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Tourist Traps to Avoid (and Where to Go Instead)
Planning a trip can be exciting, but sometimes those “must-see” attractions turn out to be overpriced letdowns. Crowds, inflated prices, and underwhelming experiences can leave you feeling ripped off. To help you avoid vacation disappointment, we’ve compiled a list of overpriced tourist traps to skip, along with some worthwhile alternatives.
Skip:
- Navy Pier, Chicago: While free to enter, parking and other costs quickly add up. A hot dog and water can cost around $14, and some visitors have reported pricey and disappointing meals.
- Times Square, NYC: Bright lights, big crowds, and even bigger prices. Expect to pay a premium for everything, from hotels to meals.
- One World Observatory, NYC: With tickets starting at $39, and high prices for food and drinks, visitors often suggest heading to Top of the Rock instead for comparable views at a similar cost.
- Space Needle, Seattle: Long waits, cramped elevators, and expensive drinks have left some visitors feeling underwhelmed.
Tickets start at $37.50.
- Bourbon Street, New Orleans: Known for its nightlife, Bourbon Street is also known for its high prices and less-than-authentic atmosphere.
- Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Orlando: Ticket prices have skyrocketed, and some guests feel the park now prioritizes high-priced shops over attractions.
- SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove, Orlando: Some visitors have reported issues with double-charging and declining park quality.
- Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta: High admission and parking fees, combined with pricey concessions, make for an expensive visit. Some guests have also reported overcrowding.
- Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles: Often described as dirty, unsafe, and overpriced, this tourist spot may disappoint.
- Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco: Locals say it’s not what it used to be, and visitors should be wary of tourist traps and inflated prices.
Worth the Trip:
- Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise, Chicago: A highly-rated, informative, and unique way to experience the city’s stunning architecture.
- Frenchmen Street, New Orleans: A more authentic and affordable alternative to Bourbon Street, known for its vibrant live music scene.
- Arches National Park, Moab: Explore over 2,000 natural stone arches for just $30 per vehicle.
- NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island: An interactive and inspiring experience, with a two-day pass offering great value.
- Central Park, New York City: This free 843-acre green space offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Travel Smart:
While travel costs are rising, affordable and authentic experiences are still out there. By skipping the tourist traps and exploring hidden gems, you can stretch your budget further and create more memorable travel experiences. Consider visiting restaurants during off-peak hours, using cashback apps, and comparing prices on flights and accommodations to maximize your travel budget.