The Unbucket List
Traveling across the United States can be an exhilarating experience, full of diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences. However, not every attraction lives up to the hype. Some places, despite their popularity, end up being overrated, overpriced, and downright disappointing.
So let's call it an "unbucket list." Whym has done what we do best - the research! We've made a list of the least interesting places to visit across the country and want to share them with you. We're not going to lie - some still deserve a quick stop, but don't go out of your way. So we devised a ranking system:
- Yes, it's doesn't live up to the hype, but you should see it once in your life.
- You probably can't go to this town and not see it, but make it a quick stop if you're so inclined.
- Full stop. Don't do it.
Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles, California
We give it a 2. The idea of strolling down Hollywood Boulevard and spotting your favorite celebrity’s star might sound glamorous, but the reality is often far from it. The Walk of Fame is located in a crowded, congested area with heavy traffic and aggressive street performers. The sidewalks are often dirty, and while the stars themselves are interesting, the surrounding area offers little beyond souvenir shops and mediocre eateries. Unless you have a deep interest in Hollywood history, you might find this spot more hassle than it’s worth. At most, make it a quick stop on your way to a great studio tour.
Times Square, New York City, New York
It gets a 1 in Whym's book. You probably can't go to New York City and not see Times Square, but take a quick walk through and keep going to one of the many incredible museums. It's often considered a must-visit spot in the Big Apple, but it can quickly turn into a sensory overload and a source of frustration. The area is perpetually packed with tourists, street performers, and costumed characters. The flashing neon signs and billboards are impressive for a few minutes, but the constant barrage of noise, crowds, and overpriced mediocre food and souvenirs can make it a stressful experience for some. Another option, if you're looking to experience New York's charm but not into museums, would be to explore the diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks outside of Times Square.
It deserves a 1. While the Alamo is an important historical site, many visitors are underwhelmed by the actual experience of seeing it. The site is much smaller than most people expect, and it’s often crowded with tourists. The surrounding area is filled with kitschy souvenir shops and attractions that detract from the site's historical significance. To make the most of it, get a tour guide. The story is obviously what makes it worth the stop. Besides, there's only really a few cool things to do in San Antonio. For a more fulfilling experience, consider exploring the nearby San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which offers a more comprehensive look at the region's history and then hit the Riverwalk.
Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota
The Mall deserves a 1 if you have kids. The Mall of America is marketed as a shopping mecca, but if you're an avid shopper, the shops are nothing special and it can be overwhelming and exhausting. You'll see the same chains you can find in any other large mall, and the constant crowds can make it difficult to navigate. It's enormous, with more than 500 stores, an amusement park, and an aquarium, so go for the kids or skip it. However, If you're in the Twin Cities area, there are plenty of other cultural and natural attractions that might offer a more unique experience.
South of the Border, Dillon, South Carolina
South of the Border is a definite 3. It is a well-known rest stop and tourist attraction on the I-95 corridor, known for its garish billboards and quirky roadside appeal. However, once you arrive, you’ll find that the attraction is dated and rundown. The shops and restaurants offer overpriced and underwhelming fare, and the overall atmosphere feels more like a relic of the past than a vibrant destination. If you're traveling through the Carolinas, there are plenty of other scenic and interesting stops to make along the way.
Plymouth Rock, Plymouth, Massachusetts
Plymouth Rock is a 3. Trust us. It's often touted as the spot where the Pilgrims first landed in America, but it is underwhelming. The rock itself is small and unimpressive, and the surrounding area offers little more than a few informational plaques. While the historical significance is undeniable, the experience is a letdown. Consider visiting nearby Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly Plimoth Plantation) for a more engaging and informative look at early American history or go whale watching.
Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee
Whym thinks Graceland ranks at a 2 IF you're an Elvis fan and you take a tour of the inside. Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, attracts fans from around the world, but it can feel like a commercialized shrine rather than a meaningful tribute to the King of Rock 'n' Roll. The admission prices are steep, and the tours can feel rushed and crowded. Additionally, the surrounding neighborhood is not particularly scenic. If you’re a die-hard Elvis fan, it might be worth the visit, but casual visitors might find better value exploring Memphis’s vibrant music scene and cultural attractions.
Four Corners Monument, Southwestern United States
This Four serves a 3. The Four Corners Monument marks the point where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado meet, and while it sounds intriguing, the reality is quite different. The monument is located in a remote, arid area, and the actual marker is a simple concrete slab. There's not much to see or do besides taking a photo standing in four states at once. The surrounding vendors sell overpriced trinkets and snacks, making it a quick and often disappointing stop on a road trip.
The Empire State Building gets a 2 on our scale. This iconic building is a beauty and the observation deck stands at 1250 ft high. The views of downtown are amazing too. The cost is similar at around $44 + fees for adults unless you want to go all the way up the the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building which will run you $79 + fees and you must reserve it in advance. But for our money you'll get the most incredible views from the Top of The Rock at Rockefeller Center. You can see the Empire State Building in all its glory, which you obviously can't when you're in it. There's also the new Edge, which is fun. You can sip champagne while standing on a glass floor leaning out 100 feet above the ground with 360 degree views. Tickets start at $36.
The French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana
Whym ranks this a 2. NOLA is famous for this neighborhood that draws over 10 million visitors a year - many of who get younger and drunker as the night rolls on. Grab a beignet and hear some live music on Bourbon Street, then hit the road. Take a streetcar to the beautiful Garden District, where the tree-lined streets offer delicious cajun cafes, classic architecture, music and bookshops. Go a little further and you'll arrive at Audubon Park to see the zoo, sit on a bench and breathe easy or grab a bike and hit the paths.
The Fountain of Youth, St. Augustine, Florida
This destination is a 3. Juan Ponce de Leon’s proclaimed he had found the Fountain of Youth in 1531. St Augustine is known as the oldest city in America and it's a fun place to visit. However this archeological park is not. It is nothing more than a trickle of water falling into a pipe. Skip it. Hit the beach, go kayaking, shop or hit a brewery or distillery. You're not getting any younger.
While these destinations get a lot of press, America is full of incredible destinations that offer rich cultural experiences, natural beauty, and historical significance. Let Whym plan your next vacation. We will build you a personalized itinerary that matches your interests, physical abilities, and of course time constraints so you can avoid the disappointment of these overrated spots and create unforgettable memories on your travels. You can sit back and allow Whym to create you a real bucket list trip! Happy exploring!