Two Southern Spots Top the Worst Vacation Options in the US

Have you ever packed up the kids, the suitcases… maybe even the dog… only to head to a place that was a complete disappointment?

Maybe we can save you some time.

The International Drivers Association crafted a list of “America’s Most Hated” vacation spots. The ranking is loosely based on the influx of tourists, exorbitant prices, or simply environmental degradation.

Two southern cities were mentioned in the list.

Coming in at #10 is Bourbon Street in New Orleans. IDA shared, “Critics argue that Bourbon Street, with its spree of commercial bars and rowdy revelers, hardly captures the authentic spirit and liveliness of New Orleans.”

I can’t argue with that logic. It’s more like a location for bachelor/bachelorette parties and rowdy college freshmen.

My favorite alternatives?

Catch a concert at historic Preservation Hall. Savor beignets from Café Du Monde for breakfast, an Orange Freeze from Camellia Grill for lunch, and splurge on the Reveillon at Sylvain for dinner.

Stroll the galleries and thrift shops in the Marigny-Bywater neighborhoods, take a Cajun cooking class… I could go one and on! There’s so much more to NOLA than Bourbon Street.

The second Southern spot on the list is #5 South of the Border in South Carolina

The reason?

“Despite its 97-foot tall Pedro statue and colorful sombrero tower, this roadside attraction is often described as ‘outdated’ and ‘kitschy’.”

I agree, again. But isn’t that kinda the fun of it?

Here is the full list of Vacation Spots Americans “Hate” in the USA, with comments from IDA:

1. Times Square, New York City

The dazzling lights of Times Square may be a draw for tourists, but locals lament the gridlock traffic and persistent street vendors. It may be christened as ‘The Crossroads of the World’, but for some it is an intersection best avoided.

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles

Shimmering stars and celebrity names might lure tourists, but the phonetical glitz often falls short of expectations. Marshall describes it as “More glum than glam, excessive commercialization has stripped away the magic associated with Hollywood.”

3. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

Despite being home to pier-side eateries and the infamous sea lions, Fisherman’s Wharf is criticized for its crowded markets, overpriced food, and the throng of tourists.

4. Four Corners Monument, Southwest

The thrill of visiting the only point in the United States where four states intersect can quickly turn into disappointment, especially considering the long distances you have to travel only to find it in the middle of nowhere.

5. South of the Border, South Carolina

Despite its 97-foot tall Pedro statue and colorful sombrero tower, this roadside attraction is often described as ‘outdated’ and ‘kitschy’.

6. Waikiki, Hawaii

Often regarded as a ‘Disneyland with a Beach’, Waikiki, with its overpopulated beaches and overpriced rentals, has lost favor among those who vouch for uncluttered beauty and tranquility.

7. Mall of America, Minnesota

“It might be the largest mall in America, but it’s just that—a mall,” says IDA. Reading between the lines, we see it’s the stereotypical run-of-the-mill shopping experience that appears as a drawback.

8. Little Italy, New York City

Little Italy, once a hub of authentic Italian culture, now bears more resemblance to a tacky tourist trap with generic menus and inflated prices.

9. Mt. Rushmore, South Dakota

Carved in stone, the magnificence of the American presidency turns puny. With limited activities available, many feel the long journey to get there isn’t quite worth the trouble.

10. Bourbon Street, New Orleans

Critics argue that Bourbon Street, with its spree of commercial bars and rowdy revelers, hardly captures the authentic spirit and liveliness of New Orleans.