History of Austin Walking Tour and Bat Bridge
Austin
Discover Austin's history and witness 1.5 million bats take flight on this unique walking tour. Explore landmarks, hear wild tales, and see baby bats soar.
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Texas State Capitol - Discover the largest State Capitol building in the U.S., constructed in 1888. We remain outside.
  • Texas Governor’s Mansion - Erected in 1856 and designed by architect Abner Cook, the Governor’s mansion holds many secrets! Hear a few of them from just outside the front gates of this stunning Greek revival residence.
  • Paramount Theatre - This gem has been showcasing dramatic performances on Congress Avenue for over a century. We stay outside.
  • The Driskill - We go inside this one! As one of Austin’s premier attractions, this hotel is a marvel to see and has a fascinating history!
  • Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Watching - The tour ends at Congress Avenue Bridge around sunset, home to 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats. From late July to mid-August, the young bats are learning to fly. On dry nights during this period, they often emerge in large numbers at sunset.
What's Included
  • Guided Walking Tour
  • Live person tour guide
Additional Information

Congress Avenue lies at the heart of Austin’s origin story. Immerse yourself in Austin’s wild and unique history beginning at the Capitol Building as we make our way south toward the Congress Avenue Bridge, where 1.5 million Mexican freetail Bats live tucked away in the crevices underneath. On the way, you’ll learn about the unlikely story of Austin’s origin, the unique architecture on Congress Avenue, it’s events, characters, and it’s wild west crime and scandal. These stops are all outside, except for the Driskill Hotel. This time of year is when baby bats begin learning to fly, and dry summer nights at sunset are the best time to see them. Bats are wild animals, so we can not guarantee their behavior.

Location
100 1/2 W 11th St
West 11th Street
Meet at the South Gates of the State Capitol Building at the intersection of 11th Street and Congress Avenue. The exact location is right outside the South Gates near the steps. Beware of GPS directions that may take you to the 15th Street gates.
Cancellation Policy

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

Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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