Wouldn’t you choose a better alternative to these overrated travel destinations?
America is well-known for being the world’s melting pot — the place where people of all cultures, backgrounds, and stories can come and live together. Therefore, US cities from coast to coast all boast their unique vibe and tourist attractions.
Some of our country’s most popular cities, however, may be labeled as overrated by some. But here’s the thing. Just because everybody loves taking pictures in the middle of Times Square (and ultimately posting them on Instagram), it doesn’t mean New York is the ideal destination for you.
Before booking your flights, think about where you want to spend your time off (and money). Keep reading to find out about overrated travel destinations in the US and where you should go instead!
1. Miami, FL
If you’re a young-at-heart college student and a traveler type of soul, always full of energy, Miami is the place to be for you. This ideal beach city is often the top choice for those who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and sipping cocktails.
However, if you don’t feel like doing all these things and you’d rather lay on the sand under a quiet sky, Miami may be a hectic and overrated travel destination. Known for its reference to Spring Break, if you’re not into partying hard, this city may not be for you.
Although it’s a lovely place to mingle and meet new folks, Miami’s reputation for late-night parties precedes itself. That said, you may enjoy some things while going there, but don’t expect to take a beach nap while on vacay.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Oceanside, CA. For the laidback, relaxing, quiet beach trip you’ve always dreamed of.
2. Philadelphia, PA – Washington D.C.
Home to the founding father Benjamin Franklin, the Valley Forge National Park, and the Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania is a beautiful city to visit if you want to see first-hand legendary historical sites.
Now, if history has never been your thing, Philadelphia may not be the best destination for you. Being more of a time machine that sends you to colonial America and the place where Philly Cheesesteak got created, Philadelphia tends to be an overrated travel destination.
Don’t get me wrong; the city may be great for history buffs, but for those who aren’t, well, there are plenty of other awesome destinations.
Here’s a BETTER alternative: New Orleans, LA. Though different from Philadelphia’s historical background, New Orleans is full of culture, tons of entertainment, and awesome foods. Furthermore, the city is still loaded with history, making it a destination for everyone.
3. Los Angeles, CA
Here’s another overrated travel destination in the US. Most folks want to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Sign, but once you do that, what else is there to do?
After taking some photos of the big capital letters and walking over the sidewalks covered with cement stars, you’ll have to go through hours of traffic to return to any hotel within the city. Though many folks are in love with the lively LA nightlife, it’s a pretty expensive city and may only be fun for those who can afford it.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Nashville, TN. With an ever-present entertainment culture, this diverse and musical city is home to many folks from all cultures and will definitely never leave you bored.
4. Portland, OR
Portland’s cooler weather may be perfect for many people, but because Oregon is known for its “ghost towns,” one may find this place a little on the dry side. Though Portland’s nightlife may be exciting for some, and nature is never far away from any road, this city does have its cons.
I’ve heard this thing: Portland’s pizza and doughnuts are beyond amazing. Well, several friends of mine visited the city and tried these alleged tasty foods. Their conclusion? These foods are only simply average.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Ashland, OR. The foresty Ashland of Oregon boasts an outdoor theater, hiking trips, and buzzing street life.
5. San Francisco, CA
With cold weather and winding roads that will definitely mess up your styled hair, the classy and cool San Francisco is a place that isn’t for the faint of heart. From trams to trolleys, traveling on foot in this city can turn into a real challenge.
Even if you own a car, parking is pretty awful. Take a few photos and enjoy the seafood, but get ready to endure hours of traffic, especially if you’re planning to use Bay Bridge. Speaking of, multiple sinkholes and potholes found on San Francisco’s roads may also contribute to a bad driving experience within the city.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Pine Point, ME. Ideal for seafood lovers, seaside travelers, and those who enjoy being near water. Unfortunately, this coastal city tends to be overlooked.
6. Dallas, TX
Nowadays, Dallas is known for being a cosmopolitan city full of shopping centers and restaurants. Yet, getting from one place to another in Dallas is a long stretch.
While this city is famous for inspiring the television show of the same name, being home to 7-11, as well as for its architecture, this may not be the place for you if you’re into more of a spirited, hipster lifestyle.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: San Antonio, TX. If you love trying new foods while traveling, this place is exactly what you need! There are so many wonderful restaurants, from classic dive bars to southern cooking, that you’ll be overwhelmed with places.
7. New York City, NY
Definitely the most popular city in our country. I’m not saying that you should skip visiting it, but you should know a few things before doing this. It’s the birthplace of Broadway, the home to many celebrities, and filled with live entertainment, New York City is also extremely hot and cold, overpopulated, and difficult to get around.
While many folks are in love with the rushed lifestyle of NYC, some people say they’d rather move at a slower pace. If that’s also your case, consider hopping off that subway and traveling to another city in New York.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: The Hamptons, NY. To get away from the hectic life, many New Yorkers travel to the Hamptons to spend more relaxed weekends.
8. Boston, MA
Another city great for history buffs, Boston is packed with remnants of colonial America. Unless you’re into that kind of thing, Boston may not be the best travel destination for you.
Though home to cool, classic architecture and breezy weather, there are only a few things to do while in Boston besides cheer for the Red Sox during baseball season and the New England Patriots during football season. If you love sports, this is the place to be. But if you don’t, try going somewhere new.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Rockport, MA. Rockport is a small, charming port city located on the Cape Ann Peninsula that’s ideal for kayaking, scuba diving, paddle boarding, and of course, relaxing. For more information related to this city, check its official page and click on the “Visitors” button.
9. San Diego, CA
Besides all the beach-related activities you can do while in a beach city, San Diego doesn’t boast much else, so it’s safe to say it’s an overrated travel destination. If you’re into both Mexican food and seafood, then you’ve hit the jackpot. Apart from that, San Diego may not be the ideal beach city you’d want to spend your vacation in.
From beach parties to shores packed with parents trying to comfort their crying toddlers, make sure to double-check your travel plans before booking your flights to San Diego.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Orange Beach, Alabama. Though the South is well-known for its delicious foods, don’t overlook its proximity to stunning bodies of water. If you want to enjoy the seaside from a quiet place, consider spending your days off here.
10. Seattle, WA
Finally, the last overrated travel destination from this list. Seattle is definitely the perfect place to visit for quality coffee, but what about after finishing that morning cup? Not to mention that many folks believe that lots of things in this city are overpriced.
Unless you enjoy carrying an umbrella around everywhere you go, that wet weather may not be your favorite thing during your weekend getaway.
Here’s a BETTER alternative to this overrated travel destination: Chicago, IL. Still great for the coffee lover, Chicago is also famous for its quality local brew. But that’s not all; Chicago boasts an entertaining nightlife, and, despite being known as the Windy City, rain isn’t a common thing.
You may also want to read Top 9 Underrated US Destinations You Should Visit in This Lifetime.
