11 Incredible 'Destination Dupes' in North America That Feel Like Europe For Less

2. Leavenworth, Washington: Bavaria in the Cascades

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian village that transports visitors to southern Germany. This transformation began in the 1960s when the town, struggling economically, reinvented itself as a Bavarian-style village to attract tourism. Its alpine architecture, complete with wooden balconies and painted murals, creates an authentic Bavarian atmosphere. Festivals like Oktoberfest and the Christmas Lighting Festival enhance this European illusion, drawing tourists from across the continent. The town's dedication to its theme extends to local businesses, where German cuisine and beer flow freely. Leavenworth's successful transformation highlights the power of cultural adaptation and community spirit in creating a slice of Europe amidst the American wilderness.