Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

Austin is a vibrant city with an eclectic mix of culture and attractions. One of the most unique experiences awaits at the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge. 

From March until October, nature lovers and the curious gather at dusk to witness the world’s largest urban bat colony fill the sky. An estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from beneath the bridge, exploding into the air for a spectacular aerial flight lasting 45-60 minutes.

But where do you go to get the best view of this nightly phenomenon?

On the Bridge, stand on the east side that offers an unobstructed view as they emerge and fly eastward over Lady Bird Lake. Another viewing spot is at the northeast end of the bridge. Here, visitors report having a clear line of sight of multiple bat columns against the evening sky.

Another option is ground level below the Bridge. The Statesman Bat Observation Center is located on the southeast side of the bridge, offering an ADA-accessible area and ample space for families. It's a popular spot to sit and watch the nightly show.

Also popular is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail along the northeast side. The pathway offers excellent vantage points, particularly from the small metal viewing platform extending over the water.

While the above are free, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard for a water view. There are also guided boat tours allowing you to view the bats from Lady Bird Lake, directly beneath their flight path.

Whether you’re a bat enthusiast or seeking a bucket-list item, visiting the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge is an adventure not to be missed during your Texas vacation! 

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge: Fun Facts & Cool Features

The Congress Avenue Bridge, also known as the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, is a prominent landmark in Austin. It spans Lady Bird Lake and serves as the dividing point between Downtown Congress Avenue and South Congress, also known as SoCo. 

A fascinating fact that impacted the bats is that the current Congress Avenue Bridge was built in 1980, replacing an older bridge that had been in place since 1910. The new bridge was constructed with expansion joints and crevices beneath it, which inadvertently provided the perfect habitat for Mexican free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) to roost.

Did you know that initially, these bats were considered a nuisance by locals? Over time, the mammals have become a beloved part of Austin's culture, attracting visitors from around the world. 

Additionally, aside from being a tourist attraction, the bats play an essential ecological role. By consuming massive quantities of insects, they naturally control insect populations. It is estimated that they consume around 10,000 to 20,000 pounds of insects every night! 

As a result, public interest in the bats increased, and organizations such as Bat Conservation International (BCI) stepped in to help protect and preserve this unique urban wildlife phenomenon. 

The Congress Avenue Bat Bridge is not only an essential transportation link in the city, but it also serves as a symbol of Austin's commitment to environmental stewardship and the conservation of urban wildlife. 

The Congress Avenue Bat Bridge in the Highland Lakes region is one of the most cherished natural wonders of Texas. Adding it to your to-do list is a no-brainer!

Getting There

Here are your step-by-step driving directions from Highland Lakes to the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge:

• Head southeast on FM 1431 E if starting near Marble Falls or Kingsland.
• Continue on FM 1431 E for several miles toward Lago Vista.
• Merge onto FM 620 S and drive south.
• Take the ramp to TX-45 E/TX-1 Loop (Mopac Expressway).
• Merge onto TX-1 Loop S (Mopac Expressway).
• Take the exit toward 5th Street/Lake Austin Blvd.
• Continue on 5th Street heading east into downtown Austin.
• Turn right onto Lavaca Street.
• Turn left onto Cesar Chavez Street.
• Continue a few blocks until you reach Congress Avenue.
• Turn right onto Congress Avenue and drive south toward Lady Bird Lake.
• Park near the bridge or in a nearby downtown garage.
• Address: 305 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Cost

Visiting the Bat Bridge is free!