15 Worst Tourist Spots in America That Locals Absolutely Dislike

From nation sprawling parks to bustling cityscapes, America is a country with lots of things to see drawing millions of visitors each year. But not all destinations are made the same. Some spots have tourists spellbound, while others, despite their fame, will leave you feeling disappointed — and locals often have lots to say about them. These overhyped locations can feel like Hollywood sets: In other words, they shine brightly from a distance but lose their magic when you get closer.

For local people, these destinations become more of a nuisance than a source of pride. Tacky souvenir shops sprout like weeds, the streets are crowded, and it has lost its charm hiding under commercialism. You might visit once for the Instagram picture, but you’re not going to make a regular stop at these places across the country that locals dislike.

Times Square, New York City

For locals, Times Square might be the ‘Crossroads of the World,’ but it’s often a chaotic nightmare. For a few minutes it’s exciting, flashing billboards and costumed performers, but then it’s just a sea of people trying to get their selfies. Most people in tow avoid it like the plague, taking the quieter Bryant Park or Brooklyn gems instead. And did you know that Times Square is one of the most expensive places to dine in New York? Squaremouth studied that meals here can cost 30% more than in other parts of the city.

Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles

Glitz and glamour are promised by the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but what you get are cracked sidewalks, overcrowded streets, and relentless souvenir hawkers. Locals joke that any stars you’ll see here are on the pavement, maybe a guy in a knockoff Spider-Man suit. A UCLA tourism survey found that 68 percent of Angelenos actively avoid Hollywood Boulevard because it’s too congested and there are too few attractions.

The Bean (Cloud Gate), Chicago

Yes, “The Bean” is shiny and a great photo op, but many Chicagoans roll their eyes at its constant crowds. It lives in Millennium Park, which is worth seeing, but locals suggest going to a more authentic Windy City experience in neighborhoods such as Logan Square or Andersonville. “I think it’s fun once, but I don’t understand the obsession,” says Jill Grant, a Chicago native. ‘All I see is a reflective sculpture but there’s so much more to the city.’

Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

Fisherman’s Wharf is known as a tourist trap disguised as a historic landmark. It might sound good to chow down on clam chowder in sourdough bowls, but locals know where else to eat without competing with hordes of tourists. In fact, the annual traffic to the Wharf trails far behind, as one of the first reports in the San Francisco Chronicle states that only 12% of the total San Franciscans ever come to the Wharf annually, and only when they host out-of-towners.

South Beach, Miami

In travel brochures, South Beach may sparkle, but ask a Miamian and they’ll probably point you elsewhere. It’s more hassle than paradise between overpriced drinks, loud crowds and parking nightmares. Locals will tell you to shift away to lesser crowded beaches like Surfside or Key Biscayne for a more peaceful tone.

Graceland, Memphis

Graceland attracts Elvis fans, but many Memphis residents see it as an over commercialized money grab. Prices for tickets are steep and the surrounding area doesn’t exactly reflect the King’s legendary status. Instead, locals are more likely to recommend the city’s thriving music scene, or its world class barbecue.

Mall of America, Bloomington

For locals, the Mall of America is an overstimulating labyrinth of chain stores and amusement rides — it might be a shopaholic’s dream. It has an indoor theme park and many Minnesotans see it as a tourist magnet and not a local hang out. Visit Twin Cities conducted a survey that discovered 70% of residents don’t go to the mall more than once a year.

Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts

History buffs will even describe Plymouth Rock as underwhelming, to put it mildly. There is no solid evidence to show where the Pilgrims landed, but this modest stone is said to mark it. One told of the disappointment in a Yelp review: ‘I was expecting something grand, but it’s just a rock in a cage.’ And the locals would rather you go to the historic town nearby.

The Alamo, San Antonio

The Alamo is rich in history, but many Texans think it’s more hype than substance. Visitors can scratch their heads at the small unimposing structure. San Antonio native Brian Gomez says people come expecting a massive fort. “It’s a one-and-done experience.” Locals say that the River Walk is a more fun place to go.

Niagara Falls (American Side), New York

No one can deny that Niagara Falls are beautiful, but it’s been widely said that the Falls are better viewed and have more to offer on the Canadian side. On the other hand, the American side feels underdeveloped. Locals often suggest heading across the border to truly get the majesty of the falls.

Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

It’s possible that the Las Vegas Strip is famous around the world, but locals tend to steer clear of its overpriced buffets, endless crowds, and relentless sales pitches. If you’re looking for something more than that, they suggest taking these alternatives: Downtown Las Vegas or Red Rock Canyon.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Many locals are unimpressed with Myrtle Beach’s packed boardwalk and commercial feel. It’s a nightmare in terms of traffic during peak season, and the area has charm to it, but it’s also very touristy. Pawleys Island, quieter area, is where locals counsel travellers to be.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

While Mount Rushmore may be famous, it’s not without its detractors. Those expecting some sort of interactive experience are often left with a feeling of underwhelming. They’ve also drawn protests from Native American communities concerned about the site’s history and significance. According to locals, however, a visit to Crazy Horse Memorial will provide a much richer cultural experience.

Seattle’s Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a mixed bag. It’s home to fresh produce and lively vendors, but many Seattleites find it too crowded and overly commercialized. For a similar less chaotic vibe they visit farmers’ markets in Ballard or Capitol Hill offered by locals.

Atlantic City Boardwalk, New Jersey

The better days of the Atlantic City Boardwalk are behind it. Once a glamorous place to attract tourists, it is now full of torn down attractions and lacks fresh new energy. Because of this, locals generally have recommended going to Cape May or Asbury Park for a more pleasant Jersey Shore experience.

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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience

Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.

But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.

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