Corpus Christi, TX

Go on an underwater adventure at the Texas State Aquarium. Dolphin shows, an aviary area and plenty of surprises await at this attraction. Touch tanks add to the fun, and there's even a huge playground to exhaust the little ones when you're through exploring the aquarium. Learn more...

Address: 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi TX 78402 - MAP
Phone: (361) 881-1254
Web: www.texasstateaquarium.org

Make a splash at Hurricane Alley! The park's May 12, 2012 grand opening will make it the Coastal Bend's largest and newest waterpark. The park features exciting attractions and plenty of water so you can cool off under the Texas sun. Experience the rush of the 6-story Cat 5 water slide, race down the Storm Chaser speed slide, battle the waves of the Storm Surge, or get carried away in the Gulf Stream lazy river. There are also designated areas where pint-sized visitors can have fun made just for them, and swim-up bars where adults can enjoy a drink without ever leaving the water.

Address: 702 E. Port Ave., Corpus Christi, TX 78401 - MAP
Phone: (361) 883-9283
Web: www.hurricanealleycc.com

Explore the longest undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world, the Padre Island National Seashore. The 113-mile island is the perfect place for fishing, beachcombing, camping, off-road adventures and more. Start your visit at this seaside attraction by stopping by the Malaquite Visitor Center for information, maps and fishing licenses. Learn more...

Address: 20420 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, Texas 78418 - MAP
Phone: (361) 949-8068
Web: www.nps.gov

Fish or eat at the Ozone Restaurant at Bob Hall Pier, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant has burgers and bites to make your stay at the beach an all-day affair. And you can buy live bait, fishing equipment and beach toys there, too. It's the ultimate beachfront attraction in Corpus Christi.

Address: 15820 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi TX 78418 - MAP
Phone: (361) 949-8558
Web: www.bobhallpier.net

Scout the up-and-coming future stars of baseball at a minor-league Corpus Christi Hooks game. The team is the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros and their games are an exciting attraction in the Sparkling City by the Sea. Game-day specials, giveaways and a full-service concession area mean there's plenty of entertainment to occupy the whole family. Learn more...

Address: 734 E Port Ave., Corpus Christi TX 78401 - MAP
Phone: (361) 561-4665
Web: www.minorleaguebaseball.com

Take a swing at miniature golf - the perfect end to a great day at the beach. You can choose from two different courses at Treasure Island Golf & Games. Playing mini-golf at this attraction is a great way to end a long day at the beach, or take a break from the midday blazing sun in South Texas.

Address: 14041 S Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi TX 78418 - MAP
Phone: (361) 949-1769
Web: www.onpadreisland.com

Enjoy the great outdoors along the Corpus Christi bayfront at the 43-acre Cole Park. Walk, jog, bike or fish off the pier. The Kids Place is an outdoor play gym with plenty of swings, slides and climbing areas. It's a great attraction for a laid-back day with the family.

Address: 1526 Ocean Dr., Corpus Christi TX 78404 - MAP
Phone: (361) 826-2489
Web: www.texasoutside.com

Watch the winds take the sails at the weekly Corpus Christi Marina's Wednesday Night Sailboat Races. Spectators who show up early can volunteer to join a crew for those captains who are willing. Or you can always sit and watch the races while cheering on your favorite team.

Address: 400A N Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401 - MAP
Phone: (361) 826-3980
Web: www.ccmorf.org

Tour the largest ranch in the world, the renown King Ranch. The 1.2-million-acre working ranch has become quite an attraction, and holds tours twice a day. Tours showcase the inner workings of cattle handling, along with the property's historically significant buildings. This is the ranch the 80s TV show "Dallas" was modeled after. Although you won't find JR, you'll find plenty of history on the King family, who created the empire.

Address: 2205 Highway 141 West, Kingsville TX 78364 - MAP
Phone: (361) 592-8055
Web: www.king-ranch.com

Take a step back into history aboard the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, a World War II aircraft carrier with a storied history. Nicknamed "The Blue Ghost," the maritime vessel includes virtual battle stations and a flight simulator, an IMAX theater and more. Tours of the Bayfront attraction will take you through the different areas of the ship, and some guests even say they can feel the presence of the heroes who fought aboard this historic carrier. Learn more...

Address: 2914 N Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi TX 78402 - MAP
Phone: (361) 888-4873
Web: www.usslexington.com

Stroll through meandering pathways that connect 12 Victorian homes at the Heritage Park & Cultural Center. Visit the 100-year-old Galván House, the national award-winning center that provides a variety of cultural programs throughout the year. This historic attraction is also the site of outdoor festivals, concerts and other activities you won't want to miss. Learn more...

Address: 1581 N Chaparral St., Corpus Christi TX 78401 - MAP
Phone: (361) 826-3410
Web: www.cctexas.com