If you find yourself traveling to south Texas for work, Corpus Christi has far more than just the beach to entertain you when the workday is done. This waterfront location is part of a booming business community that creates opportunities for thousands of corporate travelers each year.

Whether you are staying at corporate housing in the heart of the city or along the shore, make the most of your visit in Corpus Christi by exploring all this beautiful city has to offer once you have clocked out at the office. It might be just what you need for a little well-deserved rest and relaxation.

Welcome to Corpus Christi, Texas

This beach locale is one of the top ten largest cities in the state, with a population of around three hundred thousand. Millions flock to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches each year for a little fun in the sun and water.

And while any given sunny day the beach is likely to be frequented by locals and visitors alike, there is also a thriving corporate culture here. Corpus Christi is increasingly becoming a hub for the business community. Some of the companies either located or regularly doing business here include Gulf Coast Growth Ventures, ExxonMobil, Steel Dynamics, LyondellBasell, and Permico Midstream Partners. And while oil and gas do account for a large percentage of corporate activity in the city, the healthcare and hospitality industries are also booming here.

9 Things to Enjoy in Corpus Christi

Regardless of how long your business has you visiting the city, whether a couple of weeks or a couple of months, be sure not to miss these nine things to enjoy in Corpus Christi during your down time:

Go to the Texas State Aquarium

For an inside look at underwater wildlife, this manmade microcosm of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean is hard to beat. Guests will find hundreds of marine species as well as enjoy hands on interactions with the likes of sharks and stingrays. The center also educates visitors about other marine life such as otters, dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of birds. This is a good outing for children and adults alike.

Check out the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay

This historic World War II Aircraft Carrier is a huge draw for those fascinated by history and war stories. Often dubbed the Blue Ghost, a trip aboard this vessel is an amazing experience that also includes an escape room, a 3D theater, a flight simulator, and a Pearl Harbor Exhibit. It is not to be missed!

Catch a game at The Ballpark

The city is home to a minor league baseball team, the Corpus Christi Hooks, which is a Double-A affiliate of the nearby Houston Astros Major League Baseball team. A Hooks game at the outdoor stadium with the smell of buttered popcorn and the salt of the sea floating through the air is a real treat. If taking family to the game, young ones can enjoy a wide variety of activities at The Ballpark including basketball, kickball, rock climbing, and a playground. If attending a Friday night home game, do not miss the fireworks (weather permitting).

Relaxing at the beach

Particularly for those executives who live and work in landlocked states or countries, it can be a wonderful change of pace to be so close to the beautiful shorelines of Corpus Christi. Pack a lunch and plan to spend a day on the shore of the Gulf of Mexico soaking up some sun, frolicking in the water, collecting seashells, and maybe even catching a wave or two. Relax on the warm sand and enjoy the sound of the rolling waves.

Enjoy fresh seafood

One of the perks of being so close to the shore is that seafood dinners are often freshly caught only a few yards to miles away. Whether it be crab, shrimp, grouper, wahoo, or red snapper, enjoy a catch from the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico for lunch or dinner out. It is a must while visiting Corpus Christi to have at least one sunset meal on the shore.

Visit Padre Island National Seashore

Approximately fifteen minutes from the heart of Corpus Christi is this natural treasure which divides the Gulf of Mexico from Laguna Madre. This national park is a sanctuary for coastal life and is a nesting ground for sea turtles. If visiting during the summer months of June, July, or August, it may even be possible to take in an early morning sea turtle hatchling release.

Frequent the local farmer’s market

Since reputable corporate housing features a private kitchen, a trip to the local farmer’s market can be a fun way to decide what to cook for dinner for a night in. From fresh fruits and vegetables to crafts designed by local artisans, this can be a fun way to spend Wednesday evenings.

Check out the local culture scene

Corpus Christi features several local museums such as the Texas Surf Museum, the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, and the Art Museum of South Texas. The area frequently hosts dance and performing arts exhibitions as well. Be sure to check out city events for the time period in which you will be visiting.

Enjoy a night out on the town

In a beach side town like Corpus Christi, many enjoy the beach by day and the city by night. The area is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and ice houses with delicious food, excellent music, and a relaxing atmosphere. Whether your night includes dancing or enjoying a drink on the balcony as you watch the waves roll in, the nights can be magical here.

Business may be what brings you here, but the lullaby of the Gulf of Mexico’s rolling waves and the ambiance of Corpus Christi will have you looking forward to your next visit.