Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Herron
Hi Dan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Austin Bat Tours: A Wild and Unforgettable Adventure with Dan Herron
Suppose you’ve ever strolled through downtown Austin at sunset. In that case, you may have witnessed one of the most mesmerizing natural spectacles in the country—the breathtaking flight of over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats from the Congress Avenue Bridge. This nightly emergence draws more than 100,000 visitors yearly, cementing its place as Austin’s most iconic natural attraction. But for Dan Herron, the owner of Austin Bat Tours, the bats are more than just a spectacle; they’re a passion, an adventure, and a business.
From Photographer to Bat Enthusiast
Dan Herron initially did not plan on leading bat tours. As a professional photographer and longtime resident of Austin, he was simply motivated by the challenge of capturing the bats on camera.
“I started photographing them after work, just trying to get the perfect shot,” Herron recalls. “They’re fast and unpredictable, and photographing them well requires patience and skill. One year, I photographed them for 31 days straight just to push myself searching for that perfect sunset and try to understand their movements.”
That dedication paid off—not just in stunning images but in inspiration. Herron realized there was a unique opportunity to take people beyond the sidewalks and crowded bridge views to experience the bats in a more immersive way. And just like that, Austin Bat Tours was born—the city’s first dedicated bat tour company.
A Front-Row Seat to Nature’s Greatest Show
Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, Austin Bat Tours offers an up-close experience on paddleboards and kayaks, where guests can float right under the Congress Avenue Bridge as the bats take flight. It’s a rare perspective that brings the magic of this natural wonder to life in an exhilarating way.
“Seeing the bats from the water is a completely different experience,” says Herron. “You feel the rush of wings overhead, hear the chirps echoing from the bridge, and watch as the bats spiral into the sky like a living tornado. It’s something you have to experience firsthand.”
Austin Bat Tours is more than just an adventure—it’s an opportunity to celebrate Austin’s unique wildlife, support conservation efforts, and educate visitors on the ecological importance of these winged creatures. Bats are vital for pest control, pollination, and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. With each tour, Herron and his team share fascinating bat facts, debunk myths, and inspire a newfound appreciation for these often misunderstood mammals.
More Than Just Bats—A True Austin Experience
Through his work at Austin Bat Tours and the Austin Welcome Center, Herron manages multiple tour sites and businesses that showcase the best of Austin’s history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can stop by the Austin Welcome Center website (www.austinwelcomecenter.com) to plan their perfect trip, book excursions, and discover hidden gems around the city.
Herron’s dedication to providing top-tier experiences has made his company a must-do for tourists and locals. Whether paddling beneath the bridge at sunset or learning about Austin’s vibrant history, a tour with Herron is more than just sightseeing—it’s storytelling, adventure, and an authentic slice of what makes Austin unique.
Book Your Bat Adventure
For those looking to experience the magic of Austin’s bats from the best seat in the city, Austin Bat Tours is ready to deliver an unforgettable adventure.
The best time of year to see the Congress Avenue Bridge bats in Austin is from March to early November, with peak viewing season being June through September. During these warmer months, the bats are most active, and the colony reaches its largest size, with nearly 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging at dusk.
Visit www.austinbattours.com to book a tour and witness the spectacular bat emergence. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, Dan Herron and his team will ensure that your night on the water is nothing short of extraordinary.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Running Austin Bat Tours presents several unique challenges, from logistics and weather dependency to customer experience and conservation efforts. Here are some of the key challenges:
1. Weather and Seasonal Limitations
• Unpredictable weather: Rain, wind, and extreme heat can affect both customer comfort and bat activity. Tours may need to be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe.
• Seasonal fluctuations: While peak bat season is from March to early November, colder months mean fewer tours and lower revenue, requiring strong financial planning.
2. Managing Logistics and Safety
• Equipment maintenance: Paddleboards and kayaks require regular upkeep, and ensuring all gear is in top condition is critical for safety and customer satisfaction.
• Customer safety: Since tours are on the water, safety precautions such as life jackets, briefings, and emergency procedures must be in place.
• Group coordination: Managing different skill levels among guests (some may not have experience on a paddleboard or kayak) requires patience and skilled guides.
3. Wildlife and Conservation Considerations
• Bat unpredictability: While the bats typically emerge at dusk, their behavior isn’t guaranteed. Factors like temperature, rain, or disturbances can alter their flight patterns, which can affect the guest experience.
• Educating guests: Many people have misconceptions about bats, so part of the challenge is educating visitors about their ecological importance while making the experience engaging.
• Respecting wildlife: Ensuring that tours don’t disrupt the bats or their habitat is a priority. Guests must be guided on how to observe responsibly.
4. Marketing and Business Growth
• Standing out in Austin’s competitive tourism market: With so many attractions in Austin, Austin Bat Tours needs strong branding and marketing to attract both tourists and locals.
