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9 U.S. Destinations That Transport You Straight to Europe!
When you think a trip to Europe is out of reach because flights are too expensive, or your passport has expired, don't worry, you may still experience the beauty of the Old World without leaving your country. There are destinations in the US that feel unexpectedly European, from charming mountain towns to vibrant coastal cities. You don't have to travel across the ocean to experience the Italian-style villages, French Cafes, or German festivals you've been dreaming about.
Are you ready to travel to Europe without leaving the United States? Let's go.
Pella, Iowa – The Little Netherlands in the Heart of the Midwest
You don't have to take a plane to Amsterdam to experience Dutch Charm; all you have to do is make your way to Pella, Iowa. This small town in the Midwest features canal-style architecture, windmills, and an abundance of tulips, giving the impression that it was taken directly from the Netherlands. There are nods to Dutch culture wherever you look, from bakeries offering delicious pastries to a giant wooden clog that makes for a great photograph. To witness the city in full bloom with events, shows, and floral displays, go during the Tulip Time Festival in early May. The historical village, windmill museum, and Dutch storefronts maintain the enchantment even during off-peak hours.
Where to stay in Pella, Iowa? We've got you covered with these top stays:
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New Orleans, Louisiana – A Taste of France with a Southern Twist
If Paris is calling but your budget says no, New Orleans could be the alternate. Previously home to the artist Edgar Degas, whose legacy still lingers, this energetic city combines a deep Southern spirit with a rich French background. The French Quarter's cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, and wrought-iron balconies instantly transport you to France in the 18th century. Visit Jackson Square to take in the European design of the Saint Louis Cathedral or stroll down Bourbon Street, where jazz spills from every bar. Here, café culture is very vibrant and alive, with local restaurants offering Niçoise salad, cassoulet, and beignets.
Not sure where to sleep in New Orleans, Louisiana? Start with these standout hotels:
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Montauk, New York – Denmark by the Sea
Located at the tip of Long Island, Montauk is a surprisingly Scandinavian piece of breezy coastal beauty. This relaxed surf town is similar to Denmark's Klitmøller, sometimes known as "Cold Hawaii." Whether you're paddling out with local surfers or just enjoying the sea views while sipping a warm beverage, Montauk provides a simple, salt-kissed escape.
The town feels more Nordic than New Yorker because of its nature paths, sleek architecture, and peaceful ambiance.
Montauk, New York, calling? Book one of these handpicked hotels for a stress-free trip:
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Saint Augustine, Florida – A Slice of Spain in the Sunshine State
In addition to being the oldest city in the United States, Saint Augustine is also one of the most European places, established by the Spanish in 1565, and its old-world streets are lined with attractive courtyards, old stone forts, and buildings in the Mediterranean style. The oldest street in America, Aviles Street, gives you the feeling that you are strolling through a secret Spanish village. The Castillo de San Marcos, a stronghold that was constructed centuries ago to guard the shoreline, stands boldly along the bay.
From boutique to budget—our favorite places to stay in Saint Augustine, Florida:
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Aspen, Colorado – A Rocky Mountain Rendezvous with Swiss Flair
You don't have to reserve a cabin in Switzerland to experience the mountain atmosphere; you just need to travel to Aspen. Tucked away in the Colorado Rockies, Aspen reflects the Swiss Alps' pristine beauty and homey elegance. World-class skiing and quaint après-ski locations may be found in the snow-covered mountains during the winter. In the summer, alpine paths take you to the beautiful Maroon Bells, which are perfect peaks for photography. The town itself is full of European-style cafés, fondue dinners, and luxurious lodges. With a strong European flair, Aspen offers a high-altitude experience whether you're riding the gondola or enjoying hot cocoa by the fire.
Make your trip to Aspen, Colorado, even better with these amazing hotel options:
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Cape Cod, Massachusetts – New England’s Charm Meets the English Coastline
The rocky beaches, old cottages, and windswept dunes of Cape Cod are more similar to Cornwall than Massachusetts. Lighthouses, fishing villages, and picturesque beaches exist in this coastal treasure, making it the ideal destination for peaceful afternoons or brisk walks by the water. The rest seems oddly familiar if you replace scones with saltwater taffy and Cornish pasties with clam chowder. Old sea captain homes, oyster farms, and art galleries all contribute to the area's beauty. The Cape is a perfect substitute for a traditional British beach vacation because of its serene elegance, extensive maritime heritage, and refreshing Atlantic breeze.
Grand Marais, Minnesota – Nordic Calm on Lake Superior
Searching for calm scenery, vistas of glittering water, and a touch of Scandinavia? Grand Marais offers it all. It would be easy to mistake this sleepy harbor town on the shores of Lake Superior for a remote Swedish village. For authors, painters, and nature enthusiasts, it's a spot where inspiration can flow as freely as the lake and wind. There are hygge-inspired coffee shops, floating saunas, and minimalist cottages. Grand Marais is the type of place where time slows down and Nordic tranquility takes over, thanks to its pine trees, clean air, and lakefront sunsets.
Good sleep = great trip. Here are the best hotels in Grand Marais, Minnesota:
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Virginia Wine Country – A Slice of Tuscany in the Blue Ridge
Being among the best cities in the USA for a European-style vacation, Virginia may seem like an old American state, but what may surprise you is how much its wine country resembles the Italian countryside. You may find serene hills, calm roads, and stunning vineyards about an hour from Washington. The town of Middleburg, which offers picturesque vistas and a serene, tranquil ambiance, is the heart of the area. Award-winning wines are served at wineries, and comfortable lodgings provide the same peaceful environment as Tuscany.
Virginia adventures start with the right place to stay—check out these picks:
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Sonoma County, California – Lavender Fields and French Countryside Feels
The heart of southern France is found in Sonoma County, which is well-known for its wine but has much more to offer. The summer air is perfumed by blossoming lavender fields as well as world-class wines as you drive through its sun-drenched hills. The neat rows of lavender, soft breezes, and rustic appeal of places like Monte-Bellaria and Matanzas Creek make them feel like little pieces of Provence. That, along with intimate tasting rooms, Michelin-starred restaurants, and comfortable inns, creates a French countryside dream in California. Like the Riviera, it is unquestionably lovely, leisurely, and warm.
Who says you can't enjoy Europe's charms without a passport? These places to visit in the US, which range from California's lavender fields to Iowa's Dutch windmills, show that there is a little bit of European magic in the USA. The next time you're daydreaming of traveling to Europe, keep in mind that all you might need is a nice road trip soundtrack and an open mind. The greatest travel surprises sometimes occur in the most unlikely locations.
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