Tourist traps can eat up your time and cash, leaving you with a superficial and negative experience. To make the most of your vacation, there may be certain tourist spots you should think twice about visiting. Here are 19 tourist traps in America to avoid at all costs.
Times Square, New York City
According to the NY Post, 50 million people visit this famous square each year, meaning it’s often referred to as the biggest tourist attraction in the world. However, Times Square is full of expensive restaurants and cheesy souvenir shops, which can ruin the fun. Instead, skip it and explore other cool neighborhoods in New York City.
Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
Don’t believe the hype when it comes to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which might seem glamorous but is really just a busy sidewalk with lots of street performers and vendors selling pricey stuff. Instead, check out Griffith Observatory or explore the many museums in Los Angeles. You’ll have a much better experience!
Bourbon Street, New Orleans
If you’re heading to New Orleans and like to party, then you may want to head to the famous Bourbon Street. But keep in mind that it’s usually packed with tourists, meaning it can get wild. The high prices and big crowds can spoil both the New Orleans vibe and your night.
The Alamo, San Antonio
It can get pretty cramped at the Alamo, which may ruin your experience of it, especially if you’re claustraphobic. Not only is it incredibly busy, but the area is also packed with tourist traps and commercialized attractions. Check out the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park instead for a better grasp of Texas history.
Mall of America, Minnesota
We all love to shop when we’re on vacation and browse new, unknown stores, but the Mall of America can feel very crowded and generic, with the same chain stores you see everywhere. For a more authentic experience, check out local boutiques and shops in Minneapolis or St. Paul instead.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
You may have heard it before, but Fisherman’s Wharf is an overrated tourist spot as it’s always crowded, pricey, and full of cheesy souvenir shops. San Francisco has loads of better places to visit for a real experience, like Golden Gate Park or the Mission District.
Niagara Falls, New York
You may be wondering why Niagara Falls is on this list, as it’s such an amazing place that everyone feels they should visit at least once in their lives. Unfortunately, the area is packed with tourist traps and pricey attractions. For a more peaceful experience, head to less crowded natural wonders.
South Beach, Miami
There are so many reasons to stay away from South Beach. Even though it might look fancy, it’s usually too crowded and expensive, with the cost of food and drinks known to ruin trips. There are so many other beaches around the Miami area that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Salem, Massachusetts
Everyone knows how famous the Salem witch trials are, which means many people want to pay their respects. But this means it’s become a really touristy spot with overpriced attractions and questionable authenticity. If you choose to skip Salem, consider visiting other New England colonial towns.
The Space Needle, Seattle
When someone mentions Seattle, the first thing that springs to mind is the famous Space Needle, but it can be disappointing thanks to long lines and pricey tickets. There are so many other fun activities for you to try in the city, such as Kerry Park and ferry rides.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a popular destination, but it’s crowded with tourists and filled with tacky attractions. The beaches can be overcrowded and not very clean. For a more tranquil beach experience, explore other coastal areas in South Carolina that offer more natural beauty.
Wall Drug, South Dakota
Don’t be fooled by Wall Drug, which markets itself as a must-see roadside attraction. It’s actually a large, glorified gift shop, and the hype doesn’t match the experience. If you’re traveling through South Dakota, consider spending your time at the state’s natural landmarks and scenic parks instead.
Pike Place Market, Seattle
If you hate crowds, you may want to avoid Pike Place Market, a well-known attraction but often packed with tourists, making it difficult to get around. The prices for food and goods can be quite high. Discover other parts of Seattle’s food scene by visiting lesser-known neighborhoods with excellent eateries.
Roswell, New Mexico
Roswell is a great place to visit if you love anything to do with UFOs and extraterrestrials. But the town itself is largely a commercialized tourist trap. The attractions can be gimmicky and overpriced. For a more meaningful experience, explore New Mexico’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage in other parts of the state.
Branson, Missouri
Branson is often portrayed as the family entertainment capital, but those who have been before would describe it as a tourist trap full of kitschy shows. The attractions are often overpriced and lack genuine charm. Instead, explore the natural beauty of the Ozarks and enjoy outdoor activities in the region.
Graceland, Memphis
The king of rock ‘n roll has a place in many of our hearts, so visiting Graceland can feel like a pilgrimage for Elvis fans. However, there are cons to going here, such as it being overcrowded and too commercialized. Many people also agree that the high admission prices and touristy feel may not be worth it.
The Four Corners Monument
Visiting this tourist spot can feel like a letdown, as the Four Corners Monument is essentially just a small marker where the four states meet. The site is remote, and there’s not much else to see or do. We recommend spending your time exploring the beautiful national parks and natural attractions in the surrounding area rather than this monument.
Navy Pier, Chicago
Often seen as a must-visit site in Chicago, Navy Pier can feel very commercialized. It’s usually very crowded and filled with chain restaurants and shops. For a more authentic Chicago experience, explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City is famous for its boardwalk and casinos, but it’s also overcrowded and has a rundown feel, which really impacts your visit. The attractions can be quite expensive and not very enjoyable. For a better coastal experience, visit other charming towns along the Jersey Shore that offer more character.
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