You can’t miss the massive USS Lexington Museum (2914 N. Shoreline Blvd., 361/888-4873, www.usslexington.com, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Labor Day–Memorial Day, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. in the summer, $12 adults, $10 seniors/military, $7 children 4–12). Looming large in the Corpus Christi Bay, the Lexington is a decommissioned World War II naval aircraft carrier now serving as a 33,000-ton floating museum transporting visitors back in time with tours of the ship’s decks and quarters, educational exhibits, restored aircraft, a high-tech flight simulator, and a collection of historical memorabilia.

The music and voices blaring from speakers and interaction with the ship’s docents gives an authentic feel for life aboard the nation’s longest-serving aircraft carrier. The best way to experience the Lexington is via one of the five self-guided tours covering 100,000 square feet on 11 decks.

Afterward, take some time atop the flight deck to soak up the view of the bay, the city skyline, and the impressive vintage aircraft.