Corpus Christi

There are over a dozen exhibits at the six-acre wildlife center including the 10,000-gallon stingray lagoon where kiddos can touch and feed the cartilaginous fish. — Travel + Leisure

Retrofitted as a floating museum after 48 years of service, this World War II–era aircraft carrier is the most highly decorated in its class. — Fodor's

This 70-mile stretch is the longest expanse of undeveloped barrier island in the world, home to endangered crabs, sea turtles, and 149 species of fish. — Travel + Leisure

The permanent collection comprises more than 1,500 pieces in a variety of mediums, with concentration on works of the Americas. — Fodor's

This 18-mile barrier island is still full of wildlife such as jackrabbits, armadillos, and migratory birds. — Travel + Leisure

You'll want to schedule several hours to fully explore nine different exhibit areas that cover a variety of subjects, including agriculture, coastal ecology, history of trading, and reptile biology. — Fodor's

It includes numerous displays dedicated to the life of Selena, including her awards, her red Porsche and many of her stage costumes. — Lonely Planet