4. Texas Maritime Museum
Things to Do
Take a Historic Road Trip Along the Texas Coastline
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Originally known as the USS Cabot, the USS Lexington was commissioned in 1943, and was the oldest working carrier in the US Navy when it was decomissioned in 1991. The following year, the Lexington arrived at Corpus Christi beach. Wholly supported by the community and tourist revenue, the ship is now a working museum that is home to several exhibits, a gift shop, as well as a 3D theatre. Tours are offered daily. Special events such as overnight campouts and a haunted house are also available seasonally.
Find out more at usslexington.com.
Photo: texasmaritimemuseum.org
The Texas Maritime Museum in Rockport opened in 1989, and offers an educational look at Texas maritime history through its collection of artifacts. Exhibit themes include the history of offshore petroleum production, the development of seaports and maritime community and commerce, exploration and settlement of the Gulf Coast, and the Texas seafood and fishing industry. The museum hosts fundraising events throughout the year, as well as educational programs. For more information, visit texasmaritimemuseum.org.
5. Battleship Texas/San Jacinto Battleground Historic Sites
Photo: tpwd.texas.gov
The Battleship Texas State Historic site in LaPorte, just outside Houston, offers both guided and self-guided tours of the notable naval ship which was launched in 1912. Enjoy a picnic at the nearby San Jacinto Battleground site, where you can check out the San Jancinto monument and museum, or stroll the marsh trail and historic battleground. Visit tpwd.texas.gov for hours and fees.
6. Ocean Star Drilling Rig and Museum
Photo: cooltoursgalveston.com
The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum sits just off the shoreline of Galveston Island. The retired drilling rig features three floors of exhibits covering the history and technology of offshore oil and gas drilling and production. Visitors can take the skywalk out onto the drill floor, watch an informational video, explore scale models, and visit the gift shop. For more information, visit oceanstaroec.com.
