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14 Terrible Tourist Destinations in the United States Americans Say to Avoid at All Costs

Tourism is a booming industry in the United States, with millions of visitors traveling to various destinations yearly. However, not all tourist destinations are created equal, and some may leave visitors feeling disappointed or underwhelmed. Recently on an online platform, Americans have shared their thoughts on the worst tourist destinations in the U.S.

1. Plymouth Rock: More Like Plymouth Pebble

Plymouth Rock Massachusetts
Photo credit: Michael Sean OLeary / Shutterstock.com

Many Americans reported being very underwhelmed after visiting Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Plymouth Rock is known as the traditional site where the Pilgrims first stepped ashore when they arrived on the Mayflower in 1620. One commenter said, “It’s more like the Plymouth Pebble.”  Another added, “Don’t forget that it’s fenced off and people love to throw trash in the pit.”

2. Branson, Missouri: Hillbilly Vegas?

Skyline view of Branson, Missouri with the display showing at the landing waterfront park area. The fountain has fire reflection into the water with tourist watching as they shop.
Photo credit: TommyBrison / Shutterstock.com

Branson, Missouri is a popular tourist destination located in the Ozark Mountains in the southern part of the state. However, despite its popularity, many Americans bashed this tourist destination saying, “It’s basically hillbilly Vegas.” Another traveler added, “It’s Vegas if it was run by Ned Flanders. It’s like Vegas without booze, gambling, and fun.”

3. Hollywood: A Dirty and Overpriced Destination

Photo credit: Canva
Photo credit: Canva

Hollywood, the once-glamorous and fascinating city that’s often been glorified in movies and T.V. shows, has received some criticism from Americans who believe it to be the worst tourist destination in the United States. According to them, the city’s filthy surroundings, overpriced attractions, and overall bleak atmosphere make it a far cry from the glitz and glamour that it’s often portrayed to be.

4. Niagara Falls: Cool Views but Disaster Towns

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

While Niagara Falls may still be an awe-inspiring natural wonder, the second user has expressed disappointment with the surrounding towns. The user believes the tourist destination has lost its charm due to rampant commercialization and lack of maintenance, leaving the towns unappealing. Despite the magnificence of the falls, the user suggests that the overall experience of visiting the area may be better.

5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: A Hollow Tourist Trap

Photo credit: Canva
Photo credit: Canva

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, once considered a glamorous and attractive destination, has received criticism from other Americans who suggest it is a tourist trap devoid of meaningful experiences. Instead, they recommend exploring other areas that offer more authentic and enriching travel experiences.

6. Great Salt Lake, Utah: A Disappointing Destination

Great Salt Lake, Utah
Photo credit: Canva

Picture this: you’re planning your next vacation, and you come across a review that labels a popular tourist spot as the worst destination in the entire country. That’s exactly what happened to the Great Salt Lake in Utah, which a disgruntled traveler slammed. According to them, the lake is underwhelming and downright unpleasant, with a pungent odor and stinging water caused by its high salt content. As if that’s not bad enough, there’s also a severe lack of things to see and do in the area, making the journey not worth the hassle.

7. Mount Rushmore: Underwhelming or a Patriotic Marvel?

Mount Rushmore
Photo credit: Canva

While Mount Rushmore is undoubtedly an impressive engineering feat, a user notes that the surrounding area may be underwhelming. Visitors may be disappointed by the lack of amenities and activities in the immediate vicinity. Additionally, some Native American groups have criticized the monument for being built on sacred land and promoting a distorted version of history.

8. Bourbon Street, New Orleans: A Depressing Tourist Trap

Bourbon Street
Photo credit: Canva

While Bourbon Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans may be a popular attraction for tourists, an adventurer suggests that it is the worst tourist destination in the U.S. They describe it as a trashy, overpriced, and depressing spot for drunken revelry. The user suggests exploring other parts of the city, such as Faubourg Marigny, the Garden District, and Audubon Park and Zoo, for a more authentic and enjoyable New Orleans experience. They also recommend visiting museums, antique shops, bookstores, and French Quarter art galleries outside Bourbon Street.

9. Lancaster, Pa: Staring at Amish People as a Vacation?

Amish horse buggy
Photo credit: Canva

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, has received criticism from a wandering soul who finds it hard to believe anyone would visit to stare at the Amish people living in the area. The commenter finds this aspect of Lancaster’s tourism industry exploitative and distasteful.

10. Times Square: Expensive Stores and Tacky Gift Shops

Times Square
Photo credit: Canva

Times Square, once considered a must-visit destination for tourists, has disappointed some Americans who found it a waste of time. These travelers describe the area as filled with expensive stores, cheap, tacky gift shops, giant signs, and an overwhelming number of people. They suggest that the area is overhyped and needs to live up to expectations.

11. Atlantic City: A Gambler’s Paradise or a Tourist’s Nightmare?

Atlantic City
Photo credit: Canva

A travel enthusiast describes Atlantic City as a once-glittering seaside resort that has lost its shine. Crowded and pricey, the city is known for its casinos and boardwalk, but visitors may feel unsafe due to crime and homelessness. Despite this, the historic district offers a glimpse into the city’s past and may hold some nostalgic charm.

12. Criticisms of Wisconsin Dells: A Noisy Theme Park Town

Water park
Photo credit: Canva

Wisconsin Dells, a popular Midwest destination, is criticized by several locals as a flashy and noisy theme park town trapped in the 80s. Although families with young children may appreciate the water parks and other attractions, the constant noise and commercialism may be overwhelming. During peak season, the town is crowded and expensive, and visitors may feel constantly pressured to buy more.

13. Nashville’s Commercialization: Tourist Traps and Crowded Streets

Nashville
Photo credit: Canva

An explorer claims that Nashville, the Music City, has become excessively commercialized, with some famous attractions feeling like tourist traps. Downtown can be noisy and crowded, filled with bachelorette parties and other groups. Despite this, music lovers may still find joy in the city’s many live music venues, and there are quieter neighborhoods and parks to explore.

14. Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD: Repeatedly Underwhelming

Corn Palace
Photo credit: Canva

Step right up and behold the wonder of the Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD! With its intricate murals and unique decorations made entirely of corn, this attraction is billed as one of South Dakota’s most popular tourist destinations. However, only some people who set foot inside are blown away by its corn-plastic charms. In fact, one visitor was left feeling a bit let down, finding the experience less impressive than they were led to believe.

Source: Reddit

12 of the Ugliest Cities in the World as Voted by Travelers

The Buffalo, New York skyline across Niagara River
Photo credit: Harold Stiver // Shutterstock.com

From the smoggy streets of Lagos, Nigeria, to the lonely structures of Buffalo, New York, here are some of the places that many consider the least aesthetically beautiful in the globe.

Read more: 12 of the Ugliest Cities in the World as Voted by Travelers

The Ultimate Guide to Swimming with Manatees in Crystal River, Florida

Snorkeling with Manatees in Crystal River
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Swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida was a dream come true! I’m sharing my experience swimming with them, and everything you need to know before you hop in the water with these gentle giants.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Swimming with Manatees in Crystal River, Florida

10 of the Best Places To Travel in the United States According to Americans

Washington DC
Photo credit: Canva

With endless travel options, narrowing down a destination is a tricky practice. Fifty states, melting pots of culture, various languages, and beautiful scenery are among the offerings in the US. Ten seasoned travelers shared their favorite places to visit in the U.S.

Read more: 10 Spots Americans Said Are the Best Places To Travel in the U.S.

3 Days in Denver – The Perfect Itinerary for 1st-Time Visitors

Denver
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From fantastic restaurants and breweries to hiking and wild immersive art installations – there is something in Denver for everyone!

Read more: 3 Days in Denver – The Perfect Itinerary for 1st-Time Visitors

20+ Amazing Things to Do in Florida Other Than Disney

Devil's den
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There’s more to Florida than just Disney! This post is here to show you fun things to do in Florida that aren’t Disney!

Read more: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Florida Other Than Disney

20+ Fun Things to Do in Oshkosh, WI by a Local

25 Fun Things to Do in Oshkosh, WI by a Wisconsinite
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There are many exciting things to do in Oshkosh, thanks to its abundance of lakes, rivers, and trails as well as the city’s many historic sites, art galleries, educational centers, and even a waterpark. From annual events such as the EAA AirVenture, the world’s largest aviation event, to exploring unique shops and gardens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Read more: 20+ Fun Things to Do in Oshkosh, WI by a Local

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