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Have you ever ever wished to expertise the magic of Europe with out leaving america? You’re in luck! I’ve curated a listing of 13 picturesque American cities that exude European appeal.
Have you ever ever stumbled upon a small city within the U.S. that felt uncannily like Europe? I’ve had the pleasure of discovering a number of spots throughout the nation the place each nook and cobblestone whispers of a European previous. It’s like entering into one other world, however proper in our yard!
Right now, I’m thrilled to share my high 13 picks for American cities the place you’ll be able to take in Europe’s appeal with out crossing the ocean. These locations are excellent for a weekend journey or only a daydream session out of your sofa.
From the rolling hills mimicking the Scottish Highlands to bustling market squares that might double for Italy, be a part of me as we discover these enchanting locales. Able to see what treasures lie hidden in plain sight? Let’s dive in!
Overview of cities within the US that really feel like Europe
Exploring cities within the US that really feel like they’re straight out of Europe presents an thrilling alternative to expertise distinctive cultures with out the necessity for a passport. Right here’s a fast overview to get you prepared for our digital tour throughout America:
- Most German City within the US: Frankenmuth, MI
- Most Dutch ambiance: Holland, MI
- Most Scandinavian affect: Lindsborg, KS
- Most Swiss ambiance: New Glarus, WI
Prepared to start our journey? Let’s kick issues off with Solvang, California, slightly Danish paradise that’s like stepping right into a European fairy story.
1. Solvang, California
Have you ever ever wished to expertise Denmark however didn’t need to take care of the effort of worldwide journey? Effectively, you’ll find a slice of Danish life in Solvang, California.
Situated within the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is like strolling into a unique world. The city is dotted with windmills and buildings that seem like they’ve been lifted straight from a Danish village.
As you wander via Solvang, you’ll discover the aroma of contemporary pastries filling the air. Positively strive the Danish butter cookies from Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery. The native retailers are brimming with all issues Scandinavian too, from hand-painted ceramics to these iconic wool sweaters.
What I really like most about Solvang is its dedication to preserving and celebrating Danish tradition. That is evident in its structure, festivals, and even the museums. In case you’re up for a little bit of historical past, visiting the Elverhøj Museum of Historical past & Artwork is among the greatest issues to do on the town to dive deep into the Danish-American expertise.
In case you’re craving a European escape however your passport is out of attain, Solvang would possibly simply be your subsequent greatest vacation spot. Prepare for a style of Denmark in California!
2. Holland, Michigan
Subsequent up, let’s jet over to Holland, Michigan. This city is a vibrant nod to Dutch tradition proper on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Throughout spring, it’s all in regards to the tulips. The Tulip Time Pageant is a must-see, with tens of millions of tulips blooming in each shade conceivable. It’s like stepping right into a reside portray!
Apart from the blooms, Holland’s appeal cranks up with its Dutch structure. There’s an precise working windmill, the DeZwaan, which isn’t only a picturesque spot but additionally a functioning grain mill. And sure, you should purchase flour milled proper there—excellent for baking adventures again residence.
Don’t skip the downtown space both. It’s lined with distinctive retailers and comfy cafes the place you’ll be able to seize a espresso and soak within the native vibe. And should you’re up for it, take a stroll down the Dutch-inspired streets and swing by the picket shoe manufacturing unit to see how these iconic footwear are made.
In case you’re on the lookout for US cities that really feel like Europe, I extremely suggest visiting Holland, MI. It’s a livable city providing a fast break with a contact of worldwide aptitude.
3. Leavenworth, Washington
In case you’ve ever wished to expertise a Bavarian village with out flying to Germany, Leavenworth is your go-to spot.
Situated within the mountains of Washington State, this city turns the appeal as much as eleven with its Alpine-style buildings and beautiful mountain backdrop.
Throughout winter, the city lights up with Christmas lights and vacation markets that rival these in Europe. Plus, should you’re into out of doors actions, Leavenworth presents a number of the greatest issues to do year-round. This covers the whole lot from mountaineering and river tubing in the summertime to snowboarding and snowshoeing within the winter.
Make sure that to take a look at the native festivals too. Oktoberfest here’s a blast with genuine German beer, music, and dancing. It’s an effective way to take in some German tradition proper right here within the U.S.
4. Helen, Georgia
Have you ever heard about Helen, Georgia? It’s like slightly slice of Germany tucked away within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Significantly, the whole city is designed to seem like a Bavarian village, and it completely nails the vibe.
Whenever you go to Helen, the very first thing you’ll discover is the structure. Each constructing, from the retailers to the eating places, has that basic German fashion. It makes even a easy stroll round city really feel like a mini European getaway.
