Stay Away from These United States Tourist Spots
There are numerous sights to visit and activities to enjoy around the United States. Every year, thousands of individuals travel hundreds of thousands of kilometers to see or do something new at these locations. However, some of the most popular tourist destinations have turned into tourist traps. Some places fail to live up to expectations, and people are disappointed. Instead of wasting your time and money searching for these tourist destinations, it is best to skip them and spend your money and time wisely. So, keep reading to find out which tourist attractions to avoid in each of the 50 states.
Market Theater Gum Wall: Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington, is brimming with sights to see. Seattle, best known for Starbucks, has gained in popularity as a tourist destination. In addition to its coffee culture, Seattle is home to the Market Theater Gum Wall. If you are a germaphobe or things easily get under your skin, the Gum wall is probably not for you. Market Theater is located beneath Pike Place Market, and its entire wall is covered in chewed-up and spit-out chewing gum.
Market Theater Gum Wall Seattle, Washington
The custom began in 1993, when visitors used chewed-up gum to stick pennies to the wall. Given that Emerald City is famous for so many things, it would be advisable to forgo the Gum Wall and instead visit other attractions.
Times Square: New York, New York
Travel books always recommend that first-time visitors to New York see the city and Times Square. But, as any genuine New Yorker knows, you should avoid Manhattan’s Times Square at all costs. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Times Square is a bustling hub for tourists with its bright lights and famous attractions. However, it is also known for being congested and full of pricey souvenirs and chain restaurants that aren’t unique to the area.
Times Square New York, New York
Many locals tend to steer clear of Times Square due to its overwhelming crowds and lack of authentic New York experiences. Instead, they opt for exploring other boroughs such as Brooklyn or Queens which offer a more genuine taste of the city.
Corn Palace: Mitchell, South Dakota
South Dakota is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by North Dakota to the north, Minnesota to the east, Iowa to the southeast, Nebraska to the south, Wyoming to the west, and Montana to the northwest. The capital city of South Dakota is Pierre, and its largest city is Sioux Falls. One of the main draws of South Dakota is its stunning natural beauty. The state is home to several national parks, including the Badlands National Park, known for its unique rock formations and abundant wildlife.
Corn Palace Mitchell, South Dakota
It is a concert arena that hosts concerts, sporting activities, and other events. The bottom line is that if you aren’t attending an event or game at this arena, it isn’t worth the trip.
Shell Service Station: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
The Shell Station in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. It was built by R.H. Burton and his son Ralph as a way to introduce the newly established Shell gas station brand to the United States market. The decision to build it proved successful, as it has been in operation for nearly a century. Today, the Shell Station continues to thrive as a popular stop for travelers and locals alike.
Shell Service Station Winston Salem, North Carolina
The vivid yellow and red-shaped shell building is the only one remaining of the eight structures built in the region. It is a historic landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is located at Sprague and Peachtree Streets.
Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market: Boston, Massachusetts
Located in the northeastern region of the United States, Boston, Massachusetts is a city that attracts many tourists every year. With its rich history and vibrant culture, there is no shortage of places to visit and things to do in this bustling metropolis. One of the most well-known areas of Boston is Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. These iconic landmarks in downtown Boston are popular amongst tourists for their historical significance and bustling market atmosphere.
Faneuil Hall And Quincy Market Boston, Massachusetts
The lengthy building is a marketplace with a food hall where tourists may eat heartily and shops where they can shop till they drop. Sure, this seems like fun, but there are lots of other lovely spots to eat and buy in Boston that are more deserving of your attention.
Venetian Gondolas: Las Vegas, Nevada
What would Las Vegas, Nevada be like if it didn’t have its tourist attractions? Because this desert city is known for its fun and excitement, it has its fair share of tourist traps. The Venetian gondolas, on the other hand, are one of the most popular attractions. Passengers are escorted around the area to admire the area’s hotels, stores, and other attractions in a gondola ride similar to those found in Italy.
Venetian Gondolas Las Vegas, Nevada
Sure, it seems like fun in principle, but it’s a long way from the authentic gondola experience that people seek. Instead, passengers have described the experience as “feeling like floating through a chlorinated pool for a few minutes at a high, unworthy cost.”
Liberty Bell: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is a symbol of American history. After all, the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the bell rang to signal the completion of the deed. As a result, visitors line up to witness the shattered bell in person and wait for 30 minutes to photograph the historical treasure. However, this time could be better spent on other excursions.
