While jetting off to Europe might be a dream, the United States is home to a surprising number of towns that offer faraway flair without any need for a passport. So, get ready for a whirlwind tour of Europe without the jet lag.

SOLVANG, California

Step into a fairy tale brought to life as you enter Solvang, nestled in California's Santa Ynez Valley.

Founded by Danish- American educators in the early 1900s, this town offers visitors an authentic Danish experience. Plan your visit during Solvang Danish Days, an annual cultural festival running for nearly 90 years.

Indulge in traditional Danish food like freshly baked aebleskiver (Danish pancake balls) or savory medisterpolse (sausage), before exploring the picturesque town complete with windmills , statues of Hans Christian Andersen and the Little Mermaid and ornamental storks perched on roofs — symbols of good luck in Denmark and Solvang!

Holland, Michigan

Nestled on the shore of Lake Macatawa, not far from Lake Michigan, this lively city of 34,000 boasts an unmistakable European flair. Founded in the 1840s, Holland's rich Dutch heritage continues to infuse its streets with picturesque architecture and charming traditions.

Experience Dutch heritage at the De Klomp Delft Factory , where you can witness the art of Delftware-making firsthand. Watch skilled artisans mold, hand-paint and glaze the only authentic blue and white Delftware crafted in the United States. Holland is also home to the only authentic operating Dutch windmill in the U.S., De Zwaan , which sits on 36 acres of exhibits, flower gardens and natural areas.

However, what the town may be best known for is its Tulip Time Festival . This week-long event started more than 90 years ago and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. During the festival, spectators are treated to a mesmerizing display of 65,000 vivid tulips as they walk through the immersion garden. The festival is also full of entertainment including traditional Dutch dancing.

LEAVENWORTH, Washington

Christmas year-round? Yes, please! Leavenworth, Washington, transformed itself into a Bavarian village in the 1960s, and the festive spirit remains year-round.

Timber-framed buildings, decorated with twinkling lights and nutcrackers, line the streets, while Christmas music fills the air. Enjoy a mug of hot gluhwein at the Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German Christmas market, or take a sleigh ride through the snow-covered town during the winter months.

LINDSBORG, Kansas

When you arrive in Lindsborg, Kansas, you will quickly find yourself saying "I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore." Also known as "Little Sweden" the town was founded by Swedish immigrants in the late 1860s and has remained true to its roots ever since.

As you explore Lindsborg, prepare to be charmed by a unique herd of whimsical Dala horses! These proud symbols of Sweden, each creatively decorated by local artists, roam freely throughout the city. Spot their vibrant colors and playful designs as they peek out from gardens, stand guard at cafes or gallop across public squares.

While the town celebrates its heritage throughout the year with events such as the Midsummer’s Festival and Millfest , visitors can get a taste of the Swedish culture no matter when they visit. Numerous eateries serve up traditional dishes and pastrie s including scrumptious homemade Swedish cinnamon rolls . Before you leave, stop into Hemslöjd Gift Shop to pick up your very own, handcrafted Dala horse.