20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
Welcome, fellow wanderers! If you’ve found yourself here, it’s likely because you’re on a noble quest for the worst of the worst—the crème de la crème of the most underwhelming and downright disappointing tourist traps America offers. Maybe you’re looking to avoid common pitfalls, or perhaps just a connoisseur of the hilariously bad.
Whatever the reason, here is a list that’s sure to entertain, if not educate. Hold onto the hats and explore the ranking, in sequential order, 20 of the worst American tourist attractions.
The Four Corners Monument
Sorry to rain on your parade, but standing in four states at once isn’t as thrilling as it sounds. You’d be better off exploring each state’s unique culture and scenic beauty.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
You must be a hardcore fan of stepping on celebrity names to make this place a letdown. The walk is long, overcrowded, and often less glamorous than anticipated.
Times Square
A pretty sight at night but also a hub for tourist scams. And, let’s face it, those giant billboards lose their charm once you realize you’re just looking at ads.
Leaning Tower of Niles
The Leaning Tower of Niles represents a half-sized replica of Italy’s famed Leaning Tower of Pisa, but let’s face it, this Illinois attraction is as much of a tourist puller as a lukewarm slice of Chicago deep-dish. Tucked between a YMCA and a fast-food joint, its odd location adds to its charm… or lack thereof.
However, this is the spot for you if your idea of a thrill is seeing a watered-down version of an architectural wonder while munching on a burger.
Las Vegas Eiffel Tower
This imitation seems kitschy if you’ve seen the real thing in Paris.
Wall Drug
A drugstore turned tourist attraction, its main draw is an abundance of kitsch and free ice water.
World’s Largest Ball of Twine
It is an attraction only for those with an insatiable curiosity about…twine.
Plymouth Rock
A rock that marks the Pilgrims’ landing site. Yes, a stone.
Mount Rushmore
The colossal carving of four iconic presidents is forever memorialized in South Dakota’s Black Hills. Sounds impressive. Unfortunately, it’s a letdown. Its far-flung location makes it a tedious trek for most, and once you arrive, that’s it. A few granite heads stared blankly into the distance.
Niagara Falls
It’s spectacular to see, but the commercialism surrounding it can be a turn-off.
The Alamo
Remember the Alamo? It’s more like remembering the disappointment.
The Corn Palace
A palace made of corn. It’s an exciting concept, a less attractive execution.
Mystery Spot, Santa Cruz
This attraction is a peculiar place where gravity and perspective defy reality. Visitors experience strange phenomena like balls rolling uphill and people leaning without falling over. However, it’s just a 150-square-foot tilted house that tricks your senses. While it’s famous for Instagram selfies, it’s considered one of the worst American tourist attractions.
Hershey’s Chocolate World
Hershey’s Chocolate World may appear like a sweet dream, but it can be quite the opposite. The overpowering scent of chocolate and underwhelming attractions can leave you nauseous rather than excited. Plus, the overpriced merchandise doesn’t help. Hershey’s, unfortunately, falls short of a Willy Wonka fantasy.
Fenway Park “Green Monster” Seats
Overpriced seats with a restricted view? No, thank you. “Do they leave it up there during games?” Red Sox Pitcher Bill Lee once questioned the “Green Monster” seats.
Cadillac Ranch
An art installation of half-buried Cadillacs. It’s an exciting sight but not worth going out of your way for.
The Mall of America
It’s just a giant mall. No, seriously.
Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells, also called “Waterpark Capital of the World,” may initially seem like a fun destination. However, the novelty wears off quickly with crowded pools and a constant smell of chlorine. There are better vacation spots for those seeking relaxation and peace.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach – the reigning champion of kitsch, making it to the list of worst American tourist attractions. What draws people in? There are many mini-golf courses that even the most avid putt-putt fan would find overdone. Not to mention a boardwalk filled with every fast food option you can think of.
If your idea of a vacation involves neon lights, potential sunburn, and the aroma of deep-fried everything, Myrtle Beach might be your nirvana.
Great Salt Lake, Utah
It is a pretty sight at night but also a hub for tourist scams. And, let’s face it, those giant billboards lose their charm once you realize you’re just looking at ads.
Remember, just because these sites are rated as some of the “worst” doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy them. After all, one person’s trash is another’s treasure. Some of the “worst” doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy them. After all, one person’s trash is another’s treasure.
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