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Because life's too short to stay home …, 10 tourist traps to love, these roadside attractions dole out equal portions of schlock and awe..

© Beth Gauper

Americans have a love-hate relationship with their tourist traps. They're so uncool . . . but so irresistible.

What makes something a tourist trap? It's a place that's so cheesy you have to see if it's really as cheesy as it looks. A place so iconic you've seen a million pictures of it. A place plugged by thousands of highway billboards.

Mostly, it's a place everyone else has seen — so you have to, too. We can't help ourselves, especially when it comes to anything that's odd or oversized.

And why not? Few tourist traps have no redeeming qualities at all, and most actually are pretty cool — or so you'll think afterward, once the headache fades (I'm talking about you, House on the Rock).

Here are 10 tourists traps that might make you roll your eyes but still are worth a visit.

Wisconsin Dells

So you're standing under the tail of the plane sticking out of Ripley's Believe It or Not, staring at the billboards all around you: Gentlemen's Club. Torture Museum. Dells Bells Wedding Chapel.

Las Vegas? No, this is the town that TripAdvisor has named Best Destination in the U.S. for Families.

Families that don't mind constant over-stimulation, apparently. There's also a 60-foot Trojan horse, an upside-down White House, a Castle of Terror and, of course, a lot of roller coasters and water slides.

Roadside America, the bible of tourist traps, calls it "one of America's most over-the-top tourism meccas," and it certainly is.

Why you have to go: Your kids will make you.

What if you don't want to? Skip the Vegas-like strip and concentrate on the quiet side of the Dells , preferably after Labor Day and before Memorial Day. Along the river, the Dells are just as beautiful as they were when photographer H.H. Bennett made them famous.

House on the Rock

Perched on a limestone spire overlooking the Wisconsin River Valley and Frank Lloyd Wright's beloved Taliesen, this rambling complex near Spring Green is full of stuff, some museum-quality and some flea market-quality.

House on the Rock is like a train wreck — looking won't make you feel good, but it's impossible to turn away. If you want to see everything, it's a 2½-mile walk from the original "Japanese house" and Infinity Room to the Doll Carousel Room, and you'll be accompanied the whole way by tinny music from dozens of vaguely sinister mechanical orchestras.

You'll be exhausted, but you'll also be amazed. And you'll be asking one question: Why?

Why you have to go: 1) Because dozens of highway signs say you do. 2) Once you've seen it, you don't have to go again.

Millennium Park may be tourists' favorite milling-around spot now, but Navy Pier became Chicago's No. 1 tourist attraction after it was reopened in 1995, and it keeps adding ingenious new ways to separate tourists from their cash.

Outside, there's a Ferris wheel, musical carousel, wave swinger and various thrill rides.

Much of the inside is lined with souvenir shops and snack stands. Don't go there, if you have children who beg.

Why you have to go: There's a lot of free stuff to see and hear, too — pirate shows by the resident Navy Pier Buccaneers, marching bands, beer-garden concerts, a stained-glass museum, Wednesday and Saturday fireworks. Just keep a good grip on your wallet.

Mall of America

There's literally no bigger tourist trap than this vast mall in the Minneapolis suburb of Bloomington, with 4.2 million square feet of stores, restaurants and attractions.

It's the No. 1 tourism attraction in Minnesota — those 10,000 lakes aren't even in the running.

The attractions include Nickelodeon Universe, the nation's largest indoor family theme park — you do love SpongeBob SquarePants, don't you? — which offers more than 30 rides, including the Dutchman's Deck adventure high-ropes course.

There's also the 1.2 million-gallon Sea Life Minnesota aquarium, FlyOver America flight simulation ride and an 18-hole miniature golf course.

And then there's that other attraction — no tax on clothing.

Why you have to go: Because everyone back home will think there's something wrong with you if you don't.

Paul Bunyan

In Minnesota, no one leaves Bemidji without getting a picture taken with Paul Bunyan.

This 18-foot, plaid-shirted lumberjack began the mania for oversized town mascots when local Rotarians built him to attract people to the town's Winter Carnival in 1937.

Paul and his blue ox Babe were a hit, landing on the pages of Life magazine and the New York Times. In 1938, Bemidji's Winter Carnival drew 100,000 people to the town of 7,200, and now Paul and Babe are considered the height of Americana, appearing in coffee-table books the world over.

There's also a giant Paul in nearly Akeley, his hand extended so kids can climb on. Seven miles east of Brainerd, a 27-foot Paul Bunyan at Bunyanland theme park can talk. And Paul Bunyan's wife, a buxom 17-footer, lives in Hackensack.

Why you have to go: You haven't really been to Minnesota unless you've snapped a picture of a giant Bunyan. (In a pinch, though, snap one of the many other giants in the region.)

Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum

This complex in the northern Wisconsin town of Hayward includes 300 mounted fish, 1,000 antique motors and 50,000 lures, rods, reels and accessories.

But what reels in the tourists is the 4½-story concrete and fiberglass muskellunge, the local trophy fish. It's half a city block long, and its jaws are big enough for 20 people or, occasionally, a wedding party.

Why you have to go: There are a lot of fiberglass fish in the north woods, but this is the biggest.

Niagara Cave

Did you think you'd checked Paul Bunyan off your list? Not so fast. This cave near the Minnesota town of Harmony, one of several near the Iowa border, includes a ledge that guides long called Paul Bunyan's bed.

Tours indulge in less kitsch these days, but guides still point out an Elephant's Head, a three-tier Wedding Cake and the Battleship.

Every cave is as sensational as your imagination — so bring yours stoked to see the most. There's also a 60-foot waterfall, a Cathedral Dome formed by a whirlpool and a 625-foot Grand Canyon Room, not to mention thickets of stalactites.

Why you have to go: It's cool, all right — 48 degrees year-round.

Corn Palace

If you like to look at the seed art at the Minnesota State Fair, you'll love the facade of this 1921 Moorish exposition hall in Mitchell, S.D.

Every year, local grain, grasses and 13 shades of corn are arranged in a mural illustrating a theme.

There are free guided tours, with guides sharing "a-maize-ing" facts about how the murals are created. Stay for a rodeo, car show, tractor pull or polka festival inside.

Why you have to go: The drive to the Black Hills would be really boring if you didn't.

Mackinac Island

This island in the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron is more fudgy than cheesy. As soon as tourists step off the boat, they're assailed by aromas from a dozen fudge shops as well as aromas from something else that's brown and gooey — manure from the hundreds of horses who pull tourists around in wagons and carriages.

If you don't venture beyond the congested harbor area of this car-free island, you'll think it's nothing but overpriced fudge and T-shirt and bike-rental shops.

So skip the fudge, rent the bikes and ditch downtown as fast as you can. The island is encircled by a paved, eight-mile bicycle trail, and the wooded interior, which rises like the back of a turtle, is crisscrossed by more trails.

Why you have to go: It's the classiest kind of tourist trap (just watch where you step).

Da Yoopers Tourist Trap & Museum

Tourists with even an ounce of curiosity become tourist-trap roadkill at this roadside attraction in Ishpeming, on Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Who can resist Big Gus, a 23-foot blue chainsaw (world's largest) that really runs, or Big Ernie, a working rifle (world's largest) mounted on the bed of an antique pickup truck?

Inside the museum, see a 10-foot mosquito and a patented Sno-Cicle, a snow machine with wheels "for the one month we ain't got no snow."

In the tourist trap, you can buy packages of Roadkill Helper and a T-shirt showing a Yooper seven-course meal — a pasty and a six-pack.

Why you have to go: Who doesn't love a good Yooper joke?

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7 Biggest Tourist Traps in Chicago, Plus 7 Less Touristy Alternatives

The biggest tourist traps.

They’re our city’s beloved treasures. But once there’s a massive crowd, they can quickly become our city’s biggest nightmares. It’s a fine line.

#7. John Hancock Center

875 North Michigan Avenue

The attraction at the John Hancock Center known as 360° Chicago brings in around 550,000 visitors annually , making it a top destination for tourists. Add the picturesque views from the Signature Room on the 95th floor and there’s no question why tourists flock to this well-known building in Chicago’s skyline.

#6. Willis Tower

233 South Wacker Drive

Being Chicago’s focal point, if you will, it’s no surprise that Willis Tower is one of the first stops on a tourist’s checklist. The building draws in around 1.7 million visitors annually , particularly to the Skydeck. The Ledge, a feature that lets people experience the true magnitude of Willis Tower, is a major highlight. With new developments underway ( rappelling, anyone? ), tourism will only go up for this iconic landmark.

#5. Field Museum

1400 South Lake Shore Drive

When you’ve got a permanent resident like Sue, who wouldn’t want to come to the Field Museum to catch a glimpse? This Chicago institution welcomes up to 1.79 million visitors per year , so when you’re ready to explore that cool new exhibit, be prepared to do it with a crowd.

#4. Shedd Aquarium

1200 South Lake Shore Drive

The Field Museum is great, but people just love going to the Shedd. It’s as simple as that. And can you blame them? It’s not every day that you find a gorgeous building teeming with aquatic life from all over the world. Being one of the largest and most visited aquariums in the country ( 2.02 million visitors , to be exact), it’s easy to see that even though it’s a tourist trap, it’s worth it.

#3. Lincoln Park Zoo

2001 North Clark Street

Now we’re getting to the big ‘uns. Being one of the oldest zoos in America, this place has been drawing in big crowds for a long time, to say the least. Attracting 3 million visitors per year and offering tons of seasonal events for guests of all ages, the appeal to tourists is obvious. If you’re planning a visit, be ready for lots of people. And lots of selfie sticks.

#2. Navy Pier

600 East Grand Avenue

Then there’s Navy Pier. This is one where locals tend to visit sparingly because we just know it’s going to be busy. But when you do visit, you remember why it’s such a high-traffic area. The Centennial Wheel, the Children’s Museum, the firework shows, and the endless exhibits and events are what brought 9.3 million people to Navy Pier in 2016. It’s just a happy place, man.

#1. Millennium Park

201 East Randolph Street

Can you think of a place with more visitors and tourists than Navy Pier? It’s hard, but it exists. That place is Millennium Park, which broke records with a whopping 12.9 million visitors in the second half of 2016 alone! The city has been diligent about hosting as many free events at the park as possible, making it super accessible. With concert and film series in summer, stunning city views, and our precious Bean, you can bet your bottom that tourists aplenty will be snapping pics in this spot.

The Less Tourist-y Alternatives

You’ve been there. You’ve done that. You love it, of course, but you just – can’t – do it – again. Worry not, there’s more to this city than skydecks and Sue.

Garfield Park Conservatory

300 North Central Park Avenue

City residents should really take advantage of this one more often. Gorgeous greenery from all over the world inhabits this multi-room conservatory, with thousands of plant species from various climates. When you need a break from the chaos, this is where you go to find your perfect natural oasis.

Museum of Contemporary Photography

600 South Michigan Avenue

This museum founded by Columbia College in 1976 often goes overlooked, but as it’s the leading photography museum in the Midwest, it’s definitely worth carving out a few hours from your afternoon.

International Museum of Surgical Science

1524 North Lake Shore Drive

Open to the public since 1954, this unique intersection of science and art is an amazing part of Chicago’s museum culture. Featuring exhibits representing nations across the globe, as well as methods and instruments spanning from ancient to current, this is a fascinating look at the evolution of a medical practice.

Robie House

5757 South Woodlawn Avenue

This national historic landmark on the University of Chicago campus is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous designs. You can even browse the space with a drink in hand during one of their cocktail hours.

Driehaus Museum

40 East Erie Street

Founded in 2003, this building is preservation and restoration at its finest. Tour the ornate designs and turn-of-the-century opulence of the Gilded Age, as demonstrated by the Driehaus Museum. It truly feels as if you’ve gone back in time, and brings new meaning to the word ‘elegance.’

Newberry Library

60 West Walton Street

If you haven’t been – this place is an absolute must . The world-renowned independent research library houses a vast amount of rare materials, and the space itself is stunning. It’s basically a sanctuary for readers, writers, scholars, researchers, and all that are curious and knowledge-hungry.

American Writers Museum

180 North Michigan Avenue

Having just opened this summer, this is the newest name on the museum scene. And it’s pretty much the first of its kind. With interactive exhibits celebrating past and present American authors, and seminars and workshops for local writers, it’s a great destination to catch before it becomes a tourist trap.

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Courtney Rios

After graduating from the U of I with a Bachelor’s in English, Courtney hit the ground running. A lifelong passion for writing (oddly foreshadowed by a tendency to live on streets named after dead British authors) is what drives her professional endeavors. When she’s not at her desk with headphones in, cranking out articles on Chicago’s music, dining, and nightlife scenes, you can usually find her at concerts around the city, watching horror movies, psyching herself into going to the gym, or obsessing over scented candles.

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15 Chicago Tourist Trap Restaurants That Are Actually Good

They’re worth braving the crowds

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Chicago’s reputation as a food mecca is deserved. Thanks to an impressive lineup of iconic dishes and numerous acclaimed restaurants , the Windy City draws in millions of visitors looking to eat at its most popular dining destinations. While many places are unabashed tourist traps, some actually manage to live up to the hype for both locals and out-of-towners alike. New additions to the list include Italian marketplace Eataly , Michigan Avenue gastropub the Gage , and venerable blues club Kingston Mines .

Kingston Mines

Chicago is synonymous with blues music and this Lincoln Park club is one of the oldest places to experience it. Established in 1968, Kingston Mines is home to two stages of live entertainment every night. Performers cover a range of different styles and play as late as 4 a.m. There’s a kitchen, too, that cranks out Southern specialties such as ribs, blackened catfish, and po’ boy sandwiches.

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Lou Malnati's

Deep dish pizza is always among the first things to come to mind when tourists think about Chicago cuisine and very few have been doing it for as long as Lou Malnati’s . The Malnati family claim to be one of the inventors of the style and today their famed pizzeria has dozens of locations around the city and suburbs. Regardless of where folks stand on the pizza spectrum, the appeal of the ‘Malnati Chicago Classic’ is undeniable. Grab a knife and fork and dig into layers of mozzarella cheese, vine-ripened tomato sauce, and housemade sausage on flaky, buttery crust. It’s a pie that defines Chicago.

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Quartino Ristorante

Like a good nonna, this bustling River North eatery delivers consistently reliable Italian fare. Enlist some dining companions, order a bottle of wine, and nosh on housemade salumi, Neapolitan pizzas, and shareable small plates. Locals and tourists might not have much common ground, but they can all agree that Quartino’s veal meatballs and soft, pillowy gnocchi are delicious.

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Everything from the décor to the service screams kitsch but Chicago’s beloved fast food chain deserves to be experienced by both tourists and locals. Diners will find first-rate versions of the city’s most iconic foods, such as the Chicago-style hot dog and Italian beef sandwich. Save some room for dessert and the rich, moist chocolate cake, which is also available in the form of a milkshake.

