40 Best Things To Do In Rockport Texas

There are many fantastic things to do in Rockport Texas, a lovely town full of fun, artistic energy, and excellent weather, offering something for everyone.

Located about two and half hours East of San Antonio and three hours south of Houston, along the Gulf coast, Rockport is one of the best beach towns in Texas, popular among families.

The waves crashing onto its gorgeous beaches and the soaring seagulls above greet you as you enter this quaint Texas town.

If you are wondering what to do in Rockport Texas, this town is packed with various adventurous activities.

A trip to this charming town might not be pricey as there are also some excellent free things to do in Rockport Texas that I have included here.

Read on to discover the top things to do in Rockport Texas, that you must include on your Rockport itinerary if you are looking for a weekend beach getaway with your family.

THINGS TO DO IN ROCKPORT TEXAS

CONTENTS

VISIT ROCKPORT-FULTON VISITORS CENTER

When you are in Rockport, don’t miss the Rockport-Fulton visitors centre.

Located at 319 Broadway Street, the centre strives to create awareness among its visitors about the history of this artistic town.

One of the free things to do in Rockport Texas is to visit this centre for information on maps, weather conditions, upcoming events, neighbourhood businesses, or neighbouring Rockport attractions.

You will get plenty of cute shops around to shop for souvenirs.

RELAX AT ROCKPORT BEACH

Located two and half hours away from San Antonio, Rockport beach on the Aransas Bay is one of the best attractions in Rockport Texas.

The one-mile-long Rockport beach is one of the cleanest beaches and is recognized as the first Blue Wave Beach in Texas, which means the primary focus is on human health, the environment, and the beaches are managed responsibly.

There is a myriad of things to do in Rockport Texas, of which you should not miss the Rockport beach.

Rockport beach has two sections; one is free, with an entrance in front of the Bay Education Centre and to access the other part of the beach, you need to buy a day pass which costs $5.

With the day pass, you will have access to other activities like a saltwater swimming lagoon, an outdoor pavilion, a kid’s play area, workout stations, and walking trails, apart from access to the beach and beach park.

When you are on Rockport beach, you can go fishing, swim in the calm waters, play in the powdery sand or relax by the beach.

Lay back in a cosy cabana and sip a mocktail while watching the soothing waves and a pleasant sunset.

Bird-watching enthusiasts can explore the area for migrating birds since the beach has an exclusive area roped off for these colourful birds.

Enjoy a boat ride around the beach and learn about the local flora and fauna on the ride. Rockport beach has well-kept changing and bathrooms.

STROLL THE STREETS OF DOWNTOWN

If you are wondering what to do in Rockport, head to the historic downtown, one of the best things to do in Rockport Texas.

Stroll around this charming downtown packed with cafes, bars, restaurants and heritage buildings.

Downtown Rockport is a fabulous place for shopping, thanks to many chic boutiques and designer outlets.

Sassy Chic, which sells cute clothes, Goin’ Coastal Outfitters, which sells designer graphic tees, Coast & Cottage, and Magnolia’s Two are some of the best shops for clothes.

Check out Rowdy Maui for handmade gifts and the best souvenir collections.

Try delicious seafood cuisines at some of the best seafood restaurants in the downtown area.

GO BIRDWATCHING IN ROCKPORT

Rockport is located in a perfect location as the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail passes through this area, making birdwatching one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

The hummingbird migration is one of the well-liked Rockport Texas attractions. Hummingbirds typically pass through Rockport in September on their journey to South America.

Avid birders should include Rockport Rookery, Rockport Beach, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Memorial Park, and Goose Island State Park on their Rockport Texas itinerary.

If you are lucky, you might be able to spot Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, snowy egrets, blue herons and hundreds of other species of birds in a single day in these lovely birding areas.

Visit this beautiful town in the spring and stop by the Egret & Heron Rookery to see Egrets and Herons building their cosy, pretty nests on the tree tops.

I recommend taking a guided birdwatching tour since there are many beautiful locations in Rockport Texas, for birdwatching enthusiasts.

You will learn about various bird species with these expert guides.

