Next best thing in the U.S.

Flying across the Atlantic isn’t always an option; however, there are some great places in the states where you can get a taste of Greece. Greek towns are exactly what they sound like, a town populated by Greek people and Greek establishments. If you have never visited one, then I highly recommend it. Even if you have visited one, I suggest traveling to another because although all are filled with Greek stores, restaurants, nightlife and other general establishments, each Greek town is a different experience and has its own character benefiting and building upon the unique charm of its surrounding city. Below are some of my favorites.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Tarpon Spring’s Greektown is a great vacation spot. Located close to Tampa, the Greek atmosphere and beautiful Florida weather are a perfect mix. It is a perfect place to stroll through on a nice day offering a variety of shops with Greek memorabilia and waterside restaurants.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s Greektown is like a smaller version of the city with a strong Greek influence. This town has a great variety of restaurants as well as an exciting Greek nightlife. There are also many groceries and other common stores represented in Greek within the town that establish it independent from surrounding areas and really heighten the experience.

http://www.greektownchicago.org/

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit’s Greektown is centered in a downtown area with the large Greektown Casino as its main attraction. The luxurious casino is in the heart of Greektown offering gaming, a hotel, dining and nightlife with a Greek influence. Also, once outside the casino, you can take your pick from a string of authentic Greek Restaurants.

http://www.greektowncasino.com/

Astoria Queens, New York City

Astoria has one of the largest populations of Greeks outside of Greece, and there influence is clearly represented in combination with the area’s New York feel. A plethora of restaurants, bakeries, taverns, cafes and Greek Orthodox Churches shape the town which is full of diversity and culture.