Summer Guide 2012
Daytrippin': Corpus Christi
Published: June 20, 2012
Summer has arrived, and no my friends, she is not friendly. Her seasonal fever can suck you dry as you drag your way through desolate parking lots and shimmering city streets. The days of 100 degree weather have arrived.
It's days like these that call us back into the water. Our survival instincts tell us that the only way to get out alive, or at least make it to October, is by immersing ourselves in a body of water. Luckily the Texas coast isn't far away. Buckle up, find something on the car radio, and go. In a little over two hours on I-37 (after the 20th play of "We are Young" across three stations) you can be out on a beach towel nestled in the Texas coast glory.
If you arrive in the heat of the day, the beach might be overly crowded. This might be the perfect time to take in the Texas State Aquarium (2710 N. Shoreline). The aquarium is a family favorite, and has a lot to offer children. It's open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Labor Day. Look out for the really neat jellyfish exhibit, and various touch ponds where you can reach in to feel underwater wildlife. They have also added a large play park where kids can run around, and get wet in various water canons and fountains. If the aquarium isn't your thing, you can visit the neighboring Art Museum of South Texas (1902 N. Shoreline) or the USS Lexington (2914 N. Shoreline).
When you've had enough take a break for lunch. Blackbeard's (3117 E. Surfside) is a really great family favorite. They are very affordable, and offer a large array of fresh seafood, perfect for the everyday beach bum. If it is water you are after, layout on the beach, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon sun. Mustang Island and Port Aransas are a close drive if you aren't excited about the Corpus beach, and are popular alternatives.
If you're feeling a little adventurous, jump back into the car and drive 35 minutes to Rockport, a city full of character and old tattooed fishermen so close to Corpus it isn't worth missing. Walk through the quaint art galleries and shops. Get a little antique shopping out of your system. Enjoy a real local dinner at Moondog's (100 N. Casterline).
Head home across the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge at night if you can; it lights up and changes colors. Hold your breath as you go over the water, and the lights fade away into the distance.
Price of Trip
$71 Gas
$22.95 Aquarium admission, plus
$5 parking fee
$13 Dinner at Moondog's
$10 Snacks
TOTAL: $116.95
What to pack
Large umbrella
Toilet paper (beach bathrooms are often bare)
Trolli Gummy Octopus Candy
Catcher in the Ryeby J.D. Salinger
Beach Boy's Little Deuce Coupe ("409")
Miles round trip: 380
Threat Level: 9
You will be seriously tempted to never return to work.
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