WHOOPING CRANE BOAT TOUR

One of the popular things to do in Rockport Texas is to take a whooping crane boat tour.

Especially if you are visiting this beautiful town in spring, you should not miss this one of the must-see attractions in Rockport Texas.

People around the globe head to Rockport to see the endangered migrating Whooping Crane.

Whooping cranes, so named because of their whooping sounds, are often over 5 feet tall and have a wingspan of 7 feet.

They are the only naturally migratory flock in North America, and they make this halt on their 2,500-mile journey from the Southern United States to Canada.

Many tours are available in Rockport, but the most popular one is the Skimmer whooping crane boat tour, conducted by a marine biologist from Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures.

The tour operates from November to April, and you will pass through the shores of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, where you will get a closer look at these colourful species in their natural habitat.

From April to June, the tour primarily features Colonial Rookeries. You might even spot some of the more than 60 different bird species that have made the area their home while on tour.

Try booking a sunset edition tour and include the Dolphin watching tour if you have spare time.

GLOW ROW

Going night kayaking on Glow Row is one of the most romantic things to do in Rockport Texas, especially if you are with someone special.

Take a guided glow row eco-tour that lasts about 1.5 hours, and you will paddle through the shallow waters.

Thanks to the interchangeable LED coloured lights fitted to the kayaks, you will have a magical experience throughout the trip.

Since this is one of the unique Rockport attractions and people line up for this exciting experience, the tour operates from two departure locations.

One of them sets off from Little Bay, where you can kayak across artificial oyster reefs and observe the marine life under different shades of LED illumination.

The other departs at Paradise Key, where you can observe drum fish, stingrays and different marine life while paddling through a 1.5-foot-deep cove.

The tour operates from March to November. Ensure that you reserve the excursion in advance, depending on favourable weather.

EXPLORE CONNIE HAGAR WILDLIFE REFUGE (LITTLE BAY)

One of the fun activities in Rockport is a visit to Connie Hagar Wildlife Refuge, also called Little Bay by the locals, a part of Aransas Pathways Birding.

It is a lovely cove with a beautiful environment and calming sounds of birds, making it one of the top attractions in Rockport Texas.

The refuge derives its name from Connie Hagar, popularly known as Bird lady of Rockport.

She was the first woman in Texas to become an avid birder at a young age. She had a significant impact on the neighbourhood by learning about the massive migration of the local hummingbird population.

This refuge offers a plethora of activities, and a visit to this is one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

As soon as you enter the Refuge, you will hear the soothing singing of hummingbirds.

Apart from birdwatching, you can go kayaking or boating in the beach park if you want adventure. Also, you can try out jet skiing and water skiing.

Enjoy a swim in the calm waters of the beach park. Watch out for crabs; you may get some unique shells for your souvenir collection.

Since the refuge is also home to a variety of fish, it is also one of the top fishing hotspots in Rockport Texas.

If you have spare time, try to include other historical sites under the name of Connie Hagar in your Rockport Texas itinerary.

Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary is where you can find colourful butterflies and insects apart from birds.

Plan a picnic or a day trip with friends and family and relax in this beautiful refuge.

ADVENTURE THROUGH ARANSAS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Located along the San Antonio Bay and 30 minutes drive from Rockport, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is one of the popular Rockport Texas attractions.

Spread across 100,000 acres, the refuge is home to diverse wildlife, making it one of the top things to do in Rockport Texas.

People from across the globe visit this refuge every year to get a glimpse of the migrating Whooping Cranes, one of the endangered species in the world.

You can opt for a guided birding excursion to get a closer look at these cranes and witness and learn about more than 400 different species of birds along with other diverse wildlife.

In addition to birding, the refuge is home to various other experiences, making it one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

You can go hiking on several nature trails; the Heron Flats trail is one of the most well-travelled and offers the chance to see alligators, Roseate Spoonbills, Herons, armadillos, and other wildlife.

Additionally, there is a 500-year-old oak sanctuary with freshwater marshes nearby.

Visit the nearby observation tower to take in the sweeping views of the ocean, lush forest and several noteworthy landmarks within the refuge.

