The Iconic South Congress Bridge: A Must-See in Austin
Explore the iconic South Congress Bridge in Austin, Texas, a stunning tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views and fascinating bat colony.
The South Congress Bridge, a renowned tourist attraction in Austin, Texas, offers breathtaking views and a unique wildlife experience, attracting visitors from all over the world. Famous for its stunning architecture and the mesmerizing sight of bats taking flight at dusk, this iconic bridge is a perfect blend of nature and urban life.
A brief summary to South Congress Bridge
- Congress Avenue Bridge, S Congress Ave, Austin, Texas, 78704, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the bat emergence at dusk.
- Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy at the nearby parks while waiting for the bats.
- Check local schedules for live music events happening around the bridge.
- Consider visiting nearby shops and restaurants for a complete Austin experience.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are anywhere along South Congress Avenue, simply head south toward the Congress Avenue Bridge. Look for the large green space and the water of Lady Bird Lake on your left as you walk. Continue until you reach the intersection with Riverside Drive. The entrance to the bridge can be found on your left. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk depending on your starting point.
-
Bicycle
For those who prefer biking, South Congress Avenue has bike lanes that will take you directly to the Congress Avenue Bridge. You can rent a bike from several bike-sharing services located along South Congress Avenue. Once you have your bike, head south along the avenue. When you reach the bridge, there are bike racks available for you to lock your bike while you enjoy the view.
-
Public Transport (Bus)
If you want to take public transport, you can catch a bus from one of the nearby stops along South Congress. Take MetroBus Route 803, which runs frequently and connects South Congress to various parts of Austin. Disembark at the stop near the intersection of South Congress Avenue and Riverside Drive. From there, it’s a short walk to the bridge. Be sure to check the Capital Metro website or app for the most current schedule and fare information.
Discover more about South Congress Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Congress Avenue Bridge
0.0 km
Discover the iconic Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, Texas, renowned for its stunning views, vibrant culture, and the spectacular bat colony that draws visitors every evening.
Buford Tower & Kitchens Memorial Chimes
0.2 km
Visit Buford Tower & Kitchens Memorial Chimes in Downtown Austin to experience the city's rich history and enjoy the enchanting sounds of its iconic chimes.
Bat Sculpture
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Austin with a visit to the whimsical Bat Sculpture, an artistic landmark reflecting the city's vibrant culture and creativity.
Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo
0.3 km
Explore the Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo, a serene historical landmark in Austin offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat along the picturesque waterfront.
Willie Nelson Statue
0.4 km
Explore the Willie Nelson Statue in Austin, a tribute to the country music icon, surrounded by the vibrant culture of the Texas capital.
Doug Sahm Hill Summit
0.9 km
Experience the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere at Doug Sahm Hill Summit, a scenic gem in Austin perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
John Bremond House
1.0 km
Explore the historic John Bremond House in Downtown Austin, a beautifully preserved landmark showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
700 Guadalupe St
1.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant culture surrounding 700 Guadalupe St in Downtown Austin, Texas, a must-visit for every traveler.
Central Presbyterian Church
1.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Central Presbyterian Church, a historic landmark in downtown Austin, Texas.
Austin
1.0 km
Explore the historic charm of Austin, Texas, where vibrant culture meets rich heritage in an unforgettable city experience.
Historic Old U.S. Courthouse
1.0 km
Explore the Historic Old U.S. Courthouse in Austin, a stunning architectural gem and a testament to Texas's rich legal heritage.
Kinsfather Manor
1.0 km
Discover the historical charm of Kinsfather Manor in East Austin, a serene escape filled with rich stories and beautiful architecture.
Historic 6th Street Mural
1.1 km
Discover the Historic 6th Street Mural, a vibrant symbol of Austin's artistic spirit and culture, perfect for photography and exploration.
Joseph and Mary Robinson Martin House
1.1 km
Explore the Joseph and Mary Robinson Martin House, a captivating historical landmark in Austin, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich cultural history.
