Orange Grove TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Orange Grove, Texas.
1. Orange Grove Area Museum
LOCAL HISTORY ON DISPLAY
The Orange Grove Area Museum, located at 119 S. Eugenia St., preserves the rich history of the Orange Grove region. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing local artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of this Texas community. The museum offers a window into the past and helps connect current residents and tourists with the area's cultural heritage.
2. The Stark Museum of Art
WESTERN ART COLLECTION
The Stark Museum of Art houses one of the nation's most significant collections of American Western art. The museum's extensive collection includes works by artists who shaped our perception of the American West, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions alongside the permanent collection in this cultural gem located near Orange Grove.
3. Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
TROPICAL GARDEN PARADISE
Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center offers a stunning display of colorful orchids, blooming daylilies, fruiting trees, and many other tropical and native plants. The center features special gardens organized around artistic themes and a children's garden with interactive exhibits for young visitors. Nature enthusiasts can stroll through various gardens while appreciating the biodiversity and natural beauty of this Texas attraction.
4. Blue Elbow Swamp
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
Blue Elbow Swamp, part of the Tony Houseman Wildlife Management Area, provides a natural habitat for diverse wildlife near Orange Grove. Visitors can observe native species in their natural environment while exploring the swampland ecosystem. The area offers opportunities for photography, bird watching, and connecting with nature in this uniquely Texan landscape.
5. The Heritage House Museum
HISTORIC TEXAS LANDMARK
The Heritage House Museum stands as a Recorded Historic Texas Landmark offering visitors a glimpse into early 20th century life. This authentic piece of Orange history showcases the lifestyle of an upper middle class family from the area. Located at 905 West Division Street, the museum preserves local heritage through its architecture and period furnishings.
6. Fort Brown National Historic Landmark
MILITARY HISTORY SITE
Fort Brown National Historic Landmark, designated in 1960, preserves an important piece of Texas military history. The fort played significant roles in multiple conflicts, including the Mexican-American War and the Civil War. Visitors can explore remaining structures and learn about the fort's strategic importance to early Texas history.
7. Lake Corpus Christi State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION DESTINATION
Lake Corpus Christi State Park offers abundant outdoor recreational activities within driving distance of Orange Grove. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and camping along the shores of the 21,000-acre reservoir. The park's diverse ecosystem supports wildlife viewing and bird watching opportunities year-round.
8. The Texas Maritime Museum
COASTAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Texas Maritime Museum celebrates the rich maritime heritage of the Texas Gulf Coast region. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays chronicling Texas' relationship with the sea, from offshore oil and commercial fishing to recreational boating. Visitors from Orange Grove can experience this comprehensive look at how maritime activities have shaped Texas history and economy.
9. King Ranch
HISTORIC WORKING RANCH
King Ranch, one of the largest working ranches in the world, spans approximately 825,000 acres near Orange Grove. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the ranch's legendary history, innovative ranching practices, and its development of the Santa Gertrudis cattle breed. The ranch offers a glimpse into authentic Texas ranching culture through its visitor center, museum, and tour programs.
10. Texas State Aquarium
MARINE LIFE EXPERIENCE
The Texas State Aquarium showcases the incredible diversity of marine life found in the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Visitors can observe dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and hundreds of fish species in immersive exhibits designed to educate about ocean conservation. The aquarium offers interactive experiences including touch tanks and live animal presentations that appeal to guests of all ages.
11. USS Lexington Museum
HISTORIC AIRCRAFT CARRIER
The USS Lexington Museum allows visitors to explore a World War II-era aircraft carrier docked in Corpus Christi Bay. This floating museum features vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and numerous areas of the ship including the bridge, flight deck, and crew quarters. Nicknamed the "Blue Ghost," the Lexington served longer than any Essex Class carrier in history and now educates visitors about naval aviation history.
12. Goose Island State Park
COASTAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Goose Island State Park offers pristine coastal habitat and recreational opportunities along the shores of St. Charles and Aransas Bays. The park is home to the famous "Big Tree," an ancient coastal live oak estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, bird watching, and camping while experiencing the unique ecology of the Texas Gulf Coast.
13. Padre Island National Seashore
PRISTINE BARRIER ISLAND
Padre Island National Seashore preserves the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. Visitors can experience 70 miles of protected coastline, dunes, prairies, and tidal flats teeming with wildlife. The park is renowned for its sea turtle conservation program and offers opportunities for beach camping, fishing, bird watching, and kayaking.
14. The Art Museum of South Texas
CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION
The Art Museum of South Texas showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art in a stunning building designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson. The museum's permanent collection features works by regional, national, and international artists with an emphasis on Texas and Mexican art. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide spectacular views of Corpus Christi Bay, creating a unique setting where art and nature intertwine.
15. Selena Museum
TEJANO MUSIC LEGACY
The Selena Museum honors the life and career of beloved Tejano music superstar Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. Visitors can view memorabilia including stage costumes, awards, and personal items belonging to the Grammy-winning artist. The museum, operated by the Quintanilla family, offers fans a personal glimpse into Selena's life and lasting legacy in music and culture.
Orange Grove Restaurants
Visit our list of restaurants and places to eat near Orange Grove, Texas.
Orange Grove Beaches
Visit our list of beaches and waterfront escapes near Orange Grove, Texas.