America offers many great places to visit from coast to coast. Similarly, there are also areas and attractions where locals wouldn’t take their out-of-town in-laws. They’re too expensive, too crowded, or not the safest places to go.
1. National Parks
Visiting national parks is popular, but be cautious. Heed all signs and notices posted throughout the park, no matter where you are. For instance, don’t feed the animals and don’t hike on closed trails. Nature and the wilderness are no joke.
2. Greyhound Bus
If you’re traveling across America on a budget, taking the Greyhound might be an appealing option for its cheap tickets. Although you may save some money, you may witness illegal activity during your trip, and you’ll be traveling much longer than you anticipate.
3. Hollywood
The glitz and glamor of Tinsel Town and strolling the Walk of Fame might be on your bucket list. Unfortunately, Hollywood is packed with tourists, the unhoused, and garbage-filled streets. Plus, everything is overpriced.
4. The Rocky Mountains
The Rockies split the U.S. down the middle and visiting includes dealing with high altitudes. If you aren’t an experienced mountain climber, this isn’t the time to impress your social media followers with a video of you reaching the top peaks. Pace yourself and be aware of the elevation where you are.
5. Chain Restaurants
You can get McDonald’s or Starbucks almost anywhere on the planet. Instead of paying for overpriced meals and drinks, visit the local mom-and-pop restaurants and hole-in-the-wall joints. It’s cheaper, and the food is better. There are options in every city. You just have to look for them.
6. Death Valley
This one sounds a little self-explanatory, considering its name. If you plan to camp or hike in Death Valley National Park, be prepared for extreme heat and dry weather all year round.
7. French Quarter, New Orleans
As a major tourist trap, the French Quarter is probably on your New Orleans must-see list. You can still find plenty of music halls, restaurants, and wineries outside the French Quarter — all for a better price and safer atmosphere. However, if you’re determined to visit the French Quarter, don’t do it during Mardi Gras. You’ll have a safer, saner visit.
8. Lake Superior
Not many people know that the Great Lakes are inland freshwater seas that are extremely cold and can be dangerous for even experienced swimmers. Add strong winds and choppy waters to the mix, and you need to use caution if you’re thinking of swimming in Lake Superior.
9. Lanikai Pillbox Hike
One of the most popular hikes on O`ahu is the Lanikai Pillbox hike. It’s also one of the most dangerous. There are many steep sections to get to the pillbox lookout, but without any guard rails and the unsteady terrain, many visitors have fallen or injured themselves while trying to do this hike.
10. Times Square
On a trip to New York City, it’s almost a challenge to avoid Times Square. We suggest taking a quick walk through the area and then spending the rest of your time in other neighborhoods, like Chelsea or Greenwich Village. These areas are full of great shops, restaurants, and museums that won’t break the bank.
11. Alaskan Wilderness
Life in remote Alaska is not suitable for the inexperienced hiker looking for a bit of adventure. Even if you’ve seen every episode of Life Below Zero, consider your decision to travel to Alaska. The Alaskan tundra is brutal and unforgiving and will push you until it breaks you. And if that doesn’t, a bear just might.
12. Skid Row, Los Angeles
Not many tourists intentionally take a trip down to Skid Row, but like any good traveler, it’s important to know your surroundings, no matter where you are. If you’re in Downtown L.A., be aware of where you are. Skid Row has been known for its large, unhoused population for almost 100 years.
13. Gas Station Sushi
Yes, by all means, fill up your tank as you road trip across our lovely country. But in the interest of your health and digestive tract, avoid picking up any sushi from a gas station. You’ll be happy you did.
14. Las Vegas Strip
Although the Strip is the main attraction in Las Vegas, there are many other casinos, restaurants, and museums off the main street. These neighborhoods are far less congested with people, better priced, and are a lot safer for tourists.
15. San Diego Comic-Con
Comic-Con was once an annual event for comic book nerds and niche pulp media fans. Now, the convention is a pop culture phenomenon that is overcrowded, overpriced, and has lost some of its original magic. You can find smaller, fandom-specific events that are less mainstream and better priced.
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