European Like Cities in the U.S.

Are you missing Europe? Do you feel like you can’t get any European culture in the US? Think again! These American cities are steeped in European culture and worth a road trip visit. Here are our top European like cities in the U.S.

Solvang, California

Just north of Santa Barbara is an adorable Danish town, Solvang. Dubbed California’s little Denmark, the city was built at the turn of the century bu Danish settlers. You’ll find windmills, odes to Hans Christian Anderson, Danish architecture, and plenty of artisans to shop while you enjoy something from the Viking Beer and Wine Garden. Bonsu, Solvang is not far from the California beaches. 

Frankenmuth, Michigan

While many may suggest Leavenworth, Washington for the German atmosphere, we recommend Frankenmuth, Michigan for authentic German history and settlers. Visit in the summer for beautiful flower boxes spilling from every window, lifesize German cuckoo  clocks, and plenty of places to fill your German steins. Be sure to add in a visit to Bronner’s the world’s largest Christmas store. 

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Settled by Greek sponge divers, Tarpon Springs is still a thriving part of sponge collection. Who knew, right? However, nowhere else will you find the largest concentration of Greek Americans. If you are craving Greek food, Hellas Bakery is the place. And while it’s a coastal town in Florida, there’s still plenty of Greek architecture to make you feel as if you’ve traveled to a different peninsula.

New Orleans, Louisiana

We love New Orleans so much, simply because it’s an incredible mix of French flavors and Spanish architecture. The city, having been under both country’s rules at one time, is unique unto itself, but still maintains plenty of European style mixed in with Creole, Cajun, Spanish, and French. 

New Glarus, Wisconsin

If you’re longing for Swiss cheese, Swiss chocolate, and Swiss Chalets, visit New Glarus, Wisconsin. This is another authentic city founded by Swiss settlers in the mid 1800s. The Swiss Historical Village includes replicas of life in the pioneering days. And your visit would not be complete without a brew from the popular New Glarus Brewery.

Pella, Iowa

We’re sure you wouldn’t expect Dutch influence in the middle of Iowa, but Pella is home to the 124 foot Vermeer Windmill. Stop by the Frisian Farms cheese house for authentic Dutch Gouda. If you can visit during Tulip time in may, you’ll spot the signature Dutch flower everywhere.  Also consider Holland, Michigan, even if you just want to say you visited Holland this year. 

Like to plan a trip to any of these European like Cities in the U.S.? Please contact us. We would be happy to assist.

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