Enjoy An Authentic European Escape At These Bucket-List-Worthy Destinations In The U.S.
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Sarah McCosham
Author
When planning our next big, bucket-list-worthy vacation, many of us broaden our horizons to include far-away destinations across the globe. Europe, in particular, is a continent on everyone’s bucket list; from the mountains of the Alps and the vineyards of Tuscany to the castles of England and the streets of Paris, a European vacation is surely something that belongs on every adventurer’s to-do list. While these getaways are certainly amazing adventures, you don’t have to travel across the pond to enjoy a taste of Europe; there are many, many destinations in our own country wherein one can experience an authentic European escape. Here are 15 European getaways in the U.S.:
Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
You'll feel as though you've been whisked away to the German Alps when you visit Leavenworth, Washington, one of the most enchanting towns in the Pacific Northwest. While outdoor options abound in this part of the country, Leavenworth really is a cultural hub for those looking for an authentic, European-style apres ski experience. Here you'll find German specialties, including sausages, schnitzel, sauerkraut, pastries, potato salad, and of course, plenty of beer. During the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, ice climbing, sleigh rides, and more; but don't discount Leavenworth in the warmer months, as the town has access to incredible rafting, river tubing, and hiking. It's certainly one of the best European towns in the U.S.
Take a look at this video by @worldwildhearts:
Take a look at this video by @worldwildhearts:
Venice, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Venice, California, is our country's most iconic and effusive European-influenced town. The Venice Canal Historic District was built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, whose "Venice of America" in Los Angeles earned him much acclaim and a place among America's great visionaries. His project brought the beauty and architecture of Venice’s canals right to the coastal town of Southern California, creating a space for all to enjoy. The historic district has four canals lined by gorgeous waterfront properties and bridges that connect the two sides. You can take a walk up and down the canal, overlooking the stunning views and enjoying some peace and quiet from the bustle of Venice Beach. And in true Italian style, visitors can hop a gondola and take a ride through the canal, gliding under the bridges and through this impossibly charming neighborhood.
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Solvang, CA 93463, USA
Hailed as the Danish Capital of America, Solvang is a charming SoCal town filled with quaint shops and an iconic white and red windmill. This one-of-a-kind town houses a population of just under 6,000 residents, and its small-town charm is simply unforgettable -- no matter how many times you’ve visited. Embrace all things Denmark as you make your way through town; Danish bakeries, unique architecture, and tasty cuisine await throughout Solvang. The name means "sunny fields" in Danish, which is appropriate for the warm and sunny weather of Southern California.
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Vail, CO 81657, USA
A trip to Vail, Colorado, will make you swear you've left the States and been transported to a quaint European town. Founded as the base village for Vail Ski Resort in 1966, this Colorado locale has peak ski-town vibes, with beautiful lodges, world-class attractions, and an amazing district of shops and restaurants. But Vail is so much more than a wintertime retreat; this Colorado mountain town has broken free from the ski town stereotypes, hosting unique festivals, building a vibrant business district, and positioning itself as a superlative, year-round destination in the U.S.
San Antonio, TX, USA
The spirit of Spain is alive and well in San Antonio, Texas, with its River Walk feeling straight out of España. As the top attraction in Texas, the San Antonio River Walk welcomes a staggering 14 million visitors annually, and it deserves all the praise and publicity it receives. With a vibrant Hispanic culture that invigorates your every sense and a plethora of enticing restaurants and shops, it's easy to see why so many people flock to this lively destination in the Lone Star State. You'll want to get here early, both to beat the inevitable midday heat and to ensure ample time to sightsee to your heart's content. Head across the bridge spanning the river to enjoy 360-degree views and figure out where to go next on your very own European trip in Texas.
Kansas City, MO, USA
In the heart of the Midwest, Kansas City, Missouri, might be the country's most surprisingly European city. Since the Country Club Plaza in this downtown was architecturally designed to mimic the Spanish city of Seville, visiting Kansas City can feel a bit disorienting, in the most marvelous way. The towers and courtyards might distract from the fact that you're more likely to find BBQ rather than tapas in Kansas City, but this fusion of cultures is a thing to celebrate and something that makes our country so special.
