Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Paddleboard Tour

Austin , United States of America

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Paddleboard Tour

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(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the enchantment of Austin's iconic bat colony with our Bat Bridge Kayak Tour on Lady Bird Lake. Glide along the tranquil waters, framed by the city's skyline and lush greenery. As dusk falls, witness the emergence of thousands of bats from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge, a spectacle that's both mesmerizing and unforgettable.

Led by knowledgeable guides, paddle beneath the bridge to witness the bats' flight up close. Our tour offers a unique perspective on Austin's natural beauty and urban wildlife. With each stroke of your paddle, immerse yourself in the magic of Lady Bird Lake and create memories to cherish forever.

Available options

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Paddleboard Tour

What's included

Paddle

Life Jacket

Paddleboard

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The South Congress Bat Bridge in Austin, Texas, stands as an iconic marvel, renowned for its captivating nightly spectacle. Home to one of the largest urban bat colonies in North America, this bridge serves as a twilight rendezvous point for thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats. As the sun dips below the horizon, a mesmerizing sight unfolds as these nocturnal creatures take flight in a swirling vortex, painting the sky with their silhouettes against the backdrop of the Austin skyline. Locals and visitors alike gather along the bridge and adjacent parklands, eagerly anticipating the moment when nature's aerial acrobats emerge in a breathtaking display of synchronicity and grace. Beyond its natural allure, the South Congress Bat Bridge serves as a testament to Austin's vibrant cultural tapestry, blending urban infrastructure with ecological preservation in a harmonious celebration of biodiversity.

As the sun descends over the eclectic cityscape of Austin, Texas, the skyline transforms into a breathtaking tableau of hues and silhouettes. Towers of modern architecture stand tall, juxtaposed against the backdrop of a fiery sky painted with hues of orange, pink, and violet. The iconic landmarks such as the Frost Bank Tower and the Austonian cast long shadows across Lady Bird Lake, while the Congress Avenue Bridge stretches majestically over the water. Reflecting the city's dynamic energy, the skyline at sunset becomes a symbol of Austin's fusion of innovation, creativity, and natural beauty, captivating both locals and visitors with its mesmerizing charm.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet directly under the I35 overpass off East Ave out of a parking lot/docking area by the water and launch from there. If you’re having trouble locating us, just look up Lone Star Kayak Tours on Google Maps. We're to the left with the blue and orange kayaks when you come down to the water!

Important notes

Please sign this waiver before you arrive: https://iwaivers.com/waiver/d/5b08cc02d3d09add06d6c2f7

About Austin

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, vibrant arts community, and outdoor recreational opportunities. With a unique blend of Southern charm and progressive culture, Austin offers a dynamic urban experience with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is a historic building and the seat of the Texas government. It features beautiful architecture, a museum, and guided tours.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Zilker Park

Zilker Park is a large urban park offering a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and picnicking. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Nature Half-day to full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

South by Southwest (SXSW)

SXSW is an annual festival and conference that celebrates the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries. It features live music, film screenings, and industry panels.

Entertainment 10 days (typically in March) Varies by event and pass type

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brisket

Slow-smoked, tender beef brisket, a staple of Texas BBQ, often served with sides like coleslaw, beans, and pickles.

Main course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without bun

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.

Main course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without tortilla

Pecan Pie

A sweet pie made with pecans, corn syrup, and spices, often served with whipped cream or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten, nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Water sports Spa treatments Picnicking Strolling Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

The best times to visit Austin are during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. These periods offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and festivals.

18-32°C 64-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Austin is generally a safe city, but like any major urban area, it has its share of crime. Visitors should take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable transportation services

Getting there

By air

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Austin Amtrak Station

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Capital Metro operates an extensive bus network that serves most of Austin. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, but schedules can be limited in some areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown South Congress (SoCo) The Domain

Day trips

San Antonio

130 km (80 miles) • Full day

San Antonio is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, the Alamo, and the River Walk. It offers a mix of history, shopping, and dining.

Fredericksburg

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

Fredericksburg is a charming small town with a rich German heritage, known for its wineries, historic sites, and shopping.

Lake Travis

30 km (20 miles) • Half day to full day

Lake Travis is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, and hiking. It offers beautiful scenery and a variety of water-based recreation.

Festivals

South by Southwest (SXSW) • March (dates vary) Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival • October (two weekends) Formula 1 United States Grand Prix • October (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Texas State Capitol and other historic sites for a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.
Explore the vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous live music venues, art galleries, and cultural events.
Take advantage of the city's outdoor recreational opportunities, with numerous parks, trails, and water-based activities.
Try local cuisine, including Texas BBQ, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food, as well as a diverse range of international options.
Use public transportation, biking, or walking to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be limited in popular areas.