A nominal day-use pass is required to enter the refuge, and don’t miss picking up the wildlife checklist from the refuge’s entrance.

FUN THINGS TO DO IN ROCKPORT TEXAS

VISIT FULTON MANSION STATE HISTORIC SITE

Located on the Texas Gulf Coast in Aransas County, Fulton Mansion State Historic Site is a must-see place and one of the top things to do in Rockport Texas, especially if you enjoy history and architecture.

This Victorian Villa, popularly recognized as Oakhurst, was established in the 1800s and was retained by the affluent Colonel George Ware Fulton and Harriet Gillette Smith for several years.

The magnificent mansion, which featured central heating, gas lighting, and flush toilets, was regarded as having top-notch architecture at the time.

You will be able to appreciate the magnificent interiors of this 19th-century masterpiece and the extravagant three-story Second Empire architecture design of the mansion.

Take a self-guided tour to travel back in time to enjoy the mansion’s grandeur. Along with the main mansion, don’t miss exploring the beautiful garden associated with the villa.

Include the Education and History Center on your Rockport Texas itinerary, which sits behind the house and features a museum shop and different exhibits.

Opening hours: Tue – Sat: 10 am – 4 pm; Sun: 1 pm – 4 pm

Closed on Monday

TREK THROUGH GOOSE ISLAND STATE PARK

Located on the Lamar Peninsula and a short drive from downtown Rockport, Goose Island State Park is one of the top attractions in Rockport.

This pretty island, supposedly the first coastal state park in Texas, boasts soothing waters, a pleasant breeze, and warm weather with diverse geographies like the prairies and the marshland.

These make it a perfect natural habitat for various wildlife.

Goose Island Park is divided into two regions, comprising red-bay woodlands, a natural habitat for lovely white-tailed deers, rabbits, squirrels, and a wide variety of birds.

The other region contains an oyster shell island, a shell ridge, and a marshland, where you can learn about the native flora.

I recommend staying a day or two on this lovely island since it is equipped with multiple campsites and a facility to park your RV.

Night camping here on this island is one of the popular Rockport Texas attractions.

You can try kayaking, fishing, and canoeing. You can even go hiking along many nearby trails or enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch.

Opening hours: Everyday: 8 am – 10 pm

MARVEL AT THE BIG TREE

When you are in Goose Island State Park, don’t miss to visit The Big Tree, one of the amazing things to do in Rockport Texas

Quercus virginiana is the name of the oak species to which this Big Tree belongs, which is supposedly 1,100 years old.

This enormous live oak tree, which received the title of Texas State Champion Virginia Live Oak in 1969, is still standing strong after having experienced numerous hurricanes and other weather events.

This unique giant tree is approximately 44 feet in height and has a trunk of 35 feet in circumference, and spreads its branches across 89 feet, making it one of the unique attractions in Rockport Texas.

The tree is accessible by the sidewalk and is enclosed by fencing for protection. Due to their age, certain branches rely on tensions and ropes.

Plan for a day trip or a picnic lunch under the shades of this giant tree which will be a memorable experience.

You can include other activities in your Rockport itinerary, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing and birdwatching in the Goose Island State Park, apart from visiting the landmark Big Tree.

Check out the colourful roseate spoonbills and a variety of other native birds when you are on this lovely island.

Try visiting the island in the early hours to avoid hot afternoons.

GO FISHING IN ROCKPORT

The calm waters, pleasant weather and the availability of many piers along the shores of this pretty town make fishing one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

You can buy or rent fishing gear and live or artificial baits in one of the many shops lined up along the shore.

I recommend visiting the pier during sunset or early morning during sunrise for one of the incredible fishing experiences in Rockport Texas.

Go on a guided fishing cruise to catch some drum and sheepshead in one of the many famous fishing hotspots.

EXPLORE THE WINERY ON THE BAY

If you are a wine lover, one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas, is to explore Winery on the Bay.

Whether with your friends or someone special, this place has a unique charm and is a must-visit place in Rockport Texas.

Located in downtown Rockport, Winery on the Bay imports juices from various countries across the globe and prepares its unique flavour of wine, making it the most popular attraction in Rockport Texas.

Blackberry Merlot, Acai Raspberry Cabernet Sauvignon and Blueberry Shiraz are a few of their acclaimed fruit-infused wines.

Winery on the bay also brags about producing more than 30 different types of wine, including the classic red and white wines, and the majority have a somewhat sweeter flavour.

Additionally, Winery on the Bay produces specially labelled bottles of wine for celebrations like weddings and corporate occasions.

Winery on the bay also makes craft beers and ciders if you are a beer lover.

Check out their Mammy Jo’s food truck for some mouth-watering food varieties and the cheese plate served with the wine.

Try making wine when you are here and learn about the entire process and the art of tasting each type.

Opening hours: Mon: 2 pm – 6 pm; Wed – Thu: 2 pm – 6 pm; Fri – Sat: 12 pm – 7 pm; Sun: 12 pm – 5 pm (closed on Tue)

DISCOVER ROCKPORT CULTURAL ARTS DISTRICT

One of the things to do in Rockport Texas, for art lovers is the Rockport cultural arts district, the downtown Rockport area, which was recognized in 2016 by the Texas Commission of Arts.

This walkable part of the downtown is surrounded by sculptures, art studios, antique shops and galleries and other historical points of interest, making it one of the popular Rockport Texas attractions.

In these vibrant art galleries, you will witness decorative art varieties made from refurbished and recycled nautical materials.

One of the famous spots in the district is the Busted Junk Pot Museum, home to antiques and other creative artefacts.

Learn about the various exhibits and also buy the same to show your support to the local businesses.

The arts district is also famed for different events like art workshops and festivals like the Rockport Flim Festival and Rockport Art Festivals. Check out their events calendar here.

MEET LOCALS AND LOOK AT LOCAL ART AT ROCKPORT CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Rockport centre for the arts, one of the amazing things to do in Rockport Texas.

Located in the prime location of Rockport Cultural Arts District, the centre is a recognized focal point for promoting art and cultural tourism through its creative exhibits, theatrical performances and vibrant fairs.

The facility is adorned with numerous paintings and displays created of wood, glass, and other innovative materials by locals and artists across the globe, making it a go-to destination for artists in Rockport Texas.

Visit the sculpture garden next to the centre to experience the vibes of one-of-a-kind statues created by the regional artists.

You can also participate in multiple art events, exhibitions, culinary classes and musical performances organized in the centre all year round, or sign up for art classes.

Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 10 am – 4 pm (closed on Sun)

ADVENTUROUS THINGS TO DO IN ROCKPORT TEXAS

BIKING IN ROCKPORT

Rockport is known for its biking trails, making it a hotspot for biking lovers.

You can hire a bike to roam around this beautiful town or enjoy the city’s wild side by hitting the fantastic biking trails that are suitable for all types of bikers.

You will be rewarded with sights of greenery and local wildlife as you bike along the trails, making it one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

Bike on the 1.08-mile Tule Creek Hike and Bike Trail has a concrete route 10 feet wide and runs parallel to Tule Creek through the Live Oak Forest. You might even spot varieties of wildlife through the trail.

Along the trail, hoardings may provide information about the area’s history.

Check out the 1.65-mile Memorial Park bike trail, home to one of the area’s biggest nature and recreation parks.

You may also go biking on one of the newest trails in Rockport, the 1.7-mile Southern Trail, which embarks from the Connie Hagar Cottage.

Go for an evening stroll on these trails if you don’t want to bike, where you will be rewarded with the sights of deers, ducks and other wild animals.

GEOCACHING

Try Geocaching, one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas, and if you are with kids, you should definitely try it.

Geocaching is an outdoor adventure activity similar to a treasure hunt. But here, you will use a Geo Positional System (GPS) to hide and seek containers called caches at particular locations marked by coordinates.

Geocaching in Rockport is special because of its unique scavenger hunt.

Geocaches can be found in a unique artistic box in sites like the Fulton Mansion and the Fulton Harbor Coffee shop.

NIGHT FISHING AT FULTON PIER

Fishing is an important activity in the Rockport community, thanks to its pleasant weather and calm waters.

