Camilla Terry Europe is undeniably beautiful & mesmerizing just because of its history, culture, food & more. Travel to Europe requires a plane ride and plane ticket prices fluctuate-that could be expensive to reach. You may search for places in North America that feel like Europe. If that’s the case, this blog post is for you.
Throughout North America, there are various places that not only feel like Europe but also feature traditional European architecture, food, music & festivals. That means there’s no need to get passport and book your ticket to travel to Europe as North America has all. Read on to discover famous places!
12 Places in North America that feel like Europe
From small towns with cobblestone streets to classic architecture and European aroma & flair, North America has almost all that you might want to experience in Europe.
Explore North America Map:
Here are 12 places in the US and Canada that feel like Europe:
1. Cape Breton Island, Canada
Before becoming an official part of Canada, the Cape Breton Island has been owned by three states. These are British, Portuguese & French.
It’s one of the best and most famous destinations to enjoy seafood, scenic seascapes, and Celtic fiddle music. Also, gorgeous natural beauty, amazing cultural heritage, and European aroma make it the best place to visit.
Location
- It is located in Nova Scotia at the eastern extremity of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Best Time to Visit
- July & August 6, 2024
2. New Orleans, Louisiana
Stunning buildings, rich Creole cuisine, and a quiet atmosphere make New Orleans a hub spot for tourists. New Orleans was founded back in 1718, almost more than a year ago.
This place is nicknamed as the “Big Easy,” famous for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live music scene, and French, African, and American cultures.
Location
- Located on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico.
Best Time to Visit
- December–January
- February–May
3. Santa Barbara, California
The sunny coastline, stunning historical architecture, and the local community in Santa Barbara, California will surely make your experience memorable.
While staying there, one must go to the County Courthouse and Shoreline Park. For a refreshing beverage, you could go to Cold Spring Tavern for an unforgettable experience.
Location
- It is situated on the central California coast.
Best Time to Visit
- Late spring or early fall
4. Grand Marais, Minnesota
Grand Marais in Minnesota comes with just 6 artist-designed suites inside the brick building with an Airbnb feel. From this spot, you can easily amazing views of Lake Superior Harbor from the roof deck while enjoying coffee or tea. Some of the famous amenities of this accommodation are custom coffee, room cleaning & toiletries.
Location
- It is located in Minnesota, United States.
Best Time to Visit
- Early summer, or spring and fall seasons
5. Querétaro, Mexico
It was founded back in 1531 by Franciscan monks. Querétaro, Mexico is famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
Also, this city is a strong business and economic center with quality infrastructure. Quaint streets with winding alleyways and famous baroque buildings just need to be explored.
Location
- It’s located in Central Mexico.
Best Time to Visit
- February and March
6. Quebec City, Canada
Just a 3-hour drive from the US and is considered one of the best places in America that look like the English countryside. Quebec City in Canada is basically a walled city enriched with architecture, culture, heritage, and art. Cobble-stoned streets and amazing food will definitely give you amazing European feel.
Location
- Located in the Canadian province of Quebec.
Best Time to Visit
- July and August
7. Leavenworth, Washington
In the 1960s, Leavenworth Washington was remodeled just because of resembled the German Village. You can enjoy various year-round programs & events in this place that will give you totally European vibe.
You can enjoy events like the Christmas Lighting Festival & the Autumn Leaf Festival with amazing views of the Cascade Mountains.
Location
- The Cascade Mountains, in central Washington State.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter is the best time to visit.
8. Puebla, Mexico
Famous for its Spanish colonial architecture, just 75 miles away from main Mexico City. Puebla’s historic center is considered as UNESCO World Heritage site in which there is a museum. Museo Amparo comes with an extensive display of pre-Hispanic art, such as ceramics and mural fragments. All in all, it will be a great experience for you.
Location
- Located in east-central Mexico, southeast of Mexico City.
Best Time to Visit
- February, March, April, October & November.
9. Boston, Massachusetts
If you want to make you feel as if you have stepped into Great Britain, Boston in Massachusetts is one of the best places to go for even if you want to visit the amazing beaches too. In Boston, various cities that are situated in metro area are named after cities in the UK. The weather here is extremely cold and snowy but we assure you can enjoy your time with snowy fun.
Location
- Located in the Massachusetts Commonwealth in the U.S.A.
Best Time to Visit
- May to June
- September to October
10. Holland, Michigan
Amazing town in western Michigan was founded back in the 19th century by Dutch settlers. With the time, it has now become a most famous tourist destination. It’s very close to Lake Michigan and visitors flock to this town to see mesmerizing lake views, the Dutch Village theme park and the annual Tulip Time festival.
Location
- Located near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan on Lake Macatawa.
Best Time to Visit
- June to August
11. Portland, Oregon
Most of the tourists said that Portland, Oregon feels like Berlin. Portland evokes a European feel with amazing beer culture and environmentalism effect.
If you love exploring any tourist place on a bike, this place is for you. You can rent bikes or take complete biking advantage of Portland’s bike share program.
Location
- It’s located in the Pacific Northwest region.
Best Time to Visit
- June to August
12. New Glarus, Wisconsin
Also known as “Little Switzerland” and was founded by Swiss immigrants. New Glarus, Wisconsin features Swiss-style architecture in the form of Swiss festivals and Swiss cuisines.
If you want to explore Switzerland and want to know about Swiss ancient history, you can explore New Glarus without going to Switzerland.
Location
- Located in Green County, Wisconsin, United States.
Best Time to Visit
- During summer
Wrapping Up!
North America boasts plenty of European-inspired destinations, offering a unique combination of history, culture, and delicious foods. Also, you can discover world-class museums enriched with European history.
Whether you seek the romance of a French village, the charm of stunning colonial architecture, or learn about Swiss heritage/ history, these 12 places in North America that feel like Europe will get you to the heart of Europe without getting any ticket or passport. Be safe & happy always!
FAQs
1. Which part of Canada is like Europe?
Québec City, Canada just feels like a European paradise. The European-inspired architecture, narrow streets, and European aroma & flair make it a European-like destination for tourists.
2. What US city is most like Italy?
Various places in US feel like Italy but the most famous ones are:
Catalina Island, California
Coral Gables, Florida
Napa Valley, California
North Cascades National Park, Washington
3. What US city is most like Germany?
Leavenworth, Washington is one of the best US cities that most like Germany. Millions of tourists flock to this city every year just because of European charm and Bavarian mountain village.
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