This Charming Lakefront Town in Oregon Feels Like It Belongs in Europe

The United States has many towns that are purposefully built to imitate European towns, such as Solvang in California (Danish-influenced) or Leavenworth in Washington (Bavarian-style). These are so purposefully crafted that they seem more like tourist attractions rather than places to actually settle down and live in. There are, however, other cities and towns in the United States that do feel as if they belong in Europe, just in a more subtle way. Lake Oswego in Oregon is one such lakeside town that seems as if it were made for a green European countryside. 

What Makes Lake Oswego Feel “European”?

When non-Europeans say that something appears European, or belongs in Europe, what does this really mean? Europe is a continent with multiple countries, cultures, and histories, so how can something be placed under such a broad umbrella? Well, often it refers to a visual aesthetic, certain design elements that can be seen in multiple countries in Europe. It can also refer to commonly held traits and values seen in European countries. 

European Charm in Lake Oswego: Railroads, Architecture, and Lifestyle

So, how does Lake Oswego fit? First, its railroad presence. Europe is famous for being well connected by rail, with some stretches of track renowned for their views or for the trains themselves. In any case, many towns and cities have a railroad track in the community or at least nearby. Although Lake Oswego’s railroad isn’t for commuters—although there is an adorable trolley nearby—it runs directly through the middle of its downtown district and borders the lake. The town was originally built as a hub for the iron industry in the latter part of the 19th century, and, as such, the railroad was vital. The town is not an iron hub any longer, but the train still chugs along, and you can hear its charming whistle from miles away. 

Next, design. When the town was clearly not going to be a center for iron, land developers realized its value due to its proximity to Portland and swooped in. Soon, houses were built in the style of Tudor revival and English cottage, as well as French provincial and Victorian, to a lesser extent. Today, these homes still exist, and newly built houses often imitate their neighbors' designs to create a more cohesive neighborhood. The rest of the town was built with the idea of keeping things open and spacious while staying connected to the lake and nature as a whole. The downtown area is clean and was deliberately built in contrast to a modern, minimalistic style. Instead, many walls are stone, and flowers and plants decorate every corner. There’s even an open-air farmers market nestled in the downtown area during the summer and autumn months, where one can sample local goods.

Food, Walkability, and Everyday Details

Then, there are the little things. Food, of course, is always important, and Lake Oswego doesn’t fall short. There’s a boulangerie and a French patisserie store, as well as an Irish pub and multiple Italian options, with a bit of Eastern European flair thrown in as well. But the European "vibe" is also in how the town (currently) has only a few big-name chain restaurants and is exceedingly walkable. It's also in the multiple parks and open spaces with a clear respect for the environment, and in the galleries and wine bars available. 

Lake Oswego has a charm to it that usually only comes with a long history. But in this town’s case, the charm comes from the love that goes into so many details of the town, including the shops and various restaurants. This quaint, beautiful town in Oregon may not actually be European, but it can make you feel as if you’re sitting by a lake in Europe for even just a small while.