26 U.S. Destinations That Will Make You Think You’re In Europe (2024)

Have you ever wanted to stroll through the charming streets of Europe, soaking in the history, architecture and culture?

What if I told you that you don’t need a passport to experience that Old World charm?

Believe it or not, there are places right here in the United States that look like they were plucked straight out of Europe.

From picturesque villages with cobblestone streets to grand castles that rival those in France, the U.S. has many hidden gems that will make you feel like you’ve traveled across the Atlantic.

Ready to discover where these magical places are?

1. Frankenmuth, Michigan

Frankenmuth is affectionately known as “Little Bavaria” as this delightful town looks a lot like Germany with its Bavarian-style architecture.

You can explore the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland which covers an area equivalent to 1.5 football fields, and enjoy a scenic riverboat cruise on the Cass River.

You can also try authentic German cuisine at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant including traditional dishes like schnitzel and sausages or go shopping at the German-themed River Place Shops.

2. Poulsbo, Washington

Poulsbo was founded by Norwegian immigrants in the 1880s and has since been known as “Little Norway” due to its strong Norwegian heritage.

Situated on Liberty Bay, it features Nordic-inspired shops and festivals like the Viking Fest and Midsommer Festival which includes folk dancing, traditional Norwegian food and a bonfire​.

You can also enjoy kayaking in the bay, exploring local art galleries and indulging in tasty treats from the famous Sluys Bakery.

3. New Glarus, Wisconsin

New Glarus is known as “America’s Little Switzerland” as it was founded by Swiss immigrants in 1845 and looks a lot like the Swiss countryside with its charming chalet-style architecture.

You can try authentic Swiss cuisine, explore the famous New Glarus Brewing Company for a taste of their unique beers like the “Spotted Cow” and enjoy outdoor activities like biking on the Sugar River State Trail.

The town is also famous for its lively festivals, such as the Wilhelm Tell Festival and Polkafest, which celebrates its rich Swiss heritage with music, dance and traditional crafts.

4. Solvang, California

Solvang is a charming town that whisks you away to Denmark with its delightful Danish-style architecture which includes half-timbered buildings and even a windmill.

Located in the Santa Ynez Valley, in the “Danish Capital of America” you can go wine tasting at local vineyards or explore unique shops and savor Danish pastries like aebleskiver.

You can also enjoy the enchanting Danish Days Festival, admire windmills and visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in this picturesque European-inspired village.

5. Holland, Michigan

When you visit Holland, you’ll think you’ve traveled across the Atlantic to the Netherlands with its charming Dutch architecture.

You can stroll through the quaint Nelis’ Dutch Village which is a family-friendly attraction that recreates a Dutch village from over 100 years ago.

One must-see spot is the Windmill Island Gardens which features the “De Zwaan,” an authentic Dutch windmill that is the only working Dutch windmill in the United States.

6. Helen, Georgia

Helen is a delightful town that transports you to a Bavarian village with its charming German-inspired architecture and festive atmosphere.

Situated in the scenic North Georgia Mountains, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as tubing on the Chattahoochee River, exploring local vineyards and hiking through picturesque trails.

The town is famous for its lively Oktoberfest celebration, where you can try out authentic German food, dance to polka music and enjoy the festivities.

7. St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine looks a lot like Spain with its stunning Spanish colonial architecture and rich historical heritage.

One reason for that is that St. Augustine holds the title of the oldest continuously occupied European-established city in the United States, founded by the Spanish in 1565.

You can explore the impressive Castillo de San Marcos, stroll down the charming cobblestone streets of the Historic District and discover the legendary Fountain of Youth.

8. Vail, Colorado

Vail is a picturesque town that was intentionally designed to resemble a European alpine village, particularly drawing inspiration from the Austrian Alps.

Situated in the Rocky Mountains, Vail offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter as well as hiking, mountain biking and exploring the stunning Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in the summer.

You can also attend events like the Vail International Dance Festival, indulge in gourmet dining or just sit back and relax in a luxurious spa.

9. Pella, Iowa

Pella is a charming town that looks like the Netherlands with its iconic Dutch windmills and vibrant tulip gardens.

You can explore the historic Vermeer Windmill, an authentic Dutch windmill built in the Netherlands, disassembled and then reassembled in Pella in 2002.

You can also stroll along the picturesque Molengracht canal, which was designed to replicate an authentic Dutch canal, and enjoy the annual Tulip Time Festival.

10. Montpelier, Vermont

Montpelier is a charming town that resembles the quaint villages of France with its cozy atmosphere and historic architecture.

As the smallest state capital in the U.S., you can explore the impressive Vermont State House, enjoy farm-to-table dining and explore its exciting arts scene.

You can also experience lively community events like the Taste of Montpelier Food and Arts Festival.

11. Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg was founded by German immigrants in 1846 and the town has retained much of its German heritage, including traditional German-style architecture.

The town is known for its “Fachwerk” houses and other structures with German influences.

Situated in the scenic Texas Hill Country, you can explore the National Museum of the Pacific War, taste award-winning wines at local wineries and shop along the historic Main Street.

The town is also famous for its exciting festivals like Oktoberfest and the annual Christmas Market.

12. Lindsborg, Kansas

Lindsborg is widely recognized as “Little Sweden USA” due to its strong Swedish heritage, as it was founded by Swedish immigrants in the late 19th century.

You can explore the town’s rich history by visiting the Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum, search for colorful Dala horses and enjoy authentic Swedish cuisine.

