12 US Towns That Feel Like Stepping Into Europe
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Discovering Europe’s charm does not always require flying across the Atlantic Ocean. These US towns let you experience the glamor of Europe, from the architecture to the culture, cuisine, and even the environment, without crossing international borders. Whether due to time constraints, money, or just not looking to fly long distances, these towns will let you experience Europe’s timeless elegance and charm.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
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Europe is known for its distinct yet diverse architecture that co-exist together. If you are keen on the Bavarian architecture that can be spotted in the charming German villages, visiting Frankenmuth in Michigan would be a dream come true for you. Frankenmuth transports you to the lovely Bavaria State of Germany without having to fly out of the US, from half-timbered buildings to streets adorned with flower boxes.
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Leavenworth, Washington
If you want to sample more of the Bavarian charm in the United States, Leavenworth is another excellent destination. Take time marveling at the timber-framed buildings, ornate balconies, and Alpine-style facades that mimic the look of a traditional Bavarian mountain village. You will also like the cobblestone streets, colorful flower displays, and charming storefronts that add to the allure of Leavenworth.
The town also hosts an annual celebration, the Oktoberfest, which has a lot of beers and bratwurst; there is no better way to experience Germany’s charm in the U.S. than this.
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New Glarus, Wisconsin
Named after the Glarus canton of Switzerland, New Glarus lets you travel to the charming Swiss countryside without spending hours and hours on flights. New Glarus boasts traditional Swiss chalet-style designs, complete with steeply pitched roofs. The decorative woodwork and flower-box on balconies are typical of the Alpine villages that line the Swiss countryside.
New Glarus does not stop at the architecture; the town’s quaint streets are lined with bakeries and restaurants that serve authentic Swiss cuisine. Additionally, the city hosts an annual Swiss festival, which reminisces and showcases important aspects of Swiss culture, such as yarn spinning, blacksmithing, basket weaving, and cheese making.
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Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Visiting Lake Geneva in Wisconsin evokes the feeling of vacationing in European resort towns. This town is characterized by a stunning waterfront, scenic beauty, and architectural grandeur, just like many European resort towns. Visiting Lake Geneva in Wisconsin will let you experience the sophistication and luxury of European lake towns such as Annecy and Bellagio without flying to a different continent.
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Holland, Michigan
This town is called Holland for a reason; it mirrors the charm and essence of the Netherlands, making it a perfect destination for anyone with the Netherlands on their bucket list. Dutch settlers founded his town in the 1800s, and many decades later, their impact can still be seen and felt at a greater magnitude. One of the most striking features of Holland is the Dutch architecture, characterized by windmills, colorful wooden buildings, and detailed brickwork similar to those of Dutch villages.
There are many more things that are Netherlands-inspired, such as the Tulip-lined streets and gardens, as well as authentic Dutch-inspired attractions, such as Windmill Island Gardens and Nelis’ Dutch Village. The town also hosts the Annual Tulip Time Festival. It is the perfect way to explore the rich culture and heritage of the Netherlands while remaining in the Midwest.
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Tarpon Springs, Florida
Greece is one of those countries every adventurer should visit at least once. However, before you fly to the real Greece, you can experience its allure in Tarpon Springs.
One of the most notable features of Tarpon Springs is its Mediterranean-style architecture, with whitewashed buildings, blue accents, and charming courtyards similar to Greek villages. You can also enjoy Greek delicacies in Tarpon Springs’ restaurants and taverns, explore the town’s rich maritime history, attend Greek festivals, or relax on the town’s pristine beaches like you would in Greek islands.
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Lindsborg, Kansas
Lindsborg, Kansas, affectionately known as “Little Sweden, U.S.A.,” allows tourists to immerse themselves in the Swedish culture and heritage. Swedish settlers arrived in Lindsborg in 1869, and much of their heritage can still be seen and felt.
Marvel at Lindsborg’s Scandinavian architecture, which includes colorful wooden facades typical of Scandinavian fishing villages.
Tourists can also explore galleries showcasing Scandinavian art and sample Swedish cuisine for a deeper immersion. Consider attending festivals like Svensk Hyllningsfest and Lucia Festival to celebrate the rich Swedish culture and heritage.
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Healdsburg, California
Healdsburg has a charming ambiance typical of European countryside towns, especially those actively engaging in wine production. If you want to visit the lovely wine-producing villages and cities in Europe, start your immersion at Healdsburg.
For starters, Healdsburg is dotted with historic Victorian, Craftsman, and Mediterranean architectural styles, and its downtown area is full of antique shops, boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Take time touring the city, then the vineyards, and finally indulge in wine tasting at the Italian wineries, just a few minutes’ drive from the city center.
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Natchitoches, Louisiana
Natchitoches is one of the best places to experience European, especially French, allure without leaving the United States. This town was founded by a French explorer, Louis Juchereau de St. Denis, in 1714, and his presence and heritage are still obviously evident.
Natchitoches still has distinct features of European colonial towns, from cobblestone streets to wrought-iron balconies and the picturesque antebellum architecture.
Besides the architecture, you will love how vibrant this town becomes during the festivities. If you have dreamt of visiting European Christmas markets(we all do), then plan to attend Natchitoches Christmas festivals, which transform the city into a magical wonderland.
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St. Augustine, Florida
If you want to experience Spain in its full glory without actually going to Spain, then your ideal destination would be St. Augustine in Florida.
St.Augustine was founded by a Spanish admiral, Pedro Menendez, who arrived at the shoreline in 1565. Several structures that were constructed then still stand to date; these would be candy to the eyes of a history enthusiast. Some of these include Mission Nombre de Dios (a catholic church mission) and the Castillo de San Marcos.
Explore the historic district’s narrow alleys, admire the buildings’ intricate details, and immerse yourself in the town’s European-inspired atmosphere.
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Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is renowned for its European-inspired charm and picturesque beauty, making it a captivating destination along the Pacific coast. The town’s buildings are strikingly similar to the charming European villages.
Enjoy exploring the town’s stone pathways and storybook-like cottages and courtyards. Above all, relax or get busy on this town’s pristine beaches, reminiscent of many European seaside resort towns.
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Solvang, California
Solvang is the best destination in the Santa Ynez Valley of California to stir your imagination about stunning Danish landscapes and heritage. Danish settlers founded Solvang at the beginning of the 1900s.
The town’s picturesque streets are lined with half-timbered buildings, windmills, and flowers, just like you would find in traditional Danish villages. If you’re into festivals, plan to attend the Danish Days and Julefest, which celebrate the Danish lifestyle and heritage in the town.
Your trip to Solvang is not over without spotting the replicas of Cophenhagen’s Round Tower and Little Mermaid Statue. You also want Danish treats from the charming bakeries on the town’s streets.
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