Deep in the Heart of Austin

Diana Balakirov: Be the early bird who experiences a Rosen's rosemary sea salt bagel topped with a delectable schmear (or transformed into a sandwich) and paired with a silky Tiny House Coffee Roasters latte.

Diana Balakirov: Take a delicious slice out of life with a tasty dessert, a Mozart's mocha special and the scenic beauty of Lake Austin on the cafe's patio deck. Taking your car? Park across the street to snag a spot!

Diana Balakirov: Venture outside of downtown (but not too far) to find this quaint spot with an all-day breakfast menu. And come back for the weekend brunch to savor the corned beef hash and catch a live band at play.

Diana Balakirov: Brush up on Austin's past inside a historic building, home of fresh flowers and a legendary deli with scrumptious items for any hour of the day. Gourmet sandwiches and gift-ready staples also await!

Diana Balakirov: Nurture your need for nostalgia with the feel-good atmosphere of this classic creation. Snack away on fresh popcorn and a hummus plate, grab a seasonal whoopie pie to-go or check out the specials.

Diana Balakirov: A little biscuit can go a long way by itself or as a perfect pairing to Colleen's Cobb during a cozy Sunday brunch in the heart of Mueller. Sweet tooth also calling? Try the mason jar banana pudding!

Diana Balakirov: Stop by for a very happy hour featuring a wide variety of flavor-infused vodkas, blini and pirozhki -- all staples of traditional Russian cuisine -- and stay behind for a dinner feast fit for a czar.

Diana Balakirov: Kick your sugar craving to the curb with Austin's take on a Portland favorite, serving an array of concoctions to satisfy the sweetest tooth. Arrive at an off-time to beat the rush and bring the cash!

Diana Balakirov: Wondering how to bear the heat? Visit the Bear! Try a seasonal ice cream flavor pressed between two freshly baked sea salt peanut butter cookies and add a topping for even more gooey goodness!

Diana Balakirov: Invoke your sense of inner artist with a visit to Austin's own sculpture garden. Enjoy free admission during the summer and don't miss the recurring UMLAUF After Dark event for a night of nature.

Diana Balakirov: Put on your walking shoes or relax and unwind at this habitat-meets-hideaway spot. Whether you choose to explore a few trails or take in the resident peacocks, a memorable Austin afternoon is ensured.

Diana Balakirov: Explore three stories of temporary and permanent exhibits, catch an IMAX showing and don't miss the seasonal Cool Summer Nights event (among others) inside a museum as big as the state itself.

Diana Balakirov: You can't go wrong with this showcase of women empowering other women. Catch any of the current installations -- always a must-see -- or check out the calendar of events for special programming.

Diana Balakirov: Eclectic shopping, tasty cocktails and two adorable pugs? Yes, please! Pop into this fun art gallery to appreciate the simple-meet-fine things in life and catch the latest work, yours to enjoy or buy!

Diana Balakirov: Snag an Austin original for yourself or a friend while supporting the artist who envisioned it. With unique vendors housed under one roof, this is holiday shopping done right -- and worth the ride.