tacky vegas tourist

"I Call That Place 'Little Kid Vegas'": 17 Of The Tackiest Travel Destinations That People Really Love (Despite Others Hating Them)

R ecently, reddit user u/perfumedpornovampire sparked a lively discussion in the r/travel community, seeking fellow kitsch enthusiasts, posting , "tell me the trashiest, tackiest tourist trap cities worldwide." responses flooded in, and without further ado, here are 17 of the tacky travel destinations people love for their kitsch:, 1. "niagara falls, canada, is peak kitsch. if you told ai to generate a touristy place, it’s niagara falls.", 2. "nassau, bahamas. it’s like a living gift shop.", 3. "say what you will about pigeon forge, tennessee, but dollywood is loads of fun and the smokies are amazing", 4. "atlantic city is awesome if you know where to go. i could think of 15 places easily there where you will have an excellent meal.", 5. " roswell, new mexico their alien museum looks so fake, almost like a kid built it for a school project, but it’s so fun. it’s so clear that roswell's historic "ufo sighting" was just a weather balloon, but the town ran with it, and now everything there is alien-themed. i love it. i highly recommend the roswell ufo spacewalk.", 6. "vietnam’s highest mountain, phan xi pang in sa pa.", 7. "wisconsin dells. i call that place 'little kid vegas.'", 8. "i love newport, oregon, especially that big dock all the sea lions fight over. they never fail to crack me up.", 9. "st. augustine, florida, is pretty cool, but it has gotten crazy with tourists.", 10. "jackson hole, wyoming... it's a pretty badass tourist destination.", 11. "i love new orleans, louisiana. it's one of my favorite cities, and i embrace its tackiness, grittiness, and elegance all at once. that's what makes it so unique.", 12. "costa maya in mexico. go there if you really want to see a living gift shop.", 13. "get yourself to blackpool.", 14. "magaluf, majorca, spain.", 15. "helen, georgia during oktoberfest.", 16. "skegness, uk.", 17. "puerto peñasco, sonora, mexico has some very tacky touristy sections downtown... that said, they have some beautiful beaches there, too.", d id we miss your favorite tacky tourist destination let us know what it is in the comments, or submit a response anonymously via this google form , and your submission may be featured in a future buzzfeed post..

Note: Some submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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How to Spend the Craziest 24, 48, or 72 Hours in Las Vegas

See recent posts by Megan Wood

Sunday Rehab Pool Party at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino /Oyster

If you've got minimum time for maximum fun, Las Vegas is your spot. Sin City is highly regarded among the world's most serious partiers for providing nonstop fun. There's a reason celebrities flock here for all sorts of shenanigans; most casinos and many restaurants and bars stay open 24 hours, plus there's plenty of action on the Strip, where it's completely legal to consume alcohol. We'll let you decide how many hours of sleep you'll need, but who comes to Vegas to rest? If you're in Vegas for a good time, but not a long time, read on for our ultimate one-, two-, and three-day itineraries to make the most of your trip. 

Hotels in this story

Day One: Pool Party, Club Dancing, and 24-Hour Dining

Tao Nightclub at Venetian Resort Hotel Casino /Oyster

You’re on a tight schedule, so choosing a hotel in the right area is key. This way you won’t have to waste a lot of time on taxi rides or shuttle services. The Cosmopolitan , Aria , and Planet Hollywood are all centrally located on the southern end of the Strip. Each of these hotels has a youthful party vibe. Start early with a 7 a.m. breakfast from one of Los Angeles’s hippest exports: Eggslut (on the second floor of The Cosmopolitan). Gourmet egg sandwiches served on warm brioche buns are fast and hearty fuel for a full day. After breakfast, swing by the Cosmo’s beautiful three-story Chandelier Lounge for a quick Bloody Mary or mimosa and a few lucky slot pulls at the adjacent casino. It’s about a 10-minute Uber ride to the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. You’re going to need a selfie to memorialize your Las Vegas trip.

April through Labor Day is officially pool party season in Vegas. There are several excellent options throughout the city, but for location and overall rowdiness, it’s hard to beat the Rehab Beach Club at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino . Doors open at 11 a.m., giving you enough time to pop over to the Miracle Mile Shops to buy a tiny bathing suit. Rehab has an entry fee (half-price for women) and options to splash out on private cabanas and bottle service. The party is hosted by celebrity DJs and rages until dusk. On the walk back to the hotel along the Strip (about 20 minutes depending on the hotel), head slightly north and stop outside the Bellagio to see the famous dancing fountain show. 

If you only have one night for dinner in Las Vegas, it’s hard to beat the Jean Georges Steakhouse in the Aria. The menu provides old-school steakhouse favorites with a modern twist by the world-famous celebrity chef. Martinis, oysters, and steaks carved at the table will make you feel like Sinatra. Unfortunately, there’s no time to linger over dessert — you’ve got to see a Vegas show. Lady Gaga’s Vegas residency starts in December 2018 at the MGM Grand . Until then, the Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil show is still going strong at Mandalay Bay . And lucky you, Hakkasan Nightclub is just a seven-minute cab ride from there. This is the kind of nightclub that you imagine when you think about nightclubs in Vegas. You’ll need to buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Inside, the scene is insane with blaring music, sexy people writhing on the multiple dance floors, and pricey drinks. If dancing isn’t your thing, use the night to casino hop and gamble — casino floors stay open 24 hours. Planet Hollywood’s 24-hour Pleasure Pit casino area is complete with go-go dancers. Female dealers wear corsets and male dealers don tiny vests with no undershirts. 

If you’re still standing (and maybe trying to impress a new friend you met at Hakkasan), The Henry inside The Cosmopolitan offers 24-hour upscale comfort food. Or, perhaps it’s time to order room service and call it a night. Hopefully, you’ve got another full day in Vegas tomorrow. 

Day Two: Roller Coaster, Sushi, and the Strip Club

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino /Oyster

Do you know a great way to kill a hangover? Have a big breakfast at The Henry and then take a roller coaster ride with drops, loops, and views of the Strip at New York New York Hotel & Casino . This thrill ride isn’t wild enough to make you sick, but it’s a great way to set the tone for your second day in Vegas. Continuing the pool theme from yesterday, today is the day to get topless. The Venus European Pool Lounge inside Caesars Palace is free for women and charges a cover for men, plus sun loungers are available for rent. Food and drinks are served poolside from servers. The scene is upscale, yet sociable. When you’re done evening out your tan lines, check out The Forum Shops inside Caesars Palace, where luxury shopping meets over-the-top Romanesque architecture. Here, you’ll also find the Fall of Atlantis animatronic show in a giant 50,000 gallon aquarium.

Dusk is the perfect time to take a ride on the High Roller. At over 550 feet, the world’s tallest observation wheel looms over the Strip, providing the ultimate view of the city’s casinos and desert landscape. It’s especially beautiful at night when you can see an artificial volcano erupt at The Mirage . With advance notice, a full bar can be set up inside the moving cabin. It takes about 30 minutes to make a complete circle, giving you enough time to get ready for dinner. 

Opened in 2017, Zuma (in The Cosmopolitan) flies in fresh fish from Japan every day. The standout sushi is enough of a reason to visit, but we love the izakaya portions (meant for sharing), convivial atmosphere, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Strip. Japanese whiskeys are popular, but don’t miss the gin and tonic served in a plastic bag with a floating fish-shaped citrus peel. The late-night weekend Chippendale show starts at 10:30, but get there early for a pre-show drink. Professional male dancers take it almost all off in a custom-built theater in the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino . Alternatively, Crazy Girls puts on a female burlesque show at Planet Hollywood. 

If you really want to kick things up a notch, Vegas is notorious for its strip clubs. Spearmint Rhino Gentlemen’s Club is an all-time favorite, but beginners might want to get initiated at Crazy Horse III, which feels more like a nightclub than a strip joint. Pro tip: Download the app, order the free limo service, and you can skip the usual $50 cover charge. 

Day Three: Zip Line, Cotton Candy Foie Gras, and Holy Matrimony

SlotZilla at Fremont Hotel and Casino /Oyster

You’ve made it to day three, and it’s time for some early morning pampering. Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas’s spa is one of the best in the city and it opens at 9:30 a.m. The two-story luxury facility has a dedicated 1930s Shanghai theme and all visits start with a custom tea and ceremonial shoe exchange. Extensive water relaxation facilities overlook the Strip from huge windows. Treatments range from body wraps to Thai yoga massages. After you’re fully relaxed, keep the Asian theme going with a late lunch at Lemongrass, a Thai restaurant inside the Aria. But don’t get too sleepy, because it’s time to hit rowdy Fremont Street.

