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It’s that time of the year when the leaves change, the summer sun turns into a slight breeze, and travelers are looking for the next cozy place to travel. Shoulder season in Europe means more travelers are staying local within the U.S.
Luckily for them, the U.S. has many options when it comes to the fall season. Think apple cider donuts, hues of red and orange, and outdoor breweries.
While nowhere in the world can ever feel exactly like Europe, there are certainly a handful of places that offer the same vibes.
When people think of fall in the U.S., they jump straight to the New England states.
Fall is filled with foliage-chasing road trips from New York up to Maine, but there’s another fan-favorite that makes fall the best season for many: Oktoberfest!
There are a few states on the list that have become particularly popular amongst locals and tourists because they’re reminiscent of Europe in different ways: the way the locals live, certain traditions, and their unique architecture
Frankenmuth
Bavarian-style architecture greets guests as soon as they step foot in Frankenmuth. It’s very difficult not to feel as though you've been transported straight to a fairytale town in Europe!
The Michigan-based city prides itself on sharing its German roots through its traditional restaurants, design, and best of all, Oktoberfest. Beer steins, Oompa dancers, and a sea of people dressed to the nines, Frankenmuth knows how to celebrate.
Donned with colorful houses, horse-drawn carriages, and a Bavarian Belle riverboat, this small city has a lot to offer every type of traveler lucky enough to visit.
Leavenworth
When Americans think of European vibes, they think of Leavenworth. Situated in the heart of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, the village is a dreamy place to visit year-round.
A Bavarian-style village, it feels particularly European in the fall and winter months when the leaves change and the snow falls. The Alpine-style houses are reminiscent of those that can be found in Hallstatt, Austria.
Stroll the main street and pop in somewhere for a German beer while admiring the mountain views: it really can’t be missed. Breweries, a Nutcracker museum, and even a reindeer farm, there’s plenty here to keep visitors entertained. (Oktoberfest is a must-do here).
Solvang
Think miniature town lined with charming architecture and small windmills, and you’ve found Solvang, California. Famous for its Danish-style exteriors, the European-inspired city is full of museums and wineries.
Enjoy a horse or trolley ride through the city, stopping off at the local storefronts for a souvenir or two. If you’re in the mood for a little fun, you can visit one 1 of 20 downtown tasting rooms where you’re welcome to try a selection of wine and beers.
A favorite for locals is their annual Oktoberfest. Stop by for traditional German outfits, dancers, beer-drinking contests, and mouth-watering treats.
Pella
It’s easy to see the historical influencers of Pella’s past in its architecture and culture. Founded by Dutch immigrants, this Iowa city feels a little like Amsterdam in its style.
Narrow buildings and windmills showcase the city’s European past, with a small canal flowing through its center. The replicated Dutch square is buzzing year-round with visitors and locals.
Visit the 150-year-old ‘Amsterdam School’ or stroll through Brinkhoff Park; you’ll feel as though you’ve hopped on a plane and landed straight in Europe!
Fredericksburg
An endearing city in Texas, Fredericksburg feels like a little piece of home. The city’s German heritage can be found throughout. The local square holds a replica of the German-style church that once stood there, and history buffs can learn more at the Pioneer Museum.
Fredericksburg attracts hundreds of people each year thanks to its friendly locals, abundance of wineries, and quaint storefronts. It truly is a Texan hidden gem.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Adrian Pocea
Sunday 17th of September 2023
Why does it matter how much a place resembles Europe? I mean, the fall foliage in US, New England particularly but also others is unparalleled. New England in general has more charm in the fall than most places in Europe. Also, it would be stupid to visit Texas for the European vibes of one tiny place. America has its own charm and uniqueness, if you want Europe you visit Europe
Jann Loderhose
Saturday 16th of September 2023
How can you not have St.Augustine Florida,on this list? Founded in 1565 by the Spanish, it is by far the oldest and most authentic 'European' town in the United States. Unlike places like Leavenworth Washington, which I have been to a number of times, and which was remodeled in the 1960's to LOOK like a European mountain town, to draw in tourists, Saint Augustine was ORIGINALLY a Spanish European town with authentic and original European architecture. It has been under different flags over the centuries, and a number of different cultural groups settled there, so there are authentic examples of different kinds architecture in Saint Augustine, but the Spanish influence is most evident.
KT
Monday 11th of September 2023
Danish refers to Denmark. Dutch is Netherlands.