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Garrett Popcorn Shops

Popcorn is the official state snack of Illinois so it’s no surprise that Chicagoans are in love with Garrett . The shop has been a city tradition since 1949 and its signature bags and tins can be spotted all over the downtown area and at the airport. The classic Garrett Mix is an addictive combination of CheeseCorn and buttery CaramelCrisp that compels folks to keep eating until it’s all gone.

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There are multiple outposts of the Italian emporium around the world but that hasn’t taken the shine off the Chicago location. The 60,000-square-foot marketplace features wines, meats, cheeses, and other high-end retail goods along with a variety of restaurants. Whether visitors are in the mood for Italian staples like pizzas and pastas or just want a scoop of gelato, they will find solid versions of it here. Eataly also offers cooking classes and special weekly events.

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Original Rainbow Cone

There really aren’t too many reasons to visit Navy Pier but for those who find themselves at Chicago’s ultimate tourist trap, it’s not without its perks. The Original Rainbow Cone has an outpost on site and its signature treat is more than just a pretty picture. Make the Navy Pier experience more tolerable with a kaleidoscope of colorful ice creams in a cone. The classic combination of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with walnuts and cherries), pistachio, and orange sherbet puts a smile on anyone’s face, young or old.

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The Purple Pig

The Mag Mile is full of chain restaurants and tourist traps so it’s easy to understand why the Purple Pig has been a favorite for a decade. James Beard Award winner Jimmy Bannos Jr.’s reimagining of Mediterranean fare has garnered numerous accolades and long lines out the door. Luckily, the restuarant moved into a bigger space this year and can now seat up to 120 guests. The new location boasts a revamped menu that’s heavy on wine and swine-y dishes — crispy pig’s ear, smoked pork tongue, milk-braised pork shoulder. Get there during off-peak hours or expect to wait; reservations are not accepted.

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Frontera Grill

Mexican cooking in Chicago has never been more exciting than it is right now, with various eateries exploring new territories and techniques. Many chefs helped pave the way to this point but Rick Bayless has been arguably the most visible. His first restaurant, Frontera Grill , launched an empire and exposed diners to traditional Mexican dishes executed with refined touches. The dining room is always packed and for good reason. Even after three decades, the ceviches, guacs, and rich and complex moles are still some of the best around.

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LondonHouse Chicago

Few places capture the spirit of summertime Chi more than LH Rooftop . Perched on the 22nd floor of LondonHouse Chicago, the outdoor terrace is popular for its sweeping views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, and the city’s towering skyscrapers. The kitchen complements the experience with re-imagined American bites that focus on locally-sourced ingredients.

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The wait is often several hours long but that doesn’t deter Chicagoans or out-of-towners from toughing it out for what some say is one of the best burgers in the country. Hogsalt Hospitality’s modern diner is renowned for its cheeseburger — an extraordinary specimen featuring griddled patties topped with American cheese, pickles, and Dijonnaise — as well as elevated takes on comfort foods, such as fried bologna sandwich and potato hash with duck heart gravy.

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Girl & the Goat

Stephanie Izard rocketed to fame by winning Top Chef and became a household name with her first restaurant. Almost a decade after opening, Girl & the Goat is still one of the toughest reservations to snag. Don’t be deceived by the throng of out-of-towners, though, because it’s much more than just a tourist trap. Izard’s signature dishes — sautéed green beans, goat empanadas, oven-roasted pig face — pack bold flavors and are well worth planning in advance for.

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The Chicago Athletic Association’s beautiful rooftop restaurant is the place to be. Sitting on the 13th floor of the Michigan Avenue hotel and offering unparalleled views of the skyline and Millennium Park, Cindy’s quickly became a must-visit destination upon its arrival in 2015. Battle the crowds for an opportunity to relax in an open-air beach house setting while enjoying dynamic cocktails and large-format seasonal plates. Yes, there will be lots of tourists but a glass of rosé or a boozy popsicle should help minimize the annoyance.

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Thousands of visitors flock to Millennium Park each day but the nearby dining options leave a lot to be desired. This Michigan Avenue gastropub is an exception, catering to hungry executives and tourists who are in search of quality food and beverages. There’s an extensive selection of craft beers and whiskies to try and they’re accompanied by noteworthy renditions of pub fare, such as fish and chips, Scotch egg, and a venison burger. For entertainment, grab a seat on the patio and people-watch.

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While Chicago-style hot dogs and deep dish pizzas can be found all over the United States (to varying degrees of success), Italian beef is a specialty that doesn’t stray too far from home. That means tourists often go to birthplace of the sandwich: Al’s . Fortunately, the Taylor Street stand hasn’t lost a step. The beef is roasted in a secret blend of spices and at its best when “dipped” in jus. To avoid making a mess, it’s recommended that diners roll up their sleeves and assume the proper upright stance while eating.

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3 Illinois Attractions Make List of World’s Biggest Tourist Traps

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Not one but three attractions in Illinois rank on a list of the biggest tourist traps and they are all located in Chicago.

A new list put out by USA Today ranked the top tourist traps  around the world. They looked at cost to visit, location, and reviews, and not one, but three attractions landed on the top 100 list and one of them I don't agree with at all.

99 Cloud Gate

Also known as "The Bean." Don't get me wrong the bean is fun to go see and take a photo and cost nothing, but I agree it's not that great. It's always crowded, especially in the summer, and you see it once you are good. Again, it's a cool thing to visit at least once, but no need to visit it more than that. The bean has received over 26,000 reviews saying just that. Cool to see, but not that great.

45 Willis Tower Sky Deck

If you are not a fan of heights this is not for you. Again, another cool, fun thing to do in Chicago, and you get to see people look like ants cause you up so high. But, much like the bean, the Skydeck can get crowded, they do try to control how many people are up in the Skydeck at once, but still can get crowded. Also, it's not cheap . Depending on the day you will pay at least $35/adult. Now you do get some amazing photos, so if you're all about that then this is for you, but this is another one-time experience and you won't have to do it again for a few years.

17 Navy Pier

This is the one I don't agree with. Navy Pier is such a cool place to visit every time. You can just go and sit and watch the boats go by. You can take a boat ride, try one of the many restaurants, do a little shopping, and learn about the history of the pier. It's not overrated, in my opinion anyway, and a place we love to visit every time we go to Chicago. Plus, during the summer they have fireworks every Friday night. What's not to love?

The number one tourist trap in the world according to USA Today , Four Corners Monument in Azionia. I've never been, but I can see that. Cools to go once, but no need to visit multiple times.

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The Leaning Tower Of Niles In Illinois Just Might Be The Strangest Tourist Trap Yet

Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: [email protected].

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If you’ve been in Illinois for some time you’ve likely seen your fair share of strange roadside attractions. Many of them are impossible to miss. Beyond the strange attractions at the side of the road, we also have plenty of other unexpected things to see. From museums to stores to wind chimes, this is the place to be if you have an odd sense of humor. But of all of these attractions this one in Niles is the one we always find ourselves telling out-of-staters about.

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The Leaning Tower of Niles isn’t open to the public just yet, but that’s in the works. You can learn more about the history and its future by visiting the official Village of Niles website . Have you visited? If you have any tips for checking it out, let us know in the comments!

And, of course, there’s more where that came from. Here are 11 strange spots in Illinois that will make you stop and look twice !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Chicago Tourist Traps to Avoid: Unmasking the Windy City

Follow along as we list down some Chicago tourist traps to avoid for travelers seeking a more authentic Windy City experience.

Tourist traps are synonymous with hordes of visitors, interminable queues, and underwhelming experiences. It’s all too easy to become frustrated and aggravated when trapped amid throngs of fellow tourists.

Should you feel yourself getting overwhelmed at any of Chicago’s crowded attractions, pause and take a deep, calming breath. If your goal is to enjoy an adventure beyond the swarm and revel in the city’s true spirit, consider skipping these six popular places in Chi-town.

Cloud Gate (aka The Bean)

If you look up Chicago tourist attractions online, you’ll find Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean,” on every list. This gleaming sculpture draws over 20 million awe-struck visitors a year to Millennium Park.

Now, while its mirrored surface and reflections of Chicago are pretty cool, dealing with the huge crowds around it can be a bit annoying. Trying to take a good picture becomes a challenge with all the selfie sticks, families passing by, and people glued to their phones.

Related Post: Chicago Crime Tour: 5 Killer Tours You Can’t-Miss

Unless you show up early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s not as busy, getting a photo without the crowd is tough. But don’t worry!

Instead of fighting through the Bean chaos, you can check out other cool artworks in Millennium Park and nearby. There’s the colorful Crown Fountain and the tall sculptures in Maggie Daley Park.

But, if you’re really set on getting that perfect Cloud Gate photo with the clouds, just go early or late and be patient!

Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile might sparkle with fancy stores and restaurants, but the huge crowds make it a top Chicago tourist trap. Loads of people visit this famous shopping street for everything from high-end brands like Gucci to more casual spots like Gap.

The sidewalks get packed with slow-moving window shoppers. If you’d rather not deal with the slow crowds, skip the Mag Mile and check out other cool shopping areas in Chicago instead.

There are indie boutiques in Andersonville, great deals at Fashion Outlets of Chicago, or the glam vibes at Water Tower Place. And if you’re into unique places to visit in Chicago, explore different neighborhoods.

Pilsen has awesome murals, and Oak Park is filled with green streets and architectural wonders by Frank Lloyd Wright. Avoiding the Magnificent Mile crowds lets you experience the real shopping and culture of Chicago.

Observation Decks

Not a fan of heights? No need to worry about falling into this Chicago tourist trap! But for those who enjoy being up high, visiting the city’s observation decks like the 360 Chicago Observation Deck might sound like a great idea.

After all, who wouldn’t want to see the Windy City from high above? However, besides dealing with big crowds, some might think the tickets are a bit pricey for just looking at the skyline. That’s why many visitors decide to skip the observation decks.

But hold on, that’s only true if you don’t do your homework! If you’re an early bird, a night owl, or just good at finding deals, these tall spots are still worth checking out. Get up before sunrise or wait for sunset to avoid the biggest crowds, and grab discounted tickets on Tripster for 25% off.

With some research and planning, you can enjoy fantastic views of Chicago without the hefty prices or huge crowds. Because, you know, these towers do deliver the goods if you know what you’re doing!

Navy Pier is packed with big-name chain restaurants and amusement park stuff, making it kind of like Chicago’s version of Times Square – a classic tourist trap. Families head there for rides and kid-friendly stores, filling up the sidewalks with strollers headed to places like Build-A-Bear or the Children’s Museum.

Related Post: Chicago Famous Buildings: 16 Must See Structures

But behind all the people taking selfies and the sugar rush from snacks, you find a pretty dull sameness, almost like an airport food court. If you’re more into feeling the real vibe of Chicago than hanging out in what feels like a big mall, then just skip Navy Pier.

Check out the blossoming trails along the Chicago Riverwalk, try out food from 20 different neighborhoods, or kick back in a genuine blues club away from the usual spots.

Navy Pier gives you just a surface-level taste of what this lively city has to offer. So, avoid the tourist traps in Chicago and dive into the unique and tasty parts of the city.

Deep Dish Pizza

Truth be told, deep dish pizza is like Chicago’s ultimate food treasure, but popular spots like Giordano’s and Gino’s East often make you wait for ages, testing your hunger. Sure, their famous pies cooked in iron skillets are mouthwatering.

However, smart food lovers know that lesser-known places like Pequod’s serve up the same deliciousness, sometimes without the long lines. If you’re a traveler who doesn’t want to deal with intense queues, even for Chicago’s iconic pizza, you might want to consider embarking on an exciting food tour such as:

• Holiday Hike: Season Sampling Walking & Food Tour
• Chicago Favorites Food and Walking Tour
• Bikes, Bites, & Brews
• Chicago’s Chinatown Food and Walking Tour

These tours, led by experienced guides, take you to hidden gems in the city’s coolest neighborhoods. With so many restaurants, it can be overwhelming to choose, but by joining these food tours, you can avoid the typical Chicago tourist traps.

Architecture Boat Tours

Chicago is renowned for its world-class architectural wonders, and while boat tours along the Chicago River are a popular choice, they can be a bit pricey. If architecture isn’t your cup of tea or you find it hard to catch the tour guide’s words over the boat’s hum, you might end up paying a lot for what feels like a snooze fest.

Related Post: Things to Do in Chicago – 32 Must-Try Activities

Fear not! Opt for an unconventional tour focusing on Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods or delve into topics that genuinely spark your interest, like art, cuisine, or history. If architecture is your passion, don’t worry about breaking the bank.

There are plenty of affordable architecture tours that let you explore Chicago’s structural marvels without denting your travel budget. So, skip the standard boat tour and dive into Chicago attractions with a tour that truly speaks to your interests.

Helpful Tips Before You Go

Visit at an off-peak time.

Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Chicago’s attractions. By doing a bit of research, you can figure out the peak and off-peak times for these hotspots. Tools like Google listings can be super handy for this!

Discover when the crowds are at their peak and lowest, and plan your trip accordingly. To make this easier for you, check out our guide on When is the Best Time to Visit Chicago ?. It’s got all the insights you need to ensure you make the most of your visit without getting caught in the tourist rush!

Grab Attraction Passes

Get insider access to Chicago’s top attractions with the Go Chicago Explorer Pass . This discounted pass offers savings up to 35% off admission to over 20 popular sites like the Art Institute, Field Museum, and Museum of Science and Industry.

Valid for 30 days from first use, the pass allows you to experience Chicago at your own pace. See the stars at the Adler Planetarium one day, immerse yourself in aquatic wonders at the Shedd Aquarium next.

For maximum Chicago sightseeing flexibility, consider the Go City Chicago All-Inclusive Pass . This pass bundles admission to over 40 Chicago attractions, tours, and experiences into one value-packed package.

From prestigious museums and exciting tours to cruises, zoos and beyond, the All-Inclusive Pass grants access to all your Chicago favorites. As you plot your Windy City adventure, the pass will help you save money while creating rich Chicago memories across this dynamic metropolis.

Book Tripster’s Vacation Packages

Skipping the line is every traveler’s dream when visiting popular attractions. Fortunately with some advance planning, you can bypass lengthy ticket queues and unlock significant savings in one fell swoop.

Related Post: Unique Chicago IL – 26 Most Interesting Things to Do

Purchase admission to your chosen Chicago sights ahead of time online to breeze right in upon arrival. For maximum convenience and affordability, bundle your Attraction tickets with Hotel stays as part of Tripster’s Chicago Vacation Packages .

By plotting your itinerary and locking in deals early, you’ll be rewarded with both time and money savings. Savor more moments in discovering Chicago rather than waiting in the winds!

Break Free from Chicago Tourist Traps

Escape the chaos of crowded spots and discover the genuine soul of Chicago in all its diversity. Avoiding tourist-packed places gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace – to experience Chicago’s dynamic personality through its different neighborhoods.

Connect with locals, share their favorite hidden gems, and dive into off-the-beaten-path eateries or bars. Choosing your own adventure, driven by authentic curiosity instead of a rushed tour checklist, allows you to unearth a more real Chicago.

