Under $100: Alexandria, Va.

The small northern Virginia town of Alexandria rests right on the banks of the Potomac River, just a few miles south of Washington, D.C. With charming cobblestone streets and a picturesque waterfront, Alexandria is a pleasant daytrip (or half daytrip) from the nation’s capital with shops and restaurants for thrifty travelers.

Old Town © Hrvargas | Flickr

Window shopping along King Street takes you back to the days of the American Revolution as modern shops transformed preserved buildings from the 18th century. Quaint lunchtime restaurants in Old Town serve up all sorts of food like Italian cuisine at cozy Il Porto (entrees $5–15) or succulent seafood at Chadwick’s (entrees $10–20), the latter of which is a regional staple.

Torpedo Factory Art Center © Brownpau | Flickr

Hop aboard the King Street trolley to view the historic road from a different (and free!) perspective. Down by the water, the Torpedo Factory Art Center allows you to witness artisans as they works on their creations. The dock provides gorgeous views of D.C. and the Maryland riverfront. Cyclists, hikers and runners can get an ever better view by spending some time along the Mount Vernon trail, which runs from Mount Vernon up to the District border with river views along its entirety.

At night, stop by Murphy’s Irish Pub for a cheap pint, or stretch your wallet at PX, a speakeasy only identified by its green lantern outside the door. Cocktails hover around $10, but their combinations are truly unique.