A great selection of top-end vintage synths and electronic instruments are in constant rotation at Switched On. Unlike some music stores, the vibe is always pretty chill and strolling in to mess around with whatever new keyboards or drum machines are on display at the time feels encouraged and non-judgemental. They also always have a nice array used of pedals and accessories to check out. On central, too-hip East Ceasar Chaves, it's also not too out of the way for the odd drop-in.

There are a few good guitar shops in Austin, but South Austin Music is a pleasantly unpretentious spot where you don't feel too weird picking up an instrument and the staff don't hover too much. The aging building and over-stuffed isles give the store a busy charm and it's easy to get lost playing their wide selection of guitars and basses. Prices aren't amazing, but there are good deals to be had.

My favorite thing about being in Austin is driving while listening to: Country, Swing, and Rockabilly Jamboree, Country Roots, The Lounge Show, Non-Breaking Space, The Cutting Edge, Jamaican Gold, Strictly Bluegrass, and Slappy Pinchbottom's Odd Preoccupation, and many more fine programs on offer from the all volunteer community local FM radio station.

Listed here as a bar, this is actually a brewery offering up a diverse selection of highly original sour-mash beers. I've yet to have something I didn't like in their tight and bustling tasting room, which is surrounded by great East Side eateries, but standouts are the Spirit Animal (sour pale) and the Professor Black (sour cherry stout). They also have a fun, short brewery tour on the weekends that's worth checking out.

This natural spring fed swimming pool stays a remarkable 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 C) even on days that reach 108F (42 C) degrees. It has saved my life.