🦇 Bats in Round Rock, Texas — A Must-See Natural Attraction
Looking for one of the most unique things to do in Round Rock, TX? Come experience the incredible Round Rock Bats! Each spring and summer, thousands of visitors gather to watch Mexican free-tailed bats take flight at dusk — a breathtaking natural event you’ll never forget.
The Round Rock Bat Colony
From March through November, nearly half a million bats call the McNeil Overpass and I-35 Bridge in Round Rock home. Every evening, just after sunset, they burst into the night sky — soaring up to 60 miles per hour and as high as 2 miles — to feed on insects. In fact, these hardworking bats eat 20,000–30,000 pounds of insects each night, helping keep Texas skies bug-free!
While Austin’s South Congress Bridge bats are world-famous, the Round Rock bat colony offers a more intimate, family-friendly viewing experience just 15 miles north of Austin.
Discover Central Texas Bat Country
Bats thrive throughout the Texas Hill Country, roosting in caves, under bridges, and even around downtown skylines. The world’s largest colony of Mexican free-tailed bats can be found at Bracken Cave, located between New Braunfels and San Antonio — just a short drive south of Round Rock.
Plan Your Visit
đź“Ť Location: Underneath the Interstate 35 overpass at McNeil Road in Round Rock (northeast corner of IH-35 and McNeil Road, in the parking lot south of Happy Bank).
đź•“ Best Time to Visit: Arrive about 30 minutes before dusk for the best viewing experience.
🅿️ Parking: Free parking is available at 601 S IH-35 Frontage Road (first-come, first-served).
🧺 What to Bring: A blanket or lawn chair, light cover, and a hat or head covering.
⚠️ Safety Tip: Please enjoy the bats from a distance — never attempt to handle or disturb them.
Why Visit the Round Rock Bats?
- Free, family-friendly outdoor event
- Unique natural attraction near Austin
- Great for photography and nature lovers
- A memorable summer night experience in Round Rock
Come see why visitors are batty for Round Rock’s flying residents — and experience one of the best-kept secrets in Central Texas!
