Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History | Corpus Christi

The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History is a major cultural and educational institution in Corpus Christi, Texas, located in the city’s Sports, Entertainment, and Arts (S.E.A.) District near the waterfront. Since its establishment in 1957, the museum has grown to occupy nearly 100,000 square feet and serves as a hub for both locals and tourists, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually.

Mission & Vision:

Mission: The museum's mission is to engage the community in the active exploration of science, history, and innovation, focusing on the unique history and scientific progress of Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region.

Vision: The museum aims to inspire curiosity and learning by fostering a deeper understanding of the past, present, and future. It encourages lifelong passions for science, history, and exploration through interactive exhibits and educational programming.

Exhibits & Collections:

The museum features a wide variety of exhibits that appeal to both science enthusiasts and history buffs, showcasing the region's rich heritage and contributions to scientific progress.

Ecology Hall: This exhibit provides an in-depth look at the local environment, including dioramas of the area's diverse ecosystems. It features displays about Coastal Bend wildlife, local weather patterns, and natural habitats. One of the museum's standout features is its extensive collection of shells from around the world, offering a fascinating look at marine life.

Texas History Hall: This section explores the state’s history, focusing on early Native American cultures, the Spanish colonial period, and settlement patterns. The exhibit covers key historical events, including the Texas Revolution and the growth of the oil industry in the region. Visitors can view artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations that trace the evolution of Texas from pre-colonial times to the modern era.

Holography Exhibit: The museum features a unique collection of holographic images, which provides an educational experience on light, laser technology, and optical illusions. The display includes a range of artistic and scientific holograms that demonstrate the possibilities of this technology.

Children's Hands-On Exhibits: Designed to engage younger visitors, these exhibits focus on interactive learning. Children can explore science through play and hands-on activities such as building structures, experimenting with simple machines, and understanding basic physics concepts.

The USS Lexington: The museum is closely associated with the nearby USS Lexington, a historic aircraft carrier that now functions as a museum ship. The USS Lexington played a key role in World War II, and visitors can tour the ship to learn more about its history and military significance. The museum's exhibits often intersect with the ship's displays, adding context to the ship's role in American military history.

Astronomy and Space Exploration: A special section is dedicated to the history of space exploration and the role that South Texas has played in it. The exhibits highlight the region’s contributions to aerospace technology and astronomy, including the history of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the Manned Space Flight programs.

Special Programs and Events:

The museum hosts a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. These include summer camps, school field trips, lectures, and special events related to history, science, and technology.

Science Nights and hands-on workshops are frequently organized to offer interactive learning experiences. Additionally, the museum is involved in community outreach and offers various programs for local schools.

Admission & Hours:

General Admission:

Adults: $10

Seniors (65+), Military, and First Responders: $8

Children (4-17 years): $6

Children under 3: Free

Museum Hours:

Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Location:

The museum is located at 1900 N. Chaparral St., Corpus Christi, Texas, with easy access to the city's waterfront and nearby attractions.

The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History offers an engaging, educational experience for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit for those interested in learning more about the region's natural and cultural history.