Corpus Christi

There are over a dozen exhibits at the six-acre wildlife center including the 10,000-gallon stingray lagoon where kiddos can touch and feed the cartilaginous fish. — Travel + Leisure

Retrofitted as a floating museum after 48 years of service, this World War II–era aircraft carrier is the most highly decorated in its class. — Fodor's

The permanent collection comprises more than 1,500 pieces in a variety of mediums, with concentration on works of the Americas. — Fodor's

You'll want to schedule several hours to fully explore nine different exhibit areas that cover a variety of subjects, including agriculture, coastal ecology, history of trading, and reptile biology. — Fodor's

It includes numerous displays dedicated to the life of Selena, including her awards, her red Porsche and many of her stage costumes. — Lonely Planet

This 70-mile stretch is the longest expanse of undeveloped barrier island in the world, home to endangered crabs, sea turtles, and 149 species of fish. — Travel + Leisure

Originally a neighborhood of old homes, Heritage Park has morphed into a theme park of old homes. — Lonely Planet

This little 4-acre park is a haven for flycatchers, thrushes, vireos, warblers, chimney swifts, and dozens more species. — Fodor's

The life-sized statue of late Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla-Perez (1971–95) still draws an estimated 30,000 well-wishers every year more than two decades after her death. — Lonely Planet

Once a small display area tucked inside Surf Club Records, this museum has now taken over completely with a range of displays on the history of surfing in Texas. — Lonely Planet

This small museum is worth a look if you have an interest in Japanese and other Asian art. There are some interesting masks and kabuki figures, plus a tranquil bamboo garden. — Lonely Planet

This 18-mile barrier island is still full of wildlife such as jackrabbits, armadillos, and migratory birds. — Travel + Leisure

It gets busy in season, but its tight-packed sands and handful of places to eat and drink make for a fun excursion just out of the city. — Lonely Planet

The often-provocative installations are thought provoking, but themes can sometimes be mature, so check what's showing before bringing children. — Lonely Planet

The surrounding wetlands are a haven for birdlife, and volunteers at the visitor center can help identify species. — Lonely Planet