Custom Post Types

So I’ve been messing with the custom post types. I was wondering if there would be a simple way to get them to act just like a post. Because I would like them to show up in my loop with their custom taxonomies in place of the tags, as well as have a page that displays all of that certain custom post type (sort of like a category page showing all posts from that category, but I haven’t found a simple way to add categories to custom post types). I ask because I like the fact that they have a separate section in the admin interface and are able to use custom taxonomies. I think I am making sense, I’m not sure. If you need clarification please ask. I am still combing my way through the documentation, but I figured I could ask and if someone knew the answer and could share I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!