Hirshfeld House
1.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty of the Hirshfeld House, a historic gem in Downtown Austin, capturing the essence of Texas' vibrant past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge Observation Deck
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Austin from the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge Observation Deck, where sunsets and skyline views await.
Statesman Bat Observation Center
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking emergence of millions of bats at the Statesman Bat Observation Center, a unique natural spectacle in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Tau Ceti
0.3 km
Experience the artistic wonder of Tau Ceti, a unique tourist attraction in Downtown Austin, with mesmerizing graphics and immersive installations.
Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live)
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant music scene of Austin at ACL Live, a premier venue showcasing unforgettable live performances and local talent.
Austin City Hall
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Austin City Hall, a modern architectural landmark in downtown Austin, showcasing local governance and stunning public art.
Texas Toy Museum and Arcade
0.5 km
Explore the Texas Toy Museum and Arcade in Austin, where nostalgia meets entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere filled with toys and games.
Oilcan Harry’s
0.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Oilcan Harry's, a premier gay night club and bar in Austin's vibrant Downtown, where everyone is welcome.
Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue
0.6 km
Discover the iconic Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue in Austin, a tribute to the legendary blues musician set against the scenic beauty of Lady Bird Lake.
Cedar Street Courtyard
0.6 km
Experience the lively ambiance of Cedar Street Courtyard, where live music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable memories await you in the heart of Austin.
DuMont's Down Low
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at DuMont's Down Low, a trendy bar in the heart of Downtown Austin, Texas.
Walking Tours of Austin
0.6 km
Explore Austin's vibrant history and culture through guided walking tours, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks in the heart of Texas.
Speakeasy
0.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Speakeasy in Austin – a unique blend of cocktails, live music, and bowling in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Long Center for the Performing Arts
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant arts scene of Austin at The Long Center for the Performing Arts, home to unforgettable performances and stunning views of Lady Bird Lake.
Lavaca Street Bar
0.6 km
Discover Lavaca Street Bar, a vibrant sports bar in Downtown Austin, offering a lively atmosphere, delicious bites, and a wide selection of drinks.
Mexic-Arte Museum
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant art and culture of Mexico at the Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin, a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Essential places to dine
Ciclo
0.3 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Ciclo - where fine dining meets vibrant flavors in the heart of Austin.
Dean's Italian Steakhouse
0.3 km
Experience exquisite steak and authentic Italian flavors at Dean's Italian Steakhouse in Downtown Austin.
Corinne Austin
0.4 km
Discover modern American cuisine at Corinne Austin—where fresh ingredients meet innovative flavors in the heart of downtown.
Taverna Austin
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Taverna Austin - where every dish tells a story through rich flavors and fresh ingredients.
Red Ash
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Red Ash in Downtown Austin - where tradition meets modern elegance.
Swift's Attic
0.5 km
Discover Swift's Attic: A vibrant American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering eclectic tapas and artisanal cocktails for an unforgettable dining experience.
Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood and Crab
0.5 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood and Crab in Downtown Austin - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Péché
0.6 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Péché, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance in Downtown Austin.
North Italia
0.6 km
Experience authentic Northern and Southern Italian cuisine at North Italia in Austin's Seaholm District – perfect for families and food lovers!
The Guest House Austin
0.6 km
Experience modern New American cuisine at The Guest House Austin - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity in a vibrant setting.
Eddie V's Prime Seafood
0.7 km
Experience fine dining at Eddie V's Prime Seafood in Downtown Austin - where fresh seafood meets live jazz in an elegant setting.
The Peacock Mediterranean Grill
0.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at The Peacock Mediterranean Grill in Austin's Seaholm District, where flavor meets tradition.
Diner Bar - Seafood Bistro & Lounge
0.7 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Downtown Austin at Diner Bar - where fresh flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Stella San Jac
0.7 km
Discover Stella San Jac: A premier American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering delicious dishes and craft drinks in a lively setting.
