The exterior design of American diners often brings to mind the silhouette of a train – an association that is not accidental. The term “diner” itself is rooted in the history of train travel, inspired by the dining car found on many trains. This history greatly influences various design elements within the diner, from the … Continue reading Decoding the Unique Aesthetics of American Diners
The Gruen Transfer: How Shopping Malls Disorient Visitors
Shopping malls, much like casinos, are purposely designed to create a disorienting experience for visitors, leading them to lose track of time and location within the complex. This sensation is known as the Gruen Transfer, named after Victor Gruen, an Austrian architect who disapproved of such manipulative tactics. The Gruen Transfer is achieved through various […]
The largest stadium in history…
The largest stadium in history, the Circus Maximus, built in 6BC Rome, it had a capacity of 300,000 spectators. The largest modern stadium, Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, holds a mere 150,000 spectators.
Bermuda has no natural water source…
Bermuda has no natural water source. Each house collects rainwater using white, stepped roofs.
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In 1925 William Randolph Hearst…
In 1925 William Randolph Hearst purchased the cloisters of a Spanish monastery, had it dismantled brick by brick, and shipped it all to the US. The pieces sat in a Brooklyn, NY warehouse for 26 years until two entrepreneurs bought them and rebuilt the structure in North Miami, FL.
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During WW II, Allies suspected that…
During WW II, Allies suspected that the Germans were using the Leaning Tower of Pisa as an observation post. Leon Weckstein, a U.S. Army sergeant sent to confirm this. But he was impressed by the beauty of Tower and thus refrained from ordering an artillery strike, sparing it from destruction.
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Houses in Bermuda have white stepped roofs…
Houses in Bermuda have white stepped roofs to harvest rain water and store it, as the island has no fresh-water springs, rivers or lakes.
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New Orleans architectural historian Samuel…
New Orleans architectural historian Samuel Wilson, Jr. stated that the term “shotgun” house is a reference to the idea that if all the doors are opened, a shotgun blast fired into the house from the front doorway will fly cleanly to the other end and out at the back.
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American Destinations That Make You Feel Like You’re in Europe
The pandemic is still in full swing in the United States. As a result, many countries, including those that are part of the European Union, have imposed travel bans or restrictions against US citizens.
Thankfully, if you’re dead-set on taking that vacation this year, there are at least 10 U.S destinations that will make you feel as if you’ve journeyed across the pond, without ever leaving American soil. And each of these U.S cities is rich with the history and culture of the settlers who founded them.
Let’s take a look!
1. Leavenworth, Washington
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It’s no accident that Leavenworth, WA looks so charming and inviting.
In the 1960s, after thirty years of economic struggle, town leaders agreed to adopt a Bavarian theme and give the city a makeover in order to attract tourists.
They instituted a series of festivals, including the Autumn Leaf Festival, Maifest, and Christmas Lighting Festival.
Be sure to visit the Bavarian village for bratwurst & sauerkraut and enjoy a daily morning alp horn saerenade.
2. Frankenmuth, Michigan
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Michigan’s “little Bavaria” is known for it’s world-famous chicken dinners but it’s that German pride that really makes Frankenmuth special.
Enjoy German-inspired architecture, craft-beer and wine, and don’t forget to visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, open 361 days a year.
3. Helen, Georgia
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Here you’ll find a touch of Bavaria tucked in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This charming little alpine village makes the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
Tour local vineyards, enjoy scenic water falls and hiking trails, or even scout out the perfect location for your upcoming nuptials.
4. St. Augustine, Florida
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As the oldest city in the nation, St. Augustine has much to offer.
Gaze upon stately castles, enjoy historic reenactments, and even take a ghost tour.
Originally a busy port town for merchants, it’s also a great place for those who enjoy shopping or romantic water-side dinners.
5. Santa Barbara, California
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With its stunning natural landscape and classic Spanish heritage, The American Riviera is hard to beat.
Its distinct architectural style comes from the early Spanish settlers who built Old Mission Santa Barbara, now the County Courthouse.
Soak in the sun and the culture with a walk down Santa Barbara’s Museum Mile or take yourself on the Red Tile Walking Tour.
6. Holland, Michigan
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This quaint but colorful city is picture-perfect for a relaxing vacation.
Tour Windmill Island Gardens or make your way downtown for authentic Dutch architecture and cuisine.
Be sure to visit in the spring, during the Tulip Time Festival for the true Dutch experience, as millions of tulips burst into bloom.
7. Solvang, California
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Visiting Solvang is like stepping into a storybook.
Enjoy this “little slice of Denmark” by strolling through the village, Danish pastry in hand.
Or maybe hop a ride on a historic, wooden, horse-drawn streetcar!
Be sure to take your picture with Danish icons, including the Little Mermaid Fountain, five windmills, the giant red clog Round Tower.
8. Calistoga, California
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You’ll find this European-influenced city Nestled in California’s Napa Valley.
Home to wineries, geysers, and plenty of natural beauty, Calistoga is the perfect spot for endless outdoor adventures.
Take it all in during your hot-air balloon tour.
9. Vail, Colorado
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Modeled after the ski districts of European Switzerland, Vail is the perfect spot for the adventurous vacationer.
Take advantage of the country’s largest free transportation system and visit the cobble-stoned, Bavarian-inspired village of Lionshead.
In the summer, come prepared to hike, bike, and enjoy the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens; be sure to bring your snowboard or skis if you’re visiting in the winter.
10. New Orleans, Louisiana
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A pillar of community and resilience, this French-influenced city is a must-see.
While Mardi Gras always draws a crowd, there are so many other reasons to visit this city, including its whimsical architecture.
Enjoy mouthwatering beignets and Creole cuisine as you take in the romantic and jazzy vibe of French Quarter.
Now you know! You can enjoy the experience of visiting Europe, without the overseas flight. Visit each city’s websites to learn about the safety measures in place keeping both locals and tourists healthy and happy.
Even if you don’t feel safe traveling right now, it doesn’t mean you can’t start planning for the future.
I don’t know about you, but Santa Barbara is calling my name. Which city would you like to visit first? Let us know in the comments!
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In 1978 an architectural student…
In 1978 an architectural student discovered that a skyscraper in NY could topple if strong winds hit the building. The engineer that is credited for designing the building then made secret nightly repairs in collaboration with the NYPD, without alerting the general public to the danger.
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