But one of the top things to do in Rockport Texas is Fishing at Fulton Pier at night.

The half-mile Fulton Pier will be illuminated with a green light at night, and fishing under the shades of green is a magical experience.

Since this is one of the popular fishing hotspots in Rockport Texas, you may surely reel in some redfish, trouts and drums.

Rent fishing gear like reels, rods and baits in the nearby rental shops.

Even if you are not into fishing, you can take a stroll on the pier and enjoy the cool breeze.

Visit the pier during the day to get spectacular ocean vistas.

Try including the Rockport Beach Park Pier, the South Jetty Pier, and the Copano Causeway launch for some incredible fishing experiences.

Ensure to obtain a valid Texas fishing licence to fish in Rockport.

STEP INSIDE SCHOENSTATT SHRINE & STELLA MARIS CHAPEL

If you are looking for peaceful places on the Gulf Coast, visit the Schoenstatt Shrine and Stell Maris Chapel, one of the amazing things to do in Rockport Texas.

Schoenstatt Shrine is a Catholic church and a shrine, a replica of the original one constructed in Vallendar, Germany, in 1914.

Stella Maris Chapel, on the other hand, was established in 1858 and is supposed to be the oldest building in the Roman Catholic group of churches of Corpus Christi.

Both places are well known for their peaceful ambience in the Rockport area.

CHECK OUT THE TEXAS MARITIME MUSEUM

Visit the Texas Maritime Museum, which will give you glimpses of the rich maritime history of Texas, one of the best things to do in Rockport Texas, especially if you are with kids.

A group of avid sea lovers started this museum as a display of Maritime artefacts in 1970 at the Rockport annual Seafair.

It was converted to a permanent museum in 1989, one of the popular Rockport attractions.

According to records, the museum was damaged by Hurricane Harvey, and repairs cost nearly half a million dollars.

For twenty years, this museum has drawn crowds, kept them enthralled, and taught them about Texas’s rich maritime heritage and the Gulf coast’s history.

The museum features many interactive permanent and temporary exhibits making it both a kid-friendly and an adult-friendly destination.

Some of the exhibits like a ship’s wheel spin, artefacts related to oil drilling and pirates and interesting literature which throws light on steamboat and sailboat transportation are among the popular exhibits of the museum.

You will also witness various fascinating artefacts related to maritime exploration, coastal towns, shipbuilding, boat building, industrial fishing, and sports inside this lovely museum.

Additionally, you’ll find a lot of preserved intriguing paintings, photos, books, and unique maritime papers that transport you back in time.

Don’t miss the expansive research library on-site in the museum, a haven for history and maritime enthusiasts.

Opening hours: Tue – Sat: 10 am – 4 pm; Sun: 1 pm – 4 pm

Closed on Monday

DISCOVER THE AQUATIC LIFE AT THE AQUARIUM OF ROCKPORT HARBOUR

Visit the Rockport Harbour Aquarium, one of the free things to do in Rockport Texas.

Run by passionate fish lovers and volunteers, the aquarium is a haven for thousands of marine species and offers different activities for its visitors.

Bring your family here to have a fun-filled day and learn about various marine life and the importance of marine conservation.

ADVENTURE AT ARANSAS PATHWAYS

If you are looking for an all-in-one adventure guide in Rockport, check out Aransas Pathways, one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

They offer multiple adventure activities such as birding, kayaking, hiking, biking and visiting historical sites, all under one roof.

Take their guided bird-watching tours with expert guides for an incredible bird-watching experience.

You can book a kayaking tour in the famed Aransas national wildlife refuge and many other nearby lakes.

Aransas Pathways also provide guides on trails and pathways in Rockport.

Their historical site tour includes a visit to the site of one of the homes of James Power, a soldier and statesman of Texas in the 1800s.

Apart from this, you can visit the first Baptist church of Rockport, Connie Hagar Sanctuary, Zachary Taylor Arboretum Park and the Port Bay Hunting and Fishing Club.

COMMUNITY AQUATIC AND SKATE PARK

One of the best things to do in Rockport Texas, with family is to visit the Community Aquatic and Skate Park, located within a 12-acre live oak forest.

