American Bank Convention Center, Corpus Christi, Texas

In Corpus Christi, Texas there is a convention center and arena complex called the American Bank Center. This multi-purpose facility was renovated in 2004 in order to expand the Bayfront Convention Center that was built several years before. The facility will host conventions, concerts, graduations, religious gatherings, performances, and sporting events. Depending on the event one may be in the arena section or in the convention center.

The City of Corpus Christi owns the convention center/ arena, but SMG operates the facility on a daily basis. The construction for the dual facility cost $50,000,000. Architects such as Thompson, Ventulett and Stainback worked on the project, with Fulton Coast Construction as the general contractor.

Capacity for the center is 8000 to 10,000 individuals based on the event. Sporting events offer less seats than things like concerts or gatherings. Four teams have called the center home. The Corpus Christ IceRays, a CHL team have been at the center since 2004. The Texas A&M Islanders and Corpus Christi Hammerheads used to call the arena home. From 2007 to 2009 the C.C. Sharks AF2 team also were at the facility. In 2010 the facility will once again be home to the Hammerheads.

Musical performers who have appeared at the center include Cher, Ricky Martin, Shakira, Mana, MercyMe, Cirque du Soleil, Tool, and ZZ Top. Franklin Graham held a crusade at the arena in which overflowing crowds attended. As part of the facility there is the 2,562 seat auditorium called the Selena. It was named after the slain Tejano star- Selena Quintanilla Perez. As a performing arts hall theater productions are held there each year. Musicals and ballets are just a few of the performances residents or guests can attend.

In 2007 WWE Raw was scheduled to be at the arena. Unfortunately the death of Chris Benoit postponed the show for a few weeks and the taping of ECW live was also held there. WEC 39 has also been at the American Bank Center with Mike Brown and Leonard Garcia as the main event.

The American Bank Convention Center and Arena offers concessions for the various events. Centerplate is the in house concessions service. They cater events and ensure a number of cuisines are offered for the ticket holders. There is a VIP Club Membership option allowing these guests access into the Gentleman Jack Lounge and Restaurant. Buffets and a private bar welcome these high paying guests. Menus are also provided. Concession choices range from cheese burgers, hot dogs, Kosher dogs, Philly Steaks, Chicken sandwiches, Chili Fries, French fries, Popcorn, and peanuts to candy, soda, tea, lemonade, hot chocolate, and beer.

Parking at the convention center is spread around the area. There are plenty of different lots to choose from. The choices include VIP parking as well as economy lots to make it affordable for all attending the various performances, sporting events, and activities held there. The arena is on the left side, with the convention center in the middle, and the theater on the right.