1. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville’s Broadway Street is a popular spot for tourists wanting to experience the city’s live music scene, but it’s often avoided by locals, according to Jen Glantz from Business Insider. The street is lined with honky-tonk bars and neon signs, and the constant crowds can make it difficult to enjoy the music or find a place to relax. Instead, locals tend to head to the more laid-back neighborhoods of East Nashville or 12South, where they can enjoy craft beer, indie music, and a slower pace. These areas offer a more authentic Nashville experience, with fewer tourists and a more intimate atmosphere.
Another spot that’s often skipped by locals is the Country Music Hall of Fame. While it’s a must-see for fans of country music, residents who live in Music City may find it a bit too commercialized for their tastes. Instead, they may check out the lesser-known Johnny Cash Museum or take in live performances at smaller venues like the Bluebird Cafe. These places offer a deeper dive into Nashville’s rich music scene without the overwhelming crowds.
2. New York City, New York
New Yorkers might love their city, but even they tend to avoid the most touristy spots, according to Lilit Marcus from CNN. Times Square, for example, is a constant hustle and bustle of people, flashing ads, and overpriced everything. While it’s iconic, locals often steer clear because of the overwhelming crowds and long lines. Instead, they opt for hidden gems like neighborhood parks or local coffee shops, where they can escape the madness.
Another spot locals tend to avoid is the Staten Island Ferry ride during peak hours. It’s a popular tourist activity, but during rush hour, the ferry is packed and can feel more like a crowded subway ride than a relaxing cruise. Many New Yorkers would rather take a quieter walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or explore the city’s quieter waterfronts. For a true local experience, they’ll also head to under-the-radar spots like the New York Public Library’s Rose Reading Room or the High Line park.
3. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is famous for its glitzy attractions like Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame, but these are areas most Angelenos avoid like the plague, according to Molly O’Brien from Business Insider. The crowds of tourists and the endless gift shops along the street can feel far removed from the LA lifestyle. Locals tend to stick to less crowded neighborhoods like Silver Lake, where they can enjoy the artsy vibe, boutique shopping, and hip coffee shops. They also prefer beaches that are further from the tourist crowds, like the lesser-known El Matador Beach.
The Hollywood Sign might be a must-see for many tourists, but locals often find it overrated and prefer to enjoy the view from a distance. While the hike up to the sign offers panoramic views of the city, it’s not the hidden, peaceful getaway many locals are after. Instead, they’ll head to places like Griffith Park or the Runyon Canyon for scenic views without the crowds. It’s these hidden areas that give LA its unique character, and locals savor the quieter, less commercialized spots.
4. Orlando, Florida
When you think of Orlando, Disney World is probably the first thing that comes to mind, and for good reason. However, for locals, the thought of navigating the endless lines, high ticket prices, and massive crowds is enough to make them avoid the area. Residents might head to nearby parks like Leu Gardens or the Harry P. Leu House for a more peaceful day out. These spots give locals a break from the overwhelming tourist attractions and provide a taste of Florida’s natural beauty without the crowds.
Another place locals skip is International Drive, known for its chain restaurants, overpriced shops, and tourist-heavy vibe. While tourists flock here for the excitement, residents tend to favor neighborhoods like Winter Park, which offers lakeside strolls and a thriving arts scene. The quiet charm of Winter Park gives locals a chance to unwind and experience a different side of Florida, away from the constant theme park hustle.
5. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is built around its tourist attractions, but locals tend to steer clear of the famous Strip. The neon lights, packed casinos, and expensive buffets aren’t exactly the relaxed atmosphere locals are looking for, according to Chris Bitonti from The Washington Post. Instead, they opt for places like Fremont Street, where they can experience a more authentic, less commercialized Vegas. It’s also a great spot for unique bars and local events that don’t cater to tourists, offering a true local vibe.
When it comes to dining, many locals avoid the big-name buffets and celebrity chef restaurants on the Strip. While they might be tempting for tourists, the price tag and long waits are a turnoff for residents who know where the good spots are. Local favorites like the Heart Attack Grill or eateries in the Arts District provide better options for a more laid-back, homegrown Vegas experience. These hidden gems make locals feel like they’re a part of the city’s pulse, away from the tourist frenzy.
6. Miami, Florida
Miami’s South Beach is a well-known hotspot for tourists, but locals often avoid the area, especially during peak season. The crowded beaches, expensive drinks, and loud parties aren’t exactly their idea of a relaxing time. Instead, locals flock to quieter beaches like Crandon Park or Virginia Key Beach, where the vibe is more laid-back and the waters are calm. These spots offer a much-needed respite from the bustling tourist areas.