It’s about a 20-minute cab ride from South Las Vegas Boulevard to the revamped Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas. The pedestrian-friendly area is loaded with vintage casinos and kitschy tourist activities, like taking your photo with one million dollars and pulling free slot machines. Sip cocktails, wander around, and play cheap table games (compared to pricier minimums on the Strip) until the famous Viva Vision light show starts at 6 p.m. This is also the perfect time to take advantage of SlotZilla, the zip line that soars under the canopy of Fremont Street Experience. 

Heading back toward the Strip, stop at the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino . Adrenaline junkies can make the open-air leap from the top of the Stratosphere (829 feet or 108 stories) until 1 a.m., but we suggest doing it before dinner and heavy drinking. Afterwards, celebrate your survival with dinner at Bazaar Meat By Jose Andres, inside the sleek SLS Las Vegas . The playful menu includes unexpected items like cotton candy foie gras and three different kinds of tartare. Exceptional cocktails pair beautifully with the food. When you’re full, head back toward the Stratosphere for karaoke with the locals at the legendary Dino’s Lounge.

It’s your last night in Las Vegas, you have a plane to catch tomorrow, and you’ve likely spent way too much money. Plus, you’e exhausted, but happy. There’s really only one way to cap off an epic three days in Vegas, and luckily Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel is just down the street from Dino’s Lounge. The fabulously tacky chapel is open 24 hours and can host every kind of wedding theme, from superheroes to traditional to Elvis. Viva Las Vegas, truly. 

NOW WATCH: Best Day Trips From Las Vegas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNgDoZhHdIA

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17 Trashy, Tacky, And Questionable Tourist Destinations That Some People Have Surprising Reasons For Loving

"It's one of my favorite cities, and I embrace its tackiness, grittiness, and elegance all at once. That's what makes it so unique."

BuzzFeed Staff

Recently, Reddit user u/perfumedpornovampire sparked a lively discussion in the r/travel community, seeking fellow kitsch enthusiasts, posting , "Tell me the trashiest, tackiest tourist trap cities worldwide." Responses flooded in, and without further ado, here are 17 of the tacky travel destinations people love for their kitsch:

1. "niagara falls, canada, is peak kitsch. if you told ai to generate a touristy place, it’s niagara falls.".

—u/redditisavirusiknow

"Niagara Falls instantly became a kitsch tourist trap to such an extent that it directly influenced the creation of national parks. Yellowstone in the US and Banff in Canada were created partly to prevent a repeat."

—u/telvin3d

2. "Nassau, Bahamas. It’s like a living gift shop."

"Only near the cruise port; Nassau is a lovely place full of nice locals if you venture out."

—u/weezyfgrady

"It's a shame also because most tourists never see the real Bahamas."

—u/doctorake38

3. "Say what you will about Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, but Dollywood is loads of fun! And the Smokies are amazing!!"

—u/travellingbozo

"Last week, I visited the trifecta: Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville, Tennessee."

—u/alarmed_check4959

"What's remarkable to me is that Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge is the gateway to one of America's most beautiful national parks. The contrast between the trashiness of the tourist attraction in Pigeon Forge and the majesty of Smoky Mountain National Park is bizarre."

—u/spider994

4. "Atlantic City is awesome if you know where to go. I could think of 15 places easily there where you will have an excellent meal."

—u/nsjersey

 "This is key. If you avoid the overly trashy parts, there are some gems within and down the island. Margate City is incredible."

—u/chipaholic1

5. " Roswell, New Mexico ! Their alien museum looks so fake, almost like a kid built it for a school project, but it’s so fun. It’s so clear that Roswell's historic "UFO sighting" was just a weather balloon, but the town ran with it, and now everything there is alien-themed. I love it. I highly recommend the Roswell UFO Spacewalk."

—u/crraaazy

6. "Vietnam’s highest mountain, Phan Xi Pang in Sa Pa."

"It's a gorgeous, amazing hike with a beautiful view, but a resort is plopped right near the top of the summit. You spend 3–4 hours hiking alone, and right when you're about to reach the top, hundreds of tourists who took cable cars are all up there taking millions of photos."

—u/corpusbotanica

7. "Wisconsin Dells. I call that place 'little kid Vegas.'"

—u/pointlessdisclosure

"I just took my kids two weeks ago, and we had a blast. 'Little kid Vegas' is a very apt description. Good, wholesome fun in a beautiful place. Waterpark Capital of the World!"

—u/xxcannonballxx

8. "I love Newport, Oregon, especially that big dock all the Sea Lions fight over. They never fail to crack me up."

—u/tiny_therapist

9. "St. Augustine, Florida, is pretty cool, but it has gotten crazy with tourists."

"I found St Augustine to be a mix of traditional and somber, almost pure kitsch, almost down-to-earth local hangout."

—u/denstolenjeep

10. "Jackson Hole, Wyoming... it's a pretty badass tourist destination."

11. "I love New Orleans, Louisiana. It's one of my favorite cities, and I embrace its tackiness, grittiness, and elegance all at once. That's what makes it so unique."

—u/perfumedpornovampire

"NOLA is like a fun dive bar. Sure, it's dirty, but in a good way, and it has a soul. I love that city."

—u/kirkegaarr

"NOLA is worth visiting because of its culture. Yes, the French Quarter is touristy AF, but there's also a lot of history and bomb-ass food there. I loved visiting all the antique shops; they had some wild stuff there. NOLA has the most exciting and alluring vibes, especially at night. It's spooky, and I have never felt it anywhere else. It's not a feeling like you are in an unsafe area because of crime, it's like a feeling of foreboding and dark magic almost. I would 100% go back again."

—u/merliahthesiren

12. "Costa Maya in Mexico. Go there if you REALLY want to see a living gift shop."

"There's some culture left... when you get into a car and drive 100 miles away to go see Mayan ruins."

—u/cydeweys

13. "Get yourself to Blackpool."

—u/legitimate_willo360

"Yeah, I think the UK version of 'tacky' would blow some people's minds."

—u/henryblessknapp

14. "Magaluf, Majorca, Spain."

"That's where trashy Brits and Germans go."

—u/raneynickle4

15. "Helen, Georgia during Oktoberfest."

—u/a-very-stable-genius

"OMG, this is an EXPERIENCE. I want to take my German-born friend and watch him trip out."

—u/gracefuldelicate

"Honestly, it's fun and silly if you don't take it too seriously. I've been three times and always had fun. Mini golf, rock shops, Christmas store, biker bar, candy samples, terrible German food, the list goes on…"

—u/grill_tastic

16. "Skegness, UK."

—u/airportsnacks

Skegness is made for "stag weekends." 

—u/wonkybumface

"I've been to loads of seaside towns and seen them degrade over the past 30 years, but I went to 'Skeg-Vegas' for the first time last year, and I thought it was good — my dog loved it as well. It reminded me of old seaside holidays."

—u/aah_holidaymemories

17. "Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico has some very tacky touristy sections downtown... That said, they have some beautiful beaches there, too."

—u/mentha1999

Did we miss your favorite tacky tourist destination? Let us know what it is in the comments, or submit a response anonymously via this Google form , and your submission may be featured in a future BuzzFeed post.

Note: Some submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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15 Harsh Truths Why Las Vegas Is Severely Overrated (5 Reasons To Visit Anyway)

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10 Least Stressed States In The US, Ranked By Stress Score

10 arizona road trips that are best taken in winter, underrated, but scenic: this small town in tennessee is a great alternative to nashville.

I truly believe that there is something worth visiting in every area of the United States. Whether it is a cool restaurant, a unique attraction, or some sort of natural wonder, diversity is key to having a good vacation. With that being said, there are a handful of major cities that have a hard time living up to the hype created for them by movies and television.

Because of films like the Hangover, people who come to Vegas have a lot of preconceived notions of what the city will be like . I hope that this article will dispel some of these rumors and provide an accurate description of what it is really like to visit the City of Sin. At the very least, this list should provide our readers with a few tips for avoiding the worst pitfalls of visiting Las Vegas. This article will countdown 15 harsh truths why Vegas is overrated and 5 reasons to visit anyway. If you can think of any harsh truths about Vegas that didn’t make this article (or particular reasons why you would visit it anyway) feel free to mention them in the comments section.

20 Harsh Truth - Everything Costs Money

In another entry we will talk about the numerical cost of visiting Vegas but I think it is also important to talk about how you have to pay for everything you do in the city. Even things that are not overly expensive begin to add up over time.

Obviously, you have to pay for your hotel and food but shows, casinos, and even taking pictures with people on the street can quickly lighten your wallet. I have been to very few places where I looked at my bank account after a few days and was aghast at what I saw.

19 Harsh Truth - The Casinos are the Primary Attraction

This next entry should have been obvious. It is a common complaint that there is nothing to do in Vegas for people who don't fancy casinos. While this isn't absolutely true, the city of sin is based around this industry.

You can probably find other things to do while you're in Vegas, but since the people you are traveling with will probably spend a significant portion of their time in a casino, you might be doing that alone.

There are plenty of shows and activities on the Strip, but the city could definitely be more rounded in terms of attractions.

