Spring break is seen as a rite of passage by many college students (and by young people who are of college age but not pursuing higher education). Unfortunately, college is generally a lean time financially …

Austin, Texas has adopted the self-given moniker of “Live Music Capital of the World.” With more than 1,900 bands and performing artists living in and around the city, on any given night there are approximately 75 live music acts available to catch, from one guy with his guitar playing a coffeehouse, to a world-renowned band on tour at one of the major arenas.

Austin draws visitors and residents with many popular attractions, from the SXSW and ACL festivals to hill country spots such as Barton Springs and The Oasis. But did you know that Austin offers many fun things to do that are completely free–especially good to know during an economic funk. Here are our picks for the top free things to do in Austin.

It comes as no surprise that Austin is continually rated one of the best places to visit and live. It is a cosmopolitan city with many urban offerings, yet hasn’t lost its small-town feel or off-beat vibe. Known for its thriving live music scene and “Keep Austin Weird” motto, the city embraces a lively arts community and is surrounded by the gorgeous hills, rivers and lakes of central Texas.

Located in the hip district off South Congress, Austin’s Hotel Saint Cecilia is named after the patron saint of music and poetry. Situated in a secluded 1880 estate, the Saint Cecilia exudes a minimalist, artsy vibe that is miles away from the bed and breakfasts that usually occupy such mansions. Drawing its inspiration from the history and experimentation of writers, musicians and artists from the 1950s to 1970s–from William S. Burroughs to the Rolling Stones–a retro yet glamorous rock ‘n’ roll vibe infuses the secluded, wooded property, inspiring the poet or artist in each guest.

This is by no means a definitive list; we are constantly on the hunt for the newest, coolest hotel lounges. But these 10 definitely make our list of hip, interesting spots to sip a libation and soak up a great atmosphere.

If the idea of grilling out on the patio or joining the neighbors for a Memorial Day picnic doesn’t excite you, it’s time to consider high-tailing it out of town this holiday. Many resort towns and coastal destinations will be celebrating the weekend in grand style with fireworks displays, community festivals and special events at area attractions. We’ve rounded up some of the nation’s hottest Memorial Day destinations for you to visit, complete with a few activity suggestions.

In the final installment of our three-part guide to South by Southwest, Austin-based writer Christine R. Cox shares her favorite local hot spots—the places you can visit in between shows, or as an alternative to festival madness.

This year’s South by Southwest promises to be as robust and buzz-generating as always, owing to an exciting lineup and social media boom which will allow attendees to be more connected to exciting happenings than ever before.

In Part Two of our three-part guide to South by Southwest, Austin-based writer Christine R. Cox shares how to navigate the city, what acts you should watch out for and how to get into those industry parties.

South by Southwest in sunny Austin, Texas is an annual, 10-day-long party and networking extravaganza in its 23rd proud year. SXSW bills itself “the destination for discovery,” as it gives attention to new creative content from all over the globe and offers incredible entertainment.

From March 12-20, many of the nation’s most music, film and technology zealots will descend on Austin, Texas for South by Southwest. In the first installment of our three-part guide to the festival/conference, Austin-based writer …