Are you ready to explore a new corner of the U.S.? Hold on! Before you leave, take a second to learn about the tourist attractions that can trap you in their hyped glam and glitz. While they might seem must-visit places, the reality does not match the hype and may disappoint you.
Nowadays, it’s easy to fall into the trap of arriving at overhyped destinations only to feel duped. Part of this is due to the rise of “Instagram-able” hot spots.
Understanding which tourist traps to sidestep can save you time and money (and, of course, the headache). So, here are 17 overhyped tourist traps you must know before planning a trip anywhere in the U.S.!
1. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
It’s exciting to see the stars engraved on the sidewalk honoring your favorite celebrities, but that is all the Hollywood Walk of Fame can offer. It’s a good spot for a quick visit, but spending too much time there might become depressing because of the crowded sidewalks filled with street performers and vendors (and litter, too).
Plus, there is not much to entertain except for the overpriced tattoo and gift shops and restaurants. So, a quick snap with your favorite celebrity star can be fun, but the Hollywood Walk of Fame fails to provide an authentic Hollywood experience.
2. Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor
The beauty of Lady Liberty is indeed a breathtaking view, but it might disappoint you when you look at it closely. After the long ferry ride and the often longer queuing, you’ll find a structure much smaller in person. Liberty Island has nothing else to visit, so it’s better to watch the beauty of this historic monument from afar and move forward to your next destination without wasting much time on it.
3. Times Square, New York City
Times Square in New York is symbolized by bright lights and big billboards, but the reality can be overwhelming. Crowds, expensive shops, long chains of restaurants with waiting times of 2 hours, and pushy street entertainers make it feel more like a chaotic area than a true taste of city life.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation destination for families, offering beautiful beaches and numerous attractions such as amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and waterparks. However, the area is often overcrowded during peak tourist season and can feel like an overpriced theme park rather than a relaxing beach getaway.
5. Space Needle, Seattle Washington
The Space Needle, touted as a must-visit place for first-time tourists to Seattle, offers panoramic views of the city, mountains, and Puget Sound. While the views are simply mesmerizing, what kills its beauty is the too-expensive entry ticket and long waiting lines. Many people find it unjustified because of limited offerings. Moreover, according to disappointed visitors, the observation deck might not deliver enough value for money.
6. The Mall Of America, Minneapolis
The Mall of America is still a mall with shops you can find anywhere in the country. However, what makes it stand out is its sheer size and tourist attractions like a Nickelodeon-themed indoor amusement park, Sea Life Minnesota aquarium, and a virtual flight ride. But in the peak hours, it becomes difficult to find your way and roam around freely because of the tsunami of people, making it not worth the hassle.
7. Café Du Monde, New Orleans, Louisiana
Café Du Monde attracts tourists because of its beignets, a type of French pastry covered in powdered sugar, and chicory coffee. The real experience, however, does not match the fame. The reputation has set the bar of expectation too high, and the visitors feel like they didn’t get the quality of food and services they were expecting, especially after waiting for hours to get a seat.
8. The Washington Monument, Washington, D.C.
A tribute to the first US president, George Washington, the Washington Monument is famous for its historic significance but nothing more than that. You wait in long queues, use elevators to reach the top of the monument, and wait for your turn to look through the window to see the city from a bird’ s-eye view, which you could’ve seen from any nearby hotel.
Plus, its inside lacks attraction, and there’s not much to see or do, especially compared to other fun places to visit in the city.
9. Waikiki Beach, Honolulu
It’s a beloved tourist destination for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and iconic views of Diamond Head. But in summer, it becomes super cluttered with crowded sands and beach chairs as far as the eye can see. If you’ve got a stroke of good luck, only then can you find a place to park your beach towel without accidentally photobombing someone’s shot! Furthermore, the water is loaded with swimmers, surfers, and watercraft, affecting the quality of the water.
10. The White House, Washington D.C.
As one of the most iconic landmarks in American history, it’s no surprise that visitors flock to see this building and its manicured gardens. However, with increased security measures, limited access, and strict tour schedules, many people may spend more time waiting in line than actually exploring the premises. And even if you can peek inside, they will hardly allow you to stay long and take a few close-up pictures.
11. The Venetian Gondolas, Las Vegas
Bringing Venice to Las Vegas, the gondola rides make you feel like you’re cruising through the canals of Venice while staying in Nevada. However, people might be disappointed by the hype because of the pricey tickets, and let’s be real: As much as we love Vegas, it can’t give the Venice vibes (not even close). So, the experience of Gondola rides can be unique, but it feels artificial compared to the authentic gondola rides in Venice.
12. Calico Ghost Town, California
Calico Ghost Town is an old mining town that has been preserved since the 1800s, offering a peek into California’s mining history. While it may seem like a fun way to step back in time, the town has lost its authenticity after restructuring many buildings and over-commercialization, with many attractions and activities geared towards tourists. Many visitors have reported the experience as more of a tourist trap than a genuine look into the Wild West.
13. Voodoo Doughnuts, Portland
The unconventional treats, funky atmosphere, and branding attract people with a sweet tooth to Voodoo Donuts. However, with long lines and insanely high prices, the famous doughnut shop may not be worth the hype for some. Plus, many locals argue that there are plenty of other delicious and unique doughnut shops in the city that offer even better flavors and experiences without the tourist crowds.
14. Navy Pier, Chicago
Famous for its Ferris wheel rides, boat tours, and tasty treats, the Navy Pier in Chicago can make you wonder what the fuss is about. The commercial buzz has hiked up prices, making parking, rides, and food a bit steep, especially for families. Many people feel that the Pier has lost its historical charm because of significant renovations and modernizations over the years.
15. Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts
Plymouth Rock is known as the site where the Pilgrims first landed in America in 1620. But don’t expect the rock to be a huge monument. It is a small rock covered with sand enclosed in a cage, which usually disappoints tourists the most. What’s more disappointing is that historians have been arguing over whether it’s real or not, which has further reduced its charm.
16. Four Corners Monument, Arizona
This monument is located where four states, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, meet at a single intersection. Sounds cool? Yeah, but it isn’t. This monument is nothing but a concrete block that is 1800 feet away from where these states meet. After paying a high entrance fee, you’ll end up in a place with nothing around, no bathrooms or stores, and hardly any phone or internet service. All you can get is a silly picture with it and go back.
17. Pineapple Garden Maze, Hawaii
It is claimed to be one of the world’s largest mazes, offering a unique and family-friendly adventure for tourists. While the maze can be an amusing diversion, it’s often hot and crowded. Moreover, what’s advertised as a “2.5-acre life-size puzzle,” can be solved in fifteen minutes, and there’s an entry fee. Visitors may leave feeling underwhelmed and overcharged.
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Aqsa is a passionate writer who loves spending her free time jotting down her thoughts. But that’s not all. She is a devoted mom to two boys and a skilled pharmacist specializing in hematology. When she’s not running after her energetic kids, you can find her lost in a good book or writing beautiful words. A nature lover at heart, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, staying active, and always seeking ways to learn new things.
