Under $100: Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville, Va., is known as Thomas Jefferson´s town, and although prices have risen since the days of Monticello and the nation´s third president, the small mountain town on the outskirts of Shenandoah National Park is still an affordable place to visit for a quick daytrip or weekend away. As the home of the University of Virginia, Charlottesville caters to budget-focused students, which benefits visitors and locals alike.

Main Street © Randomised | Flickr

A quality day in Charlottesville starts with breakfast at The Nook on Main Street. Sample classic diner breakfast favorites like omelettes and pancakes, accompanied by cups upon cups of coffee.

Take the morning to stroll through the pedestrian-only downtown mall for endless window shopping and people watching. Hop on the free trolley for rides through downtown and around the UVA campus.

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Charlottesville, Virginia © Joel Gafford | Dreamstime

Visiting a winery while in the Virginia countryside is almost a must as the state´s wines are some of the best in the country. Make your way slightly south of the city to Jefferson Vineyards, Bienheim Vineyards or First Colony Winery to sample the region´s best among views of the peaceful mountains. Tastings starts at $10.

After the sun sets over the Appalachian Mountains, head to Commonwealth Restaurant and SkyBar for $15 cheese boards and entrees between $20 and $30.