Heritage Havens: Galena (IL) Ranked Among Top U.S. Destinations With a ‘Foreign Feel’, Finds Traveler Poll

• Poll of 3,023 travelers. 
• Other Illinois destinations included were Long Grove.
• Infographic showing the country’s top 140 ‘heritage havens’.

Ever dreamed of gliding through Venice’s canals on a gondola or wandering Paris’s romantic streets? For a lot of Americans, those kinds of international trips just aren’t in the cards -whether it’s time, money, or something else holding them back. But here’s the upside: you don’t have to leave the U.S. to get a taste of the world. Scattered across the country are towns bursting with international vibes, letting you soak in foreign charm without ever needing to pack a suitcase.

To uncover the most sought-after U.S. destinations with a ‘foreign feel,’ Turn the Paige Travel commissioned a survey of 3,023 travelers to discover which of these towns they would most like to visit. The top 5 were as follows:

#1. New Orleans (French Quarter), Louisiana.
Established in 1718 by French colonists, the French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood. Following devastating fires in the late 18th century, much of the area was rebuilt under Spanish rule, resulting in the distinctive architecture seen today. Visitors can admire buildings with flat-tiled roofs, pastel stucco walls, inner courtyards, and ornate wrought-iron balconies—features introduced during the Spanish colonial era. The neighborhood’s street names remain in French, and its vibrant Creole culture is palpable through its cuisine, language, and traditions like Mardi Gras and French-inspired music. This unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences makes the French Quarter a living testament to Louisiana’s colonial past. 

#2. Savannah, Georgia.
Founded by British colonists in 1733, Savannah blends British and French influences. We can see it in its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and elegant public squares. Designed by General James Oglethorpe, the city’s grid layout mirrors European planning traditions. Landmarks like the Regency-style Owens-Thomas House and Telfair Academy showcase British architectural elegance, while French Huguenot influence adds to its charm. Visitors can stroll beneath Spanish moss-draped oaks, explore centuries-old homes, and dine in European-inspired cafés, making Savannah a picturesque Southern city with a distinctly European feel.

#3. San Antonio (Historic District), Texas.
San Antonio’s Spanish colonial heritage is evident in its famous River Walk –  lined with cafes, and festive markets, historic missions (like the UNESCO-listed Alamo), and vibrant atmosphere that mirrors cities in southern Spain. Established in the early 1700s, the city retains its southern Spanish charm, with annual Fiesta San Antonio celebrations, Spanish-language tours, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore centuries-old cathedrals, enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine influenced by Spanish flavors, and immerse themselves in a cultural landscape rich with history and tradition.

#4. Sitka, Alaska.
Sitka blends Russian colonial heritage with Alaskan culture, offering visitors a glimpse into Russia’s 19th-century presence in America. The town features onion-domed churches like St. Michael’s Cathedral and various Russian-era buildings, giving visitors a taste of Russia’s colonial history in America. The Russian-American Building No. 29 (1835) further showcases Russian-era architecture. Today, Sitka preserves its Russian legacy through museums, festivals, and Orthodox traditions, keeping its immigrant influence alive.

#5. Sleepy Hollow, New York.
With its historic ties to Dutch settlers and its old-world atmosphere, Sleepy Hollow resembles a storybook European village with its 17th-century church and scenic Hudson River setting. The Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow stands as a testament to this legacy. This historic church and its surrounding burying ground are immortalized in Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Visitors can explore the church and its picturesque grounds, experiencing the village’s old-world charm along the scenic Hudson River.

2 Illinois destinations with a foreign feel emerged among the most sought-after among travelers (including national positions):

#33. Galena
Galena’s historic charm, with preserved 19th-century brick buildings and cobblestone streets, feels reminiscent of a European hillside village. Its scenic river views add to its timeless appeal. Historically, Galena attracted a diverse immigrant population. In the early 19th century, Irish immigrants were instrumental in lead mining operations, contributing significantly to the city’s growth. Additionally, German immigrants settled in Galena, engaging in various trades and enriching the cultural fabric of the community. Today, Galena’s rich immigrant heritage is reflected in its architecture and cultural traditions.

#37. Long Grove
Long Grove, IL, is a charming village with German heritage, reflected in its half-timbered buildings and festivals. Early settlers from the Rhineland brought their language and traditions, shaping the town’s culture. Today, visitors enjoy artisan shops, seasonal events, and historic architecture. The village is also home to one of Illinois’ oldest covered bridges and scenic nature preserves. Whether exploring boutiques or strolling its picturesque streets, Long Grove offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.

Infographic showing the country’s top 140 ‘heritage havens’

“Traveling the world isn’t always feasible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience international charm right here at home. Our survey highlights the most beloved towns across America that transport visitors to faraway places through their architecture, culture, and traditions. These destinations prove that you don’t need a passport to embark on a global adventure,” says James Paige, Founder of Turn the Paige Travel.