20 Famous Sites Tourists Say Are Just Average

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As a traveler, you know that everyone dreams of visiting famous destinations seen in movies and heard about in books. Sometimes, however, reality doesn’t measure up to expectations.

According to RoadGenius, France is the world’s top tourist destination, with over 100 million tourists traveling there in 2023. Some of the world’s most famous tourist attractions have left visitors less than impressed for many reasons—from overcrowding to underwhelming experiences. Here are 20 famous destinations tourists find “just average.” Sure, they have their charm, but knowing what you’re getting into helps you set a realistic goal for your next adventure.

Grand Canyon, USA

Famous Sites Tourists Say Are Just Average — Image Credit: Thomas Wolf/Wikimedia Commons

Yes, the Grand Canyon is vast, breathtaking, and paramount, but not always for everyone. Visitors came all that way, and there was nothing to do except enjoy a nice view. A recent Trip Advisor survey suggested that many thought, “Once you’ve seen it, you’re done” because nothing was left to do.

Traveler Insight: Hiking or rafting brings the canyon’s depth and beauty into full swing; staying on the rim may not.

Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, divides opinion. The American side is considered less developed, while the Canadian side is heavily commercialized. A review in Trip Advisor compares it to “a cheap funfair surrounded by a natural marvel.”

Pro Tip: If you want to be more serene, head to Niagara-on-the-Lake. The place has a quieter vibe.

Loch Ness, Scotland

The Loch Ness Monster is famed worldwide, and many visitors are disappointed to discover…a lake. The park’s options for visitors are slim, beyond a few boat tours and a visitor’s center.

Did You Know? Beautiful scenery abounds throughout the Highlands surrounding Loch Ness, but according to many, Nessie’s home is not as stunning.

Stonehenge, England

Although a UNESCO World Heritage Site and prehistoric marvel, Stonehenge frequently disappoints visitors. Limited access leaves most gazing from afar at the “pile of rocks” and rough weather that can add to the disappointment.

Tip for Travelers: Scotland’s Calanais Standing Stones offer a more hands-on experience without the crowds.

Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

Yes, it leans! Still, most say that aside from catching a photo from a forced perspective, there isn’t much to draw visitors beyond the gates. Crowds, heat, and tourist-overrun environments can all dull the shine.

Visitor Feedback: Combine your trip with other Tuscan towns, like Lucca or Florence, to make the trek to the Leaning Tower more worthwhile.

Mount Rushmore, USA

Although iconic, Mount Rushmore’s scale and location often surprise visitors. Furthermore, visitors may find the land’s controversial history confusing.

An Alternative History Fix: Cultural insight can be gained at neighboring Native American sites, such as the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Times Square, New York City

Few places scream “tourist trap” louder than Times Square. It dazzles with flashing lights and Broadway shows, yet many believe it’s overcrowded, noisy, and indistinguishable from other metropolitan hubs.

Pro Tip: Shoot a quick photo op in Times Square, then take refuge in NYC neighborhoods like SoHo or Brooklyn for something more akin to the actual city environment.

Hollywood Walk of Fame, California

Another dream-turned-disappointment, the Walk of Fame, consists of a series of stars engraved on a sidewalk. Dirty streets and little else to do between the sights are reasons, say reviewers, to keep the visit brief.

Helpful Hint: In L.A., a hike to the Hollywood sign is a more memorable experience.

Bourbon Street, New Orleans

Known for its vibrant nightlife, music, and charisma, Bourbon Street can feel more like “chaos meets concrete.” Its cultural allure is frequently overshadowed by frequent mentions of overly drunk tourists and garish party vibes.

Local Insight: Visit other NOLA districts, like Garden District or Frenchmen Street, to experience history and jazz with fewer people.

CN Tower, Toronto

A cloudy day can obscure views of the sweeping skyline that so many come to see. Then there are long lines, expensive tickets, and sometimes poor service.

Pro Advice: Before booking, check the weather forecast to ensure you are not heading to an all-wet, all-rain situation, or book your spot to see city views from the nearby Centre Island Ferry.

Eiffel Tower, Paris

Yes, the Eiffel Tower is a masterwork, but once you are there, some visitors wonder at the hype. It has become hampered by lines for tickets, crowded viewing platforms, and overpriced packages.

Alternative View: The other stunning Paris views, without the congestion, are offered by the Montmartre district.

Statue of Liberty, New York City

All that symbolism comes at a high cost for visitors who must stand in line for a ferry or security before being welcomed to Lady Liberty.

Quick Tip: For free, with no lines and no stress, consider viewing the statue from the Staten Island Ferry.

BridgeClimb Sydney, Australia

While the climb isn’t without thrills, many feel the price tag is no longer worth the reward compared to the fantastic views from neighboring Pylon Lookout at a fraction of the cost!

Central Park, New York City

Central Park is beloved in pop culture, but to some, it is less exciting than it is in real life. With stretches of unremarkable landscapes, it can feel like “just another park.”

Did You Know? Stretching over more than 843 acres, Central Park has space to explore, even if you want to avoid tourist stalwarts like the Ramble or Shakespeare Garden.

Golden Gai, Tokyo

Tokyo’s Golden Gai is a maze of narrow alleys full of tiny bars and restaurants. However, complaints of excessive drinking and entry costs have deterred others from searching for true Japanese nightlife.

Better Option: You get little bars without the hefty price tags at the Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku.

Moulin Rouge, Paris

While romantically wed in Paris’ cabaret scene, some tourists believe the Moulin Rouge is overpriced, overcrowded, and underwhelming. Rushed service and overly rehearsed performances are the story.

Harrods, London

Unless you don’t enjoy getting luxury items for exorbitant prices, you will love this luxury department store. Others find the wandering in cramped aisles frustrating.

Venice, Italy

As Europe’s trading routes’ crown jewel (as per UNESCO), Venice now feels the pinch of overtourism. Tourist crowds, declining local populations, and overpriced attractions often stifle its beauty.

Alternative Destination: For the scenic, but a bit less crowded, canals and culture, try Burano or Murano.

Cancún, Mexico

Cancun, Mexico — Image Credit: Keith Pomakis via wikimedia commons

Cancún may scream Spring Break staple, but it often disappoints travelers seeking authentic Mexican culture. Despite its coastal charm, the area is homogenized by overtourism, long waits, and tourist pricing.

Pro Travel Tip: For a more authentic, more culturally rich Mexican escape, visit Oaxaca or Mérida.

Hong Kong, China

Exploring Hong Kong is challenging due to its density. Some say this modern metropolis is sensory overload due to overcrowded sidewalks, air pollution, and a lack of nature escapes.

Even if these destinations don’t meet everyone’s expectations, weather timing and personal expectations weigh heavily on the visitor experience. Remember, research is fundamental! Researching reviews, planning, and deciding if a trip makes sense for you is time well spent.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.