This is the genuine Chicago – not the glossy brochure version hidden behind turnstiles and ticket booths, but a living Windy City that rewards the bold. So, gear up for the adventure with Tripster today!

Witness the true spirit of Chicago unfold – in all its easygoing, unfiltered, and crowd-free glory!

Have Any Tips to Add?

Which Chicago tourism spots would you add to our list? Tell us in the comments!

Written by Archie Villaflores

Over the years, he has won numerous national contests for news and editorial writing, but he has recently discovered that his true passion...

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Illinois' Cheesiest Tourist Traps

Published april 27, 2011 • updated on april 27, 2011 at 2:49 pm.

No more cheese curds? No more fish boils? No more water slides? No more stops at the Mars Cheese Castle, just before crossing back into Illinois? Those are the sacrifices local union leader John O’Grady is asking us to make.

O’Grady, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, Local 704, is encouraging Chicago-area federal employees to boycott Wisconsin, Ohio and Florida for their “anti-labor” and “anti-union positions.”

“Why should you spend your good money in a state that basically works against unions and works against workers?” O’Grady asked.

A Sun-Times letter-writer made the same point, promising to cancel her trips to Lego weekend in Lake Geneva and Circus World in Baraboo.

This could really hurt. Wisconsin’s economy is based on beer, motorcycles and tourist traps for Chicagoans. Illinois doesn’t have the world’s largest muskie, the Tommy Bartlett Water Show or the oldest bowling alley in America. But it’s time we spent a summer rediscovering our own state. Here’s a list of attractions that are as cheesy as anything in Wisconsin.

• World’s Largest Catsup Bottle : A water tank painted to look like a bottle of Brooks Catsup, this piece of Americana can be found on Route 159 in Collinsville.  
• The Super Museum : There’s only one Metropolis in the United States. It’s a small town in Southern Illinois, but Superman fan Jim Hambrick still thought it was the only place for a museum of his 100,000-piece collection. There’s a famous photograph of Barack Obama copying the hands-on-hips posture of the Superman statue in the town square.   
• The Chicken Car : Krekel’s Kustard, a Decatur drive-in, promotes itself with the regionally-famous chicken, a sedan with a chicken head on the roof, and a tail sprouting from the trunk.   
• The Popeye Picnic : Cartoonist E.C. Segar grew up in the Mississippi River town of Chester and based his characters on the locals. A muscular tough named Rocky was renamed Popeye. Chester built a Popeye statue on the riverfront and holds a picnic the second weekend of September, featuring a display of collectible spinach cans.    
• Two-Story Outhouse : If you’ve driven through the Central Illinois village of Gays -- and who hasn’t -- you’ve seen this monument to regularity, and wondered “what about the guy on the first floor?” According to Roadside America, “its upper- and lower-floor holes are discreetly placed on opposite sides, and a second, inset wall on the ground floor forms an invisible chute. Droppings from above plummet unobstructed and out of sight, although not out of earshot.”

Gov. Pat Quinn gave up a trip to Wisconsin to protest the state’s labor laws. OK, he did it to welsh on a bet. But if he can ignore our neighbor to the north, so can you. Especially when there’s so much to see in Illinois. 

U.S. Tourist Traps That Are Actually Pretty Great

U.s. tourist traps worth the price of admission.

You know the feeling. You’re midway through a long road trip. Your eyes are tired, and you wouldn’t mind a chance to stretch your legs. Suddenly, you see a sign along the side of the road, beckoning you to the “World’s Only Corn Palace” or “Largest Ball of Twine” or a museum inexplicably dedicated to a single, mundane product — like mustard.

These roadside attractions are often referred to as tourist traps because they tend to charge exorbitant entrance fees for ho-hum attractions that only an out-of-towner would be suckered into checking out. Except that sometimes the fees are reasonable (or non-existent), and the attractions are genuinely interesting. And you pull away with a renewed sense of energy and an impressively encyclopedic knowledge of mustard.

So, why not embrace the idea of the tourist trap and set aside some time to visit at least one on your next road trip? Any of the U.S.-based attractions included here are particularly worth the stop.

Dollywood, Tennesse

At the largest ticketed tourist attraction in Tennessee, the hairstyles (and cowboy hats) here are nearly as tall as the rides. While this theme park has been around since 1961, attendance numbers soared in 1986 when the park was rebranded with a little help from country music icon Dolly Parton. Now, it pulls in more than 3 million visitors a year.

Most of the rides don’t obviously relate to Parton or her career, but she makes regular appearances, and she’d probably approve of the visitors who bedazzle their jean jackets and cowboy boots in a delightfully Dolly manner.

The park closes in the winter, so plan to visit in the warmer months.

Hearst Castle, California

In his own lifetime, media mogul William Randolph Hearst typically referred to his California homestead as a ranch, but castle is an apt descriptor.

Construction began in 1919 and continued until 1947, a few years before Hearst’s death. In between, he regularly hosted celebrities and politicians — from Charlie Chaplin to Winston Churchill — at the estate. Guests could roam the grounds during the day, taking a dip in one of the estate’s two gigantic pools or wandering through its private zoo, then the world’s largest. At night, they’d dine with Hearst in an ornately decorated dining hall, where he’d ply them with wine (even during Prohibition) that he typically kept locked tight inside a subterranean vault.

Today’s revelers can explore the beautifully preserved grounds, pools and dining room as well — though, alas, the animals have left the zoo, and wine is no longer part of the experience.  

International UFO Museum and Research Center, New Mexico

Even if you’re not inclined to believe that tiny green men make frequent visits to Earth, you could still enjoy this out-of-this-world museum.

In 1947, an unidentified flying object crash-landed on a ranch near Roswell, New Mexico. Government officials say that it was a surveillance balloon, but ufologists had other ideas. In the years since, Roswell has become a hotbed for extraterrestrial enthusiasts, many of whom make regular pilgrimages to this museum, which occupies a historic theater near the town’s center.

Some of the exhibits on display (like a jumbled timeline of what supposedly happened in Roswell in the 1940s) are more likely to inspire confusion, or boredom, than wonder. But all in all the museum is a fun place to while away an afternoon, and worth its modest entrance fee.

Robert’s Western World, Tennessee

If Nashville is the queen of American honky-tonk culture, this historic establishment is the jewel in her oversized belt buckle. Some of the best country-western singers of our time have passed beneath the neon guitar that hangs above its doorway, and even the lesser-known musicians that play here are often stellar.

Visitors can hear live music at Robert’s seven nights a week, all while snacking on fried bologna sandwiches or moon pies. And the establishment never charges a cover.

The House on the Rock, Wisconsin

While the House on the Rock is located only a few miles away from Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Wisconsin homestead, it bears more resemblance to a nightmarish theme park than an iconic work of mid-century architecture.

The interior of the vast house, perched atop a 60-foot-tall column of rock, is filled with architectural oddities, dubious antiques and strange exhibits. A 200-foot sculpture of a sea monster is suspended from the ceiling of one of its rooms. An animatronic symphony dominates another. And, deep within the bowels of its basement, the world’s largest carousel features 269 animals but not a single horse.

If you go, plan to spend several hours wandering through the wonderfully weird space.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

It’s a national memorial now, but at one point, Mount Rushmore was just a great marketing gimmick. South Dakota resident Doane Robinson figured that the state might entice more people to visit if it created an intriguing tourist attraction, like famous faces carved into the side of a mountain. And Robinson was right.

Some 2.5 million people now visit the attraction — which depicts the likenesses of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln — each year. And, in spite of its lackluster origin story, it’s become a symbol of American ingenuity and progress.

Madonna Inn, California

Travelers have been rolling into this California inn for decades, some of them enticed by its proximity to Route 101, others by its outlandish decorations. Each of its 110 rooms boasts a different name — Love Nest, Rock Bottom, Caveman Room — and theme. Rooms start around $100, but cash-strapped travelers can get most of the Madonna experience simply by booking a reservation at the steakhouse.

After all, the steakhouse is festooned with thousands of yards of pink fabric, making it look a bit like a real-life version of Barbie’s Malibu Dream Home. And in the men’s restroom adjoining the restaurant, guests can relieve themselves at an oversized urinal designed to look like a naturalistic waterfall, rocky outcroppings and all.

The City Museum, Missouri

Don’t let its name fool you. The City Museum, which spans 600,000 square feet of space on the site of a former warehouse in St. Louis, isn’t just some sad old repository for civic memorabilia. It’s more like a gigantic playground that appeals as much to adults as children, built largely from architectural remnants and discarded industrial objects.

On the first floor alone, there’s a life-sized replica of a Bowhead Whale, a slinky big enough to crawl through and a labyrinthine series of tunnels that can be reached via a 10-story slide. Elsewhere, there’s an on-site bar (yes, the alcoholic kind), a Ferris wheel and a massive rope swing dangling from the center of the building’s domed roof.

The Vegas Strip, Nevada

Where can you see Roman temples, Parisian landmarks and New York City skyscrapers stationed along the same street? The Vegas Strip, baby. The roughly 4-mile stretch of asphalt in the Nevada desert is the site of some of the largest and best-known hotels in the world.

And, contrary to popular opinion, you don’t need to gamble to have fun at the Sin City attraction. Window-shopping and people-watching are both free, and if you work up an appetite, you could easily work through several plates of greasy goodness at one of its all-you-can-eat buffets.

Winchester Mystery House, California

This sprawling San Jose mansion was once owned by Sarah Winchester, the widow of millionaire firearm magnate William Wirt Winchester. According to local lore, Sarah moved to California in 1884 to build a home large enough to house the ghosts of all those gunned down by Winchester rifles, and she kept construction crews working around the clock on the property until her death in 1922.

Whether or not that’s true, her house — which has been open for tours since 2017 — is well worth its admission fee. Inside, there are roughly 161 rooms, many of them full of stairways that lead to nowhere, windows that open into interior walls and other architectural oddities.

Pineapple Garden Maze, Hawaii

No, it’s not in Versailles — the world’s largest maze can actually be found in Hawaii, on the grounds of the Dole Plantation. Fittingly, the maze, which stretches across 3 acres and was crafted from 14,000 species of indigenous plants, takes the shape of a gigantic pineapple.

Tickets cost about $10 for adults, a bargain when you consider that a drink in a hip Honolulu coffee shop could set you back about as much and that you could easily spend at least an hour navigating the maze’s nearly 2.5 miles of paths.

Bearing that in mind, you might want to buy your Dole Whip frozen dessert befor e stepping inside.

Pike Place Market, Washington

Seattle’s most popular tourist destination is a gigantic farmer’s market full of food. What’s not to like?

Spend an hour or two noshing on free samples while admiring the public art (including a 550-pound sculpture of a pig named Rachel that many visitors rub for good luck) on display. Or settle in for a full meal at a sit-down restaurant like Lowell’s, a seafood spot that’s been a mainstay of the market since 1957.

Before you leave, be sure to visit the fishmonger’s stall, where employees toss fresh fish to one another to cut down on the handling time. Impressive when you consider that the salmon they sell can grow to be three feet long.

Disney World, Florida

Yes, it’s overpriced and overcrowded — more than 17 million people visited it in 2022 – but if the smiles on visitors' faces are any indication, Disney World may actually be the happiest place on earth. You could easily spend a full day in any one of its four parks or zip back and forth between them by bus or monorail.

Highlights include the classic rides at Magic Kingdom (Splash Mountain is still a must), the history of animation offered up at Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom safari experience. 

Don’t forget: There’s a second Mickey Mouse mecca in the U.S. Disneyland in Anaheim, California, isn’t quite as bright and shiny and new as its Floridian sibling. But it’s equally charming.

Coney Island, New York

For the better part of a century, Coney Island was the largest amusement park in the United States, a place where travelers could sunbathe, ride roller coasters or even visit a brothel built inside a seven-story wooden elephant. A fire tore through the park in the 1940s, and the real estate developer Fred Trump (father of You Know Who) had one of the boardwalk’s three original amusement parks, Steeplechase Park, demolished in the 1960s to make way for planned Miami-style apartments. (He threw a demolition party in honor of the razing.)

Still, you can still see touches of Coney’s former glory here and there. Three of the rides — the Wonder Wheel, Cyclone and Parachute Jump — have been open for the better part of a century. 

Wall Drug, South Dakota

In 1931, Ted Hustead opened a drug store in the tiny town of Wall, South Dakota. But business didn’t really pick up until his wife suggested putting up a few signs along the highway, advertising free ice water for travelers en route to nearby Mount Rushmore. The signs brought in so many thirsty tourists that the Husteads began expanding on the ad campaign and the store itself — eventually erecting hundreds of signs and constructing additional attractions, like a cowboy-themed department store, a western art museum and an 80-foot-tall sculpture of a Tyrannosaurus Rex.

There’s something strangely endearing about the earnestness of the exhibits, though. As famed travel writer Bill Bryson once wrote: “It’s an awful place, one of the world’s tackiest tourist traps, but I loved it and I won’t have a word said against it.”

Bourbon Street, Louisiana

This street in the Big Easy was named for a French royal family. But it’s fitting that the word bourbon doubles as a type of booze because the crowded thoroughfare is lined with dozens of bars and restaurants.

Many straddle the line between classy and tacky (like the Channing Tatum-owned club Saints and Sinners, which attracts hordes of tourists nightly in spite of the fact that it looks like a seedy antebellum brothel). But there are authentic gems to be found along the glittering, bead-strewn avenue, too.

One of them, Pat O’Brien’s Bar, has been open since 1933 and is believed to be the first business to hire dueling pianists to serenade its clientele. It was also the first to serve the now-classic hurricane cocktail.

Cloud Gate, Illinois

On paper, the idea of plopping a gigantic, blob-shaped sculpture in the middle of one of the country’s busiest pedestrian thoroughfares is a terrible idea. In reality, “The Bean” is actually pretty great.

It lies in the middle of Millennium Park, directly between one of the most picturesque stretches of the Chicago skyline to the west and the glittering, green-blue expanse of Lake Michigan to the east. As visitors approach the 42-feet-tall artwork, they’re treated to distorted views of themselves and the surrounding scenery. And anyone who walks all the way underneath the seamless, stainless-steel plated sculpture will find multiple images of themselves stretching funhouse-style across its concave surface.

In other words, if you’re going to snap a selfie, you might as well do it in front of an internationally renowned work of public art that makes your legs look impossibly long.

Niagara Falls, New York

In recent years, Niagara Falls has become synonymous with the phrase tourist trap . And it’s easy to see why. There are several slightly sleazy casinos within the surrounding city, plus the expected hodgepodge of wax museums, indoor waterparks and all-you-can-eat buffets.

But the falls themselves — the most powerful in North America — are still one of the world’s most majestic natural landmarks. And if you drive around to the Canadian side of the river, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the water, and its staggering 160-foot drop, while walking through stately Queen Victoria Park.

Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Most people consider rusted-out cars abandoned along the side of the road an eyesore. But not Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez or Doug Michels. The three men — members of an art collective called Ant Farm — convinced an eccentric millionaire named Stanley Marsh to help them partially bury 10 cadillacs, nose first, in a field in Amarillo in the 1970s.

Today, the cars, which are visible from the nearby highway, are a popular target for aspiring graffiti artists. And that’s just fine with the members of Ant Farm. “We wanted it to be an interactive monument,” Doug Michels once said, “so people could express themselves.”

Fittingly, all 10 cars were painted a flat black when Michels died in 2003. The first taggers arrived less than 24 hours later.

Dinosaur Kingdom, Virginia

Some people believe that dinosaurs coexisted with humans for thousands of years. But Mark Cline of Glasgow, Virginia, might be the first to suggest that dinosaurs A) were still alive during the Civil War and B) fought for the Confederacy.

In 2005, Cline opened a theme park that asks its visitors to imagine that paleontologists discovered dinosaurs in the South in 1863 and that, when the Union Army tried to weaponize them, they turned on the troops. The park is full of alarmingly detailed dioramas depicting animatronic dinos attacking or eating Union soldiers. It’s weird as hell and well worth its modest admission fee.

Dinosaur Kingdom isn’t the only off-the-wall tourist attraction that Cline has created. He’s also responsible for Foamhenge, a full-scale styrofoam replica of the ancient English monument Stonehenge.

Times Square, New York

New Yorkers love to hate it. But that’s only because the novelty of the bright lights and bustling street traffic that make Times Square the most-visited destination in the world fades over time.

If you’re visiting the Big Apple for the first time, or even the fifth, you should absolutely add it to your must-see list. Some of the best theaters in the country are within spitting distance of the square, and there’s a non-zero chance that you may see a famous actor if you hang around long enough.

Just be sure to avoid it during the New Year’s Eve ball drop, unless you’re into the idea of standing in close quarters with more than a million other people, without any way to relieve yourself, for hours on end.

Mall of America, Minnesota

The heyday of the American mall has come and gone. But in the suburbs of Minneapolis, the 1990s mallrat ethos still seems alive and well. Here, in the nation’s largest retail mecca, you can find more than 500 stores, from Auntie Anne’s to Zara. You can also find some decidedly less traditional attractions, like an indoor theme park that features a full-sized roller coaster and a 1.3-million-gallon aquarium.

All told, the mall encompasses nearly 3 million square feet, allowing visitors to spend hours strolling through a climate-controlled shopping oasis even while in the midst of one of America’s most notoriously chilly cities.

The best thing about the mall, though? You’re never more than a few hundred feet from your next meal.

Salvation Mountain, California

About 100 miles south of Joshua Tree National Park, in one of California’s inland deserts, a strange mountain of sorts rises above an otherwise flat landscape. In the 1980s, outsider artist Leonard Knight began hauling large quantities of straw and adobe over to the site, mixing them together to create an artificial mountain range. He then painted his creation, covering it with inspirational — often biblical — quotes and imagery.

Knight passed away in 2014. But a public charity was established to maintain the site, which has become a popular pilgrimage for folk-art aficionados and adventurers alike. Former California Senator Barbara Boxer has described it as “a national treasure ... profoundly strange and beautifully accessible, and worthy of the international acclaim it receives.”

Biosphere 2, Arizona

Someday, humankind may begin to terraform other planets in our solar system. Until then, we’ve got Biosphere 2, the largest closed ecological system ever created.

In the early 1990s, a group of scientists volunteered to spend two years living inside the sprawling artificial ecosystem, intent on proving to the world that they could create all the food, water and air they’d need to live. When the experiment ended, their oxygen levels were low, and their morale, even lower. But they managed to (more or less) achieve what they set out to do.

Now, visitors can sign up for tours of the space to see where the scientists lived and how they maintained the seven distinct biomes — among them a rainforest and miniature ocean complete with its own coral reef — located within the biosphere.

Reading Terminal Market, Pennsylvania

Newer isn’t always better. Philadelphia’s most famous public market opened in 1893 and quickly became famous for its state-of-the-art refrigerated storage spaces, which allowed merchants to keep seasonal products in stock year-round.

These days, it’s better known for its contemporary, home-cooked fare — DiNic’s roasted pork sandwich was voted the “Best Sandwich in America” by the Travel Channel. But you can still find traces of its early history in its ornamental exterior and in the names of the businesses that occupy its older stalls (two of the current vendors are direct descendants of original tenants).

Strangely, like another destination included in this list (Seattle’s Pike Place Market), it also features a sizable sculpture of a pig. His name is Philbert, and he’s the market’s unofficial mascot.  

Enchanted Highway, North Dakota

Midwesterners are acutely aware that their coastal neighbors often complain about how boring it can be to drive through the vast plains and prairies of Middle America. With that idea in mind, the artist Gary Greff began constructing enormous scrap-metal sculptures along a sleepy, 32-mile stretch of road in North Dakota. Since he began working on the project in 1989, he’s completed seven sculptures — most of which depict enormous animals, like pheasants, geese and grasshoppers — and is currently working on an eighth.

In 2012, Greff also opened the Enchanted Castle, an eccentrically decorated inn (completely with its own drawbridge) near the highway in the town of Regent. Greff hopes to drive more tourism to small towns in rural America that have suffered since many of the country’s scenic two-lane highways were abandoned in favor of much larger and less picturesque freeways.

The Willis Tower, Illinois

As a rule of thumb, tourist attractions of the observation-deck-at-the-top-of-a-tall-tower variety tend to disappoint. After all, if you’ve ridden an elevator to the top of New York City’s Empire State Building you probably have a pretty good idea of the sort of view that’s waiting for you atop Seattle’s Space Needle.

That being said, the Willis Tower (still commonly called the Sears Tower in Chicago) is worth a trip for two reasons. One, it’s still one of the tallest buildings around. And two, it’s 103rd-story Skydeck features a glass bottom that extends four feet beyond the edge of the skyscraper, allowing visitors to imagine (maybe a little too vividly, for some) what it would be like to walk among the clouds.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Ohio

The Louvre it isn’t. But since opening in 1995, Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has outgrown its reputation as a glorified Hard Rock Cafe and become a legitimate bastion of music history. In 1997, the museum began showcasing special exhibitions (the first being “I Want to Take You Higher: The Psychedelic Era, 1965 – 1969”). And to date it’s inducted hundreds of musicians into its Hall of Fame.

It’s worth noting that the museum receives its fair share of criticism from music insiders, many of whom believe that the Hall of Fame nomination process is opaque and unfair. But that sense of controversy doesn’t make the museum any less worthy of a visit — just bear in mind that the selection process is more subjective than scientific.

Hole N’ The Rock, Utah

Its name couldn’t be more accurate. About a century ago, Albert Christensen began carving a small hole into the side of a sandstone cliff in Moab, intent on providing his boys with a fun place to camp out at night. His ambitions grew along with the hole, though. And over the course of about 12 years, he chiseled out 50,000 cubic feet of sandstone, transforming the space into a 14-room home for him and his wife, Gladys.

When Albert died in the 1950s, Gladys converted the home into a gift shop of sorts and began inviting travelers inside to tour the unique homestead. Gladys is no longer around either, but the tours are still available.

Golden Gate Park, California

You’d be hard-pressed to spend more than a few hours in San Francisco without setting foot inside Golden Gate Park. The 1,017-square-foot green space stretches east to west and is significantly larger than New York City’s Central Park.

It’s not nearly as well known as its northeastern neighbor, though. And that’s a shame because some of the city’s best tourist attractions— the De Young Museum. and the California Academy of Sciences — can be found nestled within its borders. It’s also home to both the oldest Japanese garden and the oldest wooden conservatory in the United States. Both make great destination choices for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for an afternoon.

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Watch Out for These Tourist Traps in All 50 States

Cheapism / TripAdvisor

Inside Trap

For better or worse, tourist traps are part of the American landscape. Countless overhyped, colorful, quirky, and sometimes downright mystifying spots draw sightseers nationwide — at least, when a pandemic isn't making travel too dangerous and complicated for such silliness.

Whether an attraction qualifies as a tourist trap is often in the eye of the beholder, and some are still beloved by locals . Travel blogger David James of The GypsyNesters  has his own test: whether visitors leave feeling a little swindled. "But we love tourist traps," says his wife and fellow blogger, Veronica James. "David cannot pass them by. Boomers are really into this stuff because, when we were kids, that's where we went. We would pack up our station wagon and go to these places."

Some are iconic locales now overrun or overrated. Others lure road trippers out of the way of their intended destinations. They might be cheesy, inauthentic, overpriced, crowded, boring, ugly, or just plain not worth the time. We talked to travel bloggers and industry professionals and read online reviews to identify tourist traps in every state.

Related: Off-Limits Destinations That Could Reopen to Tourists (and Some That Already Have)

Alabama: McDonald's Visited by Reagan

At the McDonald's in Northport, a bronze bust and a photo commemorate the day in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan came by for a photo op with a Big Mac. (The goal was to make him look like an average Joe, which he made clear he was not, by asking an aide what he was "supposed" to order.) Although a plaque reads, "President Reagan ate here," Roadside America  reports that the restaurant where the Gipper ate was demolished, and the original memorabilia is gone. A new McDonald's was built on the same site in 2006.

Alaska: Gold Dredge 8

When open,  Gold Dredge 8  provides a window into Fairbanks' gold-mining days and gets generally good reviews, but there are plenty of tourist trap tactics at play. It cost $55 for adults and $35 for children to take a narrated train ride to the dredge, visit the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and pan briefly for gold — emphasis on "briefly." It seems the chief purpose of the tour is to steer people to the extensive gift shop.

Arizona: O.K. Corral

Deriding staged gunfights lasting only 30 seconds and declaring the O.K. Corral  just OK, critical reviewers say the town of Tombstone is worth a visit only for true cowboy fanatics. And even they might want to rethink this destination, which detractors label gimmicky and overpriced.

Related: The 40 Best Places in America to Travel Back in Time

Arkansas: Crater of Diamonds State Park

Crater of Diamonds State Park  in Murfreesboro is said to be the world's only diamond-bearing site open to the public. Some reviewers scoff that they could find the same variety of rocks in their driveways, and that kids lose interest quickly in digging in the hot sun and hard dirt. Better to skip the fee of $15 for adults and $7 for children.

Related: The Best State Park in Every State

California: Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf  traces its history to the 1800s, when it was the home base of San Francisco's fishing fleet, but it has evolved over the years into tourism central. When it's possible to visit again, expect it to be riddled with overpriced junk for sale, with street vendors preying on unsuspecting tourists and too many people to make it comfortable to walk around. Check out these fun, budget-friendly options in the Golden State , instead.

Related: 20 Free and Cheap Things to Do in San Francisco

Colorado: 16th Street Mall

A pedestrian and transit space covering about 1.3 miles in downtown Denver, the 16th Street Mall  is a tourist trap akin to Times Square in New York City and Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles. It's overrun with chain stores and restaurants, offering very little that's unique to Denver.

Connecticut: Pez Visitor Center

The Pez Visitor Center  in Orange doesn't draw the same adoration as its namesake candy dispensers. A "self-guided tour" entails mainly access to a gift shop and a peek through a window at a factory that may not be running. For some visitors, though, a look at the staggering variety of dispenser heads made since 1948 may be worth the $5 price of entry for adults ($4 for children). It comes with a $2 credit for use in the gift shop — hint, hint.

Delaware: 'Fountain of Youth'

It seems a tad unfair to continue calling a well in Lewes a "Fountain of Youth" when it has dried up (particularly given how crazed people are about preserving their youth ). It's said to have been discovered in 1631 by the area's Dutch colonists, but it's unclear what made locals believe the water had such magical powers, or what makes tourists believe the well is worth a visit. Furthermore, it appears it’s private property now .

Florida: Skunk Ape Research Center

Never heard of a skunk ape? You're not alone. According to the website of the Skunk Ape Research Center , it's a large, hairy, bipedal mammal that calls the Florida Everglades home and may be a distant relative of Bigfoot. Reviewers point out that the facility in Ochopee is not a "research center" at all — just a gift shop with a small museum devoted to an obscure mythological creature. There is also an animal exhibit. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for kids, which may leave some folks feeling "skunked."

Georgia: World of Coca-Cola Museum

While some may find the history of Coca-Cola  and its various flavors interesting, Georgia finance writer David Bakke calls out the World of Coca-Cola  museum in Atlanta as plagued by long lines, mediocre exhibits, and pricey souvenirs. Visitors, allowed back in July, pay $21 (for adults) or $17 (for children) to enjoy what amounts to a giant Coke commercial.

Hawaii: Waikiki Beach

A retreat for Hawaiian royalty in the 1800s, Honolulu's world-famous Waikiki Beach has long been plagued by crowds and trash. It has attracted both a large homeless population and the likes of Hermès, Gucci, and Prada. Visitors have described the commercialized beach as a cross between New York City and Miami Beach, and not in a good way.

Related: 20 Tips for Visiting Hawaii on a Budget

Idaho: Oasis Bordello Museum

Tour guides talking about the day-to-day lives of prostitutes, represented by tarted-up mannequins? The Oasis Bordello Museum  in Wallace seeks to provide an authentic glimpse into the colorful past of the mining district where this brothel is located, but some visitors say the museum is sad and creepy — perhaps not worth the $5 admission.

Illinois: Navy Pier

Between the $18 price to ride the Ferris wheel, crowds, mediocre bars, and cafeteria food, locals often steer clear of Chicago's Navy Pier , leaving it for the tourists, resident Rachel Cooper says. Still, there are a few redeeming attractions, such as performances by the Chicago Shakespeare Theater (although tickets aren't cheap) and epic fireworks displays over Lake Michigan. 

Indiana: Largest Ball of Paint

What started as an ordinary baseball has grown into the world's largest ball of paint and one of Indiana's most visited roadside attractions, as hard as that might be to believe. After about 40 years of painting, the ball has more than 23,000 layers and weighs more than 4,000 pounds. Tourists passing by Alexandria can call to make an appointment to view the ball — but why?

Iowa: Spook Cave

There's not a whole lot to see here, folks — that's one of the primary criticisms of Spook Cave . An escorted boat tour of a flooded cave in McGregor (May through October) does give visitors a chance to learn about the history of limestone in the region and view stalactites. Whether that's worth $16 for adults and $11 for children is the question. There's also a pricey gift shop.

Kansas: Largest Ball of Twine

Cawker City's claim to fame: the world's largest ball of twine. Apparently there's been some competition  for that title since the ball was started in 1953. Although it's often cited among the country's best roadside attractions, it hardly seems worth a detour of more than two hours round-trip off the nearest interstate.

Kentucky: Ark Encounter

Opened in July 2016, Ark Encounter  promises to bring the Biblical story of Noah's Ark to life. The recently completed, wooden replica of the ship was built according to dimensions provided in the Bible — 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high. Some visitors find the admission prices big as well, especially after construction won government tax breaks: An adult ticket is $60, admission for youngsters is $32, and visitors also pay for parking and activities inside the park, such as a $60 zip line experience. "I don't see how families can afford it," one reviewer writes on TripAdvisor .

