Notable Destinations and Commerce: Bat viewing at dusk at the Congress Avenue Bridge; SXSW Festival; the Thinkery; Museum of the Weird; Craft beer and brewery tours; the Austin mural; BBQ fare; business and financial services; telecommunications industry

With an eclectic art, music and foodie scene, Austin is the other 'weird' spot of the U.S. with lots of annual events and year-round installations -- including one of the nation's largest festivals and home to some tasty craft beer.