Asphalt. Beautiful asphalt. This area is jam-packed with it. You can roll from Rice University up to the Southwest Freeway and from Kirby Drive east to Mandell with nary a glimpse of concrete, gravel or potholes. We suggest you start somewhere on North or South Boulevard, where the rich folk live (how come they always get the good asphalt?). Take in the amazing century-old live oaks and multimillion-dollar homes. And when you've had all the high livin' you can handle, skate down to the Rice Village, where you can regain those lost calories with a cold pint at The Ginger Man or the Village Icehouse. Blading and beer: a classic combination.