Pella, IA 50219, USA
Pella, Iowa, is often touted as the country's most charming Dutch-inspired city -- and really, we don't disagree. Known for its Dutch culture and postcard-perfect downtown, this Iowa locale is one of the most delightful small towns in the country, period. Located less than an hour from Des Moines, Pella is a small town that feels like entering another time and place -- and country. Founded by immigrants from Holland in 1847, Pella is a place that celebrates its Netherlands culture and heritage. Evidence of this is easy to see in Downtown Pella, which features Dutch-inspired architecture and several iconic windmills, such as the Vermeer Windmill, along with numerous Dutch bakeries and shops. Each spring, this small town comes alive in color, with its annual Tulip Festival attracting visitors from all across the Midwest, who come to experience the simple joy of beautiful blooms and exuberant Dutch culture.
Take a look at this video by @visitpellaia:
Take a look at this video by @visitpellaia:
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Frankenmuth, MI, USA
Holland is often hailed as Michigan's very own slice of the Old Country, but Frankenmuth might have its Dutch brethren beat in the charm department. With a bustling population of around 5,000, Frankenmuth’s downtown area is abundant in Bavarian architecture and other homages to this unique heritage. Stop in at Zehnder’s Restaurant or the Bavarian Inn to enjoy a famous chicken dinner served by a waiter or waitress in traditional Bavarian garb. Just down the street, you’ll find Frankenmuth Brewery — the oldest of its kind in Michigan. With a dachshund logo and a delightful selection of beers to enjoy, this brewery will quickly become one of your favorites -- as will this entire little town! This is one of the most charming towns in the U.S.
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New Orleans, LA, USA
While famous for Mardi Gras, the spirit of New Orleans is far deeper than the pomp and revelry of this event. Its history is an inextricable part of the New Orleans experience; since this city was founded by French colonists and then ceded to Spain, it feels like a unique mix of both countries. The wrought iron balconies and the famous Jackson Square reflect the city's French influences -- as does its cuisine. Food, in particular, is a huge part of the NOLA experience, and there are some truly iconic spots you'll definitely want to visit. From the beignets at Café Du Monde and oysters Rockefeller from Antoine’s, New Orleans is an experience that is colorful and delicious and larger-than-life.
St. Augustine, FL, USA
St. Augustine often gets overshadowed by Florida's big names like Miami and Orlando, but this town really does deserve your attention. The epitome of Old Florida charm, St. Augustine is a place of fascinating history and culture. Dating back 450 years, St. Augustine is one of the country's oldest and most historic cities and places like Castillo de San Marcos National Monument celebrate its Spanish culture and legacy. But the town is more than just historical sites and museums; its downtown district along Aviles Street -- the oldest street in the country, in fact -- has amazing local shops, incredible restaurants, and top-rated distilleries, making for a wholly delightful, European-meets-American experience.
Helen, GA 30545, USA
Beautiful Helen is a bit of an anachronism; this charming little locale feels much more like Germany than Georgia. With just a population of fewer than 1,000 residents, Helen offers a small-town experience that feels, quite literally, worlds away from everything. In this charming mountain town, you'll discover classic Bavarian architecture and restaurants serving German favorites like schnitzel, soft pretzels, and, of course, great beer. Kids are sure to enjoy the town's mountain coaster, water park, and riverfront beaches, while adults will enjoy hiking in beautiful spots such as Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area and Smithgall Woods State Park. Of course, we wouldn't blame you if you simply want to revel in Helen's delightful downtown, an idyllic locale straight out of a postcard. It's one of the best small-town getaways in the U.S.
