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Strange Brew: A Weird and Wonderful Coffee Shop in Austin

June 11, 2015 by

Strange Brew is a cozy independent coffee shop that's equal parts relaxed and casual, which proves it to be the type of place where you can spend hours reading or chatting — without ever feeling rushed.

Here, baristas rely on beans from local roasters like Third Coast Coffee and Fair Trade Espresso, which they transform into rich and full-bodied espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos. (You can even get a 64-ounce growler of cold-brewed coffee to take home!) Pastries, paninis, cakes, bagels, and quiche are also on offer, and the majority of the food for sale is sourced from area bakeries. Vegan diners should request the hemp Italian slider, which arrives on a gluten-free onion bun.

There is free Wi-Fi available throughout the shop, as well as a number of cozy two-seater tables and leather armchairs in the art-filled sitting area. Like many popular Austin establishments, Strange Brew features live music just about every night of the week!

Strange Brew
5326 Manchaca Road
Austin, TX 78745
(512) 828-7636
www.strangebrewaustin.com
www.yelp.com/biz/strange-brew-austin-coffee-austin-3

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Rock-About Climbing Adventures: Learn The Ropes of Rock Climbing

May 14, 2015 by

If you want to spend the day outdoors and challenge yourself to an adventurous physical activity, a lesson from Rock-About Climbing Adventures makes the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. This tour company travels to local climbing sites to offer year-round rock climbing instruction to participants of all skill levels.

Whether you don’t know the first thing about climbing or you’ve been climbing once or twice, the program offers a variety of different classes to accommodate just about anyone. Rock-About’s skilled instructors really know the ropes (pun intended), and the unique, team-based setup promote teamwork and self-confidence just as much as rock climbing skills.

Visit Rock-About Climbing Adventures’ website for a full list of courses and climbing rates.

Rock-About Climbing Adventures
3505 S. Lamar Boulevard
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 415-0804
www.Rock-About.com
www.yelp.com/biz/rock-about-climbing-adventures-austin

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Zilker Park Boat Rentals: Explore Austin From Inside a Canoe

May 7, 2015 by

Since 1969, Zilker Park Boat Rentals has provided Austin residents with a way to explore the scenic Lady Bird Lake in a truly first-hand manner. This family-owned and -operated business offers more than 100 canoes and kayaks that are available for rent by families, friends, and even group organizations.

The prices are very affordable, and Zilker Park’s main objective is to protect and preserve the area’s natural environment. Visitors can rent canoes by the hour or for the entire day, and each canoe can accommodate up to three adults or two adults and two small children. Regulars love renting boats from Zilker Park Boat rentals because of its scenic launch area, and the business is especially popular among dog owners because the canoes are dog friendly.

Regulars of this spot insist that Zilker Park Boat Rentals is one of the best ways to get outdoors in Austin.

Zilker Park Boat Rentals
2101 Andrew Zilker Road
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 478-3852
www.zilkerboats.com
www.yelp.com/biz/zilker-park-boat-rentals-austin

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Two Saints Baking Company Is an Oasis of Espresso and Fresh Baked Goods

April 9, 2015 by

You dream of places like Two Saints Baking Company. In the morning, the coffee is rich, hot, and comes quick. Need a special pick-me-up? There’s a full espresso bar with blended drinks, as well as breakfast sandwiches. At lunch there are big salads, freshly prepared soups, and sandwiches with house-roasted meats. And all day there are cookies, cakes, pies, and other sweets to make you smile and ruin your diet.

Everything is made on-site, and locals are almost unanimous in their praise, calling service and execution first-rate. It’s a bit pricey — cookies can be as much as $1.75 each — but this speaks to Two Saints’ being a small family business, and regulars say it’s more than worth it.

Check the bakery's site for hours, menus, events, and catering information.

Two Saints Baking Company
13011 Shops Parkway #600
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-1166
www.twosaintsbakingcompany.com
www.yelp.com/biz/two-saints-baking-co-and-cafe-bee-cave

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Sanctuary: A World of Inspiring Gifts

March 12, 2015 by

If you’re looking for a unique gift for a relative, friend, or even for yourself, Sanctuary could be just the place to find it. Austin-area newspapers, magazine columnists, and style bloggers all heap praise on this Westlake boutique, which owner Hanna Curran opened in July 2008 to feature the best of locally-made jewelry, current fashion, sustainable home furnishings, and inviting garden and botanical accessories. You'll also find a growing selection of products for children and babies ranging from adorable bodysuits to traditional wooden toys.

While Westlake has a reputation for being ritzy, reviewers on Yelp praise Sanctuary for being tasteful without being snooty and affordable without skimping on quality or style. The inventory circulates often, so you can stop by regularly to see what’s new, or follow this shop on social media to get a sneak peek at what is currently in store.