Liberty Bell Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
There are many things to see and do in the City of Brotherly Love, but visiting Old City to see the Liberty Love is something that should be done at least once in a lifetime.
Hollywood Sign: Los Angeles, California
Because Hollywood is famous for producing films, moviegoers and visitors alike go to California to see the Hollywood sign in person. People may want to touch the sign, however, it is currently illegal. Nonetheless, this hyped-up tourist trap is worth a look from distance, especially for photo opportunities. Aside from the Hollywood sign, the city’s Walk of Fame is overrated as well. restaurants, retail stores, and museums.
Hollywood Sign Los Angeles, California
At least with that attraction, you can get up close and personal with the brass stars buried in the sidewalks. If you find yourself in Los Angeles, the greatest method to see the city is to visit
Waikiki Beach: Oahu, Hawaii
The tropical paradise known as Hawaii does not have many drawbacks. However, Waikiki Beach is one of those sites that is specifically created to appeal to tourists. Waikiki Beach is essentially a stretch of hotels, upscale stores, and chain restaurants surrounded by a packed beach. Waikiki Beach is more like other American vacation locations than the rest of Hawaii. But imagine you want to have a more true Hawaiian experience.
Waikiki Beach Oahu, Hawaii
In that scenario, it is preferable to visit areas that showcase the natural wonders of the island, such as Pipiwai Trail in Maui or Lanai Lookout in Oahu, not far from Waikiki Beach.
Alien Sanctuary Town: Roswell, New Mexico
Roswell, New Mexico, is the ideal destination for any alien believers out there. However, if you are not interested in extraterrestrial life and UFOs, the town is not for you. This village is the claimed landing site of a “flying disc” that resembles a UFO in 1947. Following the crash, the town developed a tourist business centered on aliens and showcasing UFO memorabilia.
Alien Sanctuary Town Roswell, New Mexico
This attracted a specific group of people who are interested in outer space. But, to be honest, this town can be seen in a day and is not worth the attention of anyone who is not interested in this stuff.
Walt Disney World’s Epcot: Orlando, Florida
Disney World is reputed to be the happiest location on the planet. The amusement park has several parks and is organized into two sections: Future World and World Showcase. The World Showcase, the more visible section, features country-themed pavilions where guests can sample various foods and beverages from around the world. This park has rides as well, though not as many as the other areas of Walt Disney World.
Walt Disney World’s Epcot Orlando, Florida
Furthermore, the pavilions are showy, and many park visitors and Disney fans believe that Disney World’s other parks, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios, are better locations to spend time and money.
Mall of America: Bloomington, Minnesota
The Mall of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a shopper’s paradise. With over 555 stores to choose from, it is the largest retail mall in the United States. However, there’s much more to do at this sprawling shopping complex than just shop. For families with children, the Mall of America offers endless entertainment options. From an indoor theme park with thrilling rides to an aquarium filled with fascinating sea creatures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mall Of America Bloomington, Minnesota
Furthermore, while this mall is ideal for those who enjoy shopping, it can be overwhelming for the general public and those who are simply uninterested in such pursuits. The Mall of America’s large crowds are also something to be aware of. An environment like this might easily cause sensory overload.
Beale Street: Memphis, Tennessee
Blues music was popular throughout the United States in the 1920s. Memphis, Tennessee, in particular, is notable in American music history since it is the birthplace of the blues. Famous young blues performers performed on places such as Memphis’ Beale Street. This street was formerly a center for blues clubs, restaurants, outdoor concerts, and other activities. However, over time, Beale Street has become increasingly corporate, losing some of its mystique and unique blues culture.
Beale Street Memphis, Tennessee
Tourists simply wind up in a congested and pricey area of town. Other parts of Memphis, it appears, could provide visitors with a more real experience.
The Alamo: San Antonio, Texas
The Alamo Mission, one of Texas’ most famous tourist sites, is located in San Antonio. Texas fought for independence from Mexico here. Even though Texas lost the conflict, the mission now functions as a tourist attraction where visitors may take photographs and learn more about Texas’s history. Sure, seeing a famous, historically significant structure in person looks exciting.
The Alamo San Antonio, Texas
But it’s just a stone structure in the middle of a park. However, The Alamo is not far from the San Antonio River Walk, which is another and possibly more thrilling attraction to see in Central Texas.
