If you’re dreaming of the cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture and charming cafes that scatter Europe, you can enjoy all of this closer to home. The United States has several towns and cities that capture the essence of Europe without the hefty price tag. We take a look at 12 budget-friendly destinations that feel like a European vacation:
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a place that is full of European charm, with its pastel-colored houses, cobblestone streets and wrought-iron balconies. Charleston’s main center is home to architectural designs that leave you feeling like you’re walking through cities like Athens and Rome, with its own unique history. Visitors can even enjoy food from around the world as the city’s culinary scene is a blend of Southern comfort food with French and African influences.
New Orleans, Louisiana
With its French Quarter architecture, jazz music scene and Creole cuisine, New Orleans looks and feels like a European city deep in the American South. The city has an energy that transports you far from the United States due to its distinctive fusion of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.
Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States so has a rich history with a distinctly European charm. Founded by Spanish explorers in 1565, the city’s architecture, culture and overall vibe create a sense of Old World elegance that you see in the likes of Paris and Vienna. With its cobblestone streets, historic forts and charming plazas, it’s easy to forget you’re in Florida. From the impressive Castillo de San Marcos to the quaint shops and abundance of restaurants lining St. George Street, St. Augustine is a great getaway for all.
Newport, Rhode Island
With its opulent mansions, a strong sailing culture and coastal charm, Newport has the ambiance of the French Riviera. Newport’s a popular summer retreat for the wealthy and enjoys European style architecture and the laidback lifestyle you would expect rich people to enjoy in Europe. Some homes in Newport also draw inspiration from English country houses, with symmetrical facades, red brick exteriors and sprawling lawns.
Leavenworth, Washington
Tucked in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth offers a charming European escape without the long flight. This hilly town features architecture influenced by the Bavarian style, with timber-framed structures, cuckoo clocks and authentic German bars and restaurants. From the lively Oktoberfest to its cozy atmosphere, Leavenworth gives visitors the taste of Bavaria making it a truly enchanting getaway.
Solvang, California
The quaint town of Solvang transports visitors to the heart of Denmark with its characteristic half-timbered homes and windmills. The town has a European ambiance, which is heightened as soon as you smell the scents coming from the delicious Danish bakeries. The town has a cozy café culture, like much of Europe and there’s lots of quirky shops where you can find souvenirs to remember your getaway.
Galena, Illinois
With its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and small-town charm, Galena offers a delightful European-style escape. Situated amidst rolling hills, this Illinois town has boutique shopping, antique hunting and cozy bed and breakfasts like you would see in France or Italy. History buffs will appreciate the town’s connection to Ulysses S. Grant, while outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding natural beauty, including the Victorian architecture that lines the Mississippi River.
Taos, New Mexico
In the Sangre de Cristo Mountains lies Taos, a town about 100 miles north of Santa Fe that’s known for its Pueblo-style architecture, art galleries and museums. The town is also near the World Heritage Site of Taos Pueblo. This artistic community with its adobe architecture and breathtaking landscapes has a distinct Southwestern flair with a touch of European bohemian spirit.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
With its blend of Native American and Spanish influences, Santa Fe offers a unique cultural experience for tourists near and far. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains have inspired artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Martin Hennings. You can visit the O’Keeffe museum as well as many other galleries along Canyon Road. With its adobe architecture, art galleries and emphasis on a slower pace of life, Sante Fe captures the essence of a charming Mediterranean village.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
This car-free island with its horse-drawn carriages and historic architecture evokes a European charm. Visitors can enjoy leisurely bike rides, horse-drawn carriage tours and hikes through lush forests. With its historic architecture, stunning natural beauty, and a slower pace of life, Mackinac Island offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor, Maine, captures the essence of a classic European coastal getaway. Its picturesque harbor, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park, evokes images of charming French or Irish seaside towns. The town’s spectacular Victorian architecture creates a sense of sophistication and tranquility that is often associated with European coastal resorts, and it offers an abundance of fresh seafood and outdoor sports.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
This picturesque town with its white sand beaches and charming cottages captures the essence of the French Riviera. Carmel-by-the-Sea has an almost fairytale-like atmosphere with enchanting European-style architecture, flower-lined streets, and a quaint village feel. Carmell boasts beautiful beaches, numerous art galleries, studios and events.
Santa Barbara, California
With its Spanish-style architecture, palm-lined boulevards and stunning coastal views, Santa Barbara often draws comparisons to European cities like Nice or Cannes. The city’s relaxed atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to the ocean and mountains, creates a truly relaxed experience with lazy days on the beach and long evenings eating Mediterranean cuisines while the sun goes down.
5 Canadian Provinces Predicted to Thrive in the Next Economic Boom
To thrive in an economic boom, a region needs good infrastructure, talented people, government policies that support growth and uplift the economy, and a culture of entrepreneurship. Often, the demography can also be a significant indicator of a region’s economy in the next few years. Although reports may vary on which regions will perform the best economically, certain regions come up on every list. Here are 5 Canadian provinces predicted to thrive in the next economic boom:
5 Canadian Provinces Predicted to Thrive in the Next Economic Boom
