I've always believed in a life of balance, with days of toil offset by evenings of fun. By this standard, Austin is a traveler's paradise, because active travelers will find plenty of sweaty adventures during the day, while social night owls can party to their heart's content at some of the country's best bars and music venues. If you happen to be both of these at the same time, start out with an energetic hike or mountain bike ride along the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail. This scenic 10.4-mile trail runs along the Colorado River and boasts terrific views of downtown Austin as well as plenty of shady trees to rest under, not that you'd need any rest. After a workout like that, you know you've earned yourself an evening of fun, so get yourself cleaned up and drop by the Continental Club for some live music and refreshing drinks. This classic venue, which dates back to 1957, is one of the reasons Austin is considered the live music capital of the world, having had artists from Tommy Dorsey to Stevie Ray Vaughan grace the stage over the years. Best of all, the luxurious Sheraton Austin Hotel is located less than a mile from the club, so you're not far from a comfortable bed when the music's over.

[image via the Continental Club]