5 American Replicas of Famous Foreign Places

You likely know that there are replicas of well-known monuments scattered here and there across the United States, but you probably aren't aware just how many there really are. Today, we will find out. For this list, we won’t include the Statue of Liberty or Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas, as everyone knows about those. We’re trying to give the spotlight to other places that aren’t as famous. So, pack your bags and don’t get on that plane, when you can more easily pack the car and visit these replicas instead.

Leaning Tower of Niles

Where is it? Niles, IL

While the original in Pisa, Italy wasn't meant to tilt (or be a selfie spot, for that matter), it started to because of the foundation being built on soft ground. But in a town northwest of Chicago, a one-half scale replica that doesn't lean as much as the original can be found. The tower actually serves a purpose, though. And not to be a tourist attraction. A local businessman by the name of Robert Ilg wanted to create a private park for his employees, even though he disliked the idea of an unsightly water tower for the park's two pools. So, he had a replica of the famous bell tower of the Tuscan city's cathedral made to cover the water tower. The replica measures 94 feet (28.6 m) tall and, unlike the original, did not take nearly 200 years to complete. The replica was finished in only 3 years, having been completed in 1934 (562 years after the original). But the replica had problems, just like the original. Over time, freeze and thaw weather took its toll on the concrete of the replica. However, the replica underwent a renovation and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 22, 2019.

The Parthenon

Where is it? Nashville, TN

You may not expect an ancient Greek structure dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena to find its way in the middle of a midwestern US state, but here we are. Built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897, the columns of the replica are made of plaster instead of marble, and if you ignore the urban park that the replica is located in, it's actually an accurate rendition, at least on the outside. Inside, however, is an art museum showcasing American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, though a 42-foot (12.8 m) statue of Athena resides in this Parthenon, as one did in ancient Greek times. And even though this Parthenon isn't the same as the original, you likely won't find Nashville hot chicken in the vicinity of the original.

Eiffel Tower

Where is it? Paris, TX

The far-more famous original is one of the most visited places in the world. But just over 5,000 miles (8,046 km) away sits this replica. Here, you won't find large crowds or very long wait times. You also won't find those at other replicas (like one in China, if you can believe that). The replica stands 65 feet (19.8 m) tall, about 1/20th of the size of the original. This replica was constructed in 1993 and has had a red cowboy hat on top of it since 1999. And just like the original, it is illuminated at night, although the replica is often lit up with the colors of the Texas flag. And for those wondering, there are 7 other American cities named Paris. Aside from this one, they can be found in Arkansas, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, New York, and Tennessee. But don't expect to see any Eiffel Tower replicas there.

Stonehenge II

Where is it? Ingram, TX

The original in Wiltshire, UK is one of the oldest and most famous landmarks in the world. It's also one of the most popular places in England. So, naturally, a replica was made. Standing 90% the height and 60% the width of the original, the replica also has two Easter Island Moai heads nearby (though those didn't make the list). The replica is situated at the Hill Arts Country Foundation and took 9 months to make. It should also be worth noting that other replicas like Carhenge in Nebraska won't be included on the list, but another replica of Stonehenge did make the list...

Foamhenge

Where is it? Centreville, VA

Another replica of the aforementioned Stonehenge, Foamhenge was made as an April Fools' Day prank in 2004. It was supposed to be temporary, but like the Parthenon in Nashville, it was kept because of its popularity. Originally located in Natural Bridge, Virginia, it was relocated to Centreville in 2017 after being dismantled the previous year due to wear and tear. This replica also has no debates over its origins and purpose, unlike the original.

Did you expect any famous monuments to be made into American replicas? Moreover, would you visit these replicas? Leave a comment!

Sources: Abandoned Spaces, Daily Passport, Fodor's Travel Guide, Fox World Travel

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Creating a copy of a famous attraction can attract visitors to a city, particularly ones who aren’t keen to book an overseas flight to see the original. So, put away your passport — these are five of the best replicas of famous landmarks you can visit without leaving the U.S.

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https://www.fodors.com/news/photos/you-can-see-these-replicas-of-international-tourist-attractions-right-here-in-the-u-s-a

5 Popular Replicas of Famous Landmarks in the US

We have all seen those world-famous landmarks on TV or on the internet. It’s one of the reasons that people choose certain destinations to visit, but sometimes, like now, we can’t get there yet.Luckily, you can capture some of that same excitement and have a mini experience right in your own backyard. Although it’s impossible to compare to the real thing, we’re highlighting 5 popular replicas of famous landmarks you can visit right here in the US if you plan to hit the road this summer.

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