played in Corpus Christi and made their mark. If you check out their website, you can view the names of more than 90 recognized musicians, including Kris Kristofferson. The venue has hosted jazz and rock festivals and other live music events.
Old Bay View Cemetery
If you like military history, then visit Old Bay View Cemetery, Texas’ oldest federal military cemetery. Before the Mexican War U.S. Army Engineers developed it while General Zachary Taylor was in Corpus Christi. In fact, the city’s founder, Henry Lawrence Kinney, dedicated the cemetery in Taylor’s honor. The cemetery includes resting places of pioneer settlers and veterans from the Civil War, the Texas War for Independence, and The War of 1812. The cemetery’s website lists all of the people buried there and includes photos, eulogies, records, newspaper articles and journals.
Honoring ‘Queen of Tejano’
Selena Quintanilla Perez – known as “The Queen of Tejano” – was a well-known Mexican-American singer born in Texas but tragically murdered at the age of 23.
There is a life-size bronze statue of Selena created by local artist H.W. “Buddy” Tatum called the Mirador de la Flor. It was unveiled in 1997 on the Bayfront Seawall to honor and remember the impact Selena Quintanilla-Perez had on Corpus Christi music. People are welcome to take pictures next to the statue as her music plays throughout the Mirador de le Flor.
Community Parks
Corpus Christi has many community wildlife and nature parks where you can walk, hike, fish, and even grill food. Cole Park covers 43 acres and has barbecue grills, a lighthouse pier, and an amphitheater used for live music and an occasional movie night. Hazel Bazemore Park, Hans and Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge, and Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center are great options for hikes, nature viewing, fishing, biking or providing easy beach access.
Don’t Miss Out on Free Things To Do In Corpus Christi
As you can see, there are lots of free things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas. It is definitely a go-to option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice quality or excitement.
From vibrant opportunities in the arts to exploring its unique history or simply relaxing on its beautiful beaches, Corpus Christi is a worthwhile destination for families or people seeking a special weekend getaway. So pack your bags for Corpus Christi, where you’ll see that some of the best things in life truly are free.