My usual recommendation in this situation is to increase your budget to $300, and see what your local bike shop (LBS) has. It's worth dealing with good LBS as a beginner -- they'll make sure the bike fits you, the bike is mechanically sound, and when (not if!) something goes wrong, they'll set it right for you. At the $300 level you should be able to find a hybrid or a rigid mountain bike. I think the bikes labeled "urban" are a bit pricier. Any of these should get you on the road and let you get some experience.

Talk and listen to the LBS people, and test ride a few bikes to see what you want to ride.