15 Destinations in the U.S. That Feel Like a European Holiday

When planning our next big, bucket-list-worthy vacation, many of us broaden our horizons to include faraway destinations across the globe. Europe, in particular, is a continent on everyone's bucket list; from the mountains of the Alps and the vineyards of Tuscany to the castles of England and the streets of Paris, a European vacation is surely something that belongs on every adventurer's to-do list.

While these getaways are certainly amazing adventures, you don't have to travel across the pond to enjoy a taste of Europe; there are many, many destinations in our own country wherein one can experience an authentic European escape. Here are 15 European getaways in the U.S.:

1. Experience a European Holiday in Leavenworth, Washington

You'll feel as though you've been whisked away to the German Alps when you visit Leavenworth, Washington, one of the most enchanting towns in the Pacific Northwest. While outdoor options abound in this part of the country, Leavenworth is a cultural hub for those looking for an authentic, European-style après-ski experience. Here you'll find German specialties, including sausages, schnitzel, sauerkraut, pastries, potato salad, and of course, plenty of beer. During the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, ice climbing, sleigh rides, and more, but don't discount Leavenworth in the warmer months, as the town offers incredible rafting, river tubing, and hiking. It's certainly one of the best European towns in the U.S.

2. Enjoy a European Vibe in Venice, California

Venice, California, is our country's most iconic and effusive European-influenced town. The Venice Canal Historic District was built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, whose "Venice of America" in Los Angeles earned him much acclaim and a place among America's great visionaries. His project brought the beauty and architecture of Venice’s canals right to the coastal town of Southern California, creating a space for all to enjoy.

The historic district has four canals lined with gorgeous waterfront properties, and bridges connect the two sides. You can take a walk up and down the canal, overlooking the stunning views and enjoying some peace and quiet from the bustle of Venice Beach. And in true Italian style, visitors can hop a gondola and take a ride through the canal, gliding under the bridges and through this impossibly charming neighborhood.

3. Experience a European Holiday in Solvang, California

Hailed as the Danish Capital of America, Solvang is a charming SoCal town filled with quaint shops and an iconic white-and-red windmill. This one-of-a-kind town houses a population of just under 6,000 residents, and its small-town charm is simply unforgettable – no matter how many times you’ve visited. Embrace all things Denmark as you make your way through town; Danish bakeries, unique architecture, and tasty cuisine await throughout Solvang. The name means "sunny fields" in Danish, which is appropriate for Southern California's warm, sunny weather.

4. Experience a European-Style Alpine Getaway in Vail, Colorado

A trip to Vail, Colorado, will make you swear you've left the States and been transported to a quaint European town. Founded as the base village for Vail Ski Resort in 1966, this Colorado locale has peak ski-town vibes, with beautiful lodges, world-class attractions, and an amazing district of shops and restaurants. But Vail is so much more than a wintertime retreat; this Colorado mountain town has broken free from ski-town stereotypes, hosting unique festivals, building a vibrant business district, and positioning itself as a superlative year-round destination in the U.S.

5. Step Into a Storybook Holiday in San Antonio, Texas

The spirit of Spain is alive and well in San Antonio, Texas, with its River Walk feeling straight out of España. As the top attraction in Texas, the San Antonio River Walk welcomes a staggering 14 million visitors annually, and it deserves all the praise and publicity it receives. With a vibrant Hispanic culture that invigorates all your senses and a plethora of enticing restaurants and shops, it's easy to see why so many people flock to this lively destination in the Lone Star State.

You'll want to get here early, both to beat the inevitable midday heat and to ensure ample time to sightsee to your heart's content. Head across the bridge spanning the river to enjoy 360-degree views and figure out where to go next on your very own European trip in Texas.

6. Savor Old-World Charm and Architecture in Kansas City, Missouri

In the heart of the Midwest, Kansas City, Missouri, might be the country's most surprisingly European city. Since the Country Club Plaza in downtown Kansas City was architecturally designed to mimic the Spanish city of Seville, visiting Kansas City can feel a bit disorienting, in the most marvelous way. The towers and courtyards might distract from the fact that you're more likely to find BBQ than tapas in Kansas City, but this fusion of cultures is worth celebrating, and what makes our country so special.

7. Experience Windmills and Tulips on a European-Style Visit to Pella, Iowa

Pella, Iowa, is often touted as the country's most charming Dutch-inspired city – and really, we don't disagree. Known for its Dutch culture and postcard-perfect downtown, this Iowa locale is one of the most delightful small towns in the country, period. Located less than an hour from Des Moines, Pella is a small town that feels like entering another time and place – and country. Founded by immigrants from Holland in 1847, Pella is a place that celebrates its Dutch culture and heritage. Evidence of this is easy to see in Downtown Pella, which features Dutch-inspired architecture, several iconic windmills, including the Vermeer Windmill, and numerous Dutch bakeries and shops.

Each spring, this small town comes alive in color, with its annual Tulip Festival attracting visitors from all across the Midwest, who come to experience the simple joy of beautiful blooms and exuberant Dutch culture.

8. Stroll Through Bavarian Streets in Frankenmuth, Michigan

Holland is often hailed as Michigan's very own slice of the Old Country, but Frankenmuth might have its Dutch brethren beat in the charm department. With a bustling population of around 5,000, Frankenmuth’s downtown is abundant with Bavarian architecture and other tributes to this unique heritage. Stop in at Zehnder’s Restaurant or the Bavarian Inn to enjoy a famous chicken dinner served by a waiter or waitress in traditional Bavarian garb.

