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This Michigan Town ‘Feels Like Europe’

Michigan has some beautiful areas, and as it turns out, some of those areas feel a lot like Europe. I’ve actually never been to Europe, but the folks who have…

This Michigan city feels like Europe

This Michigan city feels like Europe

Michigan has some beautiful areas, and as it turns out, some of those areas feel a lot like Europe. I've actually never been to Europe, but the folks who have are letting the world know which Michigan - and American - areas feel like they're straight out of Europe. If you're like me and have never been to countries such as France, Germany and Italy, then perhaps visiting these American cities will be the next closest thing.

The publication HouseBeautiful.com has released a special list of American towns that feel the most like Europe. They mention that traveling to these areas, of course, is less pricey than getting on a plant and jetting overseas. "Before you shell out hundreds (or, most likely, thousands) of dollars traveling across the ocean, you may want to look closer to home: There are plenty of cities in the United States that look just like those quaint, historic destinations in Europe," the publication states. "You're going to want to go to all of them, so start saving now!"

So, what are some characteristics of a European town? For starters, they often have cobblestone streets, lots of history and an Old World feel. European towns can be very romantic, too, so this list of American towns that mirror European ones could be a good list for a romantic getaway. So, which Michigan city actually made No. 1 on this list? Read on to find out- not to mention that another Michigan town also made the cut for the top 20. View the list of "American Towns That Look Straight Out of Europe," via HouseBeautiful.com, below, and for the full list, go here. Now I really want to start traveling around America and checking out these special towns.

20. New Britain, Connecticut

There's a lot of Polish influence in this small, beautiful town.

19. SoHo, New York City, New York

Of all the areas of the vast city of New York, SoHo is the most European, offering a very European flavor and design.

18. Poulsbo, Washington

Poulsbo was founded by a Norwegian immigrant and is often called "Little Norway on the Fjord."

17. Fredericksburg, Texas

This area of Texas has a German flavor, making it a very unique stop.

16. Holland, Michigan

Of course Holland is on this list! The area was founded by Dutch immigrants and is very Dutch. But, another Michigan city is No. 1 on the list, so keep reading.

15. Charleston, South Carolina

This city has lots of European architecture, such as cobblestone streets and beautiful churches.

14. Hermann, Missouri

This small area was founded by German immigrants.

13. Kansas City, Missouri

If you're looking for a Spanish getaway in America, this spot is a great pick, as it looks a lot like a Spanish city.

12. Helen, Georgia

This is a beautiful Alpine-like village.

11. Montpelier, Vermont

This spot was named after Montpelier, France, so it's obviously very French.

10. Tarpon Springs, Florida

This area has a big Greek-American population and is very Greek.

9. Venice, California

Of course Venice is on this list, because it's pretty much the American version of Italy!

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

This city brings together the best of France and Spain. Very European.

7. Pella, Iowa

This place as a true Netherlands feel. Very Dutch!

6. Vail, Colorado

Known for its skiing, Vail was modeled after Zermatt, Switzerland. It makes sense!

5. St. Augustine, Florida

This beautiful spot is known for its Spanish colonial architecture.

4. Solvang, California

This spot is known as the "Danish capital of America."

3. Healdsburg, California

There's lots of Italian tradition in this town.

2. Leavenworth, Washington

This town is very German and has the character of a small Bavarian village.

1. Frankenmuth, Michigan

Of course Frankenmuth would be No. 1 on this list! It is, after all, "Michigan's Little Bavaria."

American Towns That Look Straight Out of Europe

This list is via HouseBeautiful.com.

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.