Magnificent Mile: Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, popularly known as the Windy City, is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers a strong artistic scene and cultural attractions, as well as stunning architecture and shopping. The Magnificent Mile is a popular tourist site in the city. The Magnificent Mile is home to premium stores, restaurants, museums, and luxurious hotels. It is the Chicago version of Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive and New York’s Fifth Avenue.
Magnificent Mile Chicago, Illinois
In the grand scheme of things, most of the Magnificent Mile’s attractions can be found in most American cities. To enhance their city experience in a city like Chicago, tourists should visit Millennium Park or the Willis Tower.
World of Coca-Cola: Atlanta, Georgia
The World of Coca-Cola is a massive tourist attraction in the heart of Atlanta that attracts millions of visitors each year. Patrons are shown how soda is bottled, given the opportunity to taste test the company’s various drinks, and given countless photo opportunities. While learning about the original drink is informative, many individuals felt that the crowds were too dense for a site that was simply gigantic advertising.
World Of Coca-Cola Atlanta, Georgia
As a result, there was little history to learn about following the invention of the Coca-Cola formula. Having said that, Atlanta features a variety of less crowded and commercialized sites for everyone to enjoy.
Atlantic City Boardwalk: Atlantic City, New Jersey
The Jersey Shore, located in the state of New Jersey, is a well-known tourist destination. The region is primarily known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, one specific area stands out among the rest – Atlantic City. Atlantic City has gained a reputation for being an ostentatious destination, often compared to its west coast counterpart, Las Vegas. The city boasts a multitude of high-end casinos, luxurious hotels, and flashy entertainment options.
Atlantic City Boardwalk Atlantic City, New Jersey
However, in recent years, it has degenerated into a run-down beach resort devoid of its past grandeur, resulting in garish souvenir stores, large casinos, and excessive tourist traffic.
Carhenge: Alliance, Nebraska
You’ve probably heard about Stonehenge in England. But have you heard of Carhenge in Alliance, Nebraska? The answer is most likely no, which is perfectly fine! Tourists go to Carhenge for a comparable experience, particularly Americans who do not want to travel abroad. Jim Reinders built Carhenge, a Stonehenge replica, in 1987 as an homage to his father. Carhenge is essentially a collection of vintage, grey spray-painted automobiles piled and assembled to resemble Stonehenge.
Carhenge Alliance, Nebraska
While it has appeared in films, music, television shows, and ads over the years, travelers would be better suited visiting England instead. To be honest, the original Stonehenge is far more interesting.
Santa Claus House: North Pole, Alaska
The North Pole, Alaska’s Santa Claus House, is ideal for everyone who enjoys the holiday season and Christmas. This mansion, which debuted in 1952, had a 50-foot Santa Claus statue. Furthermore, the residence was created for folks who enjoy spreading seasonal enthusiasm. Aside from the Santa Claus statue, which is likely the house’s primary feature, there are reindeer. Photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a gift shop filled with Christmas products to fulfill year-round Christmas wishes.
Santa Claus House North Pole, Alaska
Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and gift-giving. It is a holiday that brings people together, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. For some, it is a time to embrace the festive spirit and indulge in all things Christmas. But for others, it can be overwhelming and expensive.
Craters of the Moon: Central Idaho
The name Craters of the Moon suggests something otherworldly, extraterrestrial. Right? The Craters of the Moon National Park, on the other hand, do not live up to the expectations. Instead, this national monument in Idaho offers visitors to see of a volcanic rock environment. There is no doubt that this landmark is visually appealing. It serves as a scenic byway for a few minutes. It has massive mountains as well as lava flows.
Craters Of The Moon Central Idaho
While it is long, the truth is that it will not be exciting for more than ten minutes. Perhaps this is an indication that Idaho has more stunning things worth visiting.
NCAA Hall of Champions: Indianapolis, Indiana
Some museums provide excellent insight into a certain topic. When it comes to collegiate sports, for example, you would imagine that the NCAA Hall of Champions in Indianapolis, Indiana, would be a terrific destination to visit. However, the museum is lackluster and in desperate need of an overhaul. For the time collegiate athletics have been a popular form of entertainment, there is a surprisingly modest amount of memorabilia on exhibit.
NCAA Hall Of Champions Indianapolis, Indiana
Anyone could walk around the entire museum in a half-hour or less. College sports aficionados interested in learning more about Basketball in particular should visit the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in New Castle instead.
Viking Tower: Newport, Rhode Island
Many mysteries in this world continue to baffle us, despite the advancement of technology and modern society. One such mystery is The Mysterious Viking Tower located in Newport, Rhode Island. This modest tower has piqued the curiosity of generations, as no one knows who built it or why. According to tradition, it was constructed by Vikings, making it one of the oldest structures in the United States. Its exact origins and purpose remain a mystery, adding to its allure and fascination.
Viking Tower Newport, Rhode Island
While there is no proof, it is a plausible enough story for those who accept it. However, the guesswork becomes tiresome pretty quickly. Sure, a little mystery is fun, but this structure is a little excessive.
South of the Border: Hamer, South Carolina
One of the most popular tourist destinations on this list is South of the Border, situated right across the border from North Carolina to South Carolina. This service station not only offers a café and gift shop but also serves as a recognizable landmark for travelers entering or leaving South Carolina. While some may find the kitschy decor and oversized souvenir store underwhelming, it continues to draw in visitors year after year. So if you’re passing through the area, be sure to make a pit stop at this iconic spot for some unique souvenirs and a bite to eat.
South Of The Border Hamer, South Carolina
There is no incentive to stop and spend time at South of the Border unless you have a taste for the food served at the restaurant or need to fill up your tank with petrol.
Moqui Cave: Kanab, Utah
The Moqui Cave, located in Kanab, Utah, might appear to be a natural cave at first glance. However, the truth is that it was not created or used by Native Americans as initially thought. Instead, it was formed through the process of erosion over time. Despite its misleading name, the Moqui Cave has become a popular tourist attraction due to its unique sandstone formations and its inclusion of a gift shop, museum, and miniature golf course.
Moqui Cave Kanab, Utah
Visitors can learn about the history of the area and even purchase souvenirs to take home with them. It’s great for a flashy gift or wasting money on a mediocre museum, but it lacks the substance required for any decent and properly rated tourist attraction.
Rock of Ages: Graniteville, Vermont
Rock of Ages, located in Graniteville, Vermont, is often mistaken for the popular musical comedy of the same name. However, this tourist attraction is actually a massive granite quarry that offers stunning views for a brief period before becoming monotonous. Despite its appeal, Rock of Ages pales in comparison to other natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon. The latter’s grandeur and breathtaking beauty far surpasses that of the former. So, although Rock of Ages may be worthy of a visit, the awe-inspiring magnificence of the Grand Canyon is unmatched.
Rock Of Ages Graniteville, Vermont
While there is a tour that goes with the Rock of Ages for a modest fee, it is sponsored by a tombstone-making company, which adds to the gloom. Furthermore, their gift shop sells pricey granite-themed products that aren’t worth the money.
Mars Cheese Castle: Kenosha, Wisconsin
Wisconsin is well-known for many things, but it is most renowned for its magnificent cheeses and cheese-themed activities. The Mars Cheese Castle is one of them. This solid-colored, strong castle is planted along I-94 to lure tourists driving by, and it works admirably. The Mars Castle is a popular tourist attraction that sells an abundance of pricey cheese, sausages, sauces, crackers, and other tasty products.
Mars Cheese Castle Kenosha, Wisconsin
These are all wonderful culinary alternatives, but the pricing are so exorbitant that it smacks of a money grab. Tourists and locals, on the other hand, don’t seem to mind, possibly since anything containing cheese is a good thing.
Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is as lovely as any other tourist site on this list. However, it is much like any other beach. Everything in town, including the beach, can be viewed in less than a day. Cannon Beach has a very laid-back vibe, which is appealing to vacationers, but it also has several drawbacks that make the area as overrated as they come. Furthermore, enormous crowds always rush to this region, especially during the summer, making the overall experience less enjoyable.
Cannon Beach Cannon Beach, Oregon
Visitors should also keep in mind that Cannon Beach is the most upscale of Oregon’s beach towns, and hotel prices are always exorbitant.
A Christmas Story House: Cleveland, Ohio
The holiday season has a special way of capturing people’s hearts and attention. This time of year, tourist attractions that embrace the festive spirit tend to be popular among visitors. One such attraction is the house from A Christmas Story in Cleveland, Ohio. Located in the city’s Tremont neighborhood, this house served as the backdrop for the beloved 1983 comedy film A Christmas Story. Fans of the movie often make a pilgrimage to this house, eager to relive iconic scenes and experience the magic of the holidays.
A Christmas Story House Cleveland, Ohio
However, some may question why one would go out of their way to visit a seemingly ordinary house in Ohio. After all, countless other attractions and destinations might offer more value.
Captain Kirk’s Future Birthplace: Riverside, Iowa
Captain Kirk, the main character and commander of the USS Enterprise, is supposed to have been born in Riverside, Iowa. As a result, Star Trek fans from all over the world travel to this small town in Iowa to witness a private yard behind a small house with a monument. This memorial resembles a gravestone and reads, “Future Birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk, March 22, 2228.”
Captain Kirk’s Future Birthplace Riverside, Iowa
Furthermore, Riverside’s mayor and the show’s creator, Gene Roddenberry, chose a small town in Iowa as Kirk’s birthplace. So it’s overrated, but it’s also wrong and a tourist trap.
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine: Cawker City, Kansas
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine, located in Cawker City, Kansas, is a popular tourist attraction. The idea for the ball originated in the 1950s with Frank Stoeber and his family. It started as a personal project but gained attention from people all over the world. As the ball grew in size, it became too much for one person to handle. The town of Cawker City came together and helped add to the twine ball. It wasn’t just a project anymore; it was a community effort.
The World’s Largest Ball Of Twine Cawker City, Kansas
Although the narrative of how the ball of twine came to be is amusing, neither the story nor the ball is worth a trip to Kansas. Even if you are traveling to a neighboring place, this event takes only a few minutes and does not live up to the promise.
Ave Maria Grotto: Cullman, Alabama
The Ave Maria Grotto is a four-acre park located in Cullman, Alabama. It features over 125 miniature replicas of famous architecture from around the world, all made out of cement and recycled materials. The grotto was built by Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk who lived at St. Bernard Abbey for most of his life. Originally from Bavaria, Germany, Brother Joseph was inspired by his travels to create these intricate and detailed models.
Ave Maria Grotto Cullman, Alabama
Tourists come to the sacred shrine in Cullman, Alabama, which features miniature copies of the world’s most famous religious structures. This tourist trap appears to be ideal for religious or art specialists, as there is little to do at the location other than take photos and pray. But each to their own.
Crater of Diamonds State Park: Murfreesboro, Arkansas
Visitors to Crater of Diamonds State Park can get up close and personal with diamonds. Given that it is the only natural diamond course open to the public in the United States, it has drawn tourists since it debuted in 1906. Many people find the prospect of digging for gems enticing. Diamonds are, after all, a girl’s best friend. However, the park is simply a vast empty field with people milling about.
Crater Of Diamonds State Park Murfreesboro, Arkansas
As a result, the chances of finding diamonds are small but not nil. You can try your luck, but you could have a better experience visiting another tourist attraction in Arkansas.
Buffalo Bill’s Grave and Museum: Lookout Mountain, Colorado
Buffalo Bill is regarded as one of the most famous cowboys. Of course, there is a tourist attraction named after him. In 1917, the world-famous hunter and showman died. The Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum opened in 1921 after he received the most prominent funeral in Colorado history. Since its inception, the site hasn’t altered much. It houses a graveyard as well as a museum dedicated to Buffalo Bill’s life.
Buffalo Bill’s Grave And Museum Lookout Mountain, Colorado
The museum displays images and artifacts from the Old West’s past. Sure, it sounds like a good attraction, but neither the cemetery nor the museum are quite as interesting and thrilling as Buffalo Bill was when he was alive.
Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: Rehoboth, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is a charming seaside town situated in eastern Sussex County, Delaware. It is a popular destination for families seeking to relax and unwind by the ocean. With its picturesque beaches, delicious food options, and an array of activities, Rehoboth Beach has something for everyone. The town’s boardwalk is a major attraction, drawing in tourists from all over with its lively atmosphere and variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk Rehoboth, Delaware
This location has gotten concerns about being overcrowded and having insufficient parking. While it may be enjoyable to visit this tourist spot once, it is ultimately a tourist trap. It is, however, not the most overrated tourist attraction on this list.
Ark Encounter and Creation Museum: Williamstown, Kentucky
Noah’s Ark is not just a biblical story, but an architectural wonder that has captured the imagination of people for centuries. To see it live and in person should be on everyone’s bucket list, regardless of religion. But as with most things, there is a catch – the hefty price tag. In addition to the admission fee, visitors also have the option of experiencing a zip line as part of the biblical theme park.
