While out and about on the main strips and city centers of your travel destination, please be wary of the following:
Wax museums…
… Are always, always tourist traps. Madame Tussauds? There’s a reason why there’s one in every city. Any themed wax museum is a waste of time and money, unless you want funny Instagram pictures.
An odd oversaturation of a specific type of entertainment in one area
Do you ever wonder why Florida has so many alligator adventure parks? Why Salem, Mass., is rife with palm readers? Be aware of scam sites taking advantage of visitors looking for things to do, and keep an eye out for more unique venues. If you have time to kill, ask a local what to do.
Theme restaurants
These are 100 percent traps for luring in tourists. The Rainforest Cafe? The Hard Rock Cafe? Pretty much any chain restaurant that has “cafe” in the title? These places are hubs for severely overpriced food that is definitely not good for you but probably tastes pretty good because it’s packed with salt and sugar and fat. (The one exception to this rule might be Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and that’s only because Forrest Gump is a damn good movie and you can get a t-shirt that says “Stupid Is As Stupid Does.”)
Ice bars
Built for tourists. Who needs a bar made of ice for any other purpose than to charge an entrance fee? You’re already $20 out, and you’re literally freezing while wearing a jacket about a thousand other people have worn, and you still have to fork over another $20 for an underwhelming drink. Overrated.
(Some) observatories.
While a bird’s eye view of the city you’re visiting is always worth the time, do your research. Try to avoid paying too much, if anything, for a ticket. Sure, an observatory that charges a ticket may come with exhibits and an audio tour and other interesting amenities, but let’s be real: you’re ultimately just there to look out the window.
This rule counts for high-rise restaurants too
You may think “Wow, I can have dinner 100 floors above the city center? That sounds amazing!” But know the wait for a table will be long, there’s no guarantee it will be next to a window, and if it is, there’s a chance it’s overlooking the part of the city no one ventured 100 floors up to see. The food won’t be great, if it’s good at all, and it will definitely be expensive. Take a pass.
However, it’s worth noting: While everything we just talked about is typically an overpriced, subpar experience, sometimes, they’re really, really fun.
Read This Next
How to Spot a Travel Scam
Safety
Sep 11, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSurveys
Apr 28, 2025Study Reports Americans Increased Spending on 2025 Spring Break
Spring break may already be in your rearview mirror, and you might be looking forward to your summer vacay — but did you save enough cash after your springtime travel? A new study from Allianz Partners found Americans spent quite a bit more on their spring break trips this year than they did in 2024. The average spring break trip was $5,325 in 2025, more than a 10 percent increase from 2024.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Destinations / North America
Apr 28, 2025Your Los Angeles Neighborhood Guide to Hollywood and Griffith Park
With so many iconic locations to see, a trip to Los Angeles, California, may feel overwhelming. Refine your itinerary with this neighborhood guide to Hollywood and Griffith Park.
Technology
Apr 28, 2025App Helping Women Meet Like-Minded Women Moving to New Cities Launches
Already making a name for itself in Europe, Les Amis, a popular app designed to help women meet other like-minded women when they move to new cities, officially makes its debut in the United States. Many young women struggle to find friends and acquaintances when moving to a new city; after all, large cities can be lonely. Les Amis is one solution for many women.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Hotel
Apr 25, 2025Experience Local Art at Andaz Hotels This Summer
Andaz properties around the world embrace local art with on-site galleries and partnerships.
ShareThis