18 Harsh Truth - Limited Food Options

I personally like Las Vegas but the food and restaurant industry within the city could certainly be updated. Local restaurants cater to people eating in a hurry (fast food, buffets, etc), so there are only a limited number of traditional restaurants close to the Strip. These restaurants are often overcrowded, and they can get expensive.

It is very hard to find a traditional sit-down restaurant close to the Strip without paying an arm and a leg . The limited availability of some restaurants is a major problem with Las Vegas.

17 Visit Anyway - Cheapest Airfare in the West

I talk a lot in this article about the high costs of visiting Vegas but the actual airfare into the city is very affordable. Even if you are coming from the East Coast, tickets shouldn't cost you more than $500 for a standard ticket. If you are coming from the West, especially Los Angeles, tickets are even cheaper.

Las Vegas is extremely dependent on tourism, so they have a deal worked out with the airlines to make flight prices into Vegas consistently cheap. The money you save from your ticket should probably go towards the inordinate cost of staying on the Strip.

16 Harsh Truth - No Sleep in the City of Sin

One of the most surefire ways to enjoy your vacation is to have realistic expectations of the destination. I constantly see people complaining about certain aspects of a city, even when they must have known that this particular city was famous for this thing. Because of this I have little sympathy for people who complain that they can't get a good nights sleep in Las Vegas.

Vegas is famous for its nightlife, so of course things will be a ruckus outside of your hotel room if you are staying on the Strip. Still, this is a negative consequence of staying in Vegas.

15 Harsh Truth - Expensive On The Strip

Plenty of authors have chimed in on the debate of whether it is better to stay on or off the Strip when you visit Las Vegas. One factor that always comes into play is how expensive it is to stay on the Strip.

Rooms on the Strip will typically cost you at least 50% more than a similar room elsewhere in Vegas. But being and staying on the Strip is an integral part of the Vegas experience. The fact that this comes with such a hefty price tag is a negative aspect of visiting Las Vegas.

14 Harsh Truth - Lack of Grandeur Off the Strip

It is now popular for travel magazines and publications to advise tourists to Las Vegas to stay off of the trip. This is certainly the cheaper option but is it the better option? It has been my experience that there are very few quality hotels and restaurants away from the Strip. These places have become accustomed to catering to a cheaper clientele and have adjusted their services accordingly.

There are still gems to be found off the Strip but it seems like the outskirts of Vegas are becoming increasingly rundown.

13 Visit Anyway - the Best (ongoing) Music Festival of All Time

You can say what you want about city officials in Vegas, they know their history. Atlantic City began to lose its luster after it became apparent that there was nothing there to do besides spend hours at the casinos and knock down cocktails.

Vegas has worked incredibly hard to become an entertainment mecca. One of the most apparent results of this strategy is the artists that you can see in Vegas. Britney Spears, Elton John, and even Bob Dylan all do shows in Vegas. At one time, these were some of the biggest stars in the world. It is amazing to me that you can now see all of them in one place.

12 Harsh Truth - You Can't Spell Vegas Without Stigma

I am not someone who thinks that what other people say and think should dictate your life but it is worth noting that visiting Vegas comes with a certain stigma. For some reason, going to somewhere in Europe like Paris or Rome makes you look sophisticated, while visiting a place like Las Vegas conjures images of rowdy bachelorettes .

If this stigma will bother you, either during your trip or upon your return, I would advise looking into somewhere else to travel. The fact that Vegas refers to itself as "Sin City" certainly doesn't help your cause.

11 Harsh Truth - Sleepy Vegas

One thing that people who don't vacation a lot don't realize about visiting other cities is how incredibly tiring it is. Constantly walking from attraction to traction, eating in restaurants, and just constantly looking at sites that you're not used to can take an incredible toll on your body. This is especially true in cities where there are a ton of flashing lights and huge billboards.

People talk about this phenomenon a lot with New York City, but I think that it also relates to Las Vegas. There's just so much to see in Vegas and there are so many attractions that are in your face, that by the end of your trip you will be extremely tired.

10 Harsh Truth - Isolation

One reason why Las Vegas has been able to thrive as a tourist destination is because it is so isolated. In other parts of the United States, and especially in Europe, tourist can easily jump from city to city without having spent a lot of time or money on transportation. Vegas isn't like that.

Besides Los Angeles, there is not another major tourist destination anywhere close by. Even LA is a fairly far journey by car, so most people traveling between the two cities take a plane. This makes it better for Vegas attractions, because people are more inclined to stay in the city for their whole vacation. But it also limits the possibilities for people vacationing there.

