Ripley‘s Believe It or Not! and Other Copycat Attractions of the States256


From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the ancient pyramids of Giza, some of the world's most famous landmarks have inspired countless imitations. The United States is no exception, with a plethora of copycat attractions that offer a taste of foreign travel without the hefty price tag or long travel time.

Here are some of the most notable American doppelgangers:

1. Eiffel Tower, Las Vegas

Paris may have the original, but Las Vegas has its own version of the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Las Vegas hotel. Standing at half the height of the real thing, this replica offers stunning views of the Strip from its observation deck.

2. Great Wall of China, Georgia

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, the Great Wall of China replica is a 10-mile-long hiking trail that winds through stunning scenery. While not as imposing as the original, it offers a challenging and rewarding hike for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Stonehenge, Washington

Maryhill Stonehenge is a full-scale replica of the iconic English monument, located in Maryhill, Washington. Built out of concrete in the 1920s, it serves as a memorial to the soldiers who fought in World War I.

4. Taj Mahal, Atlantic City

The Trump Taj Mahal was once a luxurious casino and hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Its grand architecture was heavily inspired by the Taj Mahal in India, featuring a white marble exterior and elaborate domes.

5. Statue of Liberty, Las Vegas

Another Las Vegas doppelganger, the Statue of Liberty at New York-New York Hotel and Casino is a half-scale replica of the original. It stands proudly in front of the hotel, offering a photogenic backdrop for visitors.

6. Sistine Chapel Ceiling, Missouri

In the small town of Boonville, Missouri, you'll find the Sistine Chapel Replica at the Jesse James Bank Museum. This breathtaking mural reproduces Michelangelo's masterpiece in its entirety, offering a glimpse of Renaissance art in the American Midwest.

7. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Niles, Illinois

At the edge of Chicago's suburbs, you'll find a quirky replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Located in a shopping center, it offers a whimsical touch to the otherwise ordinary surroundings.

8. Buckingham Palace, Beverly Hills

In the heart of Beverly Hills, the Beverly Hills Hotel resembles Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarchy. Built in the 1920s, the hotel has hosted numerous Hollywood stars and celebrities over the years.

9. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Not strictly a copycat attraction, Mount Rushmore is a unique American landmark that draws inspiration from historical figures rather than international landmarks. However, its colossal sculptures of four US presidents have become iconic in their own right.

10. Parthenon, Nashville

The Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee, is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple. Built for the 1897 Centennial Exposition, it now houses an art museum and offers a glimpse into classical architecture.

Conclusion

These American copycat attractions offer a fun and accessible way to experience the world without leaving the comfort of your own country. While they may not match the grandeur of the originals, they provide a taste of famous landmarks and add a touch of whimsy to the American landscape.

2024-12-23


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