USS Lexington Museum Corpus Christi
Explore the 'Blue Ghost,' a legendary WWII aircraft carrier turned museum, showcasing naval history, aircraft, and IMAX films.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
USS Lexington Museum Corpus Christi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 'Blue Ghost,' a legendary WWII aircraft carrier turned museum, showcasing naval history, aircraft, and IMAX films.
"Best ship museum we've been to and we've visited several."
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend 4-6 hours exploring; don't rush the exhibits!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking and stairs. Closed-toe shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Flight Deck
Top Deck
Explore a vast collection of restored aircraft and imagine launching into action from this iconic naval aviation hub.
The Ship's Interior
Below Deck
Discover the daily life of sailors, from cramped berthing areas to the bustling mess hall and engineering spaces.
Pearl Harbor Exhibit
Main Exhibit Area
Witness actual footage of the attack and learn about the USS Lexington's crucial role in World War II.
IMAX Theatre
Onboard
Experience thrilling historical films on a massive screen, bringing naval history to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend 4-6 hours exploring; don't rush the exhibits!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking and stairs. Closed-toe shoes are a must!
🎯 Scavenger Hunt Fun
Great for kids (and adults!) to engage with exhibits.
🚢 Explore Below Deck
Discover sailor life, engineering, and historical artifacts.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend 4-6 hours exploring; don't rush the exhibits!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking and stairs. Closed-toe shoes are a must!
🎯 Scavenger Hunt Fun
Great for kids (and adults!) to engage with exhibits.
🚢 Explore Below Deck
Discover sailor life, engineering, and historical artifacts.
✈️ See the Aircraft
The flight deck is packed with impressive vintage planes.
👻 Haunted History
The 'Blue Ghost' has a reputation for paranormal activity!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the USS Lexington Museum as one of the best ship museums they've encountered, highlighting its extensive exhibits, well-preserved aircraft, and engaging historical content. Many appreciate the opportunity to learn about daily life aboard an aircraft carrier and its significant role in WWII. While some note minor issues like small restrooms, the overall experience is highly recommended for all ages.
"Best ship museum we've been to and we've visited several. Not only will you learn about life on a ship, serving in wartime, the history and evolution of aircraft carriers... If you take your time and really read the information in the exhibits you'll find out what Norma Jean had to do with the war effort, Disney's connection to the ship, and a multitude of amazing facts!
*PLEASE ... Look at the pictures and see if you recognize Chaplain Traeumer that served Jan. 1959 from Milwaukee. This is the only chaplains picture I took, but there are several that are missing information.
There is a scavenger hunt available for kids (which I didn't know about or would have done myself), but there needs to be one for everyone. So many people just walked through and just glanced at the exhibits. At that pace you could easily get through the exhibits in 2 hours or less. We spent 6 hours and know we could go back for another 6 and still find more information. There's a Pearl Harbour exhibit with actual footage of that day. An exhibit about shipboard fire fighting. Another, all about knots and a practice area. A room filled with model aircraft, ships and submarine built to scale. Just go and be amazed at what you learn. And don't worry about getting a bite to eat... The food is pretty good too!"
BL
"Visiting the USS Lexington was a fascinating and enjoyable experience! It was super cool to be able to move the gun turret—definitely a highlight. The facilities were overall good, though the restrooms were a bit small. Unfortunately, the weather was a bit foggy during my visit, but it didn’t take away from the overall experience. Highly recommended for history enthusiasts and families alike!"
Samuel G
"I participated in an escape room aboard the USS Lexington. We had a lot of fun doing it. After the escape room, we had access to the Ship for 4 hours. It was a great outing for the family of all ages. There is quite a bit of ladder from the ship deck up to the Caption's Quarters. Our family had a great time!"
Amy Valdez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The USS Lexington Museum is located at 2900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78403. It's easily accessible by car and is a prominent landmark on the Corpus Christi bayfront. Parking is available on-site.
Corpus Christi has a public bus system, and routes may service areas near the museum. It's best to check the Corpus Christi RTA website for current routes and schedules.
Yes, the USS Lexington is a large ship and is visible from various points along the Corpus Christi bayfront and North Beach.
From downtown Corpus Christi, head north on Shoreline Boulevard. The USS Lexington Museum will be on your right. Follow signs for visitor parking.
