In the heart of downtown, a nightly spectacle draws in both locals and tourists: a sighting of over 1 million bats inside the city of Austin, Texas. The emergence of the Mexican free-tailed bats from beneath the South Congress Avenue Bridge is a unique and mesmerizing phenomenon.
While many flock to witness this natural wonder from the sidewalk of the bridge, there are alternative vantage points. Whether you book a tour or pick out a spot on land or water, seeing the millions of bats on Congress certainly adds an extra dimension to experiencing this vibrant city.
This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. There are only products included that I truly love. I APPRECIATE your support!
South Congress Bridge
South Congress Bridge is located in downtown Austin, Texas. While standing on the bridge looking towards downtown, viewers will have a perfect view of the Texas Capitol Building. Explore the city while waiting for the sun to set and learn about more unique things to do in Austin.
The bats migrate to Texas between March and October. For more places in Central Texas to see bats, click here. As the sun starts to set after a hot and dry day, one of the best things to do in Austin downtown is to watch the bats. The bats on Congress Bridge are the largest urban bat colony in the world. The reason why over a million settle in the area, is due to the bats in Austin having the perfect place to roost in the crevices of the under the bridge and away from any threats.
Due to the bridge being in the center of downtown Austin, parking may be difficult, but there are nearby parking garages and parking lots that are safe.
- Parking Lot: 227 1/2 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
- Parking Garage: 200 1/2 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Free Ways to See the Bats in Austin
Seeing over a million bats under Congress Bridge suddenly flying towards the sky is a remarkable event that everyone should witness at least once in Austin. The bats migrate to the area between March and October. As the sun begins to set every evening in the warmer months, grab a front-row seat to this awe-inspiring spectacle.
Watch From Above on South Congress Bridge
South Congress Bridge offers unparalleled views of the bats taking flight into the sky. When you arrive on the bridge, you’ll quickly realize that all the spectators waiting for the bats are only on one side of the bridge.
These Mexican free-tailed bats fly in one direction together following the Colorado River, also known as Ladybird Lake, headed south. For those watching on the bridge, know that it is a busy bridge with cars coming and going from downtown. Make sure you are on the correct side of the bridge and stay on the sidewalk.
Seeing the bats in Austin is an iconic event that draws in many crowds. Most people will arrive 30 minutes before sunset. From the bridge, you’ll be able to lean over and see swirling bats before they take off. Watch as they merge together following Ladybird Lake, and in the distance look almost like smoke in the air.
Views Beside the Bridge
If you want a view of under the bridge to see the bats in Austin leaving their roost, there are 2 areas next to the water that give you a great view. On the right side of the bridge, there is a small open grass area and on the left side is a concrete boardwalk that extends over the water. Both sides will allow you to see the bats, but they have pros and cons.
In my experience, the majority of the bats roost on the right side of the bridge near the grassy area. Even though the grass slopes down towards the water, and can get crowded, you get great views of where the majority of the bats emerge from the bridge. The downside of this is that trees block most of your sight to see them after they take off.
The newly built boardwalk is also a great place to see the bats, especially as they leave the bridge. Spectators will have a great view of the bats following the river and see them fly together in the sky. You’ll still see bats coming out from under the bridge, but the majority of the colony lives toward the middle and other side of the bridge.
Bring your Own Kayak or Paddleboard
If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, this is a fantastic excuse to use it. In my opinion, seeing the bats from the water is the best vantage point you can get. You can see the bats emerge from the crevices of the bridge and begin to fly above you.
Spending a day on lady bird lake paddle boarding and kayaking is so relaxing. There is a small current going north, but overall, it’s great for beginners getting comfortable on the water. Ladybird Lake is a man-made reservoir and below are some tips and rules to follow.
- No permits necessary to enter the lake, and no cost.
- Use these access points to enter the water.
- For additional parking, you can use Zilker Park, Red Bud Isle and Auditorium Shores.
