Located by the bay in the middle of the downtown district, the Hilliard  Center is Corpus Christi’s premier entertainment facility. Sitting at over 200,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility consists of an arena, auditorium, and a complex center, and hosts numerous conventions, trade shows, exhibitions, live performances, and sporting events. With waterfront hotels, restaurants, and nightlife nearby, the Hilliard Center is the ideal location for the ultimate entertainment experience.

The Arena

The Hilliard Center Arena is the premier location for hosting a variety of events. Featuring 10,000 seats in total, a club level with 10 spacious box suites, and top-notch amenities, Corpus Christi’s all-inclusive indoor arena has plenty of seating for large crowds to enjoy exciting events. Throughout the year, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi Basketball, Ice Rays Hockey, PBR: Professional Bull Riders, and tons of other national acts are hosted in the arena, and the space even transforms into an ice-skating rink during the holidays. The arena also hosts concerts, car shows, circus events, comedy performances, the Corpus Christi Ballet, and the Corpus Christi Comic Con, making it a true hub for entertainment.

The Selena Auditorium

Named after the late Tejano singer, Selena Quintanilla-Perez, the Selena Auditorium has long been one of the most attended venues for entertainment in the Coastal Bend area. With seating for over 2,500, divided among the Pit, Orchestra, Grand Tier, and Balcony options, and an outstanding acoustical rating, the auditorium is a great spot for comedy shows, concerts, and live-action shows.

The Convention Center

Spanning over 138,000 square feet across two floors, the Hilliard Convention Center hosts a variety of events from weddings and wedding fairs to corporate conferences.  

Divisible space tailored to your requirements:

• 10 ballrooms with numerous smaller breakout rooms
• 27 meeting rooms 

Whether you seek a grand open space or more intimate breakout rooms, the Convention Center caters to all your needs. 

Rooms available, each equipped with unique amenities and private spaces:

• Henry Garrett Ballroom
• Water Garden Room
• Harborview Room
• Selena Rotunda

Furthermore, the center ensures a fully customized experience by offering support services, including food, beverages, WiFi connectivity, and a team of knowledgeable event staff.

Parking

The Hilliard Center owns and operates multiple parking areas around the venue. Other privately owned and controlled lots may be available for a fee.  To eliminate the stress of finding parking on the day of your event, guests can reserve their parking in advance with ParkMobile. Doing so not only guarantees your spot but also lowers the price. There’s no need to download an app. Simply visit ParkMobile and reserve your spot!

Accessibility

Accessible Parking

All parking lots that are owned and operated by the Hilliard Center are ADA-compliant and have designated accessible parking available. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

ADA Drop-Off and Pick Up Locations

For Arena events, patrons with disabilities may be dropped off at the corner of Shoreline Boulevard and Resaca Street and enter through the Main Entrance. For Selena Auditorium and Exhibit Hall events, patrons with disabilities may be dropped off at the end of Shoreline Boulevard at the turnaround.

Lactation and Nursing Pods

Mamava lactation pods provide a private, comfortable space for breastfeeding parents to pump or nurse.

Sign Language Interpreters

The Hilliard Center can provide sign language interpretation for guests that are deaf/hard of hearing. Requests for this service must be received three weeks prior to the event and be approved by the performer. For details, call the Hilliard Center at 361-826-4744.

Sound System

The Hilliard Center does not control the sound system for events. Each show provides its own equipment and handles the sound level.

Sensory Inclusive

The Hilliard Center is a KultureCity Certified location. For more information on sensory bags, headphones, and more, visit the Hilliard Center KultureCity Certification page. 

Wheelchair Assistance

Guests with limited mobility who require additional assistance can request a wheelchair transport from the entry doors of the arena to their seating location on a first-come, first-served basis and may be requested from any team member at the entry doors. Please note that arena wheelchairs cannot be left with guests during the event.

For all inquires on accessibility, please contact the Hilliard Center at 361-826-4700. 

Bag Policy 

Be sure to read up on the Hilliard Center's Bag Policy to ensure smooth entry into the facility. All bags will be searched for prohibited items at entry before walking through the metal detectors. See image below for specifications:

Nearby Attractions

Be sure to visit nearby attractions to enhance your visit. Enjoy over 1,900 engaging works of art including paintings, photographs, ceramics, and large installation pieces at the iconic Art Museum of South Texas. While you’re there, stop by Elizabeth’s for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired brunch and stunning views of the water. Learn the history of the shipwrecks from early explorers at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, and dive into the museum’s innovative programs in history, culture, and science. For something a bit more low-key, take a stroll down the seawall and enjoy the breeze along with breathtaking views of birds, boats, and the water. If you look closely, you might see some fish jumping around in the water.  

Nearby Local Dining  

Try some of the freshest seafood in the Coastal Bend at Water Street Oyster Bar or traditional seafood favorites at the Executive Surf Club. For a family-friendly outdoor location with great food and live music, head to Brewster Street Ice House, a local favorite.