7 Overrated Tourist Attractions and Where to Go Instead
It’s a well-accepted travel truth: some destinations are even more impressive in person than they seem to be in photos and video, while others fail to live up to their billing. For every Grand Canyon – breathtaking in scale and scope, a real gut-punch upon first glance – there’s a Times Square, frustratingly crowded and overhyped. From Rome to Beijing, here are seven places that don’t need to be shoehorned into your itinerary – and where to go instead.
1. Times Square – New York City
Between the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Rockefeller Center, New York City boasts several attractions that are arguably better admired from afar. Times Square, with its maddening crush of gawking tourists, exemplifies this idea. If you must see what the hype is about, visit at night when the neon lights are dazzling… and then make like a local and leave as quickly as possible.
The alternative: Explore the art scene in Chelsea, catch a performance in Williamsburg, indulge in food adventures through the Lower East Side, or enjoy a peaceful stroll in Central Park – truly, anywhere but Times Square.
2. Mona Lisa at the Louvre – Paris
A survey last year revealed that many consider the Mona Lisa among the most overrated tourist attractions in Europe. This harsh critique is likely fair, particularly if you’re visiting solely to glimpse that enigmatic smile. The Louvre has a wealth of treasures, both lesser-known and highly acclaimed, yet crowds swarm in front of Da Vinci’s iconic piece, making it challenging to catch an unobstructed view – and honestly, there isn’t much difference between the original and countless reproductions.
The alternative: Instead of squeezing in front of the painting, diversify your visit: Beyoncé and Jay-Z filmed the video for their song “Apeshit” at the Louvre in 2018, and the museum offers a visitor’s trail highlighting not only the star attraction but also a range of other significant works.
3. Trevi Fountain – Rome
The Trevi Fountain, made famous in films like Fellini’s La Dolce Vita and Sinatra’s “Three Coins in the Fountain,” is one of Rome’s most revered sites. Unfortunately, its popularity leads to overwhelming crowds. Tourists toss coins daily, causing gridlock in the small piazza and attracting pickpockets targeting distracted visitors.
The alternative: To avoid the throngs, visit at sunrise or after dark when the lights illuminate the fountain’s beauty. Alternatively, explore Rome’s other architectural masterpieces such as Bernini’s Fontana del Tritone, Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, and St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
4. The Great Wall of China
The Badaling section of the Great Wall has often been described as looking more like a tourist trap than one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Although it is a bucket-list destination, Badaling resembles a crowded ski resort filled with souvenir stands and cable cars, detracting from its allure.
The alternative: To experience the Great Wall authentically, venture beyond Beijing and join a hiking group for a more intimate and peaceful exploration.
5. Blarney Stone – County Cork, Ireland
The Blarney Stone has become a quirky tradition for many, but it’s not for the faint of heart or the germ-conscious. Many people line up daily to kiss the stone, with the promise of gaining the gift of gab. However, given the current health protocols, this tradition might be less appealing.
The alternative: If you desire a castle experience, consider visiting the Rock of Cashel, an ancient fortress offering stunning views and rich history.
6. Four Corners Monument – Southwestern US
This monument marks the point where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado meet – inaccurately, it should be noted. Presently, the site is closed due to COVID restrictions, but even when open, the surroundings lack basic facilities, making it an underwhelming destination.
The alternative: Instead of stopping by the monument, explore each state, such as the remnants of an ancient civilization at Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico or the stunning sandstone formations of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park in Arizona.
7. Stonehenge – Wiltshire, England
A short drive from London, Stonehenge attracts over a million visitors annually. Unless you opt for private tours outside regular hours, expect to navigate the stone circle amidst large crowds, making it challenging to establish a mystical connection to this iconic site.
The alternative: The UK offers numerous ancient neolithic structures that are less frequented than Stonehenge, such as Merry Maidens in Cornwall or Pentre Ifan in Wales, perfect for those seeking less-crowded historic sites.