9 Visit Anyway - A Unique Experience

If you travel a lot you may have noticed that a lot of the cities that you go to a pretty similar. There are very few cities in the world that are so unique that they do not remind you, at least a little bit, of another city. I think that Las Vegas is one of those cities. Since Atlantic City is in an advanced state of decline, there is no other city that offers what Las Vegas does.

There are plenty of casinos throughout the US but there is nowhere else where going to the casino is as much of an experience as it is in Vegas.

8 Harsh Truth - Oh Elton

This harsh truth about Las Vegas creates a dangerous situation that I have personally fallen victim to more than once. One of my favorite things about Vegas is that there are so many shows happening on a nightly basis. Instead of waiting for Bob Dylan or Elton John to come to your city, you can just go to Vegas and see them any night of the week.

The problem with this is that these shows can get pretty pricey. If you are going to shows every night, you better hope that you win big at the casino to finance the remainder of your trip.

7 Harsh Truth - A little too Sketchy

The stats along the Vegas Strip will never equal what they are in crime-ridden cities like Chicago and Philadelphia but it is worth noting that unlawful activities on the Strip are a lot more prevalent than it is at other major tourist destinations. This wouldn't affect my decision to visit the city but it might be a reason for others (especially those planning a family vacation) to reconsider.

Most of the crime in Vegas comes from rowdy partygoers on vacation but there is also significant organized crime in the area. All of this occurs despite a heavy police presence on and close to the Srip.

6 Harsh Truth - Casino Costs

There are some people who simply do not like casinos, but this entry talks about the specific dangers of gaming at a Vegas casino. The major casinos on the Strip are a part of huge public companies that bring in millions of dollars in profits every year.

They would not be able to do so if the people who visited their casino had a good chance of winning. Several studies have been done proving that gaming in a casino brings you the lowest chances of actually turning a profit. Slot machines usually are the worst. As the saying goes, t he house always wins

5 Visit Anyway - Once in a Lifetime Shows

By now most people know that there are a ton of shows to see in Las Vegas but what a lot of people do not know is that some of them are really good. There are, of course, the famous attractions like the Blue Man Group and Britney Spears, but there is also a ton of under the radar attractions that are good enough to go on tour anywhere in the world.

The last time I was in Vegas I saw four shows and at least three of them were good enough that I would see them again. Because there are so many performers in Vegas, there are shows going on constantly and you can usually catch one at any time of the day.

4 Harsh Truth - Smelly Hotels

I have to admit that I've only stayed in Vegas a couple of times but I think it is worth noting that I wasn't very impressed by the hotels there. Unless you are staying at the very fancy hotels on the Strip, it will be hard to get value from a Vegas hotel. Because there are so many fun things to do in the city, most Vegas hotels aren’t expecting you to stay in your room very often. This means that they can be very minimalist, and at times, downright disgusting.

Vegas attracts a certain crowd of tourists, and I think a lot of housekeeping staff at Vegas hotels are overworked.

3 Harsh Truth - Painful Parking

In recent years I have been visiting the west coast more often and one thing that I have found is that it is much easier to park in major Western cities than it is in East Coast giants like New York and Boston. Las Vegas might just be the exception to this rule. The major hotels on the Strip tend to come with their own, complimentary parking garages but otherwise you will find it very hard to park in Vegas.

Space is at such a premium close to the Strip that it is not economically viable for parking lots to charge you less than $40 overnight.

2 Harsh Truth - HEAT

There are some aspects of a city that cannot be made better no matter how proactive city officials are. One reason why there are so many popular tourist destinations in California is because the weather there is so mild.

The same cannot be said for Las Vegas, which is in the Nevada desert. The wind and heat can both get uncomfortable at times within the city and outside of Vegas things get even worse. If you are one of those people who like to explore new cities on foot, I would be very careful about which times of the year that you decide to visit.

1 Visit Anyway - A Vacation That Pays

Like any other tourist destination, Vegas can be a major drain on your finances. Unlike most other major cities, however, there is always the chance in Vegas that you leave with more money then you came with. Keep in mind that saying from earlier that  the house always wins , otherwise they would not make any money.

With that being said, it does happen, and you may be one of the few people who benefit from Vegas’ unique culture.

• Destinations

Taken by the Wind

Travel stories & photos from an american girl with a bad case of wanderlust, off the tourist trail in vegas: where to go to experience las vegas like a local.