The nightlife scene in Miami is also heavily skewed toward tourists, with clubs and bars along Ocean Drive often packed with crowds. Locals tend to prefer hidden bars in neighborhoods like Little Havana or Wynwood, where they can enjoy a more authentic Miami experience. The atmosphere is less about the flashy lights and more about enjoying good drinks, great music, and connecting with the community. These neighborhoods showcase the cultural richness that makes Miami so unique, away from the crowds.
7. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s famous Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 are great for tourists but not so much for locals. The overpriced seafood, crowds of visitors, and constant flow of street performers can be overwhelming. Locals tend to avoid these tourist traps and instead head to places like the Mission District, where they can enjoy authentic Mexican food, vibrant murals, and local shops. The area offers a much more relaxed atmosphere compared to the hustle of Fisherman’s Wharf.
Another popular spot that locals tend to skip is the Golden Gate Bridge’s main viewing area. While the bridge is beautiful, the main observation spots are typically packed with tourists trying to snap the perfect photo. Locals often choose quieter viewing points, such as Battery Spencer or the Marin Headlands, to take in the stunning views of the bridge and the bay. These hidden gems provide a much more peaceful experience for those who know the city well.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s Navy Pier is an iconic destination, but it’s also one that many locals avoid, particularly during the summer months. The crowds, overpriced attractions, and lengthy wait times can make it less than enjoyable for residents who are used to a more relaxed pace. Locals might instead head to lesser-known lakeside parks like Belmont Harbor or Lincoln Park, where they can take in the views without the chaos. These areas offer a quieter escape while still providing beautiful vistas of Lake Michigan.
While tourists flock to Millennium Park to see the famous Cloud Gate, or “The Bean,” locals tend to avoid this area as well. The constant influx of visitors can make it hard to enjoy the park’s beauty in peace. Instead, residents prefer nearby green spaces like Grant Park or the Garfield Park Conservatory, where they can enjoy nature and art without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. These spots offer a more authentic Chicago experience that captures the city’s charm.
9. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is known for its historical sites, but many locals try to avoid the Freedom Trail, particularly in the summer. The trail is lined with historical markers and busy tourists, making it hard to appreciate the significance of each site. Instead, locals might opt for a walk along the Esplanade or a visit to the Arnold Arboretum, which provide a more tranquil connection to Boston’s past. These areas offer a deeper sense of the city’s history without the masses of people.
Harvard Square in Cambridge is another place locals often skip. While it’s a popular spot for tourists, locals find it overrun with souvenir shops and chain stores. Instead, they’ll head to nearby neighborhoods like Somerville or Jamaica Plain for unique boutiques, local restaurants, and a more authentic New England experience. These areas offer a quieter, more genuine feel of the city without the constant hustle and bustle.
10. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s Pike Place Market is a must-see for visitors, but it’s also one of the first places locals tend to avoid. The market can get overwhelmingly crowded, especially on weekends, with tourists flocking to see the famous fish-throwing vendors. Locals prefer quieter markets like Ballard Farmers Market, where they can shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods without the crowds. These markets offer a more relaxed, intimate experience that showcases Seattle’s love for local produce and handmade goods.
The Space Needle is another iconic attraction that locals rarely visit. While it offers great views of the city, the ticket prices and long lines make it an unpopular choice for Seattle residents. Instead, locals might opt for the Kerry Park viewpoint, where they can enjoy a stunning view of the skyline and Mount Rainier without paying for admission. It’s these lesser-known spots that give Seattle its local charm, far away from the touristy crowds.
11. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is home to some of the country’s most iconic monuments, but locals often avoid the National Mall, especially during the summer months. The area is swarming with tourists, making it difficult to appreciate the beauty of landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial or the Washington Monument. Instead, residents head to quieter parts of the city, like the Hillwood Estate or the United States Botanic Garden, to enjoy peace and history without the crowds.
The Smithsonian museums, while world-class, are another spot locals tend to avoid on weekends. These institutions can feel overcrowded, especially when school groups and tourists pack the halls. Locals prefer smaller, lesser-known museums like the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, which still offer fascinating exhibits but with far fewer visitors. These spots give D.C. residents the chance to enjoy their city’s rich culture without feeling like they’re part of the tourist herd.
12. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is home to many famous attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and Camelback Mountain, but locals often avoid these popular tourist spots, especially on weekends. The crowded trails and packed parking lots can take away from the serene beauty of the desert. Instead, locals often seek out quieter hiking areas like South Mountain or Piestewa Peak, where they can escape the crowds and still enjoy stunning desert views. These hidden spots offer a peaceful respite and a more authentic Phoenix experience.
The Heard Museum, while fantastic for those interested in Native American history, is another place locals tend to skip. The museum attracts many visitors, and locals might feel like it’s too tourist-oriented for a weekend outing. Instead, they’ll head to smaller galleries and museums around town, such as the Desert Caballeros Western Museum or the Arizona Science Center. These venues offer a more intimate look at Arizona’s culture and history, free from the throngs of tourists.
