32 Times Small-Town America Felt Like a Hidden European Village

30. The Belgian Charm of Ghent, Minnesota

This tiny town may share a name with Belgium’s medieval jewel, and it holds onto that legacy with quiet pride. Founded by Belgian immigrants, Ghent offers a surprising slice of Flemish culture in the American Midwest. Street names, church architecture, and community festivals reflect its European roots. The annual Belgian-American Days include waffle breakfasts, traditional music, and parades celebrating the town’s heritage. While it may be small, Ghent’s warmth and authenticity make it feel like a homecoming for anyone craving the comfort of heritage and a village pace of life.