No Passport? No Problem! These US Spots Feel Like Other Countries
From a Danish village in California to a Bavarian town in Georgia, these seven American destinations give families an international experience without the overseas price tag.
Not every family can afford long plane rides or trips overseas. Buying multiple plane tickets can cost thousands of dollars and blow a family's budget fast. The good news is that there are places in the United States that look and feel just like other countries — and you do not need a passport to get there.
Travel experts have found seven US spots where families can enjoy an international experience without leaving the country. Many of these towns were built or settled by immigrants who brought their home country's culture, food, and architecture with them. Some also offer a chance to learn about the history of Native Americans who lived in those areas long ago.
Solvang, California, is a town on the Central Coast that was founded by Danish immigrants in 1911. Its colorful buildings and European style make it feel like a village straight out of Denmark. Families can ride the Solvang Trolley, visit local museums, explore OstrichLand USA, and cool off with ice cream at the trolley's own ice cream parlor.
Chimayo, New Mexico, is a quiet mountain village about 30 minutes from Santa Fe that looks like the countryside of rural Mexico. Its adobe buildings, weaving shops, and slow pace of life make it a truly unique place to visit. Families can learn about local history at the Chimayo Museum and the El Santuario de Chimayo church, or head outdoors to raft on the Rio Grande Gorge.
Holland, Michigan, is famous for its tulip fields that bloom every spring, just like in the Netherlands. The Tulip Time Festival is one of the biggest events in the city and draws crowds from across the country. Families can also explore Nelis' Dutch Village, Windmill Island Gardens, and the shallow, family-friendly Ottawa Beach.
The 1000 Islands region of New York, near Alexandria Bay, has a dramatic landscape of small islands and deep blue water that resembles parts of northwestern France. Boldt Castle, which sits on one of the islands, makes visitors feel like they have stepped into a European story. Fun activities in the area include hiking, boating, go-kart rides, and attending the annual French Festival in Cape Vincent.
Alys Beach, Florida, has white stucco buildings and bright blue water that look just like the Greek island of Santorini. Located along Florida's Panhandle, it offers families a resort-style pool, private beach access, bike rentals, a nature trail, and an outdoor amphitheater with movie nights and concerts. Since there are no hotels in Alys Beach, most visitors rent vacation homes, while nearby Panama City Beach offers traditional hotels.
You can satisfy your craving for foreign landscapes and cultures with one of these US family vacations that feel just like a visit to another country.
Comprehension quiz preview
1. In what year was Solvang, California, founded by Danish immigrants?
2. Which US town is said to feel like Bavaria, Germany?
3. What annual event in Holland, Michigan, celebrates its Dutch heritage?