Just down the street, you’ll find Frankenmuth Brewery – the oldest of its kind in Michigan. With a dachshund logo and a delightful selection of beers to enjoy, this brewery will quickly become one of your favorites – as will this entire little town! This is one of the most charming towns in the U.S.

9. Step Into a European-Style Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana

While famous for Mardi Gras, the spirit of New Orleans is far deeper than the pomp and revelry of this event. Its history is an inextricable part of the New Orleans experience; since French colonists founded the city and later ceded to Spain, it feels like a unique blend of both countries. The wrought iron balconies and the famous Jackson Square reflect the city's French influences, as does its cuisine.

Food, in particular, is a huge part of the NOLA experience, and there are some truly iconic spots you'll definitely want to visit. From the beignets at Café Du Monde and oysters Rockefeller at Antoine’s, New Orleans is an experience that is colorful, delicious, and larger-than-life.

10. Experience Spanish Colonial Charm in Historic St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine often gets overshadowed by Florida's big names like Miami and Orlando, but this town really does deserve your attention. The epitome of Old Florida charm, St. Augustine is a place of fascinating history and culture. Dating back 450 years, St. Augustine is one of the country's oldest and most historic cities, and places like Castillo de San Marcos National Monument celebrate its Spanish culture and legacy.

But the town is more than just historical sites and museums; its downtown district along Aviles Street – the oldest street in the country, in fact – has amazing local shops, incredible restaurants, and top-rated distilleries, making for a wholly delightful, European-meets-American experience.

11. Step Into a Bavarian Village in Helen, Georgia

Beautiful Helen is a bit of an anachronism; this charming little locale feels much more like Germany than Georgia. With just a population of fewer than 1,000 residents, Helen offers a small-town experience that feels, quite literally, worlds away from everything. In this charming mountain town, you'll discover classic Bavarian architecture and restaurants serving German favorites like schnitzel, soft pretzels, and, of course, great beer.

Kids are sure to enjoy the town's mountain coaster, water park, and riverfront beaches, while adults will enjoy hiking in beautiful spots such as Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area and Smithgall Woods State Park. Of course, we wouldn't blame you if you want to revel in Helen's delightful downtown, an idyllic locale straight out of a postcard. It's one of the best small-town getaways in the U.S.

12. Stroll Through Charleston’s European-Inspired Historic District in South Carolina

Named after King Charles II of England, this Southern town shares many similarities with European cities, such as grand churches, cobblestone streets, and short, colorful buildings. Over the past few years, Charleston, South Carolina, has quietly become one of the coolest cities in the South. With its towering trees and iconic architecture, Charleston is one of the most beautiful towns in the U.S., with a historic district that's both fascinating and irresistibly charming.

Anchoring this town, though, is a vibrant food scene that is an inextricable part of the city's cultural identity, combining its Southern soul with its European influences and roots. Charleston’s Historic French Quarter and City Market are two of its most iconic places, offering visitors an immersive historical context with a heaping side of amazing cuisine. From historic pubs and French bistros to classic Southern cooking and Lowcountry cuisine, you'll enjoy a culinary tour de force in charming Charleston, South Carolina.

13. Sip Wine Amid European-Style Vineyards at Nicewonder Farm, Virginia

In recent years, Virginia has emerged as a dark horse in the U.S. wine-growing arena. Not only are Virginia-grown grapes becoming more and more popular, but the wineries themselves are beautiful places to spend time. Nowhere is that truer than Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards in Bristol, a breathtaking destination in the Virginia Highlands where you can sip local wine and spend the night inside a yurt right there on the property.

You'll feel as though you've been whisked away to the vineyards of Tuscany when visiting Virginia's Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards. However, while this winery gives off serious European vibes, this vineyard is decidedly Virginian. You'll immediately notice the rolling hills, mountain views, and stunning scenery for as far as the eye can see, making for an authentic, European-inspired getaway in Virginia's glorious Wine Country.

14. Experience Old-World Charm and Architecture in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia may be a city steeped in important U.S. history, but its downtown feels decidedly European. The Philadelphia City Hall is a French-inspired architectural marvel, and, with over 14.5 acres of floor space, America's most prominent Municipal Building. Other global influences can be felt in Downtown Philly as well; the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a stunning Greek temple, while Boathouse Row resembles the waterfront homes of Venice or Amsterdam.

15. Step Into European-Style Charm in Montpelier, Vermont

New England has a vibe all its own that's a bit buttoned up and, well, decidedly New England. But Montpelier, Vermont? It's a European iconoclast, providing a fanciful taste of France to all who visit. Aside from being the capital of Vermont, Montpelier is named after the French city with the same name, but we firmly believe the views in Vermont's Montpelier have its French sibling beat. With its stunning vistas, French-inspired architecture, lush parks, walkable downtown, and vibrant shopping and dining district, Montpellier truly feels like a trip across the pond. And to that, we say, "Bonjour et Bienvenue (hello and welcome) to Montpelier, Vermont!"

While we are certainly all for enjoying global adventures, you needn't venture overseas for a bucket-list-worthy, European escape. Ready to plan your own European-inspired getaway? Be sure to use our itinerary planner to build a personalized trip featuring these unforgettable destinations.