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You want to hop on a flight to gaze at the gorgeous architecture in France, sip on refreshing beer in Germany, and ski down mountains in Switzerland, but there's a catch: you lack the cash and vacation days to cross the Atlantic.
Sound familiar? Don't worry — North America is filled with cities and towns that are packed with plenty of European-inspired flair (think charming cobblestone streets, outdoor cafes, and rich history).
Here, we rounded up several alternatives to your favorite European destinations. They're all just a road trip or short flight from home, but feel a world away.
Where to go instead of France
Francophiles who can't travel all the way to Paris can experience the city's charm in Canada's Quebec City. Marvel at the historic buildings, including the nearly 400-year-old Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Quebec, or settle inside a cafe on Rue du Petit-Champlain, which was voted the most beautiful street in Canada.
Montreal, Quebec’s largest city, also gives travelers a taste of being in France without the long flight and jet lag. The predominantly French-speaking city offers old-world European charm plus award-winning restaurants, shops, and a vibrant music and nightlife scene.
Then, there’s New Orleans. From the language (etouffée, anyone?) to the architecture and cuisine, the Big Easy is beaming with French influence. Head to the city's famed French Quarter, which features plenty of cafes with outdoor seating for people-watching, live jazz, art galleries, world-class cuisine, and more.
Where to go instead of Germany
Those with Germany on their bucket list might consider Milwaukee instead. Hear us out. The city, which boasts a large German immigrant population, comes with plenty of German-influenced staples like hofbrau, German Fest, and traditional restaurants like Mader's.
Leavenworth, Washington, is another spot where you can soak in German culture. About two hours from Seattle, the mountainside town was actually modeled after a real-life Bavarian village. The locals even host their own version of Oktoberfest plus traditional markets during Christmas.
New Braunfels in Texas, where German immigrants settled in 1845, also feels like a mini Germany. Sure, locals might be dressed in cowboy hats instead of lederhosen, but everything from the food to buildings will make visitors feel like they've landed in Europe. The destination also features a German-themed water park called Schlitterbahn.
Where to go instead of Amsterdam
When you think of Europe, Iowa isn't the first place to come to mind. But the city of Pella is home to loads of Dutch-style architecture. There’s even a classic windmill near the main park. In May, the city hosts the Tulip Time festival, which is chock-full of tulips, Dutch garb, parades, food, and more. Don't leave without stopping by Vander Ploeg, a Dutch bakery that doles out delicious apple bread and creme horns.
And you can’t talk about Amsterdam without mentioning one of its most famous highlights — recreational marijuana. Thanks to places like Colorado, folks no longer have to travel across the pond to legally indulge. Finally, make your way to Dubbel Dutch for sandwiches and Dutch groceries.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider