HOW TO GO BAT-WATCHING AT CONGRESS AVENUE BRIDGE IN ATX

AUSTIN, TEXAS – The live music capital of the world, a foodie's paradise, and a hub of vibrant culture. But hidden within this buzzing cityscape is a captivating secret. Every evening from spring to fall, the skies above this iconic city come alive with a jaw-dropping, almost magical spectacle. Imagine this: over a million Mexican free-tailed bats have chosen the Congress Avenue Bridge as their home, creating one of the most captivating shows in North America. And the best part? It's as simple as stepping onto a board and gliding beneath the bridge to witness this awe-inspiring performance. In this guide, we will walk you through how to see Austin's bats up close and personal from the water's edge.

Step One: Preparing for the Paddle

Before you set off on your bat-watching paddle adventure, it's crucial to get all the right gear in order. We strongly suggest picking a board that matches your experience level and keeps you comfortable. This way, your journey will be a breeze. Equally important is your choice of clothing, which can elevate your experience. Think about going for lightweight, moisture-wicking attire and wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

PRO TIP: Make sure you are prepared for your paddle by stopping by the BOTE store in Austin. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is there to help you get set up with the proper gear so you can focus on getting on the water.

Step two: Launching for the Paddle

Now that you have the correct gear, it's time to rip and kickstart your adventure. The key is to carefully choose a safe, easily reachable spot along the water's edge, with a keen eye on proximity to the Congress Avenue Bridge. This strategic choice guarantees you a paddle that's just the right length – long enough to savor all the sights and sounds of Austin's picturesque waterways, yet not overly lengthy. It's all in preparation for the grand finale: witnessing the mesmerizing bat spectacle that Austin is famed for.

PRO TIP: For a convenient starting point, look no further than the Holiday Inn Boat Launch.
From here, you can enjoy a scenic one-mile paddle leading you to the iconic Congress Avenue Bridge.

Step THREE: Witnessing the bats

As the sun sets and the Austin skyline transforms into a silhouette, position yourself beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge. This is where the magic happens. As evening falls, the Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from their roosts, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as they fill the night sky. Be patient, and watch the skies for this unforgettable natural display.

PRO TIP: In Austin, bat emergences will vary with weather—usually 30 minutes before sunset in dry heat,

up to 40 minutes after sunset in cooler, damp conditions, and can continue until mid-October.

Step four: Wrap things up and go

After witnessing this astounding spectacle, it's time to conclude your paddle adventure. However, the fun doesn't have to stop there. Austin's downtown offers a bustling hub of entertainment options for you to explore.

Austin's bats are a testament to the city's unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. So, gear up, paddle out, and become part of this thrilling spectacle in the heart of Texas.