The park is designed to have exclusive fun activities for kids and adults and contains a state-of-the-art 6,000-square-foot skate park.

The City of Rockport manages the Community Aquatic and Skate Park, which is spotless and well-kept.

The major attraction of this park is the heated 8-lane, 25-yard pool. It has a diving area and an excellent bath house if you are interested in diving.

The park also has an entire pool area for kids, almost zero depth, along with different kinds of slides and sprays.

You need not worry about safety since seasoned lifeguards watch over this vast pool.

Check out the adjacent quarter-mile nature trail if you want to do hiking or grab a snack and relax in the nearby picnic area.

Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm (Closed on Mondays)

MEMORIAL PARK

Memorial Park, one of the top attractions in Rockport Texas is spread across 100 acres and offers several activities. It is also a recognized location for the conservation of natural habitats.

If you enjoy hiking and biking, the park features 1.65 miles of marked trails and a three-fourth-mile unmarked nature trail with signboards and sufficient benches to rest along the trail.

You can enjoy various activities, including basketball and baseball, outdoor fitness courts and playscapes.

Try golfing on the only nine-hole disc golf course, and you can also play soccer in the vast fields of the park for a fun-filled weekend activity in Rockport.

Hike to the top of the observation tower to enjoy watching residents and migratory birds.

You can get your four-legged friends and watch them play in the off-leash park while you relax by the small lake nearby.

Memorial Park is a perfect spot for a gathering under the shades of giant trees, including a leisurely picnic lunch.

Take an evening stroll on the well-maintained walking trails of the park and enjoy the cool breeze along with stunning sunsets.

Opening hours: 7 am to 11 pm

HIKE THE TRAILS OF PATHWAYS CENTER PAVILION AND BRIDGE

Hike the pathways centre pavilion and bridge trails if you want an outdoor adventure.

Located on the north entrance of Walmart, on the west side of Highway 35 N, the pathways centre pavilion also serves as an information centre with kiosks for each Aransas Pathways project.

Since the pavilion is also a birding site, you may witness many local and migratory birds.

Many historic sites, kayak launch areas and nature trails can be accessed from the pavilion and the bridge.

The hike is easy to moderate, but you will be blessed with spectacular greenery making your hike worthwhile.

Relax on the deck near the pavilion and observe Tule Creek and the adjacent Shellcrete Birding and Nature site or cross the bridge connecting Tule Creek and the nature site.

Both these spots are popular among birders and photographers, making them one of the popular things to do in Rockport Texas.

The bridge operates as the trailhead for Pathways eco-tourism projects in Aransas County.

The pavilion sometimes organises local educational events to create awareness about birding and conservation.

EAT SOME DELICIOUS QUESO

Are you looking for the best seafood and queso in Rockport? Check out the Paradise Key Dockside Bar and Grill, one of the must-visit places in Rockport Texas, especially if you are a foodie.

One of the best things to do in Rockport Texas is to savour mouth-watering treats while admiring the sights of the lovely harbour lined with boats and seagulls, and pelicans soaring overhead.

Enjoy your favourite beverage with queso and crawfish etouffee at the Paradise Key Dockside Bar and Grill as you soak in the gorgeous surroundings and appreciate the lovely backdrop.

You may see many anglers with their daily hustle.

SIP SOME COFFEE AT THE BEST HOT SPOTS

Are you a coffee buff looking for the best places to sip coffee in Rockport Texas?

Visit the Bella La Brew Bar and Unique Boutique, one of the cool things to do in Rockport Texas, which offers a range of coffee flavours and freshly brewed coffee.

They also serve coffee with seasonal flavours along with muffins, bagels, and pies.

An interesting feature of this brew bar is that it is associated with a cute boutique shop named Bella la Rue, known for its creative gifts and attractive women’s clothing.

In addition to Bella La Brew Bar and Unique Boutique, try going to Main Street Coffee House, renowned for its lovely atmosphere, freshly brewed coffee, and variety of teas.

For an outdoor seating experience, check out Quirky Birds Coffee Bar.

KAYAK AT LITTLE BAY

One of the fantastic things to do in Rockport Texas is Kayaking at Little Bay.