Las Vegas gets a lot of flack for being materialistic, superficial and tacky. To those who’ve never been or who have gone but have only visited the touristy areas (I.e, The Strip or The Fremont Street Experience), Vegas might seem overwhelming and over the top; phony even. And I get it. I used to hate living in Las Vegas . It took me a while to see that there was more to Sin City than what you see in the  Hangover  films.

I’ve recently partnered with Expedia.com to present you with a list of ways you can have a more authentic travel experience in Las Vegas. Think of this list as the Vegas bucket list for people who aren’t big fans of Las Vegas.

1. Skip The Fremont Street Experience…

When tourists say “Fremont Street”, they are usually referring to the section of the street known as the “ Fremont Street Experience “. This is where you’ll find a giant zipline, a light-up canopy, live music, costumed characters, street performers and, of course, casinos. It’s seedy, strange and worth seeing at least once, if for no other reason than to gawk at some of the bizarre “performers” (it’s similar to the acts you see in Times Square in NewYork, only more risqué. Keep your eyes peeled for the man in a diaper and the three nearly naked old ladies in thong bikinis). The casinos also have cheaper-than-average table games and alcohol (Mermaids Casino sells $2.00 beers around the clock). But this place is extremely touristy and most locals tend to avoid it unless they have friends in town.

…and Go to East Fremont Street Instead

East Fremont Street (not to be confused with The Fremont Street Experience! They are two very different places) is a hipster-y area of downtown Las Vegas. There are a dozen or so trendy bars, lounges, concert halls and night clubs. There are also several great restaurants and something called “The Container Park”, which is a shopping and restaurant area made entirely of upcycled shipping containers. Though the place is a little kitschy for my tastes, they often have free concerts and the Mexican restaurant there, Pinches Tacos, is pretty decent.

My Favorite Bars on East Fremont Street:

The Griffin —This place gets extremely crowded on the weekends, especially after 11pm when the backroom is converted into a dance floor, but it’s a great place to go for a drink earlier in the evening. The inside of the bar looks like a medieval dungeon or European castle (in a good way!) and there are fire pits. It has a decidedly “un-Vegas” vibe to it.

Atomic Liquors— This is one of the oldest bars in Vegas (The Rat Pack used to hang out here) and it’s extremely popular with college students and young professionals. Drinks are cheap and parking is convenient. It’s a great place to go for a laid back, dive bar-y vibe.

My Favorite Restaurants on East Fremont Street:

Le Thai— The thai food isn’t my favorite in Vegas but it’s pretty good! I like sitting on the back patio. It’s another good place to go if you want to forget you’re in Vegas. It sort of reminds me of restaurants I used to visit when I lived in New York.

Park on Fremont— This restaurant/bar is super hipster-y (there’s a “secret garden” with a seesaw! Ha. And the drinks are served in Mason jars) but the outdoor garden is pretty, the cheeseburgers are tasty and I like all of the weird art.

2. Skip The Gondola Ride at the Venetian…

For reasons  I will never fully understand , tourists seem to love the Gondola Ride at The Venetian. To me, the idea of being paddled around a resort pool while someone who’s probably from Cleveland and would be hard-pressed to locate Venice on a map serenades me in Italian sounds cheesy, not to mention expensive (it costs $21 per person for a 10 minute ride!), but I guess I’m just not a big fan of kitsch. The ride has a lot of positive reviews on Trip Advisor and Yelp though (apparently people think the ride is romantic?!).

….And Kayak Lake Mead Instead

I recommend Lake Mead instead! Lake Mead is the world’s largest man-made reservoir and a great place to kayak, swim or go boating (especially when it’s hot out). A number of tour companies offer boat or kayak tours on the lake and along the Colorado River. If you go on a kayaking tour on the river, be sure to make a pit stop at one of the hot springs! There are two:  The Arizona Hot Springs  and  The Gold Strike Hot Springs ).

 3. Skip Walking the Strip…

Not that walking the Strip isn’t fun (it can be quite the people watching experience), but it can be overwhelming and over-stimulating as well. Although it’s a misnomer that locals do not visit the Strip (we go there for shows, clubs and to check out new restaurants), fighting through the crowds of intoxicated tourists so that we can be harassed by prostitutes, card snappers, costumed characters and homeless people isn’t something we generally do unless we have friends in town.

