Tourists go to many places in North America looking for new things, history, and fun. But, not every popular spot is worth it. “Tourist trap” means a place that tries to trick visitors with false promises, leaving them unhappy.
Some places are just not good and charge too much. It’s key to know these spots to save time and find better places. This article will show you some of the worst tourist traps in North America. It will help you avoid scams and find places that are really worth it.
Key Takeaways
- Plymouth Rock underwhelms 85% of local visitors due to its small size.
- 91% express dissatisfaction with Times Square on New Year’s Eve, citing crowds and cold weather.
- The Hollywood Walk of Fame disappoints 72% of tourists due to dirt-covered stars.
- 58% of visitors criticize the Mall of America for being similar to regular malls.
- 79% find viewing the Liberty Bell up close not worth the wait.
What Makes a Tourist Trap?
A definition tourist trap is about not being real and focusing too much on bringing in lots of people. It often has high prices, with 82% saying they spent more than $50. Sadly, 22% spent over $200 on a mediocre tourist experience.
Many Americans, 89%, have visited these places in the last two years. A big reason, 33.67%, was because friends or family wanted to go. Another reason, 19.29%, was because of good reviews and social media.
Here’s why tourist traps are so common:
- Above-average pricing (30%)
- Amenities tailored for tourists (28%)
- Lack of cultural authenticity (27%)
Visiting these places can be a letdown. 70% said it made their trip less fun. And 45.37% said it made their travels worse.
| Reason for Visiting | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Family/friends wanted to go | 33.67% |
| Highly recommended in guides/reviews/on social media | 19.29% |
| Curiosity or personal interest | 18.17% |
| Considered a landmark or symbol of the destination | 14.16% |
| Part of a tour package or itinerary | 13.82% |
Many travelers now prefer to skip these places because of their high prices and mediocre tourist experiences. They look for real advice on Reddit or other forums. In fact, 11.82% suggest talking to a travel advisor to avoid these issues. And 9.36% warn to be careful of social media that makes some places seem better than they are.
South of the Border, South Carolina
South of the Border is a big place in Hamer, South Carolina. It has lots of things to see like a mini golf course, a truck stop, and a motel. There are also shops, restaurants, rides, and a tall tower with a hat on top.
This place started as a small beer stand in 1949. Now, it’s easy to find at the crossroads of I-95 and US 301/501.
Overview
Once, it had about 700 jobs, making it a big employer in Dillon County. Now, it still gives work to around 300 people. The place is known for its Pedro mascot, a fun character with a hat and big mustache.
But, some people think the theme is not respectful. Over time, the signs have gotten less bold. Yet, many visitors feel it’s not as fun as they thought it would be.
Visitor Reviews
People have mixed feelings about South of the Border. Some find it both interesting and a bit odd. A review on Trip Advisor called it “creepy and scary.”
On Reddit, people talk about possible shady dealings there. Social media like TikTok has brought up more wild stories. It’s even been in TV shows and movies, showing its unique side.
Many visitors feel it didn’t live up to their expectations. They were looking for something fun but found it just not that special. So, it’s often talked about as a place to avoid.
Original Starbucks, Seattle
The Original Starbucks is at 1912 Pike Place in Seattle’s Downtown. It’s known as Starbucks #1 and is a big part of coffee history. But, many people find it not as special as they thought, since the drinks are the same as in any other Starbucks.
Overview
The first Starbucks opened in 1971 and became a key part of Seattle’s coffee scene. The original spot at 2000 Western Ave. is gone now. The oldest Starbucks is now at Pike Place, since 1976. This fact often makes tourists excited to visit, hoping for something special.
The Original Starbucks looks the same as newer ones, keeping its old charm and design. You can see Howard Schultz stacking beans. But, the place is always packed, with long lines on sunny days.
Visitor Reviews
Visitors have mixed feelings. Some love the nostalgia and fame of the place. But, many say it’s not as special as expected. They’re upset about the lack of seats and restrooms due to its popularity.
Many say the coffee tastes the same as anywhere else. With over 35,000 Starbucks worldwide, the experience is pretty uniform. This leads to high hopes that aren’t always met, leaving visitors a bit let down.
Here’s a quick glance comparison with other popular Seattle activities:
| Attraction | Cost | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Original Starbucks | Free (Coffee Costs Extra) | Iconic, but Crowded |
| Seattle Great Wheel | $11-$16 | Scenic Views |
| Seattle Aquarium | Expensive | Informative and Fun |
| Alki Beach | Free | 2.5 Miles of Beach Walk |
| Discovery Park | Free | 10 Miles of Trails |
While the Original Starbucks is a big deal in coffee history, it’s good to know it’s just like any other Starbucks. It has a charming, nostalgic feel, but it’s not a unique experience.
Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts
Going to Plymouth Rock can be a mix of feelings for those who love history and those just curious. The idea that this small rock shows where the Pilgrims landed has stuck since 1741. But, many think this story is more myth than truth. So, many visitors feel let down when they see it’s not as big of a deal as they thought.
Overview
The story of Plymouth Rock started in 1741, 121 years after the Pilgrims arrived. By 1774, it became a symbol of America’s start and freedom during the American Revolution. But, it’s seen as one of the most misunderstood historical spots.
People kept taking pieces of the rock as souvenirs, making it much smaller. Now, it’s half its original size. Visitors often feel surprised and a bit let down by its small size. The rock looks simple, not as big and important as history made it out to be.
Visitor Reviews
| Aspect | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Historical Value | ★★★☆☆ | Many like its cultural importance but say the myths about the Pilgrims lessen its impact. |
| Visitor Experience | ★★☆☆☆ | Visitors often feel the rock is too small and plain, leading to disappointment. |
| Overall Impression | ★★☆☆☆ | It’s often seen as not as exciting as expected, with visitors looking for something bigger to mark such a key moment. |
For a deeper dive into Pilgrim history, the Plimoth Patuxet Museums are a better choice. They offer a recreated village, the Mayflower II ship, and a working gristmill. These places help visitors understand the Pilgrims’ journey and settlement better, beyond what Plymouth Rock shows.
Four Corners Monument, USA
The Four Corners Monument lets you stand in four states at once: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. This idea is interesting and attracts many visitors. But, many people feel it’s not worth the trip.
They don’t like the empty place and waiting a lot to take a photo. The entrance fee went up to $8 per person in June 2022. This makes people unhappy.
Visitors can only take three photos at the marker during busy times. They suggest visiting for just 20 minutes. Some say the spot isn’t even in the right place, adding to the criticism.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah |
| Entry Fee | $8 per person (as of June 2022) |
| Seasonal Hours | Apr 1 to Sep 30: 8 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.; Oct 1 to Mar 31: 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. |
| Holiday Closures | Thanksgiving Day, Navajo Nation Family Day, Christmas Day, New Years |
| Contact Number | (928) 206-2540 |
| Payment Methods | Credit cards only at the gate |
There are long lines at the gate, filled with local vendors. They sell arts and crafts, adding some culture. But, it feels more like a commercial spot.
Cash is best to use because credit card machines often don’t work. There are no ATMs nearby.
The monument opened in 1992 but gets a lot of criticism. People wonder if it’s really worth visiting. Many think it’s one of the overrated destinations USA.
Times Square, New York City
Times Square is seen as the lively center of New York City. But for many, it turns into a crowded spot. People say it’s too full and not worth the visit.
It gets around 50 million visitors a year. This makes it one of the busiest places in New York.
Overview
Times Square is the most visited spot in the world. Yet, it’s also seen as the most overrated tourist trap. Costumed characters and artists ask for a lot of money from tourists.
Broadway ticket scalpers also trick tourists into buying fake or expensive tickets. The chain restaurants there are known for their high prices. This makes many visitors unhappy with their experience in Times Square.
Visitor Reviews
Many people feel let down after visiting Times Square. They say it’s too crowded and hard to enjoy. The area is seen as dirty and too commercial.
A study looked at reviews of 81 famous places around the world. It found many negative comments about Times Square. People called it an “underwhelming” experience and a “tourist trap”.
The area has seen a drop in its popularity because of a retail slump and more street crime. The pandemic made things worse. Now, it’s known for being crowded and full of ads.
This has left many visitors feeling disappointed. Their visit didn’t live up to their dreams of New York.
| Aspect | Feedback | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Costumed Characters | Pressure to tip or purchase photos | Negative |
| Caricature Artists | High prices, often seen as scams | Negative |
| Food and Dining | Overpriced chain restaurants | Negative |
| Crowd Levels | Extreme congestion, difficult navigation | Negative |
| Broadway Tickets | Frequent ticket scams and high prices | Negative |
Bourbon Street, New Orleans
Bourbon Street nightlife is famous for its lively vibe and endless energy. But, the real story behind the glamour might disappoint those expecting a great time.
Overview
Bourbon Street stretches from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue. It’s known for New Orleans’s wild party scene. But, locals often skip it. The French Quarter is full of shops selling the same souvenirs, adding to New Orleans tourist disappointments.
Before Mardi Gras Day, there are many family-friendly parades. Police are out in full force, and the rules can be hard to follow. This can turn what should be fun into a bad experience on Bourbon Street nightlife.
Visitor Reviews
Every year, 42.6 million people visit Bourbon Street. But, opinions are mixed. Visitors don’t like the over-commercial feel, the high drink prices, or the street scams.
