WELCOME TO CORPUS CHRISTI

SkillsUSA Texas

2026 State Leadership & Skills Conference

Welcome to the Gulf Coast Capital, SkillsUSA Texas attendees! We’re excited to welcome the SkillsUSA Texas State Leadership and Skills Conference back to Corpus Christi for 2026. We know you’re here to compete, learn, and connect with your peers, but we want to ensure you have the best experience possible outside of the conference too!

Our friendly Gulf Coasters Crew will be on-site at the Hilliard Center hosting games, giving out prizes, and ready to answer any questions you may have about getting around Corpus Christi. Whether you explore downtown like a local in between sessions or stay an extra day, there’s plenty of ways to coast your own way in CCTX!

CORPUS CHRISTI WEATHER

Event Information

What You Need to Know

Everything you need to know related to SkillsUSA. Good luck, competitors!

Eat & Drink

Great Food Comes Easy Here

From laid-back beachside bites to local restaurants worth lingering over, Corpus Christi offers plenty of ways to gather around the table. Whether you’re grabbing something quick or settling in for the evening, you’ll find fresh flavors and relaxed coastal vibes throughout the city.

Explore the Coast

See What Makes Corpus Christi Special

Sun, water, and wide-open space define life on the coast. Spend a few hours at the beach, explore local museums and neighborhoods, or take a sunset walk along the bay. However full your schedule is, there’s always time to enjoy the outdoors here.

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 — together or on their own.

Between Sessions

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 sessions, meetings, or scheduled events.

30-45 Minutes

Grab coffee or a light bite near the Bayfront
Take a stroll along the Seawall
Check out the Selena Memorial and Mirador de la Flor
Find iconic Downtown murals
Step outside for fresh air and water views

60-90 Minutes

Enjoy lunch at a casual local restaurant
Visit the Art Center of Corpus Christi or Art Museum of South Texas
Walk the Marina and nearby waterfront areas
Relax on McGee Beach

2-3 Hours

Check out the Padre Island National Seashore on North Padre Island
Shop for local souvenirs
Visit the Texas State Aquarium or USS Lexington on North Beach
Enjoy a leisurely lunch or early dinner

Helpful While You're Here

Good to Know

Weather & Dress

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!

CORPUS CHRISTI WEATHER

Transportation

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:

Safety Updates

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: