Here in the US, we know how to create a tourist trap like nobody’s business.
From novelty landmarks across the Midwest to iconic destinations that have worn out their shine, these are just some of the worst destinations to stop on your trip to the US. Visit them at your own risk.
1. Hollywood
Unfortunately, the glitz and glamor of Hollywood have faded since its heyday almost a century ago. Many locals agree the area is overrun by expensive shops and restaurants, street performers, and a pungent and unpleasant smell.
2. 4 Corners
Tourists traveling from other countries may have heard of the 4 Corners—where corners of Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico meet. Many people photograph themselves on the ground, touching each state at once. It’s a great novelty but not necessarily worth the drive.
3. Niagara Falls
Although locals recommend visiting Niagara Falls and going on the Maid of the Mist tour, most people suggest staying somewhere other than nearby towns. Aside from the Falls, venues like restaurants and entertainment are limited. Niagara Falls is great for a day trip, but that’s it.
4. Plymouth Rock
The story of the Mayflower voyage and the first European settlers who founded Plymouth Colony is taught in schools throughout the US. There is, in fact, a rock that symbolizes the colony. It may be historic, or it may be just a bad tourist trap. It is, after all, a rock in a hole in the ground. That’s it.
5. Times Square
Almost everyone who visits New York City wants to see the iconic Times Square in Manhattan. So many lights, people, and lots of traffic. But locals recommend a brief walk-through, then move on to other spots, like Central Park or neighborhoods like Greenwich Village.
6. Disney World
For some reason, Disney World has a bad reputation compared to its older brother, Disneyland. It may be the unbearable humid weather or surly families that visit the park, but many visitors don’t plan repeat visits to Orlando’s theme park.
7. Myrtle Beach
Spring break means road trips for many college students, and East Coast kids often find their way to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Unfortunately, this area has earned the nickname “Dirty Myrtle” (sometimes called “Dyrtle Myrtle”). This might be due to the influx of tourists that flock to the area every spring.
8. The Mall of America
Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, The Mall of America is the largest shopping center and entertainment complex in the US. Yes, it has an aquarium, a Nickelodeon theme park, and dozens of shops and restaurants inside. But spending the day in a giant mall can get old pretty fast.
9. Bourbon Street
Many visitors think that Bourbon Street is the end-all-be-all of New Orleans. There are tons of other districts in NOLA worth the visit, but if you’re determined to see the French Quarter, invest some time at antique shops, art galleries on Royal Street, St. Louis Square, or the US Mint Museum.
10. Las Vegas
Another bucket list destination is Las Vegas, specifically the Las Vegas Strip—with all the flashy casinos, music and concert venues, and iconic hotels. At least you’ll know what you’re getting yourself into. If you’re looking for expensive food, crowded casinos, and lots of drunk people, maybe Vegas won’t be too bad for you. If not, maybe skip it.
11. Great Salt Lake
As the name indicates, this is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere in the northern corner of Utah. Although the surroundings might lend themselves to a picturesque atmosphere, visitors might not want to pay parking and admission fees to see, well, a giant lake.
12. Salem
Most people recognize Salem, Massachusetts as the home of the Salem Witch Trials of the 1690s. Not all locals (and visitors) appreciate the insensitivity some tourist attractions present regarding the events that took place. That, and Halloween in Salem is usually a nightmare.
13. The Alamo
Visitors are underwhelmed when they travel to San Antonio to see The Alamo. For such a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution, we expect the location of The Battle of the Alamo to be grand and imposing. In reality, it’s a modest-sized church that requires a 30-minute stop, tops.
14. Nashville
Unless you’re a huge country music fan (and we mean huge), Nashville might be a little too niche for the average music fan. Aside from the Country Music Hall of Fame, expect overpriced drinks and food, mediocre barbecue, and tons of traffic and people crowding all the venues. Skip this and head to Memphis instead.
15. Corn Palace
Yes, there’s a place called the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. One visitor recalled that inside the Corn Palace was just a big gym with vendors selling trinkets. Besides the kitschy aesthetic, visitors suggest driving through Mitchell on your way to Black Hills to see Mount Rushmore.
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Source: Forum
