12 Hidden Treasures That Mimic Your Favorite European Cities
When you think of Europe, the first thing that comes to mind is its beautiful architecture, history, and culture. Did you know you don’t need a passport to have an experience similar to this one?
There are hidden destinations across the United States that can transport you between Paris and Venice, right down the cobblestone streets of Prague – and you don’t even need to cross a border to get there. This list is your go-to guide.
Bavaria, Germany – Leavenworth, Washington
Just a short drive into the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth presents a Bavarian feel, complete with Bratwurst, Beer, row houses, painted wood facades, and cobblestone streets.
With Alpine–style buildings, bratwurst stands, and shops selling cuckoo clocks, this tiny town is one of the country’s highlights. Here, Oktoberfest celebrations are something — and the music and beer are authentic German. You will become a small Bavarian villager without crossing the Atlantic.
Your Greek Getaway at Tarpon Springs, Florida
In Tarpon Springs, you find the spirit of a quaint Greek island, complete with sponge docks. This community has the highest percentage of Greek Americans in the US; its turquoise waters and whitewashed buildings are just about the cutest.
Take an evening stroll through local bakeries specializing in authentic baklava, or eat by the water in a plate of souvlaki. There are the smells, sights, and sounds that will take you right back to Santorini.
Solvang, California – A Danish Delight
Nicknamed the “Danish Capital of America,” Solvang greets you with quaint windmills, half-timbered buildings, and authentic Danish bakeries.
Danish Days in September also keep the town proper to its heritage, so you feel as much a part of Copenhagen as you do Solvang.
French Quarter Elegance of New Orleans, Louisiana
The French Quarter of New Orleans buzzes with the energy of Paris, lines spilling onto wrought iron balconies and cobbled streets.
It’s not just the palatable visuals that can reel the mind at the thought of being on French soil—slurping café au lait and noshing on a beignet at the famous Café du Monde.
Georgia: A Bavarian Place Named Helen
Helen, Georgia, is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and has fully embraced its Bavarian identity. It takes on the architectural style of Germany—all the murals are painted up, and it’s a festive time all year. You don’t want to miss its annual Christkindlmarkt in winter for a taste of European holiday magic.
Venice in the Desert, Venetian, Las Vegas, Nevada
The Venetian offers Italian luxury through flowing canals with gondola rides, replicas of the Rialto Bridge, and St. Mark’s Square, which is artfully decorated via Appian.
St. Augustine, Florida – A Spanish Stroll
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the US and channels the historical charm of many Spanish colonial towns. It will transport you to the most vibrant streets of Seville, with its cobblestone streets, Castillo de San Marcos fortress, and Spanish-style courtyards.
Germany’s Christmas Capital — Frankenmuth, Michigan
Often called “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is best known for its Christmas festivities. Home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, it generates a holiday atmosphere more German fairy tale than reality.
A Touch of London in Boston, Massachusetts
Although London is out of the question, Beacon Hill in Boston is pretty close–it’s filled with red brick row houses and gas-lit streets.
Add to that afternoon tea at a nice Boston Harbor hotel and a walk along the Charles River for an authentic British experience.
Dutch Charm by Dutch Lake – Holland, Michigan
Holland features an authentic Dutch experience with windmills, tulip fields, and Dutch Village. As does the town in celebration of its heritage, visit in the spring during the annual Tulip Time Festival, when the town blooms.
The Netherlands in the Midwest Pella, Iowa
Like another Dutch-inspired destination, Pella has tulip gardens, replicas of windmills, and Dutch bakeries with stroopwafels (a delicious delicacy) to try. It’s the Dutch equivalent of pure bliss, drawing tourists from all over for its annual tulip festival.
A Swiss Alps Adventure in Vail, Colorado
It’s not just one of the world’s best ski destinations; it has Swiss-inspired architecture, charming chalets, and European-style cobblestone streets.
You may feel like you’re on a high-altitude holiday in the Alps, enjoying the mountain air, gourmet fondue, and spectacular views.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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