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5 East Coast Destinations Where You’ll Feel Like You’re Really In England!
If you are looking for a stateside British vacation, this is where you’ll want to book your next trip!
For the anglophiles out there, planning a trip to visit England is an absolute must. However, traveling across the pond isn’t always easy. International travel can cost thousands of dollars. So while you’re saving up for your dream trip to England, consider planning an easier and more affordable vacation to one of these 5 “British feeling” destinations on the East Coast in the meantime.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a city that’s full of history. In 1630, puritan colonists from England founded Boston, which quickly became the political, commercial, financial, religious, and educational center of the New England region. The city also played an important role in the American Revolution in which the United States declared itself independent from Britain. But even after all this time, Boston still holds onto its British influence. The brick buildings, cobblestones, and lanterns all are reminiscent of the most charming parts of the U.K. Acorn Street in particular, which is pictured above, is particularly famous for feeling like a little piece of England in America. You’ll also find lots of traditional British food and tea rooms.
Charleston, South Carolina
Today, Charleston, South Carolina is often seen as the picture of Southern charm and hospitality. But did you know that it actually has a rich British history? Named for King Charles II of England, the city was occupied by the British army during the Revolutionary War. Like Boston, Charleston has held onto a lot of its British influence. It can be seen in its grand churches, cobblestone streets, and short, colorful buildings. Take in the sights at this top tourist destination via a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and then eat a meal in an authentic British pub. Or, experience a British-style beachside holiday at one of Charleston’s six beaches.
Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
Once upon a time, Old Town Alexandria was a major port for colonial Britain. Today, the waterfront town is a nationally designated historic district that is home to more than 200 independent restaurants, boutiques, and museums. This destination still exudes British vibes in its brick homes, tree-lined sidewalks, and small shops. When you’re done exploring the town, make sure to treat yourself to a meal in the colonial dining room at Gadsby's Tavern. The historic restaurant has been around since the late 1700s, and was even a popular haunt for some of our nation’s founding fathers.
Chicago, Illinois
As a bustling modern city, you might not immediately see the British influence in Chicago. But Brits are the third-largest group of Europeans living in Chicago, and they’ve certainly made their mark. For example, the famous Sears Tower has been renamed the Willis Tower after a London-based company. And of course, you have to visit Buckingham Fountain in the center of Grant Park, located between Queen's Landing and Congress Parkway. The windy city also honors British culture through events like the annual British Car Festival. If you’ll be visiting Chicago, make sure to look out for British-themed events that may be going on during your trip!
New Hampshire
We’ve been focusing on specific cities so far, but pretty much anywhere in the state of New Hampshire will make you feel like you’ve traveled to Great Britain. New Hampshire was one of the four New England colonies and is still part of the New England region of the United States today. It was actually the first state to declare its independence from England in 1775. Even so, everything from the lighthouses by the seaside to the colonial and Queen Anne-style homes remind us of England.
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