Corpus Christi, the largest city on the Texas Coast and the third largest port in the nation in terms of cargo volume is the soon-to-be home of a new gem, the $1.2 billion new Harbor Bridge.
A ribbon-cutting is slated to take place in early summer and then the bridge, under construction since 2016, will open to public traffic.
New Bridge to be Tallest Structure in South Texas
The Caller Times reports that the structure will be the longest concrete segmental precast cable-stayed bridge in North America and the tallest structure in South Texas, according to TxDOT.
“The 3,295-foot bridge’s opening promises to be a significant milestone for Corpus Christi community members,” reported the newspaper. “The new Harbor Bridge was built primarily because the Corpus Christi Harbor Bridge had reached the end of its useful life, according to Port of Corpus Christi officials.”
The new bridge, with a 205-foot clearance vs. the 138 feet of the current bridge, will help Corpus Christi’s bustling port accommodate larger ships that are too tall for the existing bridge.
This summer, all traffic on the old bridge will cease, and demolition will commence.
Cyclists and pedestrians visiting Corpus Christi later this summer will be able to walk or ride across the new bridge in their own protected lane separate from vehicle traffic. The Corpus Christi skyline will also be lit up at night with the new bridge’s LED lighting.
The new bridge will get a workout as Corpus Christi is rated as one of the Top 15 Places to Visit in Texas by U.S. News Best Vacation Rankings.
“Corpus Christi features several scenic shorelines and can't-miss attractions to keep you entertained for days,” said the publication.
A Rich Tapestry of History
“Modern-day” Corpus Christi started in 1839 as a trading post on the bluffs overlooking Corpus Christi Bay. The area had gotten its name more than 300 years earlier.
“Legend has it that in 1519, on the Roman Catholic Feast Day of Corpus Christi, Spanish explorer Alonzo Alvarez de Pineda discovered a lush semi-tropical bay on what is now the southern coast of Texas. The bay and the City that later sprung up there took the name of the feast day celebrating the “Body of Christ,” says the City of Corpus Christi website.
Under General Zachary Taylor, U.S. troops preparing for war with Mexico put the area on the map in 1845, and by 1852 Corpus Christi was incorporated.
The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s transformed the settlement into a bustling port city, and the discovery of oil in the early 20th century cemented its importance as a major economic hub.
What Makes Corpus Christi Unique
Several distinctive features set Corpus Christi apart from other Texas destinations:
- Perfect Coastal Location: Situated on a protected natural bay that shields visitors from the Gulf’s rougher waters while providing easy access to both calm bay activities and open ocean adventures.
- Year-Round Sunshine: With over 220 days of sunshine annually, Corpus Christi offers favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities throughout much of the year.
- Incredible Wildlife Diversity: The Coastal Bend region serves as a critical stopover along the Central Flyway migration route, making it a world-renowned destination for birdwatching and nature photography.
- Unique Landscape: Positioned where the Texas prairie meets the sea, it features distinctive coastal plains ecosystems found nowhere else in the state.
- Authentic Maritime Heritage: The city’s working waterfront and recreational marinas reflect a genuine connection to the sea that shapes daily life, local economy, and cultural identity.
- Welcoming Coastal Culture: The combination of authentic maritime traditions and legendary Texas hospitality creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes visitors feel immediately at home.
Planning Your Visit to Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi’s compact size makes it easy to explore during a weekend getaway. Most major attractions are within a short drive of each other, and the city’s layout is relatively straightforward for visitors to navigate.
The best time to visit is during spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller.
Summer can be hot and humid, but the constant sea breeze provides relief. Winter months offer mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, though occasionally cold fronts can bring cooler weather.
Weekend Getaway Itinerary
Pack your flip flops and sunscreen and check out these attractions on a weekend getaway to Corpus Christi:
- Beaches and Natural Attractions: Popular stretches of sand in this Gulf Coast city include McGee Beach and North Beach. McGee Beach provides convenient access to swimming and sunbathing, while Mustang Island State Park offers camping facilities and nature trails for those wanting to extend their coastal experience. North Beach features a playground, fishing pier, and views of the city skyline.
For those seeking Gulf Coast waves, Padre Island National Seashore provides miles of pristine, undeveloped coastline. As the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world, it offers excellent opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and wildlife observation. The park is also famous for its sea turtle nesting program, where visitors can witness these magnificent creatures returning to lay their eggs.
- Parks and Outdoor Activities: Beyond the beaches, Corpus Christi boasts numerous parks and recreational areas. The Corpus Christi Bayfront offers a scenic walking and jogging path along the water’s edge, complete with public art installations and harbor views. Nearby, Heritage Park provides green space in the heart of downtown, often hosting festivals and outdoor concerts.
For nature enthusiasts, the Hans and Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge encompasses 185 acres of coastal prairie and wetlands. The refuge features walking trails and bird blinds, making it an excellent spot for photography and wildlife observation.
- Museums and Cultural Attractions: Top cultural attractions include the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington Museum, the Art Museum of South Texas, the Museum of Science and History, and the Selena Museum. These museums feature a variety of offerings such as a massive shark tank, a floating World War II-era aircraft carrier, contemporary and regional art, family-friendly interactive natural science displays, and a tribute to Tejano music.
- Shopping and Entertainment: For a distinctive experience, Water Street Market and various shops along Chaparral Street offer locally made crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. La Palmera Mall serves as the region’s primary shopping destination, featuring major department stores and specialty retailers.
- Culinary Delights: Corpus Christi’s food scene reflects its coastal location and cultural diversity. Fresh Gulf seafood dominates many menus, with red snapper, shrimp, and oysters prepared in both traditional and innovative ways. Waterfront restaurants offer dining with bay views, while food trucks serve everything from fish tacos to barbacoa. Don’t miss the famous local breakfast tacos. The city also has a vibrant Tex-Mex/Mexican food heritage as well as Asian eats. Some call Corpus Christi the most underrated food city in Texas.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of rich cultural attractions, or adventure in the great outdoors, Corpus Christi delivers an authentic Texas coastal experience that will leave lasting memories.