Ark Encounter And Creation Museum Williamstown, Kentucky
This additional expense may make some reconsider adding this destination to their travel plans. However, for those who are still interested in visiting, it may be worth noting that admission fees do not include access to other attractions such as the Creation Museum and the theme park itself.
The Desert of Maine: Freeport, Maine
The Desert of Maine, located in Freeport, Maine, is a popular tourist destination. Despite its name, it is not a desert. Instead, it is a glacial slit surrounded by pine trees. This false appearance may be disappointing to some visitors who were expecting to see vast stretches of dunes. However, the history behind this unique location is still fascinating. The Desert of Maine was once a fertile farmland, but due to poor farming practices in the 19th century, the topsoil eroded and exposed the glacial slit beneath.
The Desert Of Maine Freeport, Maine
Aside from pine trees, plastic camels are scattered throughout the faux desert to provide realism and entice tourists. The jig is up, though, and everyone knows this isn’t a desert. If you want to go to a little stretch of sand, the beach is a much better option.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not: Ocean City, Maryland
Ripley’s Believe It or Not museums are a popular destination for families looking for unique and entertaining experiences. With its mind-boggling displays, mirror maze, and Laserace, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These museums not only provide a fun way to pass the time, but also serve as a great bonding activity for families. But did you know that Ripley’s Believe It or Not has locations all over the country?
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Ocean City, Maryland
So, why would tourists choose to spend time in an area that can be found in practically any place if they are coming to a new place? Sure, these museums are entertaining on a wet day in a seaside resort, but that’s about it.
The Four Corners: Teec Nos Pos, Arizona
The Four Corners Monument joins Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico, which all share a boundary. It is the only location in the United States where four states meet. Visitors will be in four states at the same time if they lay across the site where the states intersect. We must confess. There is no denying that claiming to have been in four states at the same time is a flex.
The Four Corners Teec Nos Pos, Arizona
The fact, however, is that the Four Corners monument sits in the middle of nowhere, with nothing to do but stand around and snap photos. As if that wasn’t enough, reports indicate that the monument’s lines are incorrect. Keeping this in mind, there is no need to go.
Mystic Seaport: Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic Seaport is a tourist attraction that recreates a historically significant seaport hamlet. This covers wooden whaling ships as well as other steam-powered vessels. Visitors report that the recreation is enjoyable, but it is extremely pricey and unsatisfying. After you pay to enter, you must pay again to participate in extra activities such as boat excursions, children’s crafts, shows, and wagon rides.
Mystic Seaport Mystic, Connecticut
After entering, you’d expect there would be activities included with the entry fee. Furthermore, if you visit the seaport in the winter, several ships aren’t on show, making it even less appealing.
Bourbon Street: New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, also known as “The Big Easy,” is a vibrant and culturally diverse city in the state of Louisiana. Its history dates back to the 18th century when it was founded by French colonists. Today, New Orleans is famous for its lively music scene, delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, and annual festivities like Mardi Gras. One of the most popular tourist destinations in New Orleans is Bourbon Street, known for its vibrant nightlife and variety of entertainment options.
Bourbon Street New Orleans, Louisiana
Instead of visiting Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street is a fantastic way to explore more of what New Orleans has to offer. Furthermore, it is a short walk from Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. Why not give it a shot?
Mystery Spot: Saint Ignace, Michigan
This low-cost roadside attraction has been intriguing visitors for years with its unexplainable phenomena. The Mystery Spot was discovered in the early 1950s by a group of surveyors who were working in the area. They noticed strange occurrences such as compasses not working and objects appearing to roll uphill. Word quickly spread about this mysterious place, and it soon became a popular destination for tourists.
Mystery Spot Saint Ignace, Michigan
The glitzy signs advertising it along the highway, as well as the lack of residents at The Mystery Spot, suggest that visitors to Michigan might consider visiting other sites instead.
The Birthplace of Elvis: Tupelo, Mississippi
The Birthplace of Elvis is another Elvis-related attraction in Tupelo, Mississippi. On January 8, 1935, the King of Rock & Roll was born there. This house is not as opulent as his palace. Instead, it’s a two-room hut erected by his father. Elvis Presley grew up in poverty but rose to fame as he grew older. The Mississippi residence is a landmark and the centerpiece of an Elvis-themed park. Elvis Presley is widely regarded as a music icon, often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll”.
