Corpus Christi’s Historic Places and Stories

Explore the landmarks, people, and defining events that have shaped Corpus Christi, the Gulf Coast Capital.

World War II Heritage Trail

During World War II, Corpus Christi made an important contribution to the nation’s defense. Critical military installations and deep-water ports helped move troops, equipment, and essential supplies quickly. Corpus Christi was recognized for this wartime legacy when it earned the designation as a World War II American Heritage City in December 2022.

The newly unveiled World War II American Heritage City Trail offers a close look at the locations connected to Corpus Christi’s significant role in World War II.

LULAC

The League of the United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) began in 1929 at Salón Obreros y Obreras in Corpus Christi, Texas. It is the oldest and largest continuously active Latino political association in the U.S. LULAC works to advance economic, educational, and civil rights for Latinos by addressing discrimination, supporting voter education, and encouraging full participation in American society.

LULAC formed through the merger of Mexican American groups, and its civil rights work reaches all minorities. The organization also encourages cooperation in pursuit of a more inclusive society. Its work includes education, leadership development in the Latino community, and continued efforts toward social justice and equality.

Selena

Selena Quintanilla Perez, the Queen of Tejano Music, remains an important part of the Gulf Coast Capital’s history and cultural identity. Over 25 years have passed since her untimely death, yet her legacy continues to draw visitors interested in all things Selena.

Fans from Corpus Christi and around the world visit places connected to her life, including the Mirador de la Flor and the Selena Museum. Others walk through Swantner Park or visit her home. Together, these locations reflect Selena’s life, legacy, and importance to the community.

USS Lexington

The USS Lexington Museum on the Bay invites visitors to learn about the vessel’s World War II history. Known as the Blue Ghost, the USS Lexington was an Essex Class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1943. It spent about 21 months serving in the Pacific theater during World War II and established numerous combat records.

Through community support and a bond sale, Corpus Christi acquired the USS Lexington for use as a museum. It has welcomed the public since November 14, 1992, and has become a major attraction in the Coastal Bend area.

The ship’s exhibits combine its historical significance with hands-on experiences, including escape rooms, virtual battle stations, a flight simulator, and a 3D theater. These activities help visitors explore the vessel’s story in an engaging way.

Heritage Park

Corpus Christi Heritage Park brings together 12 historic homes, each offering its own architecture, history, and cultural character. More significantly, every house preserves part of the story of the community’s early residents.

Historic markers outside the homes explain the background of Corpus Christi’s heritage. Visitors can learn about the prominent people who lived there, understand their contributions to Corpus Christi, and discover entertaining details along with haunted stories.

Moments That Shaped Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi’s present-day identity reflects a long series of important historical moments. Some began as early as 1852, when Henry Lawrence Kinney organized the Lone Star Fair to encourage settlement in Corpus Christi. Another milestone arrived in 1926 with the opening of the Port of Corpus Christi.

More recent developments include the establishment of the Downtown Management District in the 1990’s, created to promote and invest in the downtown area. In 2004, the American Bank Center opened its doors, increasing the city’s ability to host larger performances and conventions. The venue was renamed to the Hilliard Convention Center in September 2025.

Each of these events has contributed to Corpus Christi’s growth and helped shape its standing as the Gulf Coast Capital.