The museum may close due to severe weather, such as flooding. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for any closure announcements before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, seniors, and children. Combo tickets that include the IMAX theater or special exhibits may also be available. Check the official USS Lexington Museum website for the most current pricing.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to save time, especially during busy periods.
The museum typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. Hours can vary seasonally and for special events, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Discounts may be available for military personnel, seniors, and children. Check the museum's website or inquire at the ticket counter for details.
While there's no strict time limit, visitors can easily spend 4-6 hours exploring the ship. Some reviews suggest you could spend even longer to absorb all the information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the flight deck with numerous aircraft, tour the ship's interior including living quarters and the engine room, visit exhibits on naval history, and watch films in the IMAX theater.
Absolutely! Kids often enjoy the scavenger hunt, climbing on the flight deck, and learning about the aircraft. The IMAX theater is also a hit.
While you can see many aircraft up close on the flight deck, access inside specific aircraft may be limited or part of special tours.
The museum offers various tours, including self-guided options with audio guides and potentially specialized tours. Check their website for current offerings.
The USS Lexington is known as the 'Blue Ghost' and has a reputation for being haunted, with many visitors reporting paranormal experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe or galley where you can purchase food and drinks. Reviews suggest the food is pretty good.
Outside food and drinks policies can vary. It's best to check the museum's guidelines or contact them directly to confirm.
The cafe typically offers standard casual dining options like sandwiches, snacks, and beverages suitable for museum visitors.
Yes, there are several restaurants and dining options located along the Corpus Christi bayfront and in the downtown area, a short drive from the museum.
Prices at museum cafes are generally comparable to other tourist attractions. Reviews suggest reasonable prices for souvenirs, implying food might also be reasonably priced.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the museum for personal use. However, tripods or professional equipment might require special permission.
The flight deck with the aircraft, the ship's silhouette against the bay, and various historical exhibits offer great photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and museums for safety and privacy reasons. Check the museum's specific drone policy.
Definitely! The flight deck, the iconic ship structure, and unique historical artifacts provide many visually appealing shots for social media.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both wide shots of the ship and details of the aircraft and exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum offers a scavenger hunt that makes exploring the exhibits interactive and fun for younger visitors. Be prepared for lots of walking and climbing stairs, so comfortable shoes are essential. The ship's interior provides a glimpse into the lives of sailors, which can spark curiosity about history and military service. Consider booking tickets in advance to streamline your entry and maximize your family's time exploring this floating piece of history.
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ History Buffs & Military Enthusiasts
+1 The restored aircraft on the flight deck are meticulously maintained and offer a tangible connection to naval aviation history. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The USS Lexington's Storied Past
+3After her illustrious naval career, the USS Lexington was saved from the scrapyard through dedicated fundraising and community efforts, arriving in Corpus Christi in 1992. Today, she stands as a National Historic Landmark, serving as a museum and educational facility, preserving a vital piece of American naval history for future generations.
+2Visitors can explore the ship's extensive history through various exhibits, including a Pearl Harbor exhibit with actual footage, displays on shipboard firefighting, and a fascinating section on naval knots. The ship's journey from wartime hero to beloved museum is a testament to its enduring legacy.
Exploring the 'Blue Ghost' as a Tourist
Below deck, the museum offers a detailed look into the daily lives of sailors, from their cramped berthing quarters to the operational heart of the ship, including the engine rooms and mess halls. Beyond the general tour, the museum offers unique activities. An IMAX theater screens historical films, providing a dynamic way to learn about naval aviation and wartime events.
Many visitors recommend dedicating a significant amount of time to truly appreciate the depth of information available. The museum also features a Pearl Harbor exhibit with actual footage, offering a poignant glimpse into a pivotal moment in history.
The USS Lexington's Haunted Reputation
These paranormal accounts have led to the ship being featured on various ghost-hunting shows and have become a significant draw for those interested in the supernatural. Some believe the spirits of sailors who served and died aboard the ship still linger.
While the historical significance of the ship is undeniable, its ghostly tales add another layer of intrigue to a visit. Whether you're a history buff or a paranormal enthusiast, the USS Lexington offers a unique and potentially spine-tingling experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit