Under $100: Raleigh, N.C.

The capital of North Carolina is a smaller Southern city pleasantly inexpensive to visit. History meets Southern hospitality in this centrally located metropolis where free attractions are around every corner. A rousing nightlife, endless shopping and outdoor adventures are enjoyable accents to a truly Southern vacation.

Start your day with a stroll along the cobblestone streets near City Market and enjoy a latte and croissant as you meander through the stalls of local produce, flowers and handmade tchotchkes. Retail shoppers should flock to Crabtree Valley Mall with nearly 200 stores and an international food court.

After window shopping and museum hopping, grab a healthy yet affordable lunch at the Neomonde Café and Restaurant where Mediterranean platters start at $8.99.

If the weather agrees in the afternoon, head outside to one of Raleigh´s numerous hiking trails and enjoy vistas of the Raleigh skyline. Raleigh’s Umstead State Park and Neuse River Trail feature miles of paved biking trails among the acres of greenery with photo-worthy bridges, lakes and wildlife.

As the sun sets, make your way to Poppyseed Market where you can dine in or take away some fresh and hearty dishes like butternut squash lasagna, barbecue meatloaf and barbecue grilled shrimp skewers with a bacon risotto cake.