Louisiana: Bourbon Street

It's an iconic destination, yes, but Bourbon Street, in the French Quarter of New Orleans, has become increasingly known for strip clubs, wild parties, tacky offerings, and scammers seeking to separate visitors from their money. Don't want to avoid the historic street altogether? Just do some research, pick your spots ahead of time, and take care to avoid the con artists. Remember, there’s plenty of free fun in the Big Easy . 

Maine: Land's End Gift Shop

Geared entirely toward tourists, the Land's End Gift Shop  sells everything from lobster-print pants to lobster keychains and bumper stickers. There are also calendars featuring idyllic New England images, plush animals (including, of course, lobsters), mugs, hats, and other miscellaneous gifts to help visitors remember Maine. Save your money for some real lobster .

Maryland: God's Ark of Safety

The sign for God's Ark of Safety  proclaims, "Noah's Ark Being Rebuilt Here!" The plan, more than 30 years in the making, is to build a replica with the same dimensions listed in the Bible. But the ministry building it in Frostburg has managed to erect only a tangle of steel beams so far — and even that's in hold during COVID-19. In the meantime, someone else beat them to it in Kentucky.

Massachusetts: Salem

Wizard schools, ghost tours, and oddball Frankenstein and Dracula "museums" have taken over Salem, once a truly intriguing town. It dates to 1626 and is notorious for holding witch trials that led to the hanging of 19 innocent people. Tourist trap economics have come to trump historical charm, say travel bloggers David and Veronica James, although the Salem Witch Museum  is an exception.

Related: The 25 Most Terrifying Places in America

Michigan: Mystery Spot

 Said to have been discovered in the 1950s by surveyors who became lightheaded and couldn't get equipment to operate there, the Mystery Spot  in St. Ignace (reopening in the spring) seems to mess with gravity, make tall people seem smaller, and cause plenty of other confusing phenomena. Or so they say. You might say it leans heavily on kitsch. It led one Yelper to remark, “The mystery is why did I pay for this?”

Minnesota: Mall of America

The Mall of America  attracts 40 million visitors in a typical year with chain stores that most people probably have near their hometowns. Some of the biggest draws have high prices: $50 for a day at Nickelodeon Universe, around $24 at the aquarium, and $28 a person for the Crayola Experience. One saving grace: No tax on clothing in Minnesota.

Mississippi: Mammy's Cupboard

The sight of a roadside restaurant in the shape of a 28-foot-tall woman draws many tourists intrigued at the prospect of eating inside her skirt. But the building is based on an offensive archetype: Mammy's Cupboard dates to 1940, a time not exactly focused on political correctness. Although it was repainted a lighter skin tone during the civil rights era , it remains the subject of much criticism and social debate.

Missouri: Silver Dollar City

A theme park in Branson that opened in 1960, Silver Dollar City  is no Disney World. It has 40 rides and plenty of detractors who say it's run-down, not kid-friendly, and not laid out well. At 2020 prices of $89 for adults, it's overpriced to boot.

Montana: 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar

The collection of silver dollars on display at the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar  in Haugan was started in 1952, and by now there are coins covering the walls, bar, and ceiling. There's also a family-run restaurant, a motel with free RV parking, a convenience store, casinos, and "Montana's largest gift shop." If you'd like to marvel at other people's money while spending your own, this is the tourist trap for you.

Related: 40 Hole-in-the-Wall Bars That Have Survived the Decades

Nebraska: Carhenge

With the real Stonehenge often labeled a tourist trap , it's hard to see the appeal of a replica made from vintage American automobiles painted gray to look like giant stones. Those who have visited Carhenge  in Alliance describe it as everything from a step above a junkyard to the perfect Griswold family moment.

Nevada: Area 51 Alien Travel Center and Brothel

It's probably not helpful to name the entire city of Las Vegas, even though it's certainly one of the most deliberately designed tourist traps in history. We'll offer up this little gem instead: the Area 51 Alien Travel Center and Brothel  in Amargosa Valley. A name that baits tourists with both "alien" and "brothel" really speaks for itself. Close encounters, indeed.

New Hampshire: Ice Castles

These human-made ice caverns  operate in several locations, including Lincoln, during the winter months. While praised by many for its beauty and fun quotient, many Yelpers have dinged the attraction for having rude staff and others said it just didn’t look as impressive as advertised.

New Jersey: Atlantic City Boardwalk

Tacky. Not a good place for children. In need of refurbishing. These are just some of the downsides of the present incarnation of the Atlantic City Boardwalk, reviewers say. The iconic boardwalk, lined with stores, restaurants, and casinos, dates to 1870 and unfortunately has seen far better days.

Related: 40 Iconic and Beautiful Boardwalks in the Country

New Mexico: International UFO Museum

The town of Roswell has become synonymous with UFOs (thanks to an alleged crash in 1947), but it doesn't have much to offer aside from that claim to fame. The primary highlights for alien fans are the International UFO Museum and Research Center ($7 for adults, $4 for children) and an annual festival.

New York: Times Square Museums

In a city with countless one-of-a-kind museums, tan overpriced chain museum in Times Square draws wide disdain from travel bloggers. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum  costs about $44 to get into, and has nothing unique to offer visitors to the Big Apple, though many other places do offer cheap amusements . 

North Carolina: Largest Chest of Drawers

It's fitting for High Point, known as the home furnishings capital of the world, to be home of the world's largest chest of drawers . Built originally in the 1920s, complete with knobs and giant dangling socks, it served as an information bureau — pun undoubtedly intended. Then a furniture store in Jamestown, a 10-minute drive away, built what looks like an 80-foot chest on the outside of its showroom, somehow diminishing the value of both.

North Dakota: Casinos

Don't leave the choice of a North Dakota casino to chance. From Spirit Lake Casino in St. Michael to 4 Bears Casino in New Town and Dakota Magic in Hankinson, visitors complain of a general lack of quality and professionalism at smaller tribal casinos, citing run-down machines, unpleasant atmospheres, and very few winners. "ATM pays out," one customer snarked in an online review. "That's about it."

Related: The 15 Best Casinos NOT in Las Vegas

Ohio: Mary Yoder's Amish Kitchen

Criticism of the cooking at Mary Yoder's Amish Kitchen, Bakery, and Gift Shop  in Middlefield is all too common. Reviewers say the food is bland, unappetizing, and overpriced. The gift shop is also expensive, they say, with a warning to stop only if there's nothing else open. But that's easier said than done when the tour bus stops at the restaurant.

Oklahoma: Cherokee Trading Post

With a tepee out front and a KOA campground, Cherokee Trading Post  near El Reno has "tourist" written all over it. But, hey, if you're in the mood to shop for moccasins and Native American "art," this is the place.

Oregon: Prehistoric Gardens

Like many tourist traps, Prehistoric Gardens  in Port Orford is likely to be irresistible to children, with a life-size Tyrannosaurus at the front gate. But some visitors say it's overpriced, at $14 for adults and $10 for children, and provides less than 15 minutes of entertainment. In an age of "Jurassic Park" films and the dinosaur robots of the George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park in Utah, steel and concrete sculptures may not cut it.

Pennsylvania: Rivers Casino

Philadelphia isn't Las Vegas — it isn't even Atlantic City, which is just an hour away — and tourists shouldn't go to the Rivers Casino (formerly the SugarHouse Casino) expecting a high-rolling experience. Reviews are filled with complaints about slow service in a cramped, cheap-looking structure. "A lackluster, dirty slots barn," one Yelper says.

Rhode Island: Big Blue Bug

The Big Blue Bug  is a 58-foot termite — 928 times the size of a real one. Designated the world's largest bug, it cost $20,000 to build out of steel and fiberglass. But don't make the mistake of stopping in Providence just to see it. The bug can be appreciated well enough from Interstate 95.

South Carolina: South of the Border

Travel review sites are full of mediocre reviews of this cluster of restaurants and shops  offering everything from fireworks, knickknacks, and bumper stickers to leather, antiques, and hats. Its towering statue of a sombrero is well-known to road trippers as a place to stretch your legs on a long drive — but nothing more.

South Dakota: Wall Drug Store

Wall Drug  may have started as a drugstore in 1931, but it has morphed into a classic American tourist trap with a sprawling souvenir shop and eateries that are collectively "crowded, overpriced, and stupid," say travel bloggers David and Veronica James. Countless signs along Interstate 90 make travelers feel as though they absolutely have to stop, but many who do regret it.

Related: 77 Attractions to See While Driving Across the Country

Tennessee: Graceland

Elvis has long since left the building, yet his Memphis home continues to rake in oodles of cash from devoted fans . Tickets to Graceland  start at $82 for adults and $47 for children and cost at least $140 for a VIP tour. That's not to mention the multiple gift shops on the grounds selling Elvis-themed tchotchkes.

Related: Elvis Had a Pet Chimp and More Fun Facts About Graceland

Texas: Devil's Rope Museum

Devil's Rope Museum  in McLean has an intriguing name and free admission, but it may become less interesting when visitors find out that "devil's rope" is barbed wire. That's right: This quirky museum (due to reopen in March) showcases the 450 patents that apparently exist for barbed wire, as well as more than 2,000 variations that have been found by collectors. For some visitors, it's fascinating. For others, it's just fencing.

Utah: Moqui Cave

While $5 for adults is not a lot to pay, for some it's just too much for a "tour" of Moqui Cave  that lasts only a few minutes. The cave near Kanab is billed as a natural history museum, but visitors complain that the collection of Native American artifacts, dinosaur tracks, and minerals is paltry at best. They say the attraction is mostly a gift shop — and why pay an entrance fee to shop?

Vermont: Rock of Ages

It's not worth going far to look at a very pretty hole in the ground that isn't the Grand Canyon. For $9 for adults and $5 for children, Rock of Ages (a company that makes "enduring art" — its euphemism for headstones) takes visitors to a granite quarry and on a factory tour. The visitors center peddles granite gifts and jewelry.

Virginia: Foamhenge

What's the obsession with recreating Stonehenge, exactly? Foamhenge is made entirely of Styrofoam. It was put up on April Fools' Day in 2004, and a dozen years later, when the kitschy sight was falling into disrepair, got picked up and packed up. Foam worshippers will not be denied, though, and  Foamhenge  was resurrected a year later as an ongoing attraction for Cox Farms in Centreville — for limited hours, on private property. 

Washington: Seattle Children's Museum

Visitor reviews of Seattle Children's Museum , along with local media, say the exhibits are far from innovative, many of the toys are similar to what's at home, and exhibits are poorly maintained. For children older than 4, it could easily be deemed a tad boring and not worth the cost of admission, which is $14 for adults and children. 

West Virginia: Farnham Colossi

A perplexing collection of statues at Farnham Fantasy Farm  in Unger, the "Farnham Colossi" run the gamut from a 25-foot-tall fiberglass muffler man to a beach dude statue and a Big John bag boy. It's a half-hour off the Interstate (whether 70 or 81) to get to the site of these massive figures. 

Wisconsin: The Dells

The Wisconsin Dells  area is a tourist trap to end all tourist traps, with tacky water parks and wacky attractions now divorced from the namesake rock formations that originally drew sightseers. Even a breathless write-up on Roadside America  admits, "At times the Dells seems like a ravenous snake, swallowing tourists whole, digesting their lump of vacation energy and disposable income."

Related: The 20 Best Water Parks Across America

Wyoming: Wyoming Frontier Prison

Tours of the abandoned and crumbling Wyoming Frontier Prison  in Rawlins, which opened in 1901 and closed in 1981, include viewing the Punishment Pole, where prisoners were whipped with rubber hoses, and the chance to sit in a real gas chamber. The cost is $12 for adults and $10 for children — in other words, around $40 to $50 for a family with small children to endure weeks of nightmares afterward.

Related: 18 Towns Where You Can Still Experience the Wild West

How to Avoid Tourist Traps on Your Travels

A guide on how to truly immerse yourself in a new place..

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Tourist traps are everywhere tourists can be found, and they can ensnare us all. But what exactly is a tourist trap?

Illustration by Melanie Lambrick

Like many of you, I’ve been caught in the occasional “tourist trap” over the years. I’ve found myself waking up in a cookie-cutter hotel room, with a generic print of a local landmark over the bed, or on a street full of gift shops selling puntastic T-shirts. Then I ask myself, “How did I get here? Aren’t I a better traveler than this?”

Tourist traps are everywhere tourists can be found, and they can ensnare us all. But what exactly is a tourist trap? And how should we think about them?

What constitutes a tourist trap?

A tourist trap is, by definition, a place that attracts and exploits tourists. But Merriam-Webster doesn’t leave much room for nuance. After all, one person’s trap is another person’s treasure.

A tourist trap is often cast as the opposite of an “authentic” experience. It’s somewhere we skip if we’re looking for the “soul” of a destination. But what makes, say, visiting a hidden supper club in Hackney more true to London than watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace? Who’s to say what is truly “authentic,” anyway?

There’s also a distinction between a tourist hot spot and a tourist trap. Many hot spots—for example, the Eiffel Tower—are marvels of engineering, nature, or culture that are kept standing, alive, or protected for visitors. The trinket stalls that surround them, however, err on the side of traps.

Instead of asking how to avoid tourist traps, perhaps a better question is: How can travelers more deeply immerse themselves in a new city—to experience both its beloved landmarks and the places less familiar to the average visitor?

Seek out local experts

“Avoiding ‘inauthentic’ experiences requires research and advance planning,” says Lindsey Tramuta , a Paris-based writer who offers small group tours of the city. “However, it can be as simple as scoping out who the local, trustworthy voices are.”

She recommends reading the work of writers who live in the city you’re visiting, as well as following chefs or restaurant owners on social media.

Tune in to the local frequencies

Mary Rickard, a semi-retired journalist who leads walking tours of New Orleans through Context Travel , suggests tuning in to the local radio station and reading the newspapers to get primed before your trip. You’ll also find out about concerts, art exhibitions, and other community events.

In New Orleans, for example, musicians are often guests on WWOZ radio shows leading up to performances. Attend a gig and you might strike up a conversation that teaches you something new about the city and the people who live there.

Step away from the tour bus

Coach tours can play a valuable role in facilitating travel if you’re unable or unwilling to make your own way in unfamiliar territory. But renting a car, Rickard says, can offer “a more leisurely experience of less-visited sites and roadside restaurants.”

The same is true for other, more independent, forms of transportation—like walking, cycling, and taking public transit. If I’d done that in Marrakech a few years back, I’d have spent less time in my taxi driver’s cousin’s perfume shop.

Seek out new neighborhoods

A city’s heart may be found among its lesser known arteries. Joan Roca, CEO and founder of Essentialist , a private members’ service for travelers, recommends doing a little research in advance—but also, when you feel safe to do so, letting yourself go with the flow in the present.

“Take that map out, and make note of where the big attractions are and what is familiar to you,” he says. “Then look to the other spaces on the map. Perhaps it’s a green space . . . perhaps it’s a maze of streets away from the well-known areas that’s caught your eye.”

