Austin has no shortage of dive bars ("chicken s*!t bingo" at Ginny's Little Longhorn Saloon, anyone?), cocktail spots, and beer-nerd-friendly places. But for live music, a little dancing, plus Lone Star and whiskey in cheap and easy abundance, you'll find me at White Horse, a honky-tonk in East Austin, the city's hippest neighborhood.

Lady Bird Lake (Credit: Jody Horton)

You know what pairs really well with all those tacos, plates of brisket, bowls of ramen, and pints of beer? A little sweat. If I didn't exercise, I could never tackle the eating marathons my job requires. Fortunately, Austin has almost as many bike paths, running trails, and swimming holes as it does food trucks. Here's what to do between meals: Start the day with a run (or walk) along the banks of Lady Bird Lake. In the afternoon, take a dip in the

Barton Springs natural pool in Zilker Park--it's an Austin rite of passage. For a half-day trip, head 30 miles outside the city to Hamilton Pool Preserve, a spring-fed pool complete with a waterfall. But hurry back--you've got a lot of eating to do.

Hotel San Jose (Credit: Courtesy Hotel San Jose)

For their indie vibe, I like sister hotels Saint Cecilia and San Jose. Book the Driskill Hotel for a more stately stay.

People are buzzing about Austin. Maybe you've heard them? The cool kids insisting that you've just got to check out South By Southwest, the ten-day music, film, and digital festival taking place this month. The outdoorsy kids stoked on its swimming holes, extensive running and biking trails, and warm temps year-round. And of course, the food kids. But they're not just talking up its brisket and iconic tacos. These days, cult-status ramen, a stylish oyster bar, world-class sushi, and modern Thai have many outside of the Lone Star State anointing Austin America's next great food city. We're guessing the kids wouldn't disagree.