Austin, Texas is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America! Witness the emergence of the Mexican free-tail bats from underneath South Congress bridge from Mid-March to mid-October/November (depending on weather). Estimated at approximately 1.5 million bats, this incredible spectacle is one of Austin’s top attractions! And oh yeah, it’s free!
Looking for other things to do in Austin? Don’t miss out on my post ‘Best BBQ in Austin, TX: Frankin Barbecue vs. Terry Black’s BBQ‘.
Where?
The bats emerge from underneath the South Congress Avenue bridge.
When?
The South Congress bats spread their wings approximately 30-60 minutes before sunset from mid-march to October/November-ish (weather depending). They typically put on a show for 45 minutes to 1 hour before flying off to find their next meal.
I’d recommend making your way to the bridge a little early (30-45 minutes) to get a front row view! This is a popular attraction!
Click here for sunset times in Austin!
Methods of Watching the Bats
#1- South Congress Bridge
Stand on the sidewalk on South Congress Bridge to see the bats emerge from above.
#2- Statesman Bat Observation Center Lawn
Grab a blanket or a lawn chair and make your way to the south end of the bridge and down the stairs to the Statesman Bat Observation Center. There, you’ll find a lawn area with plenty of space for watching the bats from below the bridge.
#3- Boat Tour
Take a cruise and watch the bats emerge from the water. A guide will give you all the fun facts, you’ll have a front row seat to the bats, and some great skyline views! Click here for more info/ to book a boat tour!
#4- Kayak & Paddleboard
Take a guided kayak or paddleboard tour to just below the bridge. You’ll have a front row seat to the action! Click here for more info/ to book a kayak or paddle board tour!
Parking
Auditorium Shores at Town Lake
FREE!
900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
This parking lot is just West of the South 1st Street bridge. It’s approximately a 10 minute walk to South Congress Bridge, making it my first choice for parking! It’s a free lot, so be sure to arrive early to find a space and make it to the bridge before sunset!
Austin American Statesman’s Bat Observation Center
Paid Parking
305 S Congress Ave, Austin, Tx 78704
This parking lot is the closest to the South Congress Bridge, however, it fills up quickly and is a paid lot. Rates were $20/hour when I visited, but rates may change!
Hyatt Regency Hotel
Paid Parking
208 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Located less than a mile from South Congress Bridge, this is a convenient option for watching the bats.
140 W Cesar Chavez St- Garage
Paid Parking
Located less than a mile from South Congress Bridge, between Congress Ave. and Colorado St. Perfect for walking to South Congress Bridge!
There you have it- a short guide to watching the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats! This is a great free, kid-friendly, summertime activity that is a must-see if you find yourself in Austin during the warmer months! Drop your questions, and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter below to stay in the know when new posts go live!