Consider when you travel

Meaningful interactions can be had at quieter times of day and year, as a dawn visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City with an infant once taught me. “Traveling in the low season,” Roca says, “will help avoid both tourists and traps alike.”

The worst tourist trap in every state

• There's tons of sightseeing to do in the US but some spots have become tourist traps .
• Avoiding overcrowded landmarks like New York City's Times Square and New Orleans' Bourbon Street is recommended.
• Offbeat attractions like Nebraska's Carhenge or Maine's "desert" also aren't worth the hype.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories .

Maybe you're touring the US as a citizen out to see your homeland. Or maybe you're coming from afar to see what America has to offer. Either way, you probably want to make the most of your travels . 

While some tourist spots across the country have become legendary landmarks that everyone should see , others are just disappointing tourist traps . Some are blatant attempts to make money, others are plain weird, but either way, they should be avoided at all costs.

Save your time, money, and sanity by skipping these 50 tourist traps. 

Amy Daire contributed to a previous version of this piece.

ALABAMA: Ave Maria Grotto

This miniature city was built out of cement and trash by brother Joseph (formerly Michael Zoettl), a hunchbacked Benedictine monk. The little village is often referred to as  "Little Jerusalem," and features 125 tiny religious statues, grottos, and holy locations.

It's essentially a wacky, four acre holy shrine — you might be better off going to Legoland.

ALASKA: The North Pole

Did you really come this far, to one of the most beautiful, untouched, wild and untamed states , to see a fake little Christmas village?

On top of that, the North Pole is freezing in the winter, and actually really hot in the summer, and swarming with mosquitos.

ARIZONA: The Four Corners

Of course it sounds cool to technically be in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah, all at the same time , but you'll find yourself in the middle of nowhere, far away from anywhere you'd ever want to be, in a sweltering desert, and all you'll have to show for it is a cheesy photo. EVEN BETTER, it's really just a brass, CD-like disk that's allegedly 1,800 feet from the actual intersection of those four states.

ARKANSAS: Crater of Diamonds State Park

While the idea of digging for diamonds sounds cool — the park is apparently the  only source of natural diamonds in the US that's open to the public —  the reality is a 3 7 ½-acre plowed field  of dirt. It's been open since 1906, so the chances of finding a diamond seem pretty slim to us.

CALIFORNIA: Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood walk of fame has become one of the biggest hotspots for tourists visiting California. Sadly, the stars that celebrities are so proud of are on a dirty, crowded sidewalk, surrounded by tacky street performers, and far from anything else worth a visit. 

COLORADO: Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum

Sure, it's the grave of one of the world's most famous cowboys — and outstanding hunter and accomplished showman — but a grave is a grave is a grave.

Plus, the  Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum  opened in 1921, and hasn't changed much since.

CONNECTICUT: Wild Bill's Nostalgia Store

People from all over the country stop at this quirky roadside pop culture  reliquary , which is most famous for being home to a (terrifying) Jack-in-the-Box that's said to be the world's largest. A sort of cabinet of curiosities where most curiosities are for sale, the shop is a little like a hyped-up flea market.  

DELAWARE: Rehoboth Beach boardwalk

Not technically overrated, but certainly overcrowded, Rehoboth Beach's boardwalk makes this list for being jam-packed with tourists, and chock-full of tchotke's aimed at them. Apparently, finding a parking spot is about as rare as spotting a unicorn, and many complain about inflated prices, and call the boardwalk "average," or even "extremely average."

FLORIDA: Epcot

Of the four Disney parks in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, Epcot is easily the most underwhelming. Unless you're a college student looking to "drink around the world" (for hundreds of dollars nonetheless), this theme park offers nothing. 

The experiences at each country in the park focus only on the most basic stereotypes of each culture, and the few rides this park has are disappointing to most children. 

GEORGIA: World of Coca-Cola

This huge tourist attraction in the middle of Atlanta brings in millions of visitors every year. Guests can see how the soda is bottled, take their picture with the famous polar bear, and taste several of the company's other drinks. 

The tickets aren't too costly, with adult prices at $17 and children's at $13, but battling the overwhelming crowds and long lines just to walk through what is essentially a huge advertisement, is downright silly. 

HAWAII: Waikiki Beach

Waikiki was basically designed with tourists in mind, and is a strip of luxury hotels, expensive stores, and chain restaurants flanked by an overcrowded beach. It looks like most of the rest of America, and is not representative of the stunning, tropical island paradise Hawaii really is.

IDAHO: Craters of the Moon

While the name evokes a surreal, alien-like landscape, the reality does not quite live up to it.

While it is quite pretty, it's only interesting for about 10 minutes. After all, how much time can you spend ogling volcanic rocks?

ILLINOIS: Chicago's Magnificent Mile

We're not sure what's so magnificent about a street that has a few shops and restaurants, but hey.

INDIANA: NCAA Hall of Champions

With surprisingly little memorabilia on display and in dire need of a renovation, you'll be in and out of this museum , which pays homage to student athletes, in 30 minutes or less. If you want to learn about Hoosier basketball, you're better off heading 50 miles east to the  Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame  in New Castle.

IOWA: Captain James T. Kirk's future birthplace

Trekkies the world over make the trek to this tiny town in Iowa, to a private yard behind a small house, to look at a gravestone-like plaque commemorating the "Future Birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk, Karch 22, 2228."

Now obviously that's not true, since "Star Trek" is fiction, but to add insult to injury, it was really just the doing of an intrepid Trekkie mayor who, upon reading "Making of Star Trek," saw that Kirk would be born in an unnamed small town in Iowa. He figured, 'Why not Riverside?' and plopped the plaque in the middle of town, declared it Kirk's future birthplace, and the rest, as they say, is history (or the future).

KANSAS: The World's Largest Ball of Twine

It’s a ball of twine.

KENTUCKY: Ark Encounter

Last year, this life-size arc and biblical theme park opened in Williamstown, Kentucky. The grounds feature a zip line, because what would a biblical theme park be without one?

The fact that this attraction is an ode to one of the most famous biblical stories ever isn't the trap, though. It's their outrageous prices that should make you think twice: tickets are $40 per adult and $28 per child, and zip lining costs at least $50 on top of that.

LOUISIANA: Bourbon Street

New Orleans is a beautiful, historic town filled with culture, and Bourbon Street just doesn't do it justice. It's essentially like Cancun during Spring Break — neon signs advertising cheap, tacky bars line a street that's full of drunk people throwing plastic beads at your head — when they aren't throwing up.

You're better off going to a jazz bar or something that will let you drink and experience a little local culture.

MAINE: The Desert of Maine

Despite its appearance, this block of land is not actually desert. The empty plot is a glacial silt surrounded by thousands of Maine's pine trees. People can gawk at the natural phenomenon that created a desert in the middle of New England, but with plaster camels and plastic sand-related souvenirs, it's hard to imagine what draws in 30,000 tourists every year . 

MARYLAND: Ripley's Believe It or Not!

There are several Ripley's Believe It or Not! "museums" all over the country. However, in a historical city like Baltimore where there is actual art and history to see, it's baffling why anyone would spend time in a place full of replicas and gimmicks. 

MASSACHUSETTS: Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

Sure, it's been open since 1742, but these days it's a glorified food court teeming with tourists that sells mediocre food and tacky souvenirs. Do like a local and avoid it.

MICHIGAN: Mystery Spot

There's a maze, mini golf, and a zip line, but their main attraction is several crooked shacks built into hillsides that trick kids into thinking everything is gravity defying. It's a cheap roadside tourist trap with gaudy billboards along the highway to prove it.

MINNESOTA: Mall of America

This mall is the largest shopping center in America, with 520 stores and so many square feet that the Yankee Stadium could fit inside of it nine times. But there's much more to do than just shop — there's an indoor theme park, a miniature golf course, and and aquarium — but all that adds up to is sensory overload.

The fact that it is crowded with hundreds of tourists each and every day ( 42 million visitors each year)  makes it all the worse. 

MISSISSIPPI: Birthplace of Elvis

It's a two room shack. The King may have been born there, but it's no palace. 

MISSOURI: Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail and Museum

This giant pile of rocks is essentially a mound of nuclear waste.

To be precise, it's 1.5 million cubic yards of hazardous waste entombed to create a small mountain that marks the spot that was home to the country's largest explosives factory turned uranium ore processing plant until 1966. After being left abandoned for over two decades, the US Department of Energy decided to cover it with rocks. Now, it features a museum and covered up  TNT, asbestos, mercury, radium and radioactive uranium. Enjoy!

MONTANA: 50000 Silver $ Bar

This Montana bar is home to over 50,000 silver dollars, and thus one of the largest coin collections in America. There's also a motel, tons of RV parking, a casino, and Montana's largest gift shop.

NEBRASKA: Carhenge

This quirky roadside site is  one of the highest-rated attractions in the state , though it's little more than 39 cars stacked to resemble England's famous Stonehenge. 

Sadly, this isn't the only ode to Stonehenge you'll see on this list.

NEVADA: The Venetian gondolas

While the entire city of Las Vegas could arguably be considered a tourist trap, the one place you should really steer clear of while you're there is The Venetian's gondola rides .

It might sound romantic, but once you see the gamblers and shoppers strolling by as you float through what is essentially a shopping mall in a chlorine blue pool water for less than 15 minutes, you might think differently. Even worse,  a p rivate gondola for two will set you back $116.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Clark's Trading Post

Locals who have been going here for years seem to love it (and the fact that it hasn't changed at all). However, tourists who don't feel the nostalgia will likely feel differently. 

Their lackluster attractions include bumper boats, Segways, and a steam train, but their money maker is the trained bear shows, which many consider ethically questionable. 

NEW JERSEY: Atlantic City Boardwalk

Like a second-rate Vegas, Atlantic City's good ole days are long gone. All that's left are gaudy casinos, tacky souvenirs, and overpriced taffy.

NEW MEXICO: Roswell

The town of Roswell prides itself in being the alleged site of an alien crash landing in 1947, and has created an entire tourist industry around it.

The town is now a giant gimmick, where everything that could possibly be shaped like an alien or UFO, is. It's full of creepy alien toys, and all of them pretty low budget.

NEW YORK: Times Square

Locals avoid this spot at all costs, and so should you. Not only is it overcrowded, it's also full of expensive souvenirs and tacky chain restaurants that you can find anywhere else in the country.

NORTH CAROLINA: The Blowing Rock

The views of the  Blue Ridge Mountains are beautiful, to say the least. People rave about the sights you can see from your car or on trails throughout the many parks. However, The Blowing Rock, which gets a lot of praise for its stunning views and interesting rock formation, is a miss. 

It costs $10 dollars per person to visit, which might not break the bank, but why pay anything at all for a view you could see for free? 

NORTH DAKOTA: The Enchanted Highway

This collection of scrap metal sculptures stretches across 32 miles on a southern North Dakota highway. You'll see giant grasshoppers, families of fish, towering humans, and an all-seeing eye made of geese (yup). If you happen to be driving down the road, it might ease some road trip boredom, but it's certainly nothing to drive out of the way for.  

OHIO: "A Christmas Story" House

There are hundreds of ways you can celebrate the holidays. Waiting in a line and paying money to see the filming location of "A Christmas Story" should not be one of them. While the movie may be great, the basic house it was filmed in and the museum dedicated to it aren't anything to stop your car for. 

OKLAHOMA: J. M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum

A majority of the ~50,000 artifacts in the museum are firearms from a private collection that dates back to the 14th century. The West might have been wild, but this glorified gun museum is wilder.

OREGON: Undersea Gardens

This underwater room holds tourists for about half an hour as they watch divers interact with the natural wildlife. The realistic view (murky water and five fish, if you're lucky) is hardly worth paying for, especially when there are sea lions right above the surface that you don't even need to pay to see. 

PENNSYLVANIA: The Liberty Bell

This American history classic is the definition of underwhelming. After learning about it year after year in school, you'd think it'd be a large, spectacular bell. In reality, it's small and broken (obviously), not to mention surrounded by tourists. 

RHODE ISLAND: Mysterious Viking Tower

If you have an affinity for mysterious landmarks, then you might enjoy the tiny tower that sits in the middle of Newport. 

Unfortunately for most, these mysterious remains aren't that exciting. No one really knows who built it, but legend says that it was the Vikings, which would make it one of the oldest buildings in America. Most beg to differ. Either way, the speculating gets old quick.

SOUTH CAROLINA: South of the Border

South of the Border is nothing more than a large gift shop and adjoining restaurant. The "attraction" sits right below the border that separates North and South Carolina, and is intentionally tacky.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Wall Drug

This blatant tourist trap  makes over $10 million a year , but how they do it is a mystery. The drugstore turned makeshift mall became famous for offering free ice water back in 1931, and doesn't charge for attractions such as their snake pit and giant road side sculptures (see the dino, above). They do reel in tourists and road trippers with over 300 billboards throughout the state, though. 

TENNESSEE: Graceland

Elvis was a true prodigy, but touring his house for a minimum of $30 is a strange way to honor him. While the grounds are beautiful, there are far better ways to spend your time in Tennessee. 

TEXAS: The Big Texan Restaurant in Amarillo

The Big Texan restaurant is crawling with so much Texas décor you may go into sensory overload. With dead animals all over the walls, a souvenir shop with every kind of tacky Wild West memorabilia you can think of, and, of course, a Texas-sized   72 ounce steak eating challenge , this place is one big Texas cliché .

The food is also extremely mediocre, and many customers have   complained on Yelp   that the steak is tough and dry. For a real, authentic Texas experience, head to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo where you can shop for genuine Texas souvenirs, watch bull riding, and chow down on delicious fair food.

UTAH: Moqui Cave

The sandstone erosion "cave" is touted as an ancient landmark and natural history museum, but it's not even a cave that was built or used by Native Americans. 

Even if you don't mind the ruse, people who have been claim that it's just a glorified gift shop. 

VERMONT: Rock of Ages

You can tour this giant granite quarry for a small price, but looking down into a hole that isn't the Grand Canyon is hardly worth it. The tour is provided by a company that mostly makes tombstones, which puts a damper on everything, and their gift shop sells overpriced granite gifts and jewelry.

VIRGINIA: Foamhenge

Like Stonehenge, but styrofoam. No further explanation necessary.

WASHINGTON: Gum Wall

This brick wall attraction near Seattle's Pike Place Market was covered in 15 years worth of gum until 2015, when it was removed to preserve the brick. The tradition of sticking used, germy chewing gum on the wall picked back up shortly after, and it is now almost back to its original, grimy glory. 

WEST VIRGINIA: The Congressional Bunker

For $34 a person, you can see where all the beloved (and not so beloved) politicians in America would have lived post-apocalypse. The bunkers, which were hidden in a hotel  at first, opened for tours in 1995 after someone spilled the beans about the secret hiding place. 

The idea is pretty cool, but there's no real need to spend 90 whole minutes and over $30 for a tour of wooden bunk beds, canned food, and white cinder block walls. 

