14 Tourist Traps That Are Too Crowded and Overpriced
Some places are so disappointing that you wonder why people rave about it. You show up expecting something extraordinary but end up questioning your life choices in a crowd of sweaty tourists. We’ve all been there. The truth is, some places survive on hype alone. They look amazing on social media but not even close in reality.
To save you frustration, here are famous tourist traps that are just not worth the time or the money.
Times Square, New York City, New York
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Times Square looks like the most happening and lively place when you see it in movies or in Instagram pictures. But only when you visit it do you realize what a chaotic mess it really is. Street performers aggressively demand tips, and souvenir shops overcharge for everything. You are surrounded by tourists at all ends, so much so that it’s even hard to move around.
Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles, California
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The Hollywood Walk of Fame is nothing but dirty streets and pushy vendors. The crowd and people in cheap costumes asking for money will make it so frustrating that you’d not even notice your favorite star’s name on the sidewalk. This area is more of a tourist scam than Hollywood glam.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, California
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A place that should have been full of history and a lively fishing hub is basically a strip of souvenir stores and chain restaurants. You’d notice low authenticity around but sky-high prices. And if you thought the food would compensate for it, you’re wrong. The Fisherman’s Wharf fails to provide the real San Francisco experience you may be looking for.
Salem Witch Museum, Salem, Massachusetts
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This once-historic museum feels completely outdated and overwhelming due to crowds. In fact, it takes more effort to reach here, especially during the peak touristy seasons, than you’d want to spend exploring the museum. If anything, you might want to check out the town, which is more fascinating than the museum itself.
Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota
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There’s hype around this mall, which attracts both locals and tourists. At the end of the day, it’s just a mall. Massive, but nothing too special. You will find the same stores you see everywhere, probably with just higher prices. Plus, the way the crowds pack the mall, it will take forever to walk from one end to the other.
Four Corners Monument, Southwestern USA
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This place actually signifies standing in four states at a time. And while that sounds fun, there’s nothing else to do here. The monument sits in the middle of nowhere, with little shade and few amenities. Long lines make the experience even less exciting. Not worth the trip.
Wall Drug Store, Wall, South Dakota
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Wall Drug is nothing but a giant souvenir shop. Don’t get fooled by all the adventure they advertise on billboards. Tourists flood the stores, not caring about buying overpriced trinkets. The famous free water and cheap coffee don’t make up for the commercialized feel. This place may be fun for a few minutes, but it is not a must-see.
South of the Border, Dillon, South Carolina
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The South of the Border has quirky decorations and bright signs that manage to lure people in, but once you step in, you’ll realize the hype is overrated. There’s only little to see here. The attraction feels outdated and run-down. Sure, there are many gift shops here, but they’re all selling expensive knick-knacks. The food isn’t great either.
Crater of Diamonds State Park, Murfreesboro, Arkansas
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Finding your own diamond sounds thrilling, but most visitors leave empty-handed. The digging process is exhausting, especially in the heat. The park lacks shade and modern amenities. Most people spend hours searching and find nothing but dirt. The odds of success are slim.
O.K. Corral, Tombstone, Arizona
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The real gunfight was dramatic, but today’s version feels staged. Actors put on reenactments, but the performances feel forced. Admission prices are high for what you get. The town leans into the Old West theme, but it comes off as a tourist cash grab.
International UFO Museum and Research Center, Roswell, New Mexico
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This place is strictly for alien lovers; otherwise, it will kill you with boredom. The displays are underwhelming, and most require a lot of reading with only a handful of interactive displays. The town plays up the UFO theme in a gimmicky way. The experience feels more silly than scientific.
Gold Dredge 8, Fairbanks, Alaska
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Here’s another tourist trap that’s mainly designed for selling expensive souvenirs. The history of gold mining is fascinating but fading. The gold-panning experience is short and feels staged. Visitors get tiny flakes of gold, barely worth keeping.
16th Street Mall, Denver, Colorado
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Denver has great attractions, but we won’t count this one in. Chain stores and average restaurants fill the area, taking away the leftover local culture and charm. Homelessness is a growing issue here, which can make some visitors uncomfortable. If you have it on your itinerary, you still have time to slash it out.
The Gum Wall, Seattle, Washington
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It’s exactly what it sounds like—a wall covered in old chewing gum. Some people find it fascinating, but people who have a brain think it’s gross and, of course, overhyped for a nasty reason. What makes it worse is the unpleasant smell. The market nearby is worth visiting, but this wall isn’t.
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine, Cawker City, Kansas
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Yes, it’s a giant ball of twine. That’s all. Unless you love odd roadside attractions, it’s not worth the trip. The town celebrates it, but there’s nothing else to do. You’ll take a photo, wonder why you came, and leave.