In case you’re up for some enjoyable, Helen has all of it. From tubing down the Chattahoochee River in the summertime to having fun with the festive lights and decorations throughout their annual Christmas market, there’s no scarcity of points of interest. Plus, their Oktoberfest is a large draw. Think about having fun with genuine German brews and meals proper right here in Georgia!
For my part, Helen is among the prettiest cities in America. It’s the right place to get pleasure from a style of Germany with out the lengthy flight!
5. New Glarus, Wisconsin
In case you’re on the lookout for a style of Switzerland with out leaving the U.S., head to New Glarus, Wisconsin. This city proudly holds onto its Swiss heritage, providing an genuine European expertise proper in the midst of America. It’s a type of locations within the US that appears like Europe.
The streets of New Glarus are dotted with Swiss flags and conventional Swiss structure that can make you’re feeling such as you’ve stepped right into a village within the Alps. It’s quaint, charming, and extremely picturesque, excellent for individuals who love snapping distinctive images.
In case you’re into beer, you’ll be able to’t miss the New Glarus Brewing Firm. Their regionally brewed, Swiss-inspired beers are successful, and the brewery tour is each enjoyable and informative. And for a little bit of native taste, the city’s bakeries and cheese retailers supply some delectable Swiss treats that you just gained’t need to miss.
6. Vail, Colorado
Ever dreamed of snowboarding within the Alps? Vail, Colorado, is perhaps your subsequent most suitable choice proper right here within the U.S. This place is modeled after European ski cities and actually captures that Alpine vibe.
Vail isn’t just about winter sports activities, although the snowboarding is top-notch with expansive slopes and state-of-the-art lifts. Exploring the village at evening is one other one of many greatest issues to do on the town, with its charming pedestrian streets lined with boutiques and eating places. It’s straightforward to lose your self within the ambiance, particularly when the village lights up at evening.
When the snow melts, Vail doesn’t lose its appeal. Summer season right here is lush and inexperienced, preferrred for mountaineering, biking, or simply having fun with a live performance outdoor in opposition to the beautiful mountain backdrop.
So, should you’re pondering of a getaway the place you’ll be able to ski, store, and soak in mountain views, I like to recommend visiting Vail, CO. It’s one of many prettiest cities within the US, fingers down.
7. Lindsborg, Kansas
For a slice of Sweden within the US, you’ve gotta try Lindsborg, KS. Affectionately often known as “Little Sweden”, this charming city holds tight to its Swedish roots and provides you a style of Scandinavia proper within the coronary heart of America.
Strolling via Lindsborg, you’ll really feel that Swedish affect all over the place. From the crimson and white Dala horses scattered round city to the standard Swedish festivals celebrated all year long, it’s a cultural deal with.
I’d suggest visiting Lindsborg in June for the annual The Midsummer Pageant. It’s a unbelievable expertise, bringing everybody collectively for some genuine Swedish folks dancing, music, and crafts.
And should you’re into artwork, you’ll benefit from the native galleries that includes works impressed by Swedish design and heritage. Lindsborg additionally has some cozy cafes and bakeries that serve up Swedish treats that you just gained’t need to miss.
8. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth, MI, would possibly simply be the closest factor to a Bavarian village this facet of the Atlantic. Dubbed “Little Bavaria,” the city captures an genuine European appeal with its timber-framed homes and quaint avenue scenes.
Whenever you stroll via Frankenmuth, it appears like a step again in time. The primary avenue is lined with distinctive retailers and eateries, excellent for a day of exploration. Don’t miss out on visiting Bronner’s, the most important Christmas retailer on the planet, the place it’s Christmas every single day of the yr. Think about the twinkling lights and the odor of contemporary pine — it’s a vacation lover’s paradise!
The city can also be identified for its hearty, family-style hen dinners that you just actually ought to strive. I all the time inform buddies to strive the hen at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. Plus, a riverboat cruise down the Cass River presents a calming approach to benefit from the scenic views.
Frankenmuth actually ranks amongst these charming cities within the US that seem like Europe. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway, the place you’ll be able to take in a festive, Bavarian ambiance with out crossing an ocean.
9. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a type of locations that appears like a storybook city. It’s identified for its beautiful coastal views and a European-style village that’s merely enchanting.
This city is a magnet for artists and writers, and you may really feel that inventive spirit as you wander via the winding streets. The structure right here is whimsical, with fairy-tale cottages and charming gardens round each nook. It’s straightforward to see why this place has been a muse for therefore many.
And the seaside! Carmel Seashore is certainly one of many high points of interest on the town. It’s pristine and presents breathtaking sunsets which might be excellent for ending your day. In case you’re into out of doors actions, there are scenic trails and cypress-lined pathways that provide spectacular views of the rugged shoreline.