Sanctuary
3363 Bee Cave Road
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 329-0507
www.shopatsanctuary.com
www.yelp.com/biz/sanctuary-austin

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“Hair of the 3-Legged Dog”: An Austin Day Party on March 19

March 11, 2015 by

With so many great events coming up next week in Austin, it can be hard to figure out what to attend. So, here's a suggestion: "Hair of the 3-Legged Dog." This event's presented by The Austin Chronicle (and sponsored by Greystar), and it's named after the Chronicle's mascot Hank.

It takes place on Thursday, March 19 from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. and brings food, drinks, and fun to The Liberty Bar on East Sixth Street in Austin. Four local artists will play music at the event: Sweet Spirit, Anya, Bop English, and Flesh Lights. There'll also be snacks from Tacodeli, Rhythm Superfoods, Baked By Amy's and more to fuel Austinites for another day of SXSW.

Want to learn more about "Hair of the 3-Legged Dog"? Click here to visit The Austin Chronicle's page about the event.

"Hair of the 3-Legged Dog"
Thursday, March 19 from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m.
The Liberty Bar
1618 1/2 East Sixth Street
Austin, TX
www.austinchronicle.com/dayparty

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End of an Ear: Buy, Sell or Trade at This Hip Record Store

February 12, 2015 by

In one of the country’s most musical cities, a great record store is imperative. End of an Ear is one such record store in the south Austin area, selling an eclectic mix of vinyl records, DVDs, and even some musical equipment in the back. The record selection includes new releases that are updated weekly, as well as old classics and even some underground gems that are hard to find at other stores.

The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, if a bit standoffish, as is to be expected from a busy record store. If you want to test out a record before purchasing it, there are a few turntables with attached headphones scattered throughout the store. Many customers also turn to End of an Ear to exchange old records or DVDs, and the shop offers generous store credit or cash for consignment items.

End of an Ear is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays.

End of an Ear
2209 S. First Street
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 462-6008
www.endofanear.com
www.yelp.com/biz/end-of-an-ear-austin

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Color Me Mine: Get Creative at This Social Ceramic Studio

February 5, 2015 by

If you’re looking for a fun, social way to let your kids exercise their creativity, Color Me Mine is a great choice. This public art studio enables kids and adults to choose a pre-made bisque pottery piece and then decorate it using the studio’s wide assortment of tools, paint colors, glazes, and kilns to fire the project once it’s complete. After three to five days, you’ll receive your painted and fired project to enjoy at home. One low studio fee covers all of your supplies, and then it’s just a matter of paying for whichever bisque item that you choose.

The studio is also a very popular place to hold kids’ birthday parties, bachelorette parties, and other types of celebratory gatherings. Color Me Mine even hosts wine nights where of-age visitors can enjoy a favorite bottle of wine while painting and relaxing with friends.

Color Me Mine is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays.

Color Me Mine
13500 Galleria Circle
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 535-0005
www.beecave.colormemine.com
www.yelp.com/biz/color-me-mine-bee-cave

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Amy’s Ice Creams: Frozen Delights in Austin

January 15, 2015 by

Since 1984 Amy’s Ice Creams has created premium ice cream, frozen yogurt, and dairy-free fruit ice. An Austin, Texas original, there are locations throughout Houston and San Antonio. Next time you’re shopping at the Hill Country Galleria, just minutes away from Lantana Hills, cool off with a scoop from Amy’s.

With 350 flavors of frozen treats, plus many toppings, your sweet treat will never get boring. They always offer seven standard flavors, including the famous Mexican vanilla and Belgian chocolate, but there are always plenty of rotating ones as well. The friendly staff has a great customer service sense and is happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. You can sit on the nice outdoor patio or in the comfortable indoor parlor that includes comfy arm chairs. There's also a photo booth to add even more fun to your ice cream outing.

Amy's Ice Cream
13420 Galleria Parkway
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 263-2903
www.amysicecreams.com
www.yelp.com/biz/amys-ice-creams-austin-14

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Mueller Lake Park: Walk, Bike or Run at This Beautiful Outdoor Area

January 8, 2015 by

Comprising trails, playing fields, and numerous open, grassy spaces, Mueller Lake Park is a respite from the hustle and bustle of Austin city life. This spacious park is well-planned and well-maintained, and it spans over 30 acres of lush, green grounds.

A five-mile hiking and biking trail is available for those who want to get in a bit of outdoor exercise, while a nearly seven-acre lake is situated near the center of the park. Visitors to the park also enjoy the stretching and exercise station near the trail, which includes pull-up bars and benches for sit-ups, and you’ll often find pick-up games of basketball or soccer on one of the outdoor courts. One of the most interesting features of the park is the open-air amphitheater and stage, which hosts many outdoor events on weekends.

Whether you have a picnic at one of the food trucks in the area or bring the kids for an afternoon outdoors, Mueller Lake Park is ideal for any recreational activity.

Mueller Lake Park
4550 Mueller Boulevard
Austin, TX 78723
www.muelleraustin.com
www.yelp.com/biz/mueller-lake-park-austin

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