As you dream of your next family vacation, you might be tempted by glossy brochures and polished websites promising unforgettable experiences. But some getaways are just better than others. An online community lately talked about the less glittering side of America’s vacation hot spots, exposing the most unimpressive family destinations. Spoiler alert: they’re quite the letdown! May this article save you from future holiday disappointments.
1. Downtown Nashville
Unless you and your family are all simultaneously celebrating a bachelorette party, I advise staying far away from downtown Nashville. It lives up to its reputation as a party city, and it’s almost certainly no place for families – unless you plan to throw that whole parenting thing out the window.
2. The Empire State Building
You can enjoy some of the best views of New York City from the observation deck of the Empire State Building. However, due to the long wait times, thanks to an endless stream of tourists, it’s the last place we’d like to be for an afternoon with our families.
3. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
The iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a worthy stop on any trip. Unfortunately, it’s located in Cleveland, Ohio, which has a reputation for being dangerous in recent years. Avoid this tourist destination at all costs, even if your family has an unfailing appreciation for some of the greatest musicians ever.
4. Roswell
Known for the town’s willingness to dive head-first into alien culture, Roswell is a place your family should avoid. It’s the definition of a tourist trap: overpriced exhibits and attractions meant to extract as much money as possible out of visitors. Oh, and even though you hopefully already know this, there are no real aliens to be found.
5. Hollywood
The image you have in your head of Hollywood needs to be corrected. Replace the glitz and glamour you imagine with run-down streets, graffiti, and panhandlers on every corner. The town is simply a shell of its old self, and the iconic Hollywood sign is miles away from the actual area deemed “Hollywood.”
6. Las Vegas
By all means, visit Las Vegas as much as you want – before having a family. Although gambling may seem fun to you, ask yourself this: is the frequent nudity found on the strip and prevalent substance abuse something that your family will enjoy? Do yourself a favor and take advantage of Vegas solely when you’re single.
7. The Mall of America
Think twice before taking your family to the Mall of America. It’s the biggest mall in the world. It’s large enough that you’ll likely spend your entire day inside of it. By the end of your visit, based on how much money you spent, you’ll wish never to step foot in a mall again. Trust me. It’s just a mall.
8. Universal Studios
Although many attractions and rides are immersive and undoubtedly fun, a trip to Universal Studios can cost an arm and a leg. While the kids may have a great time filled with lasting memories, the dent parents take in their wallets is something that mom and dad won’t forget anytime soon, either.
9. Plymouth Rock
Setting aside the historical inaccuracies of the story of Plymouth Rock, this tourist trap located in Massachusetts is literally just a tiny rock sitting in the dirt. So save your family’s time and money and go anywhere other than Plymouth Rock – even Cleveland would be a better choice for a family vacation!
10. Times Square
Much like the Mall of America, Times Square is a collection of national chain restaurants and stores that can also be found in every town in the United States. It’s New York City‘s most prominent tourist trap, so spare your family and ensure you don’t associate yourselves with the 50 million people visiting Times Square annually.
11. Atlantic City
Imagine everything you dislike about Las Vegas, and then add that you’re in New Jersey – that’s what Atlantic City is like. Sure, the town is located on the Jersey Shore. However still, the run-down and dilapidated nature of Atlantic City is a turn-off for even the most enthusiastic group of beachgoers.
12. Disney World
Don’t get me wrong, Mickey Mouse is an iconic character, and Disney has built a thoroughly impressive theme park around their intellectual property. Still, a visit for you and your family will come at an astronomical price. Let’s put it this way: would you rather pay off your car one year earlier or spend a weekend waiting in long lines while “It’s a Small World” plays wherever you go? Exactly.
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