35 Cities That Feel Like a Different Country Without Leaving the U.S.

33. Helen, Georgia: A Bavarian Village in the Appalachian Foothills

Like Leavenworth, Helen, Georgia, fully embraced a Bavarian architectural theme in the 1960s to revitalize its economy, creating a highly successful and immersive experience. Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian foothills, Helen features cobblestone streets, Bavarian-style chalets, and shops selling cuckoo clocks, German beer steins, and Black Forest-inspired crafts. The town is famous for its lively Oktoberfest celebration, which draws crowds for polka music, bratwurst, and German beer. It’s a whimsical, family-friendly escape that authentically captures the festive spirit of an Alpine village, deep in the American South.