Gulf State Park has free entry to 6,150 acres of beaches, campgrounds, a lake, a nature center, cabins and cottages, and backcountry hiking and biking trails.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Enjoy the Gulf Shores' highly rated main public beach with amenities, Gulf Place, or visit the free Coastal Arts Center on Wolf Bay, a 10,000-square-foot gallery for local artists.

Gatlinburg is a fun town to stroll, boasting the Gatlinburg Space Needle and Aerial Tramway and access to national park trails right from downtown.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Take a scenic drive along the historic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail or Cades Cove, with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and plenty of wildlife.

With iconic oak trees draped with Spanish moss, the photogenic Jekyll Island has plenty of cute cottages and apartments for rent for less than $100 a night.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

There are 24 miles of bike trails to take you past dunes, pet-friendly beaches, and historic sites. The 112-foot tall and 128-foot across Plantation Oak is a can't-miss sight.

After Mardi Gras prices lower, New Orleans is a small, affordable city. Wander the historic French Quarter with colorful buildings and decorative balconies.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Visit St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square, a pedestrian-only plaza with artists and musicians. Enjoy po'boys, jambalaya, and muffulettas in eateries throughout the city.

Falls Park has 20 acres of gardens, trails, picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and waterfalls along the Reedy River just off the main street in Greenville.

Greenville, South Carolina

Stroll downtown, take the free trolley, bike the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which links Unity Park and Cleveland Park, and see the Liberty Bridge with its single-suspension cable.

West Greenville has an artsy vibe and unique design aesthetic, and be sure to visit Gather Greenville, an inventive food court concept with numerous vendors, bars, and live music.