10 Worst Vacation Spots in the U.S.
When you plan a vacation, you have high expectations, especially of beaches, majestic landscapes, and famous landmarks. But the reality isn’t always as dreamy as it sounds. There are places with postcard-perfect destinations, and there are places that make you wonder why you ever left home in the first place. Some spots are riddled with unexpected flaws: crowded streets, overpriced attractions, or just an overwhelming sense of disappointment.
The following are some of the worst vacation spots in the U.S. from lackluster landscapes to chaotic tourist traps. If you don’t need a vacation that leaves you regretting your time and money, here’s a heads-up on where you might not want to go.
Tunica, Mississippi
Tunica was once called the “Casino Capital of the South,” but those days are gone. In the 1990s, it was a hotspot for gamblers, but the town is struggling to maintain its draw as competition from neighboring states has risen. Now, many of the casinos are shuttered and the rest feel dated. The experience is so often described as ‘bleak’ with little else to see in the surrounding area.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a classic example of a place that sounds better on paper than in person. It’s billed as a family beach town, but reality often means crowded stretches of sand, tacky souvenir shops, and traffic that would make even the most patient driver cry.
Detroit, Michigan
Despite all of Detroit’s great strides in revitalization, it is hard to shrug off its reputation as a holiday bust. Public safety concerns and some sheer rundown areas still keep some visitors at bay. The city’s art scene and historical significance are worth a look, but they’re not enough to make it a vacation hotspot.
South of the Border, South Carolina
This kitschy roadside attraction near the North Carolina and the South Carolina border has been a road tripper pit stop for over 50 years. South of the Border used to be a fun novelty, now it seems like it’s a relic of the past. Those faded attractions, uninspiring shops, and dated motels don’t exactly make you think vacation paradise. People often leave wondering why they stopped in the first place.
Roswell, New Mexico
If aliens are your thing, you might be interested in Roswell, but only for about an hour. UFO-themed attractions are everywhere in the town, most of which are repetitive and frankly a little gimmicky. Yes, Roswell made a big splash when the 1947 UFO hit the headlines, but then most people go on their way and there isn’t much more to the town besides the alien hype.
Springfield, Missouri
Despite being a gateway to the Ozarks, Springfield itself has a hard time leaving an impression. There are no real attractions to speak of, compared with its neighbors, nor much in the way of culture or entertainment.
Paducah, Kentucky
Although Paducah might be a UNESCO Creative City due to the crafts and folk art within the city, there is little excitement for the average traveler. While the downtown is quaint and charming, it’s often too sleepy to warrant a dedicated visit. Unless you’re a quilter or artist, Paducah might be a stopover that overstayed its welcome.
Hollywood Boulevard, California
For those who picture Hollywood Boulevard as a second home to stars and celebrities, that idea can get a quick dousing of cold water. Yes, there are the famous stars on the Walk of Fame, but they are often lost in the overcrowded sidewalks, persistent street performers, and tacky souvenir shops. “The Disneyland of disappointment” is how a local Los Angeles travel blogger once described it. And honestly? There’s no arguing when you’re elbowing past selfie sticks and dodging costumed characters in search of tips.
American Side of Niagara Falls, New York
While Niagara Falls may be a wonder of nature, the American side often feels like the lessor of the siblings in this cross-border family. The falls themselves are magnificent, but the area around them is littered with unimpressive attractions and old, outmoded infrastructure. On the U.S. side, you’re left with parking lots that are overpriced and a lack of engaging activities.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
The glittery promise of casinos and boardwalk fun that Atlantic City offers can come down to a bait-and-switch. The reality? A city that has tried to maintain appearances. Visitors are often unimpressed by dilapidated buildings and an old boardwalk atmosphere. To begin with, the casinos themselves can certainly provide some entertainment but tourists feel that the city lacks the zing and charm that gambling destinations like Las Vegas have. Nor does its reputation help in the area of crime rates.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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