20 Worst Tourist Traps in Arizona

I once paid to see “The Thing” and left with more questions than answers.

Some attractions here are so commercialized, even the tumbleweeds have price tags.

If you think you’re too smart to fall for a tourist trap, Arizona is ready to challenge you.

I have the fridge magnets to prove it.

1. Grand Canyon Skywalk, Arizona

The Grand Canyon Skywalk promises breathtaking views. But here’s the deal: the entry fee is steep, often over $80 per person, and that’s before you even step onto the glass bridge.

Long lines are common, and you’re not allowed to take your own photos on the Skywalk. Instead, you’re pushed to buy expensive professional photos.

I made a classic mistake by thinking the price would be worth it for the experience. You’re better off visiting Lipan Point for gorgeous canyon views without the crowds or high cost.

2. Tombstone, Arizona

Tombstone is famous for the O.K. Corral gunfight. But here’s the catch: the real shootout happened in a nearby empty lot, not the touristy spot.

Most of the town is now just souvenir shops, staged gunfights, and old buildings. Tourism is what keeps it running.

I made a classic mistake by expecting a real Old West adventure. You’re better off exploring Arizona’s natural beauty instead.

3. The Thing, Arizona

Billboards for “The Thing” stretch for miles, building up your curiosity. But here’s the deal: it’s a quirky roadside stop with a museum and a mummified oddity.

Most visitors leave scratching their heads, wondering what they just paid for. The mystery is never really solved.

I made a classic mistake by expecting more than a few sheds of oddities. You’re better off stopping for a quick photo and moving on.

4. Four Corners Monument, Arizona

Standing in four states at once sounds fun. But here’s the catch: it’s a remote spot with a simple marker and a long wait for a quick photo.

The entrance fee is high for what you get. Most people snap a picture and leave in minutes.

I made a classic mistake by driving hours for a five-minute experience. You’re better off visiting Antelope Canyon or Horseshoe Bend nearby.

5. Havasu Falls, Arizona

Havasu Falls looks stunning in photos. But here’s the deal: getting permits is tough, and fees can reach up to $455 just to camp.

Crowds are common, especially during peak season, and the serenity is often lost.

I made a classic mistake by thinking it would be a peaceful getaway. You’re better off exploring Cibecue Falls for a quieter hike.

6. Montezuma Castle, Arizona

Montezuma Castle is an ancient cliff dwelling with a rich history. But here’s the catch: you can’t actually go inside the ruins.

The site gets crowded during peak times, and the admission fee feels high for limited access.

I made a classic mistake by expecting a hands-on experience. You’re better off visiting Tuzigoot National Monument for more immersive exploration.

7. Camelback Mountain Summit, Arizona

Camelback Mountain is famous for its city views. But here’s the deal: the trails are often packed, parking is a nightmare, and the hike can be tough in the heat.

Overcrowding makes it hard to enjoy the scenery.

I made a classic mistake by trying to hike it on a weekend. You’re better off at Piestewa Peak or South Mountain for a quieter trek.

8. Meteor Crater, Arizona

Meteor Crater is a giant hole in the ground with a visitor center. But here’s the catch: the entrance fee is high, and the experience is mostly looking at the crater from a distance.

The museum is small, and guided tours are brief.

I made a classic mistake by expecting more interactive displays. You’re better off exploring Petrified Forest National Park nearby.

9. London Bridge, Lake Havasu City, Arizona

The real London Bridge was moved to Arizona in the 1960s. But here’s the deal: it’s just a bridge over a man-made canal, surrounded by tourist shops.

The area is often crowded, and the bridge itself isn’t as impressive as you might hope.

I made a classic mistake by expecting a slice of British history. You’re better off enjoying the lake’s natural scenery.

10. Old Tucson, Arizona

Old Tucson is a movie set turned theme park. But here’s the catch: it’s mostly staged Western shows and souvenir shops.

The entrance fee is high, and the attractions can feel repetitive.

I made a classic mistake by expecting real history. You’re better off visiting real ghost towns in Arizona.

11. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is known for its red rocks and spiritual vibe. But here’s the deal: prices for hotels, restaurants, and even parking are sky-high.

The main street is packed with souvenir shops and traffic jams, especially on weekends. Crowds can make it hard to enjoy the scenery.

I made a classic mistake by visiting during peak season. You’re better off exploring quieter trails outside town.

12. Jerome, Arizona

Jerome is a former mining town turned tourist spot. But here’s the catch: parking is a nightmare, and the steep streets are tough for seniors.

Most shops are pricey, and the town can feel more like a tourist trap than a historic site.

I made a classic mistake by not checking parking ahead of time. You’re better off grabbing lunch in Dewey or Prescott Valley.

13. Route 66, Arizona

Route 66 is famous, but much of what you see are gift shops and old motels. But here’s the deal: many stops are just photo ops with little real history left.

Some towns feel run-down, and prices for souvenirs are high.

I made a classic mistake by expecting a lively road trip. You’re better off picking one historic stop and skipping the rest.

14. Bisbee, Arizona

Bisbee is a quirky mining town in the Mule Mountains. But here’s the catch: while it has charm, many attractions are pricey and geared toward tourists.

Parking can be tough, and some shops feel more like tourist traps than local gems.

I made a classic mistake by not planning my visit. You’re better off visiting during the week for a quieter experience.

15. Desert Botanical Garden, Arizona

The Desert Botanical Garden is pretty, but here’s the deal: tickets are expensive and it gets crowded quickly.

Some visitors feel the garden is smaller than expected for the price.

I made a classic mistake by visiting during a festival. You’re better off exploring free desert trails nearby.

16. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park is unique, but here’s the catch: much of the park is seen from your car, and trails can be short.

Gift shops push pricey fossils and souvenirs.

I made a classic mistake by expecting more hiking options. You’re better off combining this with a trip to the Painted Desert.

17. Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix, Arizona

The Musical Instrument Museum is interesting, but here’s the deal: admission is expensive and some exhibits feel repetitive.

It can be overwhelming if you’re not a music fan.

I made a classic mistake by not budgeting enough time. You’re better off if you truly love music history.

18. Kingman, Arizona

Kingman sits on Route 66 and promises nostalgia. But here’s the catch: much of the town is souvenir shops and dated attractions.

Summer heat can be intense, and winter is chilly.

I made a classic mistake by expecting a bustling historic town. You’re better off making it a quick pit stop.

19. Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona

Old Town Scottsdale is packed with art galleries and shops. But here’s the deal: prices are high, and parking is tough to find.

It can feel more like a shopping mall than a historic district.

I made a classic mistake by visiting on a busy weekend. You’re better off exploring Scottsdale’s parks instead.

20. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Saguaro National Park is famous for its giant cacti. But here’s the catch: entry fees are high, and trails can be crowded in cooler months.

Some visitors find the scenery repetitive after a short time.

I made a classic mistake by expecting more variety. You’re better off visiting at sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds.