New York City can place pretty high on the weirdness barometer, so that's why its easy to feel a certain simpatico with Austin, Texas.

The city's slogan – Keep Austin Weird – is an irreverent mantra you wouldn't expect in a city that could easily have morphed into just any other staunch state capital. Perhaps its temple of weirdness is the Cathedral of Junk, a backyard pile of discarded computer parts, lawn chairs and household bric-a-brac.

A city that is very protective of its local businesses, Austin's downtown has a quirky vibe, especially along South Congress Avenue, known as the "Hip Strip."

Creativity is also guarded feverishly, and one of the most coveted tickets in town is to the annual film festival. This year, Oliver Stone's movie "W." premiered just steps away from the rotunda where the country's 43rd president made his debut in politics as a popular two-term governor. Politics aside, a tour of the Texas capitol is a worthwhile side trip.

Austin also aims to keep up with its other slogan, "The live music capital of the world." Austin City Limits is the longest-running music show on television, and nowadays you can tour the studio and sometimes snag a ticket to a performance.

As for the food, a local favorite for dinner is Ranch 616 – where things can get pretty weird after downing their popular "Fire in the Hole" drink.

For more info, visit www.austintexas.org.

Now here's a D'Elia's deal you don't want to miss at the historic Driskill Hotel. Get a $36 credit per night when you book 36 nights in advance and stay for a minimum of two nights. Go to www.driskillhotel.com.

And for more travel news, visit www.travelwithval.com.