WISCONSIN: Mars Cheese Castle

Wisconsin is known for its amazing cheese, and really, anything involving cheese can do no wrong. However, Mars Cheese Castle, which beckons tourists driving down I-94, is a pretty obvious trap. The gaudy building should be warning enough, but if it isn't, the inflated prices on the hundreds of cheeses, sausages, condiments, and crackers they sell might be.

Despite it being an obvious tourist trap, tourists and locals alike don't seem to mind at all .   

WYOMING: Frontier Prison

This old prison is basically a museum of torture the whole family can enjoy. It's no Alcatraz, but tour guides do let you sit in old gas chambers and see the "Punishment Pole," both of which will likely cause nightmares. 

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• Main content

Are These Really The Biggest Tourist Traps In The United States?

Researchers compiled a list of major tourist traps to avoid. You decide if they’re right.

Has there ever been a stop on your summer vacation that you totally regretted? Say, that over-crowded visit to Times Square? Or that incredibly long line to get beignets at Café Du Monde, in New Orleans? Or are you planning a vacation now and questioning whether to visit certain attractions or landmarks ?

Vacations ideally give you great family memories that will last a lifetime. But some stops were made to be skipped. A report from vacation rental company Casago (via Digg ), ranked the destinations in the U.S. that are, at least according to visitors, the biggest tourist traps in the world.

Casago asked, “With so many sights to see and so little vacation time, how can we tell which attractions might not be worth the visit after all?”

To find the answers, researchers analyzed the phrase “tourist trap” on TripAdvisor to find the attractions in the U.S. that had the highest mentions of that phrase in reviews from visitors. There had to be at least five mentions of the attraction being a “tourist trap” in order for it to be considered.

Casago then compiled a list of the top tourist traps in the U.S. (and in the world) and found some deeply interesting results. For global results, the researchers found that four of the top 10 biggest tourist traps globally were in the U.S. — and that Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco was No. 1 in both the U.S. and the world.

The researchers also revealed the biggest tourist traps in each state and found some that may be surprising to visitors and full-time residents alike. For example, Graceland was the biggest tourist trap in Tennessee and Mystic Pizza (of Mystic Pizza movie fame) was the biggest in Connecticut. Meanwhile, Pike Place Market in Seattle (home to the famous, albeit gross, Gum Wall ) and the Mall of America in Minnesota are also deemed tourist traps.

It’s important to note that your mileage may vary. First of all, some tourist traps may still be more than worth it or have provided a great time and memories for you and your family. These places are generally popular for a reason. And yes, sometimes places are overcrowded, expensive, and a little stressful, but they’re pieces of American history.

What do you take from a vacation? What matters to you? And when does something feel like a tourist trap, and when does if not? What’s worthy of our free time and family time is, of course, highly subjective. Maybe you like to do a little bit of exploring off the beaten path and a little bit of tourist-trap travel. That’s valid, too!

And although Casago ranked the biggest tourist traps by state, it also ranked the overall top 10 biggest traps nationwide. Here’s what the company found:

The 10 biggest tourist traps in the U.S. based on online mentions:

• Fisherman’s Warf in San Francisco, California
• Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota
• Dole Plantation in Wahiawa, Hawaii
• Times Square in New York City, New York
• Café Du Monde in New Orleans, Louisiana
• Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois
• Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
• Hyman's Seafood in Charleston, South Carolina
• Historic River Street in Savannah, Georgia
• Union Oyster House in Boston, Massachusetts

Anyway, do whatever you want. Have fun visiting the Alamo, or the Elvis birthplace museum in Tupelo, or every overpriced seafood joint on the East Coast. Do you!

To see more on tourist traps, including other ones across the globe, check out the full report from Casago .

Tourist traps to avoid in every state

There are few things more American than a good old-fashioned roadside attraction. After all, they’re at the heart of almost every road trip. But just because they exist doesn’t mean they’re all worth seeing.

While most states have quirky, unique attractions that are worth your while, it’s all too easy to get suckered into a veritable tourist trap, a waste of time and—even worse—money. To avoid that dilemma on your next road trip, Stacker scoured online reviews and feedback on each state’s most popular tourist attractions to find the ones that you should avoid.

ALSO:  Locals share the most overrated and underrated tourist attraction in every state

Alabama: The World's Largest Brick

This oversized ad for Jenkins Brick & Tile Company calls Montgomery, Alabama, home. The “world’s largest brick” is actually constructed from many small bricks, not one giant brick, and secondly, it can’t even boast the title anymore. In 2007, a larger clay brick, made by ACME Brick Co. in Denton, Texas, stole the honors.

Alaska: Santa Claus House

The Santa Claus House is a largely self-explanatory establishment that capitalizes on its home in North Pole, Alaska. Now, this town of 2,000 people has no relation to the real North Pole, and it’s mostly home to generic Christmas knick-knacks you can buy anywhere. Although it does have a 900-pound statue of jolly old St. Nick himself out front.

Arizona: The Thing

Anyone who’s taken a southwest road trip has probably seen mysterious billboards advertising “The Thing,” outside of Dragoon, Arizona. If the nearly 250 billboards along I-10 aren’t enough to pique your curiosity, Stacker will cue you in: “The Thing” is nothing more than an odd collection of antiquities, the centerpiece being a mummified mother and child of ambiguous origin. Save your $1.

Arkansas: Crater of Diamonds State Park

If playing around in a field of dirt appeals to you, you’ll love Crater of Diamonds State Park. As the world’s only diamond-producing site open to the public, Crater of Diamonds draws in loads of tourists who want to spend $8 for the minuscule chance of digging up a precious stone of their very own.

California: Venice Beach Boardwalk

It’s been immortalized in movies and TV shows for decades, but the Venice Beach boardwalk is mostly an overcrowded stretch of street performers, meatheads, and other eccentrics who hope to make a quick buck off an unsuspecting tourist. If you want an authentic L.A. beach experience, hit up Santa Monica Pier or drive up to secluded Malibu instead.

Colorado: Mike the Headless Chicken Festival

The tiny town of Fruita, Colorado, hosts a two-day festival each year to commemorate Mike, a Wyandotte chicken who met his untimely death in 1945 and proceeded to live for another 18 months—without a head. While Mike’s story is remarkable, the festival itself is not.

Connecticut: Wild Bill's Nostalgia Store

Wild Bill's is particularly creepy on the outside—thanks to a giant clown head. This Middletown, Connecticut, attraction is home to the world’s largest jack-in-the-box and store akin to a small-town flea market.

Delaware: Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Once you've seen one boardwalk, you’ve seen them all. While Delaware’s Rehoboth Beach is scenic, it’s boardwalk is not—unless you’re a fan of overpriced logo T-shirts and other tourist memorabilia.

Florida: St. Augustine Alligator Farm

Florida’s famous for gators, but once you’ve seen one, you’ve seen ‘em all. The St. Augustine Alligator Farm has been in existence since the late 1800s, but we’re not entirely sure. Save your time and money, unless you’re absolutely dying to zip line over a pool of the hungry reptiles.

Georgia: Jimmy Carter Peanut Statue

No disrespect to one of America's past presidents, but there are few reasons to stop at this landmark, which consists of a 13-foot statue of a smiling peanut. It was erected by the Indiana Democratic Party during Carter’s 1976 campaign, but it now lives in the former president’s hometown of Plains, Georgia.

Hawaii: Dole Plantation

Dole’s famous Hawaiian plantation is popular with those who are curious about how pineapples grow, but it’s become even more famous thanks to a sweet whipped treat called a Dole Whip. Lines for this pineapple-flavored treat can grow extremely long, so next time you’re in Hawaii, skip the Dole and try truly authentic Hawaiian shaved ice instead.

Idaho: The Spud Drive-In

While a drive-in movie theater sounds quaint in theory, they don’t work nearly as well in practice. However, this Idaho theater does boast a giant sculpture of a potato sitting on the back of a flatbed truck.

Illinois: The Super Museum

What do you get when you combine the small Illinois town of Metropolis with a rabid Superman fan? A 100,000-piece homage to the superhero. Unless you’re a die-hard fan of the fictional superhero, keep on driving.

Indiana: The Largest Ball of Paint

What was once a humble baseball is now the world’s largest ball of paint, with more than 25,000 layers and weighing more than 4,000 pounds. It’s among the state’s most-visited roadside attractions. If curiosity gets the better of you, you can make an appointment to view the ball for yourself.

Iowa: The Field of Dreams

The beloved movie was filmed here—and that’s about it. Since then, it’s hosted a baseball exhibition game and a film screening, but it’s still basically a baseball diamond surrounded by cornfields. 

Kansas: The World's Largest Ball of Twine

Yes, it’s a real thing. This Cawker City, Kansas, attraction is more than 40 feet in circumference and weighs almost 15,000 pounds.

Kentucky: Ark Encounter

This biblical theme-park opened in 2016, boasting a life-size, 510-foot-long ark among other religious exhibits. While the exhibitions might be interesting to many, the ticket price is tough to swallow. Ticket prices are $48 for adults, and between $15 and $25 for kids, so bringing the whole family here will be a pricey endeavor.

Louisiana: Bourbon Street

Louisiana’s Bourbon Street is unfailingly popular in a city with so much else to offer. There are much more interesting things to do in the Big Easy than walk down a stretch loaded with strip clubs, loud groups of partiers, and tacky drink offerings.

Maine: The Desert of Maine

In a state with so much natural beauty, why would anyone care about seeing a desert? This sandy 40-acre attraction is the result of exposed glacial silt in the middle of what was once a working farm. Admission costs $12.50 for adults to visit what is basically a sandbox.

Maryland: God’s Ark of Safety

Kentucky beat Maryland to the punch with their Ark Encounter, but at one time, Marylanders, too, wanted a life-size replica of the ark. While the project kicked off with a bang in 1976, it quickly fizzled out, leaving a steel-and-concrete skeleton alongside the interstate that nevertheless still draws curious visitors.

Massachusetts: Plymouth Rock

Want to see where the original pilgrims landed in Massachusetts? Prepare to be disappointed. While there is indeed a Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts, disappointed visitors will discover it’s nothing more than an average-sized rock with a plaque next to it.

Michigan: Mystery Spot

This famed area was discovered in the 1950s by surveyors who discovered their equipment had mysteriously stopped working. Since then, it’s been regarded as, well, a mysterious spot that defies the laws of gravity. Now, it’s nothing more than a few shacks built into hillside, a mini-amusement park with a maze, mini-golf, and zip lines. Like one TripAdvisor reviewer wrote, “the only mystery is ‘where did my $9 go?’”

Minnesota: Mall of America

It’s large and has every store imaginable, drawing in more than 40 million visitors each year. But in the era of Amazon, there are better ways to spend your time and money than shopping at this chain-store conglomerate. Even a visit to some of the more unique attractions, like the aquarium or Nickelodeon Universe, will cost you, with ticket prices of $25—or more.

Mississippi: Mammy's Cupboard

This restaurant, which has its dining room set within the skirt of a 28-foot black woman, has its roots in an offensive stereotype that existed for decades in the South. While the Natchez restaurant was repainted during the Civil Rights era, it’s still hotly debated in Mississippi.

Missouri: Silver Dollar City

Branson's Silver Dollar City is no Disney World—but you still might be floored by the prices to get into this wannabe amusement park, where tickets for adults run nearly $70. With just 40 rundown rides, there are better places to spend your hard-earned money. 

Montana: Lincoln’s World Famous 50,000 Silver $ Bar

“Montana’s largest gift shop” also boasts a motel, free RV parking, and a casino. But the real attractions here are the 50,000 silver dollar coins affixed to every surface. 

Nebraska: Carhenge

Imagine that the builders of Nebraska’s Carhenge said, “Imagine Stonehenge, but with cars.” Thirty-nine painted cars are arranged to resemble the famed English monument. Instead, consider checking out some of Nebraska’s natural wonders, like the famed sandhill crane migration.

Nevada: The Las Vegas Strip

Impressive by night, this iconic stretch of Las Vegas looks more like a strip mall during the day. Hoping to get a selfie with the namesake sign? Be prepared to wait in a long queue, likely with no shade and scorching heat—this is Vegas after all.

New Hampshire: Ice Castles

Man-made ice caverns sound impressive and they are in fact beautiful, but like many roadside attractions, these just aren’t quite as breathtaking in person as they sound. If you like bitterly cold temperatures and crowds — you’ll love it.

New Jersey: Atlantic City

Natives of the Garden State won’t be surprised by this addition to the list. Atlantic City’s boardwalk is full of unsuspecting attractions that lure tourists into spend money. If you want to visit the Jersey coast, stick to the charming houses and quaint seaside in Cape May.

New Mexico: Roswell

The Land of Enchantment is also supposedly the site of a 1947 alien crash landing, which sent the town of Roswell into a frenzy. Now, the southern New Mexico town has turned the alleged event into a tourist attraction, building a museum, the International UFO Museum and Research Center, kitschy gift shops, and more.

New York: Times Square

A plaza of flashing lights and Disney characters might sound appealing on your first visit to New York, but real New Yorkers generally avoid the place. At its crux, Times Square is just a plaza surrounded by bright billboards and overpriced chain restaurants. 

North Carolina: The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers

High Point, North Carolina, holds the distinction of Home Furnishings Capital of the World, drawing interior designers, media, and manufacturers annually for its namesake festival. But the town has one other curious draw: a 38-foot statue of a dresser built in the 1920s.

North Dakota: The Center of North America

A stone obelisk marks the center of North America, located near a town aptly-named Center, North Dakota. For years, nearby Rugby claimed the title, until a geographer updated the previously used calculations. 

Ohio: Mary Yoder's Amish Kitchen

This restaurant-gift shop serves hearty Amish food that is purportedly homemade, but some online reviewers report being served canned green beans and frozen dinner rolls. While the temptation of a filling country meal can be strong, Mary Yoder’s is best skipped.

Oklahoma: Blue Whale

Catoosa, Oklahoma’s blue whale won’t be seen in the ocean anytime soon. The derelict 80-foot-long replica of a sperm whale was originally part of a public swimming hole, but it quickly became a popular Route 66 attraction. Today, the whale remains in the pond, alongside a summer concession stand and, naturally, a souvenir shop.

Oregon: Sea Lion Caves

It sounds cool in theory: the world’s largest sea cave. Then, you enter a crowd freight elevator that drops to the bottom, prompting the aforementioned sea lions to dive into the water. At $11, you should keep driving.

Pennsylvania: Hershey's Chocolate World

Hershey’s Chocolate World is essentially a theme park dedicated to average chocolate. While admission for the trolley tour is free, the end-goal here is to get visitors to make purchases from the overwhelming, sugar-fueled gift shop.

Rhode Island: Newport Mansions

Rhode Island’s coast is lined with breathtaking mansions that are well-worth the visit—but you don’t need to pay to get inside. While a ticket to tour the Newport Mansions’ interiors will run you about $25, you can instead take in the opulent homes from the adjacent Cliff Walk, free of charge.

