Tourist traps are like financial quicksand. The harder you struggle to find value, the deeper you sink into overpriced mediocrity. South Carolina hosts some world-class examples of this phenomenon. These attractions have mastered the ancient art of transforming reasonable people into walking ATM machines. They operate on the principle that tourists will pay premium prices … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in South Carolina
Tennessee’s tourist attractions follow the same business model as airport food – captive audience, inflated prices. The Volunteer State volunteers to take your money in the most creative ways possible. They’ve figured out how to charge admission for things that should be free and make you feel grateful for the privilege. It’s like paying extra … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in Tennessee
For a state founded in 1636, Rhode Island has had plenty of time to perfect the tourist trap đź‘Ž. Nearly four centuries of practice have created a sophisticated ecosystem where overpriced attractions thrive like algae in a neglected fish tank. I think the state motto should be “hope” as in “I hope this restaurant is … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in Rhode Island
Apparently, someone decided that standing on a concrete slab in the middle of nowhere constitutes a “bucket list experience.” Utah’s tourism industry has mastered the ancient art of turning minor inconveniences into major disappointments. The state offers genuine outdoor adventures, but it also excels at creating situations where you’ll question your life choices. From desert … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in Utah
Pennsylvania’s tourism motto should be “Come for the Liberty Bell, stay because your car broke down looking for that gravity hill.” This is a state where someone thought, “Let’s build a 25-foot concrete shoe and charge people to look at it from the parking lot.” The same creative genius probably decided that half a tornado-damaged … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in Pennsylvania
New Hampshire’s state motto is “Live Free or Die” – apparently they forgot to mention “Pay Through the Nose” as a third option. The state has perfected the delicate balance of natural beauty and artificial pricing. Here, you can pay museum admission to see empty cliff faces and restaurant prices for cafeteria food. It’s capitalism … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in New Hampshire
Smart travelers develop a sixth sense for tourist traps. It’s that tingling sensation when admission prices seem suspiciously high for what appears to be three fiberglass dinosaurs and a gift shop. Oregon has perfected this dark art, creating attractions that exist in a bizarre economic bubble where normal pricing rules don’t apply. These places thrive … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in Oregon
North Carolina markets itself as a vacation paradise, but some attractions are more fool’s gold than treasure. Every state has those places that sound amazing in brochures but leave you wondering if you accidentally stumbled into a elaborate prank. North Carolina’s tourist industry has mastered the art of turning ordinary objects into “world’s largest” attractions. … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in North Carolina
Nevada treats tourists like ATMs with legs and a camera. This desert wonderland has more ways to empty your wallet than a teenager with a credit card at the mall. Between the legitimate attractions lie countless traps designed to exploit your vacation excitement and geographical confusion. The house edge isn’t just for blackjack anymore. It … Read more20 Worst Tourist Traps in Nevada
Some towns think having a library and a Denny’s counts as cultural diversity. If you’re 50+ and looking for inspiration, you may want to avoid these places. We’re talking no theaters, no galleries, and barely a paint night in sight. Unless bingo at the community center fills your cup, you’re in for a quiet ride. … Read more20 Worst Cities for Cultural Activities for Retirees​