- No swimming in the middle of the lake. Best place to swim is in Barton Creek that connects to the lake.
- Dogs are allowed on the lake, but in the summer, you have to be mindful of the local bacteria reports. With high concentration of blue green algae, it has been known to kill dogs after drinking.
Tours to See the Bats
Whether you’re seeing the bats for the first time or want to understand them more, consider booking a tour that focuses on these iconic Mexican free-tailed bats. Book a tour and learn more about why the bats in Austin are helpful to the ecosystem and treasured by the city and locals.
Pro Tip: The best time to see bats is when the climate is hot and dry because they will come out before it’s too dark to see them. Mid-May to June is very hard to see the bats because the females are getting ready to give birth. If you are booking a tour, wait until late June or afterwards to make the most of your experience.
Guided Kayaking Tour
When it comes to bat tours in Austin, Texas you can find an affordable guided kayaking tour to see the bats that provides a spectacular view for long-lasting memories. Book a one-of-a-kind kayaking tour to see over 1 million bats flying above you from Congress Bridge as the sun sets. No previous kayaking experience is needed.
Glide along the smooth water on the edge of the city’s skyline. Along with views of Austin’s skyscrapers, you’ll move with the current as your group and guide slowly make their way to Congress Bridge. As the sun lingers in the sky for a short time, you’ll hear the bats in the crevices of the bridge. Your guide will provide some great insight on the history of the bats and why the city of Austin and the locals have embraced them.
As the sun sets, witness the breathtaking spectacle of over 1 million bats emerging from their hiding places inside the bridge to hunt in the evening. It’s an unforgettable sight that combines nature, cityscape, and the thrill of paddling.
Pro Tip: Be sure to not lose your guide while you’re watching the bats. Remember that there is a small current, and you will have to paddle against the current to get back to your original dock. You’ll also be raising against losing the light so after you’ve seen the bats, start slowly making your way back.
Guided Paddleboard Tours
Enjoy the experience of seeing over a million bats ascend into the sky while on a paddleboard guided tour. The paddleboard is 15 feet long, 4.5 feet wide and very stable. You can stand, sit and even lay down while watching the bats fly high above you. It’s like no other experience you’ve had on the water.
Boat Tours
When purchasing tickets for a bat tour boat, Austin has the great options. Taking a ride on one of the Lone Star Riverboat tours is a hassle-free and family-friendly way to witness the Congress Bridge bats at sunset. Your guide will provide interesting information about the bats you’ll see and some of the city’s architecture that you can see from the water. This was a great option when seeing the bats with children or elderly family and friends.
Lone Star Riverboat has two sizes of boats, one which as a top deck. To get your preferred seating, it is first come, first served. Relax as you travel smoothly across the water, enjoying the captivating sight of millions of bats taking flight against the backdrop of the setting sun, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Insider Tip: Bring water! The summer is very hot, even in the evening time. The chairs are plastic and tightly squeezed in. If you have children who have a hard time sitting still, it may be a good idea to bring something small to entertain them with until the bats make their appearance. You can also challenge them to see how many turtles they can spot in the water or on the shore.
Book a Private City Tour and Cruise
If this is your first time to Austin and you want to see it all, consider a VIP experience. With a group of no more than 7 people, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to see some of Austin’s highlight spots and tell you details about the city.
You and your group will then make your way on a peaceful sunset cruise. See gorgeous views of the Austin city skyline, the sun setting over the water and over 1 million bats emerging above you into the sky. It’s the best way to see and learn about Austin in a short amount of time, that’s stress free.
More Ways to See the Bats in Austin
If you’d like to go at your own pace, and maybe be on the water before sunset, consider renting a boat or board for the day. Be mindful of when the rental business closes and when their property will need to be returned to avoid late fees.
Get a Rental Kayak and More
For those who want to take their time and be on the water for several hours before ending the day seeing the bats, consider renting from a local outfitter. There are many companies that have rental options throughout Ladybird Lake. One of the great places to rent from is Rowing Dock ATX.
