Experience the Magic: Glow Kayaking and the Congress Avenue Bats

Every summer evening, over a million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. It's an absolute must-do if you are looking for things to do in Austin. But here is the reality: standing shoulder-to-shoulder on hot concrete, craning your neck with hundreds of other tourists, simply isn't the best way to experience it.

To truly feel the energy of the city, you need to get off the pavement and onto the water.

The Best Seat in the House

At Austin Lit, we believe the best seat in the house is looking up from the cockpit of a kayak. Our signature Austin bat tours combine the natural wonder of the bat emergence with the incredible vibe of our glow kayaking experience. As the sun drops behind the downtown skyline, we light up our kayaks, turning Lady Bird Lake into a vibrant, floating launchpad.

You get to paddle through the cool evening air, completely avoiding the crowds on the bridge, as the massive colony spirals out directly overhead.

More Than Just Sightseeing

It is so much more than just sightseeing; it's about creating a profound, shared experience. Whether you are planning an unforgettable bachelorette party, a corporate team-building event, or just trying to figure out what to do in Austin this weekend with friends, getting on the water changes the entire dynamic.

It pulls everyone into the present moment. You get the thrill of the neon city lights reflecting off the water, the peacefulness of a guided paddle, and an immersive memory that you simply cannot get from the sidewalk.

Immerse Yourself in Austin

Don't just spectate the city—immerse yourself in it. Grab a paddle, hit the water, and let us show you the capital the way it was meant to be seen.