It's still one of the most British cities in North America, but there's more to Victoria than tearooms, antique shops and galleries (though there are plenty of those). Driven by the younger generation, the city has sprouted a collection of cool shops, authentic coffee bars and unique restaurants. It also has more cycling routes than any other Canadian city, providing a great way to explore the picturesque location (and avoid an afternoon of antique shopping).

Over a hundred years of viticulture has come to fruition in Washington's oldest wine region, the Yakima Valley. Home to over 11,000 acres of vineyards and the largest concentration of wineries in the state, the region produces a wide variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. The valley's numerous picturesque orchards also bear all sorts of fruit. Providing grapes for nearly half of Washington's wine, Yakima is the backbone of the state's wine culture.

The legacy of Buddy Holly lives on in his birthplace of Lubbock, where a museum, a walk of fame and an annual music festival honor musicians hailing from the area. Its museums shed light on the agricultural and military history of the region. Lubbock's many parks, golf courses and wineries provide a relaxing break from it all. Add to all of this a hopping nightlife and Lubbock truly is the "Hub City" of activity in the South Plains area.

Located on the border between Mexico and the U.S., on U.S. I-35 and Mexican Federal Highway 85, Laredo is America's largest inland port and one of the oldest border crossing points. Once capital of the briefly held independent Republic of the Rio Grande, the city has survived a long history of conflict and friendship between the U.S. and Mexico. Its legacy is a rich community boasting unique shopping, lively entertainment and festivals, including the month-long Washington's Birthday Celebration.

Many tourists know Windsor for its casino. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find fascinating history here. Once an important stop on the Underground Railroad, Windsor became an important center of whisky production and, thus, a major smuggling port during Prohibition. (Apparently Al Capone liked his Canadian Club.) In summer, catch the enormous fireworks display at the International Freedom Festival.

If you're looking for a getaway that's fun for the whole family and easy on your pocket, look no further than Raleigh. With more than 20 free attractions, this stately and energetic capital city offers an affordable way to enjoy history, culture and the outdoors. Spend the day hopping between the three state museums of art, history and natural sciences: all offer free admission. Visitors are free to wander around the grounds of the State Capitol, where they can also observe the legislative process. Stroll past the graves of Civil War generals at a historic cemetery or meander along cobblestone streets of City Market. Shop for the greenest broccoli, reddest apples and tastiest homemade treats around at the State Farmers' Market. With over 150 parks, lakes and green ways in Raleigh alone, there is ample opportunity to enjoy golf, cycling, swimming, boating and other outdoor adventures.