The Birthplace Of Elvis Tupelo, Mississippi
He rose to fame in the 1950s with his unique blend of rockabilly, country, and blues music. His charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals captivated audiences around the world.
Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail and Museum: Weldon Spring, Missouri
The Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail and Museum, located in Weldon Spring, Missouri, is centered on a massive pile of rocks that doubles as a mound of nuclear waste. The facility comprises 1.5 million cubic yards of hazardous trash in total. This is the site of the largest explosives factory in the United States. In 1966, the land was converted into a uranium ore processing factory.
Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail And Museum Weldon Spring, Missouri
The US Department of Energy covered it with rocks after it was abandoned. Sure, there’s a fascinating narrative behind it, but any attraction involving garbage doesn’t sound that appetizing.
50000 Silver Dollar Bar: Haugan, Montana
The 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar is a unique and popular tourist attraction located in Haugan, Montana. It is situated in the beautiful Lolo National Forest and offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages. Despite its name, many people are surprised to learn that this bar is actually a family-friendly destination. While it does have an impressive collection of silver dollars, there is much more to see and do here.
50000 Silver Dollar Bar Haugan, Montana
The bar, in particular, is the most well-known aspect of the tourist attraction. It is home to nearly 50,000 silver dollars, one of America’s largest-sized coins. However, the establishment has yet to be rebuilt and is nothing more than a kitschy rest stop.
Clark’s Trading Post: Lincoln, New Hampshire
At Clark’s Trading Post, visitors can experience an array of family-friendly entertainment options. From watching trained black bears perform stunts to exploring a circus and trying out a segway, there is something for everyone at this attraction. Additionally, the admission fee covers access to all rides and performances, making it a great value for families. Don’t forget to also check out the various restaurants and gift shops available on-site. Plan your trip to Clark’s Trading Post today for a fun-filled day of adventure!
Clark’s Trading Post Lincoln, New Hampshire
This area is popular with locals but has never really caught on with tourists. Perhaps it is due to the bears’ poor attractiveness or ethics in training. Nobody knows!
The Enchanted Highway: Regent, North Dakota
The Enchanted Highway is a must-see for anyone traveling through North Dakota. This unique collection of animal-shaped scrap metal sculptures adds an element of whimsy and wonder to the otherwise barren landscape. Along this stretch of highway, visitors can marvel at seven one-of-a-kind sculptures including birds, fish families, geese, enormous grasshoppers, and even some human figures.
The Enchanted Highway Regent, North Dakota
These sculptures are not only a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of their creator, but also a reflection of the rugged and resilient spirit of the people of North Dakota.
J. M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum: Claremore, Oklahoma
The J.M Davis Arms and Historical Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. With an impressive collection of nearly 20,000 firearms and related artifacts, this museum tells the captivating tale of how J.M. Davis fought to preserve a slice of our past. But it’s not just about the guns and other items on display – it’s also about the man behind the museum. J.M Davis was a passionate collector with an unwavering determination to save a piece of history.
J. M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum Claremore, Oklahoma
However, staring at weaponry, statues, and other antiquities becomes tedious after about an hour or two. So you could be better off saving your time and efforts by going somewhere else.
Foamhenge: Natural Bridge, Virginia
Foamhenge, located in Natural Bridge, Virginia, is a playful imitation of the famous Stonehenge in England. Created by artist Mark Cline as an April Fool’s Day joke, Foamhenge has become a popular roadside attraction for tourists. Despite its humorous origins, this foam replica has gained widespread attention and has been embraced as a unique feature of the Natural Bridge area. With its playful twist on a historical landmark, Foamhenge showcases the creativity and lightheartedness of its creator, while also drawing attention to the beautiful natural surroundings of Virginia.
Foamhenge Natural Bridge, Virginia
Having said that, it did bring tourists to the area and was judged a success. However, it is still simply a styrofoam sculpture, and there isn’t much to see in that aspect.
New River Gorge Bridge: Fayetteville, West Virginia
The New River Gorge Bridge near Fayetteville, West Virginia, was the world’s longest steel arch bridge when it was built in the 1970s. However, it has only held that distinction in the United States following the completion of China’s Shanghai Lupo Bridge. This old bridge is historically significant because it used innovative construction technology at the time and was typically designed.
New River Gorge Bridge Fayetteville, West Virginia
However, driving across may be frightening, and driving over this bridge would be similar to driving over any other bridge. Sure, it’s good to get a nice view here and there, but it’s not worth driving over.