An oasis in the middle of Texas, the capital city of Austin stands apart from the rest of its Lone Star compadres. For music lovers it's the "Live Music Capitol of the World," while cinephiles have dubbed it "The Third Coast." However, much like the Colorado River that snakes through the downtown landscape, this is a city content on meandering leisurely through a reputation of down-home, urban cool.

The bungalow-style HOTEL SAN JOSÉ (1316 S. Congress Avenue, 512-444-7322) is the destination for the ultimate in relaxed modern chic. Its zen-like interior courtyard is the perfect place to sip a glass of wine as the sun goes down. Take a stroll across the street to the famed CONTINENTAL CLUB (1315 S. Congress Avenue, 512-441-2444), where you can catch the best in rockabilly, country, blues, and swing to properly acclimate yourself to Austin's live music climate.

Shopping in South Austin is a must. Make your first stop UNCOMMON OBJECTS (1512 S. Congress Avenue, 512-442-4000) to browse its treasure trove of antiques for the stylish, progressive home. Saunter down the street to FACTORY PEOPLE (1325 S. Congress Avenue, 512-440-8002), a "lifestyle emporium" offering the best in hard-to-find designer clothing labels, music, and accessories, all to the beat of a live DJ. Peruse the modern western shirts, cowboy boots, and Victorian jewels at BLACKMAIL (1202 S. Congress Avenue, 512-326-7670), a boutique where every item in the store is black. When it's time to refuel, choose the spicy tacos and fresh margaritas at GÜERO'S TACO BAR (1412 S. Congress Avenue, 512-447-7688)--you never know just who you'll spot in the corner booth.

Transplanted New Yorkers and cosmopolitan locals tend to outfit themselves at the swanky boutique BY GEORGE (524 N. Lamar Boulevard, 512-472-5951), which touts luxury labels and sophisticated décor that make you second guess that you're in Texas. Pick up a souvenir across the street at one of America's best independent record stores, WATERLOO RECORDS (600A N. Lamar Avenue, 512-474-2500). Perhaps you'll get lucky and wander in during an in-store performance by Willie Nelson or Sonic Youth.

A perfect place to sate your appetite is at the sunny and serene CAFÉ JOSIE (1200-B W. Sixth Street, 512-322-9226), where favorites such as the pepita redfish with mango habanero butter keep the locals coming back.

A night out in Austin typically proves to be unlike anywhere else. Swing by the ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE (409 Colorado Street, 512-476-1320) for a laid-back dinner and a movie, and then head for a martini at CLUB DEVILLE's (900 Red River Street, 512-457-0900) retro-cool patio. Hankering for Texas barbecue with a side of gospel? STUBB'S (801 Red River Street, 512-480-8341) is the place where BBQ and legendary live acts collide. If your dyin' to learn the Texas two-step, don't miss the honky-tonk at THE BROKEN SPOKE (3201 S. Lamar Boulevard, 512-442-6189), one of the last true country dance halls.

Pained to leave? On your way out, linger over the organic and locally grown treats at PROGRESS COFFEE (500 San Marcos Street, 512-493-0963). Reflect on why the stars at night are big and bright deep in the heart of Texas while pontificating on how Austin has taken another little piece of your heart.