There's a lot to miss.

I've read that somewhere. Even smaller bridges in the area have bat populations, they are all over the place.

What does the guano smell like? I've been all over town and have never smelt it.

It's Bat waste.....Very strong ammonia smell. Walk under the Congress St Bridge and you can't miss it. I run a lot on trails in Houston, and on Town Lake in Austin and when you run under the bridge, you have to hold your breath and get away as quickly as possible. It is not a pleasant smell.

Love bats
 

You can take a riverboat cruise to watch the bats, too, very fun! Or just stand on the congress bridge just before dusk and they will come swirling out.
They are here while the weather is warm.
Tanya

Yeah! For our anniversary a couple years back I rented a private boat & dinner (https://www.capitalcruises.com/rentals/duffy-21-rental/). The price was reasonable and the view was spectacular, much better than standing on the banks (which we have also done a couple of times). If it is in season, it is a great family friendly place to take out of town visitors (Kids and photography buffs have an especially good time).

I've seen them fly out from the Congress St. Bridge. An awesome sight.