WELCOME TO CORPUS CHRISTI
Competition and Beach Days Ahead
Innovation, leadership, and academic competition take center stage during Buc Days Week #2 STEAM Events, happening May 7-May 9, 2026 at the Hilliard Center & Buc Days Festival Grounds.
Students from across the region will gather to compete in a wide range of events including the Buc Days Food Show and Food Challenge, FIRST Tech Challenge, FIRST LEGO League, Public Speaking, Ag Product ID, Horticulture, and Livestock Quiz Bowl.
From robotics arenas and presentation stages to agriculture-focused challenges, the event space transforms into a dynamic celebration of student achievement, creativity, and critical thinking. Whether you're competing, coaching, or cheering from the crowd, we’re excited to welcome you to the Gulf Coast Capital.
Group Rate Hotels
Stay Close to the Action
These Corpus Christi hotels offer a special group rate for those competing in the Buc Days STEAM Competitions. Located near key venues and local attractions, they’re a convenient option for competitors, families, and fans during your stay in Corpus Christi.
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Executive Residency by Best Western Corpus Christi
$99-$119 USD per night + taxes/fees
9305 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Hampton Inn & Suites Corpus Christi
$116 USD per night + taxes/fees
5879 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412Click here to book with your special group rate
Booking Instructions: To book, you can use the booking link or call (361) 653-4655 and reference the 3 digit code of 905.
Cut-Off Date: April 15, 2026

Holiday Inn Corpus Christi Airport & Conference Center
$95 USD per night + taxes/fees
5549 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78408Click here to book with your special group rate
Cut-Off Date: April 21, 2026

Holiday Inn Express Beachfront
$169 USD per night + taxes/fees
1102 South Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401Click here to book with your special group rate
Cut-Off Date: April 6, 2026

Hyatt Place
$115 USD per night + taxes/fees
6773 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412Click here to book with your special group rate
Booking Instructions: To book, you can use the booking link or also use the code "G-BDS2" when booking online as well.

Residence Inn Downtown
$209-239 USD per night + taxes/fees
309 S Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Towneplace Suites by Marriott
$99 USD per night + taxes/fees
6701 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412Click here to book with your special group rate
Booking Instructions: To book, you can use the booking link or call the front desk at (361) 991-2011 and mention the code BDC (S).
Buc Days Festivities
Get in on the Action
From bull riding to carnival rides, Buc Days has it all.
Eat & Drink
From Team Meals to Treats
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between competitions or celebrating a win with your team, Corpus Christi has plenty of crowd-pleasing options for competitors, families, and fans.
Explore the Coast
See What Makes Corpus Christi Special
Sun, water, and wide-open spaces define life here — and even a short break can refresh your team. Spend free time on our beaches, enjoy waterfront views, explore local attractions, or take in scenic spots perfect for quick outings or group photos.
Great for Groups
Easy to Enjoy Together
Corpus Christi is built for shared experiences. With walkable areas, group-friendly restaurants, spacious beaches, and attractions for all ages, it’s easy for everyone to find something they’ll enjoy.
Between Competition
A Little Time goes a Long Way Here
Short on time? Even a quick break is enough to enjoy the coast. These ideas are easy to fit between competitions.
30-45 Minutes
- Take a stroll along the Seawall
- Check out the Selena Memorial and Mirador de la Flor
- Quick team stretch on open green space at Cole Park
60-90 Minutes
- Go on a selfie tour at iconic Corpus Christi hotspots
- Check out the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
- Relax on McGee Beach
2-3 Hours
- Check out the Padre Island National Seashore on North Padre Island
- Visit the Texas State Aquarium or USS Lexington on North Beach
- Enjoy a team bonding activity
Helpful While You're Here
Good to Know
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Depending on your trip plans, activity level, and the weather, we recommend packing lightweight clothes, beachwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, flip flops and comfy shoes for walking. Don’t forget a light jacket for breezy nights on the coast. Be sure to check the weather before packing your suitcase!
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Most venues, beaches, restaurants, and attractions are easy to reach whether you’re walking, ridesharing, or driving. Downtown and Bayfront areas are especially walkable.
- Walkable areas: Downtown / Bayfront
- Short drives: Padre Island beaches, larger entertainment districts
- Best options: Rideshare is often quicker than parking when time is tight
Explore rideshares and other transportation options:
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Having the latest information during an emergency is essential. For real-time safety updates, weather alerts, and emergency notifications while in Corpus Christi, sign up for text alerts by texting BEREADYCCNC to 888777. It’s free, easy, and the best way to stay informed while exploring the area.
Emergency operations professionals will inform the public on:
- Hurricanes
- Tropical Storms
- Tornadoes
- Heat Advisories
- Severe Weather
- Flash Floods
- Other emergency situations
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Looking for more travel tips or locals' recommendations? Give us a call at (361) 561-2000 and we'll be happy to help you out!
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