13 european-inspired escapes in the U.S.
From cobblestone streets to historic plazas, these American towns feel straight out of Europe.
Craving the charm of Europe but not the long-haul flight? The United States boasts several destinations that mirror the ambiance of European locales, offering cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and rich cultural experiences. Here are some top U.S. towns and cities that transport you across the Atlantic without leaving the country.
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth transports visitors to a quaint Bavarian village with alpine architecture, festive beer gardens, and scenic mountain trails. Wander the Nutcracker Museum, sample treats at the Leavenworth Sausage Garten, or hike the Icicle Gorge Trail.
Tip: Visit during the Autumn Leaf Festival for vibrant fall foliage and fewer crowds midweek.
Known as the American Riviera because of its sunny Mediterranean-like climate, stunning coastline, and Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, Santa Barbara offers a European-style escape on the U.S. West Coast. Stroll along State Street, explore the historic Santa Barbara Mission, or sip wine at tasting rooms in the Funk Zone.
Tip: Rent a bike along Cabrillo Boulevard to enjoy beach views and stop for fresh seafood at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company.
America’s oldest city, St. Augustine, is steeped in history, with cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and a rich cultural heritage. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, wander the Colonial Quarter, or stroll through St. George Street for unique shops and cafes.
Tip: Join a night ghost tour for a spooky, historic perspective of the city.
Boston blends colonial charm with historic architecture reminiscent of London’s streets. Walk the Freedom Trail, explore Faneuil Hall Marketplace, or take a river cruise to see historic landmarks from the water.
Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid tour bus crowds along the Freedom Trail.
Holland celebrates its Dutch roots with tulip festivals, windmills, and charming European-style architecture. See the Big Dutchman Windmill, stroll Windmill Island Gardens, or enjoy the Tulip Time Festival in spring.
Tip: Rent a bike to ride along the scenic lakeshore for a perfect Dutch-inspired experience.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a coastal village with storybook cottages, art galleries, and charming European-style streets. Browse the galleries in downtown Carmel, visit Carmel Beach, or tour the Carmel Mission Basilica.
Tip: Attend the Carmel Art Walk for hands-on workshops and gallery tours.
Santa Fe offers adobe architecture, European-inspired plazas, and a vibrant arts scene. Explore Canyon Road galleries, visit the Palace of the Governors, or hike the Santa Fe National Forest.
Tip: Book a performance at the Santa Fe Opera House for a world-class cultural experience.
Charleston’s pastel homes, historic streets, and waterfront areas recall European towns. Walk through Rainbow Row, explore The Battery, or take a carriage ride through Historic Downtown.
Tip: Explore early morning for soft light and fewer crowds.
Breckenridge exudes a European alpine village atmosphere with its Victorian architecture, snow-capped peaks, and lively après-ski scene. Explore the historic Main Street, visit the Breckenridge Nordic Center for cross-country skiing, or hike the Boreas Pass Road for panoramic mountain views.
Tip: Take a ride on the Breckenridge Gondola for free access to stunning mountain vistas and ski slopes.
Sonoma County’s vineyards and Mediterranean climate evoke Tuscany’s wine country. Tour wineries along Sonoma Valley Wine Trail, hike Jack London State Historic Park, or enjoy a hot air balloon ride.
Tip: Book sunrise balloon rides for breathtaking vineyard views.
Often dubbed the “Swiss Alps of Oregon”, Wallowa Lake offers a stunning alpine setting with towering peaks, crystal-clear waters, and a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can take the Wallowa Lake Tramway to the summit of Mount Howard for panoramic views, hike the scenic East Fork Wallowa River Trail leading to Aneroid Lake, or enjoy boating and fishing on the lake.
Tip: For a unique experience, try the Joseph Branch Railriders, pedal-powered carts that traverse a former railroad track, offering a leisurely ride through the picturesque countryside.
Helen, Georgia, is a charming Bavarian-style village nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can explore the picturesque downtown area with its alpine architecture, visit the Anna Ruby Falls for a scenic hike, or enjoy tubing on the Chattahoochee River.
Tip: Experience the annual Oktoberfest celebration for authentic German food, music, and festivities.
Fredericksburg offers charming German and French-influenced architecture with boutique shops, wineries, and scenic countryside. Stroll down Main Street, visit the National Museum of the Pacific War, or enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local vineyards.
Tip: Take a scenic drive through the Hill Country wildflower trails in spring for a truly colorful experience.
The U.S. has several towns that channel European charm, from Leavenworth, WA (Bavarian-inspired) to Santa Barbara, CA (Mediterranean vibes), and Wallowa Lake, OR (Swiss Alps feel). Other favorites include Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA; Breckenridge, CO; and Fredericksburg, TX.
Santa Barbara, California, is often called the “American Riviera” because its Mediterranean climate, coastal views, and Spanish-Mediterranean architecture give it an Italian Riviera vibe. Stroll State Street, visit the Mission, and enjoy local wineries for an Italian-style experience.
For a Swiss-inspired escape, Wallowa Lake, Oregon is often called the “Swiss Alps of Oregon” with its alpine peaks, crystal-clear waters, and scenic tram rides. Other great options include Breckenridge, Colorado with its alpine village charm, Lake Placid, New York, for snow-capped mountains and a cozy mountain town feel, and Truckee, California, near Lake Tahoe, with quaint streets and stunning alpine scenery.
Tip: Winter offers skiing and snow adventures, while summer brings hiking, boating, and scenic tram rides.
Leavenworth, Washington is designed as a Bavarian village with alpine architecture, beer gardens, and festive streets. Helen, Georgia also replicates a Bavarian town in the Appalachian Mountains with charming shops and traditional festivals.
Holland, Michigan, brings Dutch charm with its windmills, tulip gardens, and colorful architecture. You can stroll Windmill Island Gardens, visit the Big Dutchman Windmill, or experience the annual Tulip Time Festival.
Fredericksburg, Texas, channels the charm of a French village with its historic Main Street, boutique shops, and wine country. New Orleans, Louisiana, offers French Quarter architecture and European-style plazas. For a coastal option, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, has storybook cottages and galleries reminiscent of French coastal towns.
Absolutely. Some towns celebrate European heritage through festivals, such as Oktoberfest in Helen, GA, the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, MI, or art walks in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA.
Many towns featured in this blog have vacation rental options available. Look for charming cottages, alpine-style homes, or coastal villas to fully immerse yourself in the European-inspired atmosphere.