Some like the artistic spots near Jackson Square and the unique voodoo shops. But, for those wanting a real local experience, Bourbon Street reality often doesn’t deliver. It’s too focused on tourists and partying.
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is a symbol of American heritage. It draws about three million visitors yearly to see the rock sculpture of four presidents. But, what people expect might not match what they find. The site gets very crowded, especially in peak months.
Visiting in May, September, or October can be less crowded. This makes it a better time to see it.
The $10 parking fee per vehicle is worth it to see the giant faces of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt. Each face is 60 feet tall. Yet, some say the site doesn’t have much to do, except look at the monument. They suggest enjoying it from afar to avoid the crowds.
The Crazy Horse Memorial is another great place to visit. It’s still being built and has deep cultural meaning. Visitors also like Wall Drug, which gets over two million visitors a year, and the Corn Palace, with 500,000 visitors.
For nature lovers, Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park are perfect. They offer hiking and cave tours starting at $14.00 per person.
You can easily get to Mount Rushmore from the Rapid City Regional Airport, just 35 miles away. But, many say visiting places like Deadwood or the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs is better. Mount Rushmore is a key part of American history, loved and debated by many.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Rushmore | 3,000,000 | Four Presidential Faces Sculpted |
| Crazy Horse Memorial | 1,000,000 (estimated) | Ongoing Construction, Cultural Significance |
| Wall Drug | 2,000,000 | Shopping, Dining, Art Gallery |
| Corn Palace | 500,000 | Annual Corn Mural |
| Wind Cave National Park | 656,000 | Cave Tours, Wildlife |
Conclusion
We’ve looked at some of North America’s worst tourist traps in this article. It shows how important it is for travelers to make smart choices. Places like the Las Vegas Strip and the Pyramids of Giza often take advantage of tourists.
By doing research, getting advice from locals, and avoiding busy times, you can avoid these traps. This way, you can have more real experiences while traveling.
Niagara Falls, Santorini, and Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh may look great at first. But soon, you’ll find the crowds and high prices can ruin your fun. Places like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, also aim to take all your money.
But you can beat this by bargaining, using public transport, and booking your stay early. This makes your trip cheaper and more fun.
The key to a great vacation is finding out what a place is really like. You can do this by researching well, being open to new things, and planning your money carefully. By doing these things, you can have a trip that’s full of real experiences and avoid the tourist traps.
FAQ
What is a tourist trap?
A tourist trap is a place that mainly aims to attract tourists. It uses misleading ads or overhyped promotions. These spots usually offer low-quality services and products at high prices. They give you a bad experience instead of real culture or history.
Why should I avoid tourist traps?
Tourist traps charge too much for not-so-great experiences. They care more about making money than showing you real local culture or history. Avoiding them saves you money and helps you find better, more real travel experiences.
Are there specific tourist traps to avoid in North America?
Yes, some top tourist traps in North America include South of the Border in South Carolina, the Original Starbucks in Seattle, Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts, the Four Corners Monument, Times Square in New York City, Bourbon Street in New Orleans, and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.
What makes South of the Border a tourist trap?
South of the Border in South Carolina is known for its overhyped Mexican theme. It’s basically just a rest area with cheap souvenirs. Many visitors find it a letdown and not worth stopping for.
Is the Original Starbucks in Seattle worth visiting?
The Original Starbucks is famous, but it’s often seen as a bit of a letdown. The experience is much like any other Starbucks. The long lines and hype make for a disappointing visit for many tourists.
Why is Plymouth Rock considered a disappointing landmark?
Plymouth Rock is seen as a letdown because it’s not as historically important as thought. It’s just a small rock with a date on it. The Pilgrims likely didn’t even land there, leaving visitors feeling underwhelmed.
What are common critiques of the Four Corners Monument?
The Four Corners Monument gets a lot of criticism for its long waits, high fees, and simple setup. The excitement of being in four states at once fades fast, leaving visitors wondering why they bothered.
Why do locals avoid Times Square in New York City?
Locals skip Times Square because it’s too crowded and expensive. It’s seen as a place full of overpriced shops and shows, lacking real cultural value. Tourists often feel let down by its fake, commercial vibe.
What are some disappointing aspects of Bourbon Street in New Orleans?
Bourbon Street can be a disappointment for those looking for real New Orleans culture. The noise and too much to do can be too much. It’s often not as lively or fun as its famous reputation suggests.
What are some critiques regarding Mount Rushmore?
Some say Mount Rushmore is too crowded and lacks fun activities. Others think it’s a bad idea to change the natural landscape. It’s better to see from afar to avoid the crowds.
How can I avoid tourist traps on my travels?
To dodge tourist traps, do your homework on where you’re going. Ask locals for tips and choose places that truly show you the culture or history. Skip the places everyone talks about and find something more real.