• Customer acquisition and retention: Keeping tours booked and ensuring repeat business requires excellent customer service, partnerships, and positive online reviews.
• Scaling the business: Expanding the operation while maintaining quality can be challenging, whether it’s hiring more guides, adding new tour options, or growing partnerships with hotels and travel agencies.
5. Permits, Regulations, and Water Access
• City permits and regulations: Operating on Austin’s waterways and near a major landmark requires compliance with local laws, permits, and environmental guidelines.
• Crowded waterways: The area under the Congress Avenue Bridge is popular for other recreational activities, requiring careful navigation and coordination with other groups.
6. Customer Expectations and Experience
• Managing expectations: Some guests expect a guaranteed, dramatic bat emergence, but nature doesn’t always cooperate. Balancing expectations while ensuring a memorable experience is key.
• Diverse audience: Tourists and locals alike may have different interests and comfort levels with water-based activities, requiring a flexible and engaging approach to guiding.
Despite these challenges, Austin Bat Tours continues to thrive by offering a unique, immersive experience that combines adventure, education, and conservation. Through strategic marketing, excellent customer service, and a deep passion for Austin’s bats, Dan Herron ensures that each guest leaves with a newfound appreciation for this incredible natural phenomenon.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
From Photographer to Bat Enthusiast
Dan Herron initially did not plan on leading bat tours. As a professional photographer and longtime resident of Austin, he was simply motivated by the challenge of capturing the bats on camera.
“I started photographing them after work, just trying to get the perfect shot,” Herron recalls. “They’re fast and unpredictable, and photographing them well requires patience and skill. One year, I photographed them for 31 days straight just to push myself searching for that perfect sunset and try to understand their movements.”
That dedication paid off—not just in stunning images but in inspiration. Herron realized there was a unique opportunity to take people beyond the sidewalks and crowded bridge views to experience the bats in a more immersive way. And just like that, Austin Bat Tours was born—the city’s first dedicated bat tour company.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a mentor and building a strong network can be invaluable for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone looking to expand opportunities, having the right connections can make all the difference. However, many people struggle with where to start or how to make meaningful connections that go beyond surface-level interactions.
The first step in finding a mentor is understanding what you need. Are you looking for guidance in business strategy, marketing, leadership, or industry-specific expertise? Some mentors provide long-term career advice, while others help solve immediate challenges. Once you define your goals, the search for the right mentor becomes more focused. One of the best ways to find a mentor is by getting involved with industry organizations and business groups. In Austin, organizations such as the Austin Chamber of Commerce, Texas Travel Alliance, and professional groups like PRSA Austin, AMA Austin, and PMI Austin offer excellent networking opportunities and mentorship programs. Programs like SCORE Austin, a branch of the national nonprofit that provides free business mentoring, can also be a great resource for entrepreneurs seeking experienced guidance.
Online platforms like LinkedIn provide another valuable way to connect with potential mentors. Instead of sending generic connection requests, crafting a thoughtful message can make all the difference. A simple yet effective approach might be: “Hi [Name], I admire your work in [industry]. I’d love to connect and learn from your insights as I grow my business, Austin Bat Tours. If you’re open to it, I’d love to grab coffee or schedule a quick call.” Many professionals are willing to share their experiences and advice if approached with genuine curiosity and respect. Additionally, universities and entrepreneurship programs, such as those at UT Austin’s McCombs School of Business, often have mentorship opportunities, guest lectures, and networking events that can connect you with seasoned professionals.
Networking is just as important as mentorship when it comes to building a thriving career or business. Attending industry conferences, business mixers, and local tourism events can open doors to valuable relationships. In Austin, events like South by Southwest (SXSW), Austin Business Networking Meetups, and Creative Mornings Austin offer opportunities to meet like-minded professionals. The key to successful networking is being both intentional and memorable. Having a strong elevator pitch can help make a lasting impression. A great introduction might be: “Hi, I’m Dan Herron, founder of Austin Bat Tours. I combine my passion for photography, storytelling, and adventure to create immersive bat-watching experiences. I love connecting with fellow entrepreneurs—what do you do?” Keeping it concise and engaging makes it easier for people to remember you.
Pricing:
- $55 – Downtown Sunset Tandem Kayak with 1.5M Bats
- $55 – Giant Paddleboarding Downtown at Sunset w/ 1.5 Million. Bats!
- $70 – Giant Glow Paddleboarding the Downtown Skyline with Bats
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.austinbattours.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinbattours/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Austin-Bat-Tours-100071689155545/
- Twitter: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Faustinbattours
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJo6eUPEjXLjggKbqn3CAFw
Image Credits
All photos by Dan Herron, Austin Bat Tours.