Moonshine Grill
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine at Moonshine Grill in Downtown Austin - where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Second Street Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, chic women's fashion, and local beauty products at Second Street Boutique, a gem in the heart of Downtown Austin.
francesca's
0.3 km
Discover unique fashion and gifts at Francesca's, a charming boutique in Downtown Austin, Texas, where style meets personal service.
The Singing Ox
0.4 km
Explore The Singing Ox in Austin for unique home goods that reflect local artistry and creativity, perfect for every home and occasion.
Austin Rocks
0.4 km
Explore the charm of Austin at Austin Rocks, your destination for unique gifts and local fashion in the heart of Downtown.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover unique fashion, accessories, and home goods at Urban Outfitters, a trendy shopping destination in the heart of Austin.
2nd Street District
0.5 km
Explore the eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and events in the 2nd Street District, Austin's vibrant downtown shopping destination.
6th Street Trading Company
0.7 km
Explore the heart of Austin's culture at 6th Street Trading Company, your go-to souvenir store for unique local treasures.
Scruffy’s Souvenirs & Food Mart
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, local snacks, and craft beers at Scruffy’s Souvenirs & Food Mart in vibrant Downtown Austin, the perfect stop for every traveler.
Wild About Music
0.8 km
Explore Wild About Music, Austin's vibrant gift shop and art gallery, showcasing unique musical treasures and local artistry.
Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts
0.9 km
Explore a vibrant collection of unique gifts and souvenirs at Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts in downtown Austin, Texas.
Daughters
1.1 km
Discover unique styles and local artistry at Daughters, a charming clothing store in the heart of Austin's Bouldin Creek neighborhood.
Cove Boutique
1.3 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Cove Boutique, where style meets individuality in the heart of Austin's trendy Bouldin Creek neighborhood.
Allens Boots
1.6 km
Explore Allens Boots in Austin for the finest selection of cowboy boots and Western apparel, capturing the essence of Texas culture.
Texas Capitol Gift Shop
1.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of Texan souvenirs and artisanal crafts at the Texas Capitol Gift Shop, located in the heart of Austin.
SUNROOM
1.6 km
Explore the eclectic style of Austin at SUNROOM, a boutique offering unique women's clothing and exquisite jewelry in a delightful setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Foxy's Proper Pub
0.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Foxy's Proper Pub in Downtown Austin, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere for all.
The Tipsy Alchemist (Austin)
0.7 km
Discover innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at The Tipsy Alchemist in Downtown Austin, a must-visit bar for every cocktail lover.
The Roosevelt Room
0.7 km
Discover The Roosevelt Room, Austin’s premier cocktail bar, where mixology meets sophistication in an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Garage
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Garage Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Half Step
0.7 km
Discover Half Step, Austin's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet live music in a vibrant atmosphere on Rainey Street.
The Library Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Library Bar in Downtown Austin, featuring craft cocktails and a chic ambiance perfect for any evening out.
Here Nor There
0.8 km
Discover Here Nor There, a premier cocktail bar in Downtown Austin, where mixology meets vibrant nightlife and unforgettable experiences await.
Small Victory
0.9 km
Discover Small Victory, a stylish cocktail bar in Downtown Austin, offering creative drinks and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
Devil May Care
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Devil May Care, a premier lounge in Downtown Austin with innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
Higher Ground
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Higher Ground, your go-to cocktail bar, dance club, and live music venue in the heart of Downtown.
Key Bar
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Key Bar, a cocktail haven and event venue that perfectly captures the city's spirit.
Equipment Room
1.0 km
Experience the eclectic charm of Equipment Room, a unique bar in Austin's South River City, perfect for drinks and vibrant nightlife.
Kung Fu Saloon
1.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of craft cocktails, arcade games, and a whimsical atmosphere at Kung Fu Saloon in Austin's vibrant West End.
Tiniest Bar In Texas
1.2 km
Experience the intimate charm of the Tiniest Bar in Texas, where unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
White Tiger
1.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance of White Tiger, a premier bar and restaurant in Austin, featuring delectable cuisine and live music that elevates your dining experience.