Take a look at this video by @GooseandaGander:
Take a look at this video by @GooseandaGander:
Charleston, SC, USA
Named after King Charles II of England, this Southern town is filled with countless similarities to European cities, like grand churches, cobblestone streets, and short, colorful buildings. Over the past few years, Charleston, South Carolina, has quietly become one of the coolest cities in the South. With its towering trees and iconic architecture, Charleston is one of the most beautiful towns in the U.S. with a historic district that's both fascinating and irresistibly charming. Anchoring this town, though, is a vibrant food scene that really is an inextricable part of the city's cultural identity, combining the city's Southern soul with its European influences and roots. Charleston’s Historic French Quarter and City Market are two of its most iconic places, offering visitors an immersive historical context with a heaping side of amazing cuisine. From historic pubs and French bistros to classic Southern cooking and Lowcountry cuisine, you'll enjoy a culinary tour de force in charming Charleston, South Carolina.
Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, 21500 Nicewonder Dr, Bristol, VA 24202, USA
In recent years, Virginia has emerged as a dark horse in the U.S. wine-growing arena. Not only are Virginia-grown grapes becoming more and more popular, but the wineries themselves are beautiful places to spend time. Nowhere is that truer than Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards in Bristol, a breathtaking destination in the Virginia Highlands where you can sip local wine and spend the night inside a yurt right there on the property. You'll feel as though you've been whisked away to the vineyards of Tuscany when visiting Virginia's Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards. However, while this winery gives off serious European vibes, this vineyard is decidedly Virginian. You'll immediately notice the rolling hills, mountain views, and stunning scenery for as far as the eye can see, making for an authentic, European-inspired getaway in Virginia's glorious Wine Country.
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Philadelphia, PA, USA
Philadelphia may be a city steeped in important U.S. history, but its downtown feels decidedly European. The Philadelphia City Hall is a French-inspired architectural marvel, and, with over 14.5 acres of floor space, America's largest Municipal Building. Other global influences can be felt in Downtown Philly as well; the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a stunning Greek temple, while Boathouse Row resembles the waterfront homes of Venice or Amsterdam.
Montpelier, VT 05602, USA
New England has a vibe all its own that's a bit buttoned up and, well, decidedly New England. But Montpelier, Vermont? It's a European iconoclast, providing a fanciful taste of France to all who visit. Aside from being the capital of Vermont, Montpelier is named after the French city with the same name -- but we firmly believe the views in Vermont's Montpelier have its French sibling beat. With its stunning vistas, French-inspired architecture, lush parks, walkable downtown, and vibrant shopping and dining district, Montpelier truly does feel like a trip across the pond. And to that, we say, "Bonjour et Bienvenue (hello and welcome) to Montpelier, Vermont!"
While we are certainly all for enjoying global adventures, you needn’t venture overseas for a bucket-list-worthy, European escape, as the above destinations in the U.S. certainly prove. Now, which of these European getaways in the U.S.?
Looking to travel to any of the above places anytime soon? For accommodations, check out the options on either Hotels.com or Vrbo.
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More to Explore
European Getaways In The U.S.
What are some of the most charming towns in the U.S.?
Our country is full of charming towns. In fact, you can find quaint towns throughout! Here are some of the most charming towns in the U.S.:
- Marietta is the oldest city in Ohio and, therefore, the most historic. Cruise around town and notice all the historic architecture and visit a few museums while you’re here.
- Lexington, Virginia is a historic city with notable locales like the Stonewall Jackson House and the Robert E. Lee Chapel.
- Cannon Beach in Oregon is best known for its giant boulder jutting out of the sea. Haystack Rock, as it’s known, is the local natural wonder.
Of course, these are just a few of the many, many charming towns around the U.S. What are some of your favorites?
What are some of the best small-town getaways in the U.S.?
If you’re someone who loves exploring a town with a quaint, vibrant community, check out some of the best small-town getaways in the U.S.:
- Lake Placid, New York is perhaps one of the best places for a winter getaway in the U.S. While outdoor recreation is a big deal around here, it’s best known for skiing.
- Mystic, Connecticut (one of my favorite places for a small-town getaway) exudes New England charm. With its location along the sea as well as an aquarium and plenty of places for shopping and dining, you won’t run out of things to do or see here.
- Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina is a quiet beach town situated close to Charleston. You’ll love exploring this community and especially the beaches.