1. Times Square, New York City
Times Square might be iconic, but if you’re expecting a peaceful, scenic experience, you’ll be sorely disappointed, according to David Landsel from The New York Post. The constant crowds, flashing billboards, and overwhelming noise make it feel more like a commercialized circus than a must-see destination. Sure, it’s a great spot for people-watching and snapping a few photos, but the chaos can really take away from the experience. Plus, the surrounding area is full of overpriced food and tourist traps, making it feel more like a hustle than a genuine part of New York’s charm.
Instead, head to the High Line, a beautiful elevated park built on a former railway track. The park offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, and the walk is filled with art installations, gardens, and charming spots to relax. You’ll experience New York City in a much more peaceful and authentic way, without the overwhelming crowds. Plus, it’s free, so you can take your time enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed or stressed.
2. South of the Border, South Carolina
South of the Border is a notorious roadside attraction that often promises much more than it delivers, according to Maura Judkis from The Washington Post. Located on the border between North and South Carolina, it’s full of kitschy signs, oversized statues, and a lot of questionable “souvenir” shops. While it’s a great place to stretch your legs on a long drive, the novelty quickly fades, and you’re left feeling like you just spent time at a tacky tourist trap.
If you’re looking for a better roadside stop, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway instead. This scenic route spans several states and is famous for its breathtaking views, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Take a detour to explore the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains—you won’t regret it. It’s a peaceful, stunning stop that’ll make your road trip feel much more rewarding.
3. Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is often one of the first things people think of when planning a trip to Los Angeles, but let’s be honest—it’s a bit underwhelming. The stars on the sidewalk are cool to look at for a second, but the area surrounding it is filled with tourists, street performers, and vendors. You’re more likely to get annoyed by the crowds than impressed by the history, according to Brittany Martin from LAmag. Plus, it’s hard to focus on the significance of the stars when you’re dodging people and tripping over cracks in the pavement.
For a more worthwhile experience, visit Griffith Observatory. Located in Griffith Park, it offers not only a fantastic view of the city but also a chance to hike up to the top of the mountain for some fresh air and stunning vistas. The observatory itself is a great spot for stargazing, learning about space, and just enjoying the natural beauty of Los Angeles. It’s a far more relaxed, rewarding stop without the touristy chaos.
4. The Mall of America, Minnesota
The Mall of America is known for being the largest shopping mall in the United States, but it’s also a bit of a letdown if you’re not into massive crowds and endless stores, according to Ken Hayes from Duluth Country Radio. It can feel more like a theme park than a place to do actual shopping, with its overpriced attractions, food courts, and giant indoor amusement park. If you’re not a shopper or thrill-seeker, you might find yourself bored quickly. Plus, the sheer size of it all can be exhausting, making it hard to even enjoy yourself.
Instead, check out the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota. It’s an untouched natural wonderland offering over a million acres of pristine wilderness, lakes, and forests. If you enjoy the outdoors, this is the place to escape to—whether for canoeing, fishing, hiking, or just getting away from it all. It’s a peaceful, beautiful contrast to the consumer-driven chaos of the Mall of America.
5. Graceland, Tennessee
Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, attracts tons of visitors each year, but it’s not necessarily the most exciting stop for everyone. If you’re not a massive Elvis fan, the experience can feel more like a museum tour of someone’s private home rather than a must-see cultural landmark. While the mansion is full of memorabilia, the whole place can feel a bit stale and touristy, leaving you with more of a “meh” feeling than anything truly memorable.
For a more engaging experience, head to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. Located in the former Lorraine Motel, the museum tells the story of the American civil rights movement through powerful exhibits and artifacts. It’s an incredibly moving and educational stop that’s far more impactful than a house tour. Plus, it’s in the heart of Memphis, so you can easily enjoy the music and food scene while you’re there.
6. The Statue of Liberty, New York City
While the Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly a symbol of freedom and an iconic American landmark, the actual experience of visiting it can be underwhelming, according to Eric Lurio from HuffPost. You’ll likely spend hours waiting in line to catch a ferry, and the time spent on Liberty Island can be quite brief once you’re there. The crowds can be overwhelming, and once you’ve snapped your picture with Lady Liberty, you’re left wondering if it was really worth the hassle.
Instead, try taking a sunset cruise around Manhattan. You’ll get stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the New York skyline, all from the comfort of a boat with a much more relaxed vibe. These cruises often come with informative guides who will give you a deeper understanding of the city’s history and landmarks. It’s a far better way to take in the sights without all the tourist stress.
7. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is one of those destinations that’s definitely iconic, but let’s face it—it’s a bit underwhelming once you see it in person. The monument itself is much smaller than expected, and the surrounding area is crowded with tourists, making it hard to fully appreciate the artistry. It’s a great photo op, but once you’ve snapped your pic, there’s not much else to do or see. Plus, the area is surrounded by more commercialized attractions that detract from the monument’s significance.
If you’re in the area, consider checking out Badlands National Park instead. The park offers dramatic landscapes, scenic drives, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. The jagged rock formations and wide-open skies provide a much more immersive and awe-inspiring experience than the overly commercialized Mount Rushmore. Plus, it’s not as crowded, so you’ll get the full beauty of nature without the tourist crowds.
8. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri
The Gateway Arch is a stunning symbol of St. Louis and American expansion, but the experience of visiting it can feel more like a tourist trap than a must-see landmark. While the Arch is undeniably beautiful from a distance, once you’re up close, the whole experience revolves around waiting in long lines, crowds, and the price of admission. The ride to the top in the tiny, enclosed elevator can feel cramped and uncomfortable, and the views might not be as impressive as you’d expect. After snapping a few photos, it’s easy to feel like the experience wasn’t worth the hassle.
Instead, consider spending time at Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It’s home to attractions like the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Zoo, and beautiful walking trails that let you enjoy nature and culture without the tourist crowds. You’ll find an abundance of activities to enjoy, whether you’re into outdoor recreation, history, or art. It’s a much more relaxed and fulfilling way to experience St. Louis, without the hassle of fighting crowds at the Arch.
9. Bourbon Street, New Orleans
Bourbon Street in New Orleans is a popular spot, especially for partygoers, but if you’re looking for the true essence of New Orleans, it’s not the best place to stop. The street is packed with neon signs, drunk tourists, and loud music, which can be a lot to handle if you’re not into the wild party scene. The bars and clubs often have a reputation for being overpriced, and the area’s authenticity is lost in the sea of commercialism. You may leave feeling like you didn’t really experience the real New Orleans.
Instead, check out the Garden District or the Frenchmen Street area. These neighborhoods offer a quieter, more authentic New Orleans experience with beautiful architecture, local art galleries, and amazing food. The music scene is much more genuine, and you’ll get a better sense of the city’s rich history and culture. It’s the perfect alternative for those who want to skip the touristy chaos and see the real heart of New Orleans.
10. The Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is undeniably breathtaking, but it’s also one of the most overrated tourist spots in the U.S. With crowds constantly pushing to get the best view, the experience can feel more like a battle for space than an awe-inspiring moment. There are also limited ways to actually get close to the canyon itself unless you’re willing to embark on a long and expensive hike or helicopter ride. You’ll likely find yourself fighting for a spot on the popular viewpoints and dealing with lots of tourists.
Instead, head to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. This park offers incredible views of unique rock formations, known as hoodoos, that rival the Grand Canyon but with far fewer crowds. There are plenty of scenic hikes, wildlife sightings, and areas where you can truly experience the natural beauty of the landscape without all the tourists. It’s the perfect alternative for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature at its finest.
11. The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is an American icon, but when it comes to actually visiting, it might not be as exciting as you’d expect. The area around the bridge is often foggy, and the bridge itself is surrounded by traffic, making it hard to get a clear, uninterrupted view. The popular viewpoints tend to be crowded, and unless you’re really into bridge photography, the experience can feel pretty standard. While the bridge is a beautiful structure, the surrounding tourist infrastructure doesn’t do much to enhance the experience.
Instead, take a trip to Muir Woods National Monument. Just a short drive from the city, this park is home to massive redwood trees, some of the tallest in the world. The peaceful forest trails provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco, and the towering trees create a majestic experience. It’s a far more calming and unique way to spend your time in the Bay Area.
12. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
Waikiki Beach in Hawaii is often seen as a dream destination, but the reality can be a little less magical. With its massive crowds, expensive resorts, and overcrowded beaches, it’s not exactly the relaxing paradise you might have imagined. It can feel more like a bustling city beach than a peaceful tropical retreat, with people constantly trying to sell you things or push you toward overpriced activities. The pristine beauty of Hawaii is often overshadowed by the commercialized atmosphere.
Instead, head to the less touristy beaches on the North Shore or in areas like Lanai or Kauai. These locations offer quieter, more secluded beaches where you can truly enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii without the crowds. You’ll find incredible snorkeling, peaceful hikes, and much more authentic experiences. It’s the ideal way to experience Hawaii’s natural wonders without the tourist traps.