The town also hosts lively festivals like the Svensk Hyllningsfest, where you can experience Swedish folk dancing, music and crafts.

13. New Ulm, Minnesota

New Ulm is a charming town that resembles Germany with its Bavarian-style architecture and is often referred to as the “most German town in America.”

You can explore the impressive Hermann Monument for stunning views and tour the historic August Schell Brewing Company, which is one of the oldest family-owned breweries in the U.S.

Also don’t forget to check out the Glockenspiel, a 45-foot bell tower that plays melodic chimes and features mechanical figures.

14. Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Old Town Alexandria is a charming town that looks a lot like England with its beautifully preserved 18th-century Georgian architecture and cobblestone streets.

You can explore the historic King Street, which is filled with unique boutiques, restaurants and art galleries, or take a scenic cruise along the Potomac River.

The town also offers fascinating historical sites like Gadsby’s Tavern Museum (frequented by people like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson) and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum.

15. Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson is a picturesque town that will remind you of the alpine villages of Switzerland with its stunning mountain backdrop provided by the Teton Range.

Situated near the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, you can go skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, whitewater rafting on the Snake River and explore the National Elk Refuge.

The town also offers a lively arts scene, unique shopping experiences and the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for a taste of the Wild West.

16. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a charming town that looks a lot like Germany with its Bavarian-style architecture, situated in the stunning Cascade Mountains.

You can explore the delightful shops and German-themed restaurants on the main street, hike the scenic Icicle Gorge Trail, or visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm.

The town is also famous for its lively festivals like Oktoberfest and the Christmas Lighting Festival.

17. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Jim Thorpe is a picturesque town that resembles Switzerland with its charming Victorian architecture, situated in the scenic Pocono Mountains.

You can explore the historic Asa Packer Mansion, enjoy white-water rafting on the Lehigh River, and take a scenic ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.

The town also hosts exciting festivals throughout the year, such as the Fall Foliage Festival.

18. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe will remind you of Spain with its enchanting Pueblo and Spanish colonial architecture, featuring fascinating adobe buildings.

You can explore the historic Santa Fe Plaza, enjoy the art galleries on Canyon Road and experience the interactive art installation at Meow Wolf.

You can also try the local cuisine on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail or attend one of the many lively festivals and performances.

19. Park City, Utah

Park City is a charming town that looks a lot like the alpine villages of Switzerland with its stunning mountain scenery.

Situated in the Wasatch Range, you can enjoy world-class skiing at Park City Mountain Resort or explore the historic Main Street, which features beautifully preserved buildings from its mining era.

The town offers a range of activities year-round, from hiking and mountain biking in the summer to enjoying the thrills of the Alpine Coaster.

20. Wallace, Idaho

Wallace will remind you of the quaint villages of Switzerland and is located in the scenic Silver Valley with its picturesque mountain backdrop.

You can explore the town’s rich mining history at the Wallace District Mining Museum and see the fascinating Sierra Silver Mine, where you can explore an actual silver mine guided by a retired miner.

Other outdoor adventures include the world-famous Route of the Hiawatha bike trail, which includes tunnels and trestles through the Bitterroot Mountains.

21. Versailles, Kentucky

Versailles resembles France with its charming architecture and European-looking castle.

You can explore the beautiful Woodford Reserve Distillery, enjoy scenic rides on the Bluegrass Railroad and stroll through the quaint downtown filled with shops and art galleries.

The town also features a castle, horse farm tours and exciting festivals.

22. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans feels like a mix of France and Spain especially within the enchanting French Quarter, featuring intricate iron-lace balconies.

You can enjoy the city’s vibrant culture by listening to live jazz music, savoring delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine, and exploring historic sites like the St. Louis Cathedral.

The town is also famous for its lively festivals, including the world-renowned Mardi Gras, which features music, parades and colorful celebrations.

23. Tarpon Springs, Florida

Tarpon Springs will remind you of Greece with its Mediterranean-style architecture, featuring whitewashed buildings and blue accents reminiscent of Greek villages.

You can explore the famous Sponge Docks, indulge in delicious Greek cuisine and enjoy the cultural festivals that celebrate the town’s Greek heritage.

You can also stroll down Dodecanese Boulevard, visit the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum, or take a scenic boat tour.

24. Venice, California

Venice, California was actually inspired by Venice, Italy, particularly through the creation of its iconic canals, which were developed by Abbot Kinney in the early 1900s.

You can stroll along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, watch skateboarders at the Venice Skatepark and explore the trendy shops and restaurants on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.

You can also enjoy the stunning murals at the Venice Art Walls or simply just relax by the picturesque Venice Canals.

25. New Britain, Connecticut

New Britain looks a lot like England but interestingly, it actually has a very large Polish community which is reflected in its culture.

Make sure you visit the charming “Little Poland” district to enjoy authentic Polish cuisine and shop for unique handcrafted items.

The town offers a variety of attractions, including the New Britain Museum of American Art, Walnut Hill Park and lively festivals like the Little Poland Festival.

26. Castroville, Texas

Castroville resembles France and is widely recognized as “The Little Alsace of Texas” due to its strong connections to Alsatian culture and architecture.

The Steinbach Haus is a central attraction in Castroville, originally built in the 17th century in Alsace, France, and later transported to Castroville in the late 1990s.

You can also stroll through the Castroville Regional Park along the Medina River and enjoy authentic pastries like stollen at Haby’s Alsatian Bakery.

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