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.
- 6-day, 5-night tour from San Francisco to Las Vegas, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and LA
- See some of the most photographed landscapes of Yosemite National Park and Grand Canyon National Park
- Take a bay cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island
- Learn about the natural and cultural history of the region
- Accommodation and breakfast included in Modesto, Stevenson Ranch, Las Vegas, Page, and Kanab or Cedar City
- You’ll visit Hearst Castle instead of Yosemite in the winter months
- Tour ends in Los Angeles
What To Expect
Texas State Capitol
Learn about the largest State Capitol building in the United States, built in 1888. We stay outside.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Texas Governor’s Mansion
Built in 1856, designed by architect Abner Cook, the Governor’s mansion has many secrets! Listen to a few of them from right outside the front gates of this beautiful Greek revival home.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Paramount Theatre
This beauty has been hosting dramatic entertainment on Congress Avenue for over 100 years. We stay outside.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Driskill
We go inside this one! One of Austin’s top attractions, this hotel is a sight to behold, and boasts a wild history!
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Watching
Tour concludes at Congress Avenue Bridge at approximately sunset, where 1.5 million Mexican free tail bats live. From late July to mid-August, the babies are learning to fly. On dry nights at this time of year, they frequently emerge in large numbers at sunset.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Highlight
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Transportation is wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
Include
Guided Walking Tour
Live person tour guide
Exclude
Max group – 15