Rowing Dock ATX has everything from kayaks, paddleboards, and even peddle kayaks. One thing to consider when renting from an outfitter is the time that you will be expected to return the boat or board. Depending on the time of the year, the bats can be seen anywhere from 7:15 pm to 8:45 pm. After seeing the bats in Austin, you’ll then have to race back to the dock before the outfitter closes to avoid a late fee. Rowing Dock ATX closes at 8 pm each day, which is later than most other rentals. Another thing to consider is while paddling back to the dock you’ll be riding the current, which will help getting you to the dock faster.
If you have concerns about making it back on time after seeing the bats, call the rental business ahead of time. They will know what time the bats are coming out and whether or not you should pay for a tour instead.
In my opinion, take a tour first before renting equipment. When you go to rent, try in the late spring when the sun doesn’t go down as late, and you’ll have more time to return to their dock.
Rent Your Own Small Boat
When it comes to seeing the bats, and not wanting the chance of getting wet, a great idea is to rent your own boat. At Capital Cruises, you can rent out a peddle swan boat, a donut boat or even an electric, motorized Duffy boat. Call ahead of time and let them know that you wish to see the bats and they will recommend the best time to leave by.
They even have options to include dinner with your sunset, bat cruise. Learn how to create a memorable experience with friends or family while seeing the extraordinary bats in Austin.
Restaurant and Hotels to See the Bats in Austin
The Line Hotel: See the bats in Austin from the comfort of your hotel room. With gorgeous views of Ladybird Lake, enjoy a sunset view with over 1 million bats traveling high in the sky.
Four Seasons: While enjoying drinks or dinner at the Four Season in downtown Austin, guests can see the bats conveniently from the restaurant. See the largest urban bat colony from a distance.
Hotels Walking Distance Away
Hyatt Regency Austin: Book your stay to enjoy the pool along with views of downtown. Take a short walk to see over 1 million bats emerge from South Congress Bridge.
Embassy Suites by Hilton: Conveniently located on Congress Ave. Close to shopping, restaurants, bars and especially the bats in Austin.
When Can You See the Bats
The bats under the South Congress Bridge are migratory Mexican free-tailed bats. Arriving to Austin during the warmer months of the year, people can expect to start seeing them in the area in late March or April until October.
In April, if there’s been little rain, spectators can begin to see the bats. The peak time of the year is July to September. When the weather is, and has been, warm and dry spectators have a better chance of seeing them due to their hunting habits. Make sure to arrive at the bridge 30 minutes before sunset when they start to appear.
While they seek shelter under South Congress Bridge, the pregnant females will give birth to their pups. It’s difficult to view the bats in mid-May and June because either only the males will hunt, or they will hunt later in the night. I went to watch them in early June, and I could hear them, but barely saw anything.
As they slowly begin to exit the bridge, large groups will gather to fly in a tight unison. Staying together in a compact line, they follow the river headed south slowly heading high into the sky. From far away it looks like smoke. Remember that they are wild animals, and there is no guarantee set time when they emerge from the bridge.
A Local’s Favorite Way to See the Bats
After living in the Austin area for several years, I’ve had the chance to see the bats many times in many different ways.
Standing on South Congress Bridge is a great vantage point to see them travel together following the river. Make sure to grab a spot on the bridge where you face south. The middle and right side of the bridge normally has the most activity. This is also a great way to see them if you’re nervous to be around them.
My favorite experience was when I booked a tour with Live Love Paddle and saw the bats on a kayak from the water. I went with family and friends, and everyone described it as a magical and a memorizing experience. The only downside is that when you make your way back to the dock, you’ll be going against the current, and it will get dark faster than you expect.
No matter your preference on how you choose to view the bats, just make sure you don’t miss out on this amazing and memorable experience.
0 Comments