Under $100: Charlotte, N.C.

Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, is constantly evolving. The Queen City is home to a budding arts and culture scene, great restaurants and diverse outdoor activities.

Go for an early-morning hike at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Set on the Catawba River, the Center boasts 25 miles of hiking trails, labeled according to difficulty. Access is free to those paying the $5 parking fee. Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy breakfast at Art’s BBQ and Deli. A hearty breakfast sandwich or biscuit costs less than $5.

Experience a dose of the past at The Charlotte Museum of History. Housed in the oldest building in the county, adult admission costs $10. Open since 1926, grab a bite at Green’s Lunch. This Charlotte mainstay is famous for its hotdogs. Enjoy one and an order of chili cheese fries for less than $6 total.

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Voted #1 Brewery Tour by USA Today, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery offers free tours on Saturdays and Sundays. OMB features an indoor Brauhaus and outdoor Biergarten. Experience the city’s public art on a self-guided walking tour.

Take dinner to go from Price’s Chicken Coop. Often considered among the best fried chicken in Charlotte, Price’s is takeout and cash only. Order the half-chicken dinner complete with coleslaw, hushpuppies, potatoes and a roll for about $10.

End your day with a nightcap at The Cellar at Duckworth’s. The speakeasy-style bar focuses on classic cocktails of the past. Spend about $10–20.