Carmel-by-the-Sea actually captures that quaint, European village appeal proper right here on the California coast. It’s an incredible spot for a calming weekend the place you’ll be able to unplug and soak within the pure magnificence and inventive vibe.
10. Pella, Iowa
Pella is slightly Dutch oasis proper within the coronary heart of the Midwest. This city prides itself on its robust Dutch heritage, which is obvious all over the place you look. It’s one in every of my favourite locations to go to in Iowa, definitely.
Whenever you go to Pella, the historic structure is the very first thing you’ll discover. The city has superbly maintained buildings with Dutch architectural kinds and even a working windmill—the Vermeer Mill—that’s not only for present but additionally grinds grain. Strolling round, you’re feeling such as you’ve been transported to the Netherlands.
In case you’re round in Might, the Tulip Time pageant is one thing you’ll be able to’t miss. The city bursts into shade with hundreds of tulips in bloom, and the locals have fun with parades, conventional dances, and Dutch treats. It’s a unbelievable approach to expertise Dutch tradition with out a transatlantic flight.
11. Montpelier, Vermont
Montpelier, VT, appears like a slice of Europe tucked away in New England. It’s the smallest state capital within the U.S., however what it lacks in dimension, it makes up for in appeal. The city has this cool vibe with historic buildings that remind you of a quaint European metropolis.
Whenever you’re right here, try the native cafes and the small indie retailers. They offer Montpelier a singular character that’s arduous to search out elsewhere. It’s straightforward to spend a day simply exploring and having fun with the laid-back ambiance.
What’s actually particular about Montpelier is its sense of neighborhood. The city hosts numerous arts and cultural occasions all year long that convey locals and guests collectively, very like you’d discover in European cities. Plus, the encircling Inexperienced Mountains supply a picturesque backdrop that enhances the city’s quaint, old-world appeal.
Fascinated about a fast getaway? Montpelier may very well be the right spot. It’s relaxed, it’s lovely, and it has that European contact proper right here in America. Above all – it’s one of many coolest fall locations within the USA!
12. Amana Colonies, Iowa
Amana Colonies in Iowa is a type of distinctive locations to go to within the US the place historical past feels alive and effectively. This group of villages is an actual throwback, with roots in German heritage that also affect the world in the present day.
As you stroll via the colonies, you’ll see unique brick buildings and houses which were rigorously preserved. It’s like stepping right into a dwelling museum, however it’s all genuine. The craftsmanship and a spotlight to element within the structure are one thing you’d usually anticipate in an previous European city.
Whenever you’re there, it’s best to undoubtedly try the native retailers. They’ve some wonderful handmade gadgets which might be nice for presents or simply to choose up one thing distinctive for your self. And the meals is one thing else – it’s all selfmade and sticks to the standard recipes that had been introduced over by the unique settlers.
The Amana Colonies is among the coolest American cities that really feel like Europe. It’s an ideal spot for a calming day journey.
13. Bardstown, Kentucky
Bardstown, Kentucky, won’t be the primary place you consider once you hear “European vibe,” however it’s obtained an old-school appeal which may shock you. Often called the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown presents much more than simply whiskey.
The downtown space is filled with historic buildings and a few severely cozy eating places and cafes. It’s the sort of place the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a sluggish stroll, peeping into boutiques and stopping for a drink or a meal with out feeling rushed.
And the festivals listed below are top-notch. They’re not your common small-town gatherings. Assume massive, vibrant, and lively, sort of like what you’d discover in a energetic European city throughout a celebration.
Bardstown feels totally different from many locations within the US. It’s obtained a singular mix of Southern hospitality and historic sophistication that makes it well worth the go to.
Often requested questions (FAQs) about American cities that really feel like Europe
Wish to know extra about tax-free nations? Discover our FAQs and get the solutions you’re on the lookout for!
What American metropolis is most like Europe?
Boston, Massachusetts, usually feels essentially the most like Europe resulting from its historical past, structure, and structure. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings give it a distinctly European appeal, reminding a lot of cities like London or Paris.
What metropolis within the US is like Amsterdam?
San Francisco, California, shares many similarities with Amsterdam, particularly when it comes to its liberal tradition, love for bikes, and picturesque waterways. Plus, the laid-back vibe and thriving arts scene make it really feel very very like Amsterdam.
What a part of America seems to be most like Scotland?
The rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and mountainous landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, notably Oregon, are sometimes in comparison with Scotland. The local weather and pure surroundings make it a placing resemblance to the Scottish Highlands.
What European metropolis is most like San Francisco?
Lisbon, Portugal, is continuously in comparison with San Francisco resulting from its hilly terrain, coastal setting, and historic trams. Each cities even have a vibrant cultural scene and are identified for his or her iconic bridges.
