Let’s face it—some famous travel destinations just don’t live up to the hype. Crowds, long lines, and tourist traps make for a disappointing trip. But don’t worry! We have alternatives to save you from overrated destinations and point you to hidden gems instead.
Quick Jumplinks
The 10 Most Overrated Destinations (And Where To Go Instead)
1. Yellowstone National Park
Why it’s overrated: It’s a natural wonder, but with so many tourists, you’ll feel like you’re stuck in a national traffic jam.
Where to go instead: Check out Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming’s surrounding area. It’s just as beautiful, with fewer tourists and more peaceful hiking trails.
2. Niagara Falls (U.S. Side)
Why it’s overrated: It’s just a bunch of water and mist, plus, you’ll find overpriced restaurants and luxury hotels on this side.
Where to go instead: Drive up to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls for better views and fewer crowds. Or, skip it altogether and visit Iceland’s Gullfoss Waterfall for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
3. Times Square, New York City
Why it’s overrated: It’s chaotic, crowded, and filled with overpriced attractions and chain restaurants. You’ll find more tourists than locals here.
Where to go instead: Explore the West Village or Brooklyn for an authentic experience of New York without the sensory overload.
4. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Why it’s overrated: The Hollywood stars may look glamorous on TV, but in person, they’re just names on a dirty sidewalk.
Where to go instead: Head to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of LA, or spend your day exploring excellent museums around the city.
5. The Leaning Tower of Pisa
Why it’s overrated: Sure, it leans—but after a quick snap for Instagram, there’s not much else to do, except for looking at tourist crowds.
Where to go instead: Explore the historical sites of Florence or Siena, where you’ll find less gimmicky tourist traps and more culture.
6. Las Vegas Strip
Why it’s overrated: The Las Vegas Strip is fun for a night or two, but it’s expensive, over-the-top, and filled with too many tourists and overdone attractions.
Where to go instead: Escape the madness and visit Red Rock Canyon nearby for some natural beauty, or head to Austin, Texas, for exciting nightlife with an authentic vibe.
7. The Taj Mahal
Why it’s overrated: It’s overrun with visitors and can be hard to enjoy with the constant push of the crowds.
Where to go instead: Visit the nearby city of Jaipur, full of vibrant architecture, local markets, and historical sites that offer a more relaxed and authentic experience.
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Why it’s overrated: The beaches are packed, the traffic is awful, and it’s filled with tacky tourist spots.
Where to go instead: Head to the quiet beaches of Hilton Head Island or explore the charming coastal town of Beaufort for a more serene beach escape.
9. Atlantic City
Why it’s overrated: The casinos are outdated, and the boardwalk is nothing compared to what you see on TV.
Where to go instead: Discover Cape May, New Jersey’s quiet beach town known for its Victorian houses and peaceful vibe.
10. The Eiffel Tower
Why it’s overrated: It’s iconic, sure—but you’ll be waiting in long lines, and you’ll be jostling through so many tourists to snap a picture.
Where to go instead: Discover Montmartre for a more local feel. You’ll still get an amazing view of Paris from Sacré-Cœur, and you’ll be able to enjoy it without the chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most overrated travel destinations?
Some of the most overrated travel destinations include places like Times Square, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. While these tourist attractions are famous, they’re often overrun with crowds, expensive, and underwhelming in person.
Why do some tourist attractions become overrated?
Many tourist attractions become overrated because of heavy marketing and media portrayal, which sets high expectations. Once you arrive, you find too many tourists, long lines, and a lack of authentic experiences. What looks exciting in photos often doesn’t match the reality.
How can I avoid overrated tourist attractions?
To avoid overrated tourist attractions, consider researching lesser-known places or seeking advice from travel writers who focus on hidden gems. Try to visit during off-peak seasons to escape so many tourists. Exploring surrounding areas and smaller towns can also lead to more fulfilling trips.
Are luxury hotels in overrated destinations worth it?
Luxury hotels in overrated travel destinations are often overpriced and may not offer the best value for your money. Instead, you could stay in boutique hotels or rentals in nearby towns where you can still enjoy comfort at a small price and have access to better restaurants and fewer tourists.
How do I find quieter beaches that aren’t overrated?
Instead of crowded places like Myrtle Beach, look for a quiet beach off the beaten path. Smaller towns along the coast, or even less commercialized parts of the West Coast, often provide a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.