The calm waters at Little Bay make it a perfect destination for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding for locals and tourists.

If you are an expert kayaker, add more adventure by fishing and taking in the Gulf coast’s natural splendour.

You’ll also discover more about the abundant fish, birds, and other marine creatures in the nearby bays and marshes.

If none of the activities seems appealing to you, relax by the bay with your family.

OFFBEAT THINGS TO DO IN ROCKPORT TEXAS

HOWARD MURPH MEMORIAL PARK

Visit Howard Murph Memorial Park, one of the top things to do in Rockport Texas, if you want to go kayaking or bird watching.

Howard Murph Memorial Park, situated behind the Aransas County Airport, was initially known as Airport Park but was later renamed in honour of the longtime resident of Aransas, Howard Murph.

This gorgeous waterfront park also offers astonishing Copano Bay vistas, especially at sunrise and sunset, making it one of the well-liked Rockport Texas attractions.

Try kayaking along the park’s shoreline and enjoy the calm waters, or plan for a picnic since the park features picnic facilities.

The park is home to many Aransas Counties bird species and various birds like Herons, Reddish Egret, Osprey and more.

EXPLORE THE BAY EDUCATION CENTRE

One of the top free things to do in Rockport Texas is to explore the Bay Education Centre.

The centre is a research and educational facility run by the National Estuarine Research Reserve that preserves the local ecosystem.

It features a variety of interactive displays that raise understanding of science, local flora and fauna, and artefacts illustrating estuaries like those found along the Texas Gulf Coast.

You will learn about the significance of Mission-Aransas Estuary and the National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Discover the relationships between the earth’s elements through the Science on a Sphere display, a large digital globe exhibit.

The centre also hosts interactive workshops and special presentations on solar energy, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

Opening Hours: Thursday – Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm

JOHN MARTELL PHOTOGRAPHY GALLERY

One of the top things to do in Rockport Texas is to explore the John Martell Photography Gallery if you love photography.

Located in the heart of downtown, the gallery is known for its lovely artistic photographs.

The gallery is well-kept, and if you are looking for stunning photographs for your home decor, this is a must-visit place.

From 8 x 10 inches to 4 x 8 feet, John Martell’s striking images are skillfully reproduced on canvas, metal, and watercolour paper in various sizes, which are lovely to see and heartwarming.

WATCH THE STUNNING SUNSET AT COPANO BAY

Don’t miss Copano Bay when you are in Rockport.

Known for its soothing waters and perfect weather, it is the best place where you can dock your boats and enjoy incredible sunsets.

You may find some trout and flounders when you go fishing at Copano Bay.

SET UP A LOVELY PICNIC AT COMPASS ROSE PARK

Are you looking for a tranquil place away from the hustle and bustle of the town?

Check out Compass Rose Park, a lovely park with a stunning view of Little Bay on the other side of the Park, one of the cool things to do in Rockport Texas.

The park is also home to a pretty garden filled with vibrant flowers, shaded trees and picnic benches.

The lighting at the park is impressive for candid photography.

THE HISTORY CENTRE FOR ARANSAS COUNTY

Located inside the Bruhl-Paul-Johnson house, the history centre for Aransas County is one of the popular attractions in Rockport.

Several important people owned the house, including Albert Lewis Bruhl, a well-known local doctor in the 1800s.

You will witness many outdoor and indoor exhibits depicting the history and heritage of the town and throwing light on how the city received its name.

The centre also features many rotating exhibits in various rooms showcasing quilting, military, fishing, sporting and much more, making a visit to this place one of the fun things to do in Rockport Texas.

The History Center for Aransas County also has facilities for events, gatherings, workshops, displays, kid-friendly play areas, a library of reference research materials, and other amenities.

In addition, the centre also identifies, gathers, records, interprets and protects historical objects that are significant to Aransas County and educates history enthusiasts through programmes, outreach, displays, and events and promotes historic preservation.

You will come across many more historical artefacts in the beautiful garden associated with the centre.

Try visiting the centre during regularly scheduled events or public talks to learn more about the centre.

