This Waterfront Village in Arizona Feels Like It Belongs in Europe

Are you dreaming of a trip to Europe, perhaps somewhere in the UK? Although I take trips across the pond as often as possible, I constantly dream of my next trip to Europe when I'm home in Arizona. But if I need a European "fix," there's no other place in Arizona I can think of that comes as close to a European town as the English Village in Lake Havasu City. While this lakeside city has a direct connection to the city of London, its quaint shopping village will make you believe that you're actually there.

Established in the 1960s as a planned lakeside community by businessman Robert P. McCulloch, Lake Havasu City is situated on the shores of Lake Havasu. The lake was created by the Hoover Dam along the Colorado River and has become a popular place for outdoor recreation. But once upon a time, it was a relatively unknown community, that is, until Mr. McColloch purchased the London Bridge (yes, that London Bridge) from the European city of London. The bridge was dismantled, sent to the United States, and carefully reassembled in Lake Havasu City. It was completed in 1971 and gained international attention.

To further enhance the town's European appeal, McColloch's property group decided to build an open-air mall by the northeast corner of London Bridge. It was called the "English Village," and this is where tourists could shop and dine while getting a taste of a European-style village. Views of London Bridge and the lake were just added bonuses.

The English-style facades of the buildings look as though they are ripped out of a fairytale — it's absolutely charming here! Located within the English Village is the Lake Havasu Visitor Center, which is worth stopping by to ask about local tours and pick up a town map.

If you visit Lake Havasu City's English Village during the holiday season, you'll be in for a real treat! This shopping village transforms into an enchanting Christmas village decorated with twinkling lights. Come here to dine at one of the local restaurants, grab a beer at a pub, and shop for presents. This waterfront village is unlike any other place in Arizona.

Have you been to this waterfront village in Lake Havasu City, Arizona? If so, do you agree that it feels like it belongs in Europe? Visit the Go Lake Havasu website for more information on the English Village, including a list of local guided tour operators and boat rentals.

Lake Havasu is a fascinating place that I would love to return to — it's been too long since I was last here. To help plan your visit, check out some of the best things to see and do in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. If you need a place to stay, book a room at the London Bridge Resort, which has its own waterpark overlooking Lake Havasu.

Looking for another small Arizona town that feels European? Discover the wonderful mountain town of Bisbee.