U.S.S Lexington Museum
One of the most popular attractions in Corpus Christi will make up your next stop on the itinerary, the historically rich and U.S. Navy military-fueled USS Lexington Museum on the Bay.
Credit CCCVB
This Essex-class aircraft carrier was built during WWII for the United States Navy and today sits along Shoreline Boulevard impressing tourists, locals, and history buffs alike with its sheer size and legend. This 24,580 ton "Blue Ghost" was launched in September of 1942, an 873-foot ship from the Fore River Shipyard. This aircraft and naval museum hold several onsite airplanes, an IMAX showing out-of-this-world historic films, and even the USS Alabama! See over 20 authentic warbirds as well as newer fighters such as the SBD-3 Dauntless, TBU-3E Avenger, or Blue Angel FA-18 Hornet. The wartime sights and sounds will come to you as you explore the action of combat at sea on board, from the fully stocked flight deck to the dental clinic and engine room below!
On the USS Lexington, your group will have the chance to take a tour, beginning in the forward end of the hangar deck near Number One elevator pit. Here you will start with a historical film showing in the three-story-tall mega theater then scurry over to the miniature collection of warbirds and warships in the scale model gallery right after. A five Tour Circuit will take you to air traffic control, the missing men POW exhibit, the Machine shop, the Pilot Read Room, and the Pearl Harbor exhibit. Another more adventurous option would be the Hard Hat Tour, in which you and your group will explore 15 different areas under the deck of the ship. Experience the powerful guns within the 60-ton turrets that fire 55-pound projectiles over nine miles before heading to the virtual battle stations or flight simulators to practice your air combat. The Mess Deck will serve up some seriously delicious grub, and the Ship’s Store won’t disappoint with educational and interesting toys, books, and ship souvenirs!
