This is a ring on the corner of 6th and Lamar. Or, as I like to call it, hippie mecca. There are several businesses at this corner that for me embody Austin’s independent, earth-lovin’ punk rocker vibe. Pictured is Waterloo Records across the street, an independent record store. There’s also Amy’s Ice Creams, a local ice cream franchise with a photobooth in many of their locations. Then across the street there’s the original Whole Foods, y’know, started back before they became corporate. And last but not least, there’s a three story independent book store, Book People that hosts author readings and signings on a regular basis. Simply the greatest.

—Carol