Bay Area - Corpus Christi, TX

Founded in the mid 1800s, Corpus Christi served as a trading post for Colonel Henry Kinney. At that point, it was called Kinney's Trading Post. In 1845, the city secured its independence under General Zachary Taylor. The goal was to establish itself as the border of the United States, separate from Mexico. A few years later, the city was incorporated.

The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History has exhibits that display the history and agriculture of the area. This museum also hosts educational programs and serves as an event space. Take a tour of the U.S.S. Lexington, and learn about its role in World War II.

Annual events happen here every month. In January, enjoy the Blessing of the Sacred Grounds, honoring Native Americans. The Festival of the Arts, held in March, features local, national and international artists showcasing food, artwork and more.

Find much more than seafood in this city by the sea. Despite its location, locals enjoy a vast array of restaurants. Choose from Mandarin, Cajun and American cuisine. Though mostly casual eateries dominate the area, some fine dining options can be found, especially along the coast.

Start the morning off with a tasty breakfast from Andy's Country Kitchen. Regulars talk about Andy's Country Breakfast, complete with eggs, toast and bacon, or you can create your own meal. This family-owned establishment has been serving the area for more than 50 years. Get there early to avoid the large crowds.

Take a quick trip to Italy for lunch at Bellinos Italian Restaurant. Start off with Bruschetta for your appetizer, and try one of their signature paninis for your entree. These authentic dishes don't disappoint. This eatery only opens five days a week, so be sure to get there soon.

Finish the day with a nice steak dinner at Ol' Steakhouse Co. This affordable restaurant sits right on Avalon Street not far from the beach. Regulars rave about the steak and chicken dishes, but the menu provides much more. Choose from tasty seafood selections, burgers, and sandwiches as well.

The nightlife can be characterized as vibrant and lively, however, it can be considered tranquil as well depending on where you choose to spend the evening. Executive Surf Club and Brewster Street Ice House hosts a live band on various days of the week. Patrons flock here for the great food and deals on drinks. For a more relaxing experience, stop in Katz 21 Steak and Spirits, and enjoy a cocktail.

Most residents drive to get around Chorpus Christi. Unlike most areas, parking does have fees. Several meters can be found throughout the neighborhood, especially near the boardwalk. If going to the beach, parking a few blocks away may help avoid fees.

Uber and Lyft both service the area should you choose not to drive. Use the mobile application to arrange a pick up. Cab services have to be arranged. Hailing a cab proves slightly difficult as they do not troll the streets seeking passengers like in larger cities.

Very few biking lanes can be found but sidewalks line every street for walkers. Most people ride bikes along the boardwalk.

Corpus Christi has over 2,100 acres of parks and recreation, and several can be found in the Bay Area. Most of the parks don’t have fees associated with them. Patrons visit as an alternative to the beach and a chance to enjoy some green space. All of the parks cater to families and children, though only a few have pet-reserved space.

Cole Park and Temple Park both have a basketball court and a playground for children. If you are looking to exercise, visit HEB Park where you find a fitness trail as well as sports areas, such as a basketball court and baseball field. Visit Suter Wildlife Refuge where 72 acres of land features local wildlife along Oso Bay. Find picnic tables and a playground here, as well.

Residents in Corpus Christi enjoy a 2 percent lower cost of living than Houston residents. For a one-bedroom apartment, the median price comes in around $733, about $100 less than the Houston median.

Though the city has public transportation, because of the distance from the city, buses don't travel into the city. However, to get around the city costs 75 cents, and senior citizens and students pay even less. For around $1.50, patrons can ride the bus all day.

Drivers get to enjoy lower gas prices. The average tank of gas in Corpus averages about 7 percent less than the national average.

Most pubs charge around $3 for a beer, but prices can decrease significantly during happy hour depending on the quality of the beer.

This area of Corpus has great malls and shopping centers. La Palmera Shopping Mall, located about 15 miles away, features popular chain stores such as Dillard's and Forever 21. For more high-value stores, visit Lamar Shopping Center. Stores such as Chico's and Ann Taylor grace this shopping center. Explore the city, and find the true gems near the shore.

Rustic & Refined features various knick knacks and gifts for any occasion. Visitors stop in to find souvenirs for loved ones and small accessories for their homes.

Fashion forward ladies enjoy the great selection of clothing and accessories at Sashay Boutique. Browse through their chic and reasonably priced selection of dresses, blouses, jewelry and more. They even have styling assistance.

Prior to your trip to the beach, stop in Third Coast Beach Company, and grab supplies to enhance your day at the shore. From sunglasses to surfboards, this store has everything you need for a fun-filled beach experience.

Locals complete more of their grocery shopping at popular stores such as Wal-Mart, HEB and Target. Visit the Downtown's Farmers Market, Southside Farmers Market or Sprouts Farmers Market, and choose from vendors selling homemade goods and freshly grown produce on various days of the week.