South Carolina: South of the Border

This bizarre rest-stop-meets-theme-park might lure you in with its bright colors and promise of an easy attraction to satisfy restless kids, but once you’re here, you’ll find a kitschy, dated complex with a Mexican restaurant, a reptile exhibit, and a truck stop all in one. Combined with the racist bandito mascot and you’ll see why you should keep driving.

South Dakota: Wall Drug

Like Arizona’s “The Thing,” if you’ve driven through South Dakota, you may have seen a billboard for Wall Drug—after all, there are more than 300. Back in the 1930s, the drugstore served a valuable purpose, serving up free ice water to thirsty drivers. But today, it’s nothing more than a hodgepodge of stores and a random snake pit.

Tennessee: Graceland

Warning: Elvis Fans might find this addition blasphemous. “The King” left the building decades ago, but this tourist trap still rakes in the big bucks, charging nearly $40 for adults to tour his Memphis home.

Texas: Cadillac Ranch

It's hard to miss this long-standing Texan tourist trap while driving toward Amarillo, Texas. Consisting of colorful Cadillacs embedded in the sandy soil, there’s not much to see here, yet thousands of visitors stop their cars each year. Don’t waste your time at the nearby Big Texan either, a kitschy steakhouse that’s lured in unsuspecting road-trippers for years.

Utah: Hole N The Rock

While this attraction can be given credit for being more than just a “hole n the rock,” it doesn’t mean it’s worth your time. Located outside of Moab, Hole N" The Rock consists of a multi-room cave-house, gift shop, and small zoo.

Vermont: Rock of Ages

For fans of giant holes in the ground, stick to the Grand Canyon. Don’t be one of the hapless tourists who’s fallen for the Rock of Ages, a giant granite quarry you can pay to see, alongside a tacky gift shop selling granite goods, natch.

Virginia: Dinosaur Land

Opened more than 50 years ago, Dinosaur Land is home to many slightly dated fiberglass models of ferocious dinos—as well as a random shark and octopus for good measure. While charming for small kids, there’s not much that you can’t see at your neighborhood mini-golf course.

Washington: Seattle Gum Wall

One word comes to mind when describing Seattle’s gum wall: gross. For years, locals and visitors alike have stuck their gum to this unsuspecting wall, creating a colorful canvas of saliva and the sticky stuff. The wall was cleaned for the first time in 2015.

West Virginia: Mystery Hole

Like so many mystery attractions, West Virginia’s Mystery Hole is not so much dedicated to one hole, but instead a hodgepodge of random oddities, similar to Michigan’s Mystery Spot. Save $7 and let this mystery remain.

Wisconsin: Mars Cheese Castle

If there’s one thing Wisconsin’s known for, it is cheese, and the Mars Cheese Castle takes cheese to a whole new level. While mildly amusing—the building does look like a castle—it’s not necessarily worth a visit unless you want to buy some average cheese that you can probably get from the local grocery store at home.

Wyoming: Frontier Prison

This depressing stop might appeal to some with a mean streak, but for most visitors, the thought of paying money to sit in a defunct gas chamber in Rawlins, Wyoming, doesn’t sound appealing. The prison closed in 1981.

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• Plan Your Trip

What Are Tourist Traps

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Leilah Coakley

• Travel Guide

Introduction

When planning a trip, one of the key considerations is how to make the most of your time and money. However, amidst the excitement of exploring new destinations, it’s important to be aware of the potential pitfalls that can turn your dream vacation into a disappointing experience. This is where the concept of “tourist traps” comes into play.

Tourist traps are typically places or attractions that are specifically designed to attract and take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. These are often characterized by inflated prices, overcrowding, and subpar experiences, all in the name of making a quick profit. While not all tourist attractions fall into this category, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs and learn how to identify and avoid them.

So, why do tourist traps exist? Well, with the rise of global tourism, there is a growing demand for unique and authentic experiences. Unfortunately, not all businesses and individuals are willing to provide these experiences genuinely. Instead, they opt for shortcuts and gimmicks to lure in tourists and extract as much money as possible.

That being said, it’s important to approach the concept of tourist traps with a balanced mindset. Not all attractions that are popular among tourists are necessarily traps. There are many renowned landmarks and attractions that are worth visiting and offer genuine experiences. The key is to be able to differentiate between what’s truly authentic and what’s just a facade.

Definition of Tourist Traps

Tourist traps can be defined as places, businesses, or attractions that specifically target tourists and aim to extract as much money as possible from them without providing genuine value in return. These traps often rely on deceptive marketing tactics, inflated prices, and subpar experiences to maximize profits.

One of the key characteristics of tourist traps is their ability to create a sense of urgency or exclusivity. This can be seen through limited-time offers, “one-time-only” deals, or claims of being a “must-see” attraction. These tactics play on the fear of missing out (FOMO) and often result in tourists hastily parting with their money, only to be left disappointed.

Another common trait of tourist traps is the manipulation of emotions. They are designed to evoke a sense of excitement, wonder, or even guilt in order to prompt travelers to spend more. For example, attractions that feature animal shows or interactions may tug at the heartstrings of animal lovers, leading them to pay exorbitant fees for a brief encounter.

It’s important to note that not all popular tourist attractions are traps. There are many genuine and worthwhile places to visit that attract large crowds of tourists for valid reasons. The distinction lies in the intention behind the attraction. A genuine tourist destination seeks to enhance the visitor experience and provide value, while a tourist trap aims to exploit the visitor’s lack of knowledge or vulnerability.

Tourist traps can manifest in various forms, such as overpriced restaurants in popular tourist areas, tacky souvenir shops, or even entire cities that have built their economy solely around tourism. These traps often prioritize quantity over quality, catering to the masses rather than offering an authentic and memorable experience.

Ultimately, the definition of a tourist trap is subjective and can vary from person to person. What one traveler may consider a trap, another may find enjoyable. It is important for travelers to be aware of the warning signs and make informed decisions when it comes to choosing their activities and spending their money.

Characteristics of Tourist Traps

Tourist traps share a number of common characteristics that distinguish them from authentic and worthwhile attractions. By understanding these characteristics, travelers can better identify and avoid falling into tourist traps.

1. Overpriced: One of the most tell-tale signs of a tourist trap is inflated prices. From overpriced food and drinks to exorbitant entry fees, tourist traps often capitalize on the fact that tourists may be willing to spend more without questioning the value they are receiving.

2. Crowded: Tourist traps tend to attract large crowds of tourists, which can lead to overcrowding. This not only diminishes the experience for visitors but also provides an opportunity for businesses to rush through services and cut corners.

3. Tacky and Generic: Many tourist traps feature generic or clichéd elements that lack authenticity. This can be seen in souvenir shops selling mass-produced knick-knacks, restaurants offering generic menus catered to international tastes, or attractions that rely heavily on gimmicks rather than genuine cultural or historical significance.

4. Aggressive Marketing: Tourist traps often employ aggressive marketing tactics to target unsuspecting travelers. This can include pushy street vendors, constant advertising, or misleading information that creates a sense of urgency or exclusivity.

5. Lack of Local Presence: Authentic and worthwhile attractions often have a strong connection to the local culture and community. In contrast, tourist traps may lack any genuine local presence, as they are primarily geared towards extracting money from tourists rather than benefiting the local economy.

6. Limited or Poor Reviews: Researching customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into whether an attraction is a tourist trap. Negative reviews highlighting high prices, unfulfilled promises, or a lack of authenticity are warning signs to look out for.

7. Unforeseen Extra Charges: Tourist traps often use hidden fees or additional charges to increase their profits. These can take the form of mandatory service charges, unexpected taxes, or supplementary fees for essential amenities.

Recognizing these characteristics can help travelers make informed decisions and avoid falling into tourist traps. By seeking out authentic experiences that prioritize quality, uniqueness, and genuine cultural immersion, travelers can ensure a more enjoyable and fulfilling journey.

Common Tourist Traps Around the World

Tourist traps exist in various forms and destinations around the world. While it’s important to note that not all popular attractions are traps, there are some well-known spots that have gained a reputation for taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Here are a few common tourist traps to be aware of:

1. Times Square, New York City: While undoubtedly iconic, Times Square is notorious for its high prices and overcrowding. Visitors often find themselves bombarded with aggressive street vendors and inflated prices for food and souvenirs.

2. The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul: Considered one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar can be overwhelming for tourists due to its maze-like layout and persistent salespeople. Bargaining is essential to avoid overpaying for items.

3. The Eiffel Tower, Paris: As one of the most visited landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower attracts large crowds year-round. Tourists should be cautious of unauthorized sellers or scammers offering “skip-the-line” tickets at inflated prices.

4. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand: While the idea of a floating market sounds charming, the reality of Damnoen Saduak is often overcrowded with tourists and vendors selling overpriced souvenirs. For a more authentic experience, exploring smaller, lesser-known floating markets is recommended.

5. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco: This popular tourist area is filled with souvenir shops, overpriced seafood restaurants, and gimmicky attractions. Visitors are advised to explore other neighborhoods in San Francisco for a more genuine local experience.

6. Pisa’s Leaning Tower, Italy: The Leaning Tower of Pisa is undoubtedly an iconic landmark, but it has also become synonymous with tourist traps. Overpriced restaurants, street vendors, and tacky souvenir shops surround the area, detracting from the historical significance of the tower.

7. Kuta Beach, Bali: Kuta Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its vibrant nightlife and beachfront resorts. However, it has also become a tourist trap with inflated prices, aggressive touts, and overcrowded beaches. Exploring other areas of Bali can provide a more authentic and peaceful experience.

While these examples highlight some well-known tourist traps, it’s important to remember that there are countless other destinations where tourist traps can be found. Doing thorough research, reading reviews, and seeking advice from locals or experienced travelers can help avoid falling into these traps and ensure a more enjoyable and authentic travel experience.

Impact of Tourist Traps on Local Culture and Economy

While tourism can bring many benefits to a destination, the presence of tourist traps can have negative impacts on both the local culture and economy. Understanding these impacts is crucial in order to foster sustainable and responsible travel practices.

One of the main concerns regarding tourist traps is the erosion of local culture. When tourist traps prioritize catering to the masses and meeting international expectations, they often neglect genuine cultural experiences. This can lead to the commodification and dilution of local traditions, as businesses prioritize profit over preserving and showcasing authentic cultural heritage.

Moreover, the over-commercialization of a destination due to tourist traps can lead to the displacement of local businesses. As large chains and international brands move in to cater to the tourist demand, local entrepreneurs and vendors are often pushed out. This not only diminishes the economic opportunities for locals but also contributes to the homogenization of the destination’s offerings, reducing its uniqueness and charm.

Furthermore, the presence of tourist traps can create a dependency on tourism as the sole source of income for a community or region. When the economy becomes overly reliant on tourism, it can be vulnerable to fluctuations and downturns in the industry. This can result in economic instability and lack of diversification, making the local community more susceptible to the negative impacts of crises such as natural disasters or global events.

Another consequence of tourist traps is the widening wealth gap between those who directly benefit from tourism and those who do not. In many cases, the profits generated by tourist traps do not trickle down to the local community, as they are often siphoned off by large corporations or outside investors. This inequality can lead to social tensions and resentment among local residents.

Moreover, the overcrowding caused by tourist traps can have negative environmental impacts. Ecologically sensitive areas can become degraded due to the influx of visitors, leading to pollution, habitat destruction, and strain on local resources such as water and energy.

To mitigate these negative impacts, it is important for tourists to be conscious of their choices and support local businesses and initiatives that promote sustainability and cultural preservation. Engaging in responsible tourism practices, such as staying in locally-owned accommodations, dining at local establishments, and participating in community-based tourism initiatives, can help ensure that the benefits of tourism are more evenly distributed and contribute to the long-term well-being of the destination and its inhabitants.

Tips to Avoid Falling into Tourist Traps

While it can be challenging to navigate the tourism landscape and identify tourist traps, there are several tips that can help travelers avoid falling into their traps and have a more authentic and fulfilling travel experience:

1. Do Your Research: Before visiting a destination, conduct thorough research about popular attractions and tourist areas. Read reviews, check forums, and consult travel blogs to get insights from other travelers about their experiences. Look for recommendations from locals or experienced travelers to find hidden gems off the beaten path.

2. Seek Local Advice: Locals are often the best source of information when it comes to avoiding tourist traps. Strike up conversations with locals, ask for recommendations, and seek their advice on where to go and what to avoid. They can provide valuable insights into authentic cultural experiences and steer you away from touristy areas.

3. Be Wary of Aggressive Marketing: Tourist traps often employ aggressive marketing tactics to lure in unsuspecting visitors. Be cautious of street vendors who are overly pushy, shops with flashy signs and exaggerated claims, or tour operators offering unrealistic deals. Take your time and make informed decisions rather than succumbing to high-pressure sales tactics.

4. Follow the Locals: Look for where the locals go. If you see a crowded restaurant or bustling market full of locals, chances are it’s an authentic spot worth exploring. Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat, drink, and shop, as they will guide you towards genuine local experiences.

5. Compare Prices: Tourist traps often overcharge for products and services. Compare prices at different establishments and ask locals for price estimates to ensure you’re not being ripped off. Avoid establishments that don’t display clear pricing or try to negotiate prices aggressively.

6. Avoid Tourist Hotspots during Peak Hours: Popular tourist attractions are often most crowded during peak hours. If possible, visit these attractions early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds. This will allow you to have a more enjoyable experience without feeling overwhelmed.

7. Embrace Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences: Consider exploring lesser-known areas or pursuing alternative activities that are off the typical tourist radar. This can provide a more authentic and unique experience while minimizing the chances of falling into tourist traps.

8. Use Local Transportation: Instead of relying solely on tourist transport options, use local modes of transportation like buses, trains, or trams. This not only provides a more authentic experience but also helps support the local economy.

By following these tips, travelers can avoid falling into tourist traps and instead discover the authentic essence of a destination. Remember, the goal is to embrace cultural immersion, interact with the locals, and create meaningful memories that go beyond the clichés of mass tourism.

Tourist traps can pose a challenge for travelers seeking genuine and memorable experiences. It’s important to approach travel with a critical mindset, doing research, seeking local advice, and being aware of the warning signs that indicate a tourist trap. By avoiding these traps, travelers can support local businesses, preserve local culture, and have a more authentic travel experience.

While not all popular tourist attractions are traps, it’s essential to be mindful of inflated prices, generic experiences, aggressive marketing tactics, and overcrowding. By seeking out off-the-beaten-path destinations, engaging with the local community, and supporting sustainable tourism practices, travelers can make a positive impact and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Remember, the true beauty of travel lies in exploring different cultures, connecting with people, and discovering hidden gems that offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of a destination. By avoiding tourist traps and seeking out authenticity, travelers can create cherished memories and contribute to sustainable and responsible tourism.

So, the next time you plan your trip, take the time to research, consult locals, and be discerning in your choices. By doing so, you can uncover the true essence of a place, support local communities, and make your journey a truly enriching and memorable experience.

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