Hotspots Locals Wish You'd Skip
Think you've seen it all by visiting the top tourist spots? Think again. Some of the most well-known destinations in the US are less than meets the eye, leaving travelers with nothing but crowds and high prices.
Statue Of Liberty (New York City, NY)
Who doesn’t want to high-five Lady Liberty? She’s a global superstar, but the ferry ride to her island is all about long waits and sweaty crowds. Here’s a pro move: skip the ferry and head to Battery Park. You’ll catch a stellar view of the Statue across the harbor and have space to chill.
William Warby, Wikimedia Commons
The Bellagio Fountains (Las Vegas, NV)
A stunning sight, the Bellagio Fountains have become a popular free attraction on the bustling Las Vegas Strip. The fountains themselves are beautiful. However, the area is filled with high prices and overwhelming packs of tourists. For those who crave a quieter Vegas experience, stepping off the Strip to discover local flavor will work better.
Kashyap Hosdurga, Wikimedia Commons
Ocean Drive (Miami, FL)
Ocean Drive sounds like a Miami dream—Art Deco vibes and neon lights galore. But brace yourself for bumper-to-bumper crowds and bars charging more for a cocktail than your monthly coffee budget. The touristy chaos and wallet-draining prices can overshadow the street’s iconic charm.
Times Square’s Broadway Shows (New York City, NY)
Dreaming of a glitzy Broadway night in Times Square? Shelling out big bucks for a ticket might leave your wallet crying louder than the finale of a musical. Plus, the packed theaters and crowded streets can feel like you’re starring in a chaotic rom-com. All the off-Broadway gems away from the Times Square frenzy are just as fun.
The Space Needle (Seattle, WA)
In Seattle, the Space Needle is a must-see, but the experience often falls flat due to long lines and high admission fees. Although the panoramic views are impressive, visitors can find better value and fewer mobs at other nearby lookout points. Exploring Seattle’s unique neighborhoods can be more rewarding.
Walt Disney World (Orlando, FL)
Though a beloved family destination, Walt Disney World is known for long lines and busy parks. Given the high ticket prices, the magic can easily get lost in the chaos. To many, this is a spot you shouldn’t miss, but consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid the overwhelming crowds and high costs.
Coney Island (Brooklyn, NY)
As a historic amusement park, Coney Island has become overrun with tourists and has lost much of its former charm. It’s true that the boardwalk offers nostalgia, but the area is full of overpriced food stalls and run-of-the-mill attractions. More local spots in Brooklyn offer a much more authentic experience.
MusikAnimal, Wikimedia Commons
Niagara Falls (Niagara Falls, NY)
Niagara Falls should be all about jaw-dropping cascades, but the vibe often gets drowned out by pricey boat tours and souvenir shops clamoring for your attention. The touristy hustle can make you feel more like a wallet than a wonderstruck visitor. For a smoother splash, seek out quieter viewpoints for that postcard-worthy gaze.
Chicago’s Navy Pier (Chicago, IL)
Ready to explore Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier? This spot has all the makings of a tourist magnet—chain restaurants, souvenir stalls, and crowds thicker than a deep-dish pizza. But that mall-like vibe? It’s more “shop ’til you drop” than “feel the soul of the Windy City”. Instead, head to Chicago’s waterfront parks for stunning lake views and wide-open spaces for a chill stroll.
Pike Place Market (Seattle, WA)
While iconic, Pike Place Market has become overly commercialized, with soaring prices and heavy crowds. The market's once-authentic atmosphere is now diluted by souvenir shops and chain restaurants. Seeking out less-crowded local markets in Seattle provides a more genuine, meaningful taste of the city’s culture and food scene.
Daniel Schwen, Wikimedia Commons
Grand Canyon South Rim (Grand Canyon, AZ)
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most visited, but its overcrowding can detract from the natural beauty. The busy lookout points and expensive tours often make the experience feel like a conveyor belt. Try the North Rim or hike into the canyon itself if you really want to enjoy nature’s serenity.
Murray Foubister, Wikimedia Commons
The Hollywood Sign (Los Angeles, CA)
Who doesn’t want to visit one of the world’s most famous symbols of fame? But access to The Hollywood Sign can be difficult. Because of the overcrowded viewing spots and constant traffic, enjoying this landmark could be challenging. For a more peaceful experience, consider hiking nearby trails or visiting quieter locations that offer fantastic views without the chaos.
Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de, Wikimedia Commons
Universal Studios (Orlando, FL)
Universal Studios lures you in with promises of Hollywood glitz, but those blockbuster dreams can fizzle fast. Forking over a fortune for tickets only to wait in lines longer than a movie marathon? Not exactly Oscar-worthy. The park’s commercial buzz often feels more like a cash grab than a magical escape. Swing by during off-peak hours to skip the mob.
NBCUniversal, Wikimedia Commons
Waikiki Beach (Honolulu, HI)
Once a serene getaway, Waikiki Beach has become overcrowded and overdeveloped. Packed with pricey hotels and touristy restaurants, the area’s authentic Hawaiian charm is increasingly hard to find. For a quieter, more genuine beach experience, explore less commercialized parts of Hawaii for a more peaceful retreat.
Times Square (New York City, NY)
Known as the "Crossroads of the World," Times Square has transformed into a bustling hub of chaos. Tourists flock to its neon lights and energetic vibe, but it often feels more like a hectic shopping mall than a cultural experience. Locals typically avoid the crowds and seek quieter spots in the city.
South Of The Border (Dillon, SC)
A once-popular roadside attraction, South of the Border is now a kitschy landmark marked by oversized billboards and neon signs. Beyond fast food and souvenir shops, there's little to offer, leaving visitors disappointed by the lack of authenticity. It's more about gimmicks than genuine experiences for those seeking something unique.
Judy Gallagher, Wikimedia Commons
Myrtle Beach (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Myrtle Beach might call to mind visions of sandy toes and ocean breezes, but these days, it’s more about dodging people at packed resorts. The once-charming coastline now feels like a bustling tourist carnival, light on serenity and heavy on hype. The shorelines in South Carolina are quieter, with plenty of space to unwind.
Mount Rushmore (Keystone, SD)
While Mount Rushmore is a must-see landmark, its surroundings have become overrun with tourists and commercialized shops. Being surrounded by too many people can make the experience feel less personal. To truly appreciate the monument, consider exploring the nearby Black Hills for a less congested perspective of this iconic site.
Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de, Wikimedia Commons
Gatlinburg (Gatlinburg, TN)
Gatlinburg, often seen as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, has become a popular spot for tourism. Its main streets are filled with chain restaurants and touristy attractions. For those seeking the natural beauty of the area, venturing into the mountains offers a more authentic, peaceful experience.
Don McCulley, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Alamo (San Antonio, TX)
Stepping into the Alamo, you’d expect a moment of patriotic awe, but the reality is different. Swarms of tourists and nearby trinket stalls can make this historic gem feel more like a busy market. Rise early for a dawn visit or wander to nearby lesser-known historical spots for a peaceful sip of history.
Nuggehalli2015, Wikimedia Commons
Fisherman’s Wharf (San Francisco, CA)
Once known for its authentic maritime charm, Fisherman’s Wharf now feels overrun with restaurants and tourist traps. The beautiful views are often overshadowed by the overpriced shops. For a more genuine San Francisco experience, consider exploring the city’s lesser-known waterfronts away from the crowds.
Michael Rivera, Wikimedia Commons
Hollywood Walk Of Fame (Los Angeles, CA)
The glitzy reputation of the Hollywood Walk of Fame has faded under the weight of overcrowding, street performers, and hustlers. What was once a glamorous area now feels cluttered and chaotic. For a more authentic taste of LA, head to its historic neighborhoods that offer a quieter, more enriching experience.
Dole Plantation (Wahiawa, HI)
Originally a working pineapple farm, the Dole Plantation has morphed into a commercialized attraction. Visitors are drawn to its overpriced souvenirs and artificial experiences, which feel more like a theme park than an educational visit. For a true slice of Hawaii’s agricultural heritage, consider exploring more authentic local farms.
Robert Linsdell from St. Andrews, Canada, Wikimedia Commons
The Strip (Las Vegas, NV)
The Strip, famous for its vibrant energy, has become one of the world’s most commercialized areas. While it offers a lot of spectacle, it’s often more about hype than substance, with pricey attractions and crowded casinos. For a different taste of Vegas, leave the Strip to explore local gems and quieter spots.
The Grand Prismatic Spring (Yellowstone National Park, WY)
While the Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most stunning natural features in Yellowstone, its popularity has led to overcrowding and limited accessibility. The boardwalks are often packed, and the surrounding area can feel more like a tourist attraction than a peaceful retreat. For a more serene experience, explore other hidden geothermal features within the park.
James St. John from Newark, Ohio, Wikimedia Commons
