Odem TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Odem, Texas.
1. Odem Veterans Freedom Memorial Park
HONOR OUR FALLEN HEROES
Odem Veterans Freedom Memorial Park is a solemn tribute to local veterans who served their country. The memorial features commemorative plaques and monuments dedicated to those who sacrificed for freedom. Visitors can walk through the peaceful grounds and reflect on the service of military personnel from the area.
2. Creekside Barn and Stables
RUSTIC EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE
Creekside Barn and Stables offers visitors an authentic rural Texas experience with horseback riding opportunities. The facility features well-maintained stables and a charming barn situated alongside a scenic creek. Visitors can enjoy guided trail rides through the picturesque countryside surrounding Odem.
3. Odem City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Odem City Park is a popular destination featuring a large fishing pond where visitors can catch bass, catfish, and perch. The park includes playgrounds, BBQ grills, picnic tables, and a walking trail for leisurely strolls through nature. Once a former quarry site, the park now hosts various community events throughout the year, including an annual Easter egg hunt and Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
4. Texas State Aquarium
UNDERWATER MARINE ADVENTURE
Texas State Aquarium is a top attraction in Corpus Christi featuring diverse marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. Visitors can explore numerous exhibits including touch tanks, dolphin presentations, and a 4D theater experience. The aquarium's conservation efforts focus on rehabilitating and protecting marine species native to the Texas coast.
5. Lipantitlán State Historic Site
TEXAS INDEPENDENCE LANDMARK
Lipantitlán State Historic Site is named after the Lipan Apaches who once camped in this area. The site played a significant role in Texas' fight for independence from Mexico. Visitors can explore the grounds while learning about the strategic importance this location held during the Texas Revolution.
6. USS Lexington Museum
HISTORIC AIRCRAFT CARRIER
The USS Lexington Museum offers visitors the chance to explore a World War II-era aircraft carrier nicknamed the "Blue Ghost." Aboard this floating museum, guests can view vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and experience what life was like for sailors at sea. The ship's flight deck provides stunning views of Corpus Christi Bay and the city skyline.
7. South Texas Botanical Gardens
LUSH TROPICAL PARADISE
South Texas Botanical Gardens showcases the diverse flora of the region across 182 acres of landscaped gardens and natural areas. Visitors can wander through the orchid conservatory, butterfly house, and multiple themed gardens featuring native and exotic plants. The site also offers educational programs, seasonal events, and a bird watching area with species native to South Texas.
8. Hurricane Alley Waterpark
EXCITING AQUATIC ENTERTAINMENT
Hurricane Alley Waterpark provides refreshing summer fun with multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. The park's CAT 5 slide delivers high-speed thrills while the Lil' Squirts Cove offers gentler water activities for younger visitors. Located in downtown Corpus Christi, the waterpark features a baseball-themed design as a nod to the adjacent Whataburger Field.
9. Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
INTERACTIVE EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS
The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History offers engaging exhibits covering regional history, natural science, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore recreated shipwrecks, examine dinosaur fossils, and learn about the diverse ecosystems of South Texas. The museum's hands-on approach makes it a favorite destination for families and school groups seeking educational entertainment.
10. Selena Museum
TEJANO MUSIC ICON
The Selena Museum celebrates the life and career of the beloved Tejano music superstar who was tragically killed in 1995. Operated by the Quintanilla family, the museum displays Selena's stage costumes, awards, and personal memorabilia. Fans from around the world visit this tribute to the Grammy-winning artist whose cultural impact continues to resonate throughout South Texas and beyond.
11. La Palmera Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
La Palmera Mall offers a premium shopping experience with over 100 retail stores and specialty boutiques. The recently renovated mall features an attractive interior with skylights, palm trees, and a food court with a variety of dining options. Shoppers can find major department stores alongside local merchants in this air-conditioned escape from the South Texas heat.
12. Water Street Oyster Bar
FRESH SEAFOOD DELIGHTS
Water Street Oyster Bar serves some of the freshest seafood in the Coastal Bend area, with daily deliveries from local Gulf fishermen. The restaurant's signature dishes include raw and grilled oysters, seafood gumbo, and their famous bread pudding with whiskey sauce. Its downtown location makes it a perfect dining destination after visiting nearby attractions like the seawall or art museum.
13. Padre Island National Seashore
PRISTINE COASTAL WILDERNESS
Padre Island National Seashore preserves the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. Visitors can enjoy 70 miles of coastline perfect for swimming, fishing, bird watching, and camping under the stars. The park is renowned for its sea turtle conservation program, where lucky visitors might witness the release of Kemp's ridley sea turtle hatchlings during summer months.
14. Harrison's Landing
WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE
Harrison's Landing offers waterfront dining with panoramic views of Corpus Christi Bay from its location at the downtown marina. The restaurant specializes in Gulf seafood, steaks, and Tex-Mex favorites served in a casual atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Visitors can arrive by car or boat and enjoy live music on the deck while watching sailboats and dolphins in the bay.
15. Art Museum of South Texas
CONTEMPORARY WATERFRONT GALLERY
The Art Museum of South Texas showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art housed in a striking white building designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the museum provide stunning views of Corpus Christi Bay while visitors enjoy rotating exhibitions featuring regional, national, and international artists. The museum's unique architectural design, which resembles a ship's sail, has made it an iconic landmark along the city's bayfront.