ESTELLE STAIR GALLERY

If you are an art lover wondering what to do in Rockport Texas, check out the Estelle Stair Gallery.

It is one of the unique galleries featuring a wide range of art selections, from paintings to photographs to various handmade creative artefacts.

The main attraction of the Estelle Stair Gallery is the sea-themed sculptures, making a visit to this place one of the top things to do in Rockport Texas.

Support the local community by buying their works, paintings, jewellery or photographs.

Opening hours: Thu – Sat: 11 am – 4 pm (closed on Sun-Wed)

EXPLORE ROCKPORT FULTON MARKET DAYS

Exploring Rockport Fulton market days is one of the top things to do in Rockport Texas to get the raw vibe of the town.

Rockport Fulton market day is a monthly festival which operates on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, every 3rd weekend of the month, featuring more than 150 vendors, artists, resellers, musicians, crafters and others.

If you are an early shopper, you will get a chance to preview some of the best vendors on Friday.

Try out various foods on the food trucks, one of the highlights of the Fulton market days.

Enjoy live music concerts while shopping for handmade crafts and creative artworks and appreciate the efforts, skills and patience required to create a unique piece of art.

Shop for fresh produce and goods from local farmers at Rockport Farmers Market, held every Sunday morning from 9 am to 1 pm.

Some of them offer farm-to-table facilities while others offer reasonable goods and services.

Check out this place if you need to buy dairy products and other fresh vegetables.

The market also features a travelling bar with unlimited beverage options and hand-crafted botcher shops with exceptional meats and lemonades.

Fulton market days are pet friendly but on a leash.

SALT FLATS GALLERY

One of the best things to do in Rockport Texas is to visit the Salt Flats Gallery.

The gallery is home to well-known crane photos and primarily focuses on wildlife photography of animals around the Gulf Coast of Texas.

Most photos are skillfully reproduced on metal to preserve them and have a permanent aesthetic.

A touch of metallic gloss is added to the paint to make the colours of the animals look bright in the photograph.

You can shop for affordable beautiful home decor, handmade jewellery, hand-painted t-shirts and other creative pieces of artwork in this gallery.

If you are looking for home decor, shop for high-quality photos of various animals and birds in different sizes.

ROCKPORT LITTLE THEATRE

Are you looking for a perfect date night in Rockport? One of the romantic things to do in Rockport Texas is to visit the Rockport Little Theatre.

The theatre offers a wide range of movies at a concession to enjoy with your special someone with a snack and beverage.

VISIT FULTON SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM

One of the top things to do in Rockport Texas, especially if you are a museum and history lover, is to visit the Fulton school house museum.

This quaint one-room schoolhouse museum near the Fulton harbour is a replica of the schoolhouse built in 1886.

The building was reconstructed in 1940 after being damaged in a hurricane. The museum features 19th-century artefacts in the interiors of the schoolhouse.

Buy bookmarks and note cards from here for your souvenir collection.

Opening Hours: Saturday: 1 pm – 4 pm

VISIT THE FULTON HARBOUR

Located in downtown Fulton, the harbour is a hotspot for fishing and is also known for its other recreational activities in the town.

The best part is that it is one of the free things to do in Rockport Texas.

Enjoy the fresh cool breeze, the panoramic views of the Gulf, and the stunning sunset views.

You can also go birding and boating, and the area around the harbour is ideal for many bird species.

Savour fantastic mouth-watering seafood varieties at one of the many seafront restaurants along the shoreline.

Shop for local handmade jewellery and other creative pieces of artwork at the cute shops near the harbour.

Reshma

Founder and Chief Editor at The Solo Globetrotter

Reshma is a digital content creator, storyteller, and history lover. She is the founder of The Solo Globetrotter, a site for solo travelers, female travelers wanting to travel independently, and those wishing to travel on a budget or go flashpacking. She has been traveling alone for over 6 years, currently having explored over 35+ countries. She prefers traveling slow and loves immersing in local experiences & culture, nature, hiking, festivals, and history. An Electronics Engineer turned Software Lead turned Solopreneur; she is specialized in SEO-based content curation and Pinterest Management.