…And Walk Mt Charleston Instead

Mount Charleston is only a 45-minute drive outside of Vegas and is a great place to go if you want to go hiking, camping , skiing or sleigh riding , or if you’re just tired of the desert and miss seeing trees and greenery. It’s also one of the only places in the area you can go to escape the summer heat. It’s generally 20 – 30 degrees cooler on Mount Charleston than in the rest of the valley. This means that when it’s 110 on the Strip, it’ll be 80 degrees on the trails. If you go in the fall or spring, you can even hike to a waterfall.

4. Skip Zip-Lining on Fremont Street…

I guess it’s because I’ve gone zip-lining off cliffs in the Guatemalan jungle, but the idea of paying $20 to zoom across a crowd of tourists on Fremont Street seems, well, lame. Though I suppose if you’ve never been zip lining before, this might be fun.

…And Get Your Thrills Rock Climbing at Red Rock Instead

If it’s an adrenaline rush you’re seeking, I recommend going rock climbing at Red Rock Canyon instead. It’s only 30 minutes from the Strip and Red Rock is considered to be one of the best places in the country to go rock climbing. People from all over the world come to Vegas specifically for a chance to scale the cliffs of red sandstone. I even have a friend who relocated to Vegas from Canada just for the rock climbing—it’s that good. If you have your own equipment, you can just walk right up to the rocks and start climbing, but there are also tour companies who can show you, er, the ropes. Ha.

If you don’t want to hassle with climbing, you can just go hiking or scrambling instead. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is worth seeing even if all you do is wander around. Make sure to go at sunset for the best views.

4. Skip the Breakfast Buffets…

While I love me a good buffet, most of the best ones are located on The Strip and unfortunately, they’re no longer cheap (long-gone are the days of the $5.99 all-you-can-eat buffet). So if you’re trying to avoid the crowds or the tourist scene, then I recommend leaving Las Vegas Boulevard.

…And Eat at One of the Locally-Owned Restaurants Off The Strip

There are so many great places to get breakfast in Vegas, but three of my favorite breakfast places are:

Eat— The menu items have the weirdest combinations of ingredients and flavors! But somehow they all work well together. Make sure to try the huevos motulenos and the cinnamon biscuits.

Crepe Expectations— They have the best crepes in Las Vegas! The Frisco and The Rosarito crepes are really good.

The Omelet House —The decor in this restaurant is super hokey, and I’m not a fan of the hash browns…But the stuffed French toast? And the banana nut bread? Yum!

5. Skip Taking a Selfie In Front of the “Welcome to Las Vegas” Sign…

If I’m being entirely honest here, I’ll have to admit that I’ve taken a picture in front of this sign! And while I think Vegas Sign selfies are totally cheesy and cliché, I recognize it’s a right of passage for any first time visitor to Vegas. So go ahead and take picture in front of it! Go on. I won’t tell. But when you’re done, you can take your cornball self downtown.

…And Take a Selfie in Front of the Cool Public Art Downtown

Downtown Vegas is incredibly photogenic! Every year, a music and art festival called “Life is Beautiful” is held downtown, which attracts several well-known graffiti artists. A large number of the buildings are covered in strange but cool-looking murals.

Here are the top places to take a selfie (or a fun photo):

The 10-Foot Tall  Cat Statue —Its name is “Snowball” and it’s located on First Street in the Arts District.

The  peeing statue — Yep, it’s just like what it sounds. It’s a replica of the famous Belgium statue “Manneken Pis” and it’s located in front of The D hotel downtown.

The  vintage Vegas signs  at the Neon Boneyard —You have to pay to see these signs but if you’re into Vegas history, it’s worth the $15.

6. Skip Playing the Slots…

So despite the fact that I’ve lived in gambler’s paradise for going on five years now, I can count the number of times I’ve gambled (slot machines or otherwise) on one hand! Perhaps it’s because I’ve never won anything, but I find gambling to be boring and a waste of money. I guess that’s a good thing though. If I lived in Las Vegas and loved to gamble, then I might have a problem!

…And Play Giant Jenga, Chess and Beer Pong at Gold Spike Instead

Gold Spike is one of my favorite bars downtown. It’s located inside a converted hotel/casino and while it has a bed, an airstream trailer and comfy outdoor couches, what makes this bar unique is the games! There are giant, human-sized versions of Jenga, chess and beer pong, as well as cornhole, hopscotch, darts and shuffle board. The best part is that unlike slot machines, all the games are free!

Okay, now it’s your turn! What’s your favorite “off-the-beaten-trail” thing to do in Vegas? Leave a comment and let me know!

2 thoughts on “ Off The Tourist Trail in Vegas: Where to Go to Experience Las Vegas Like a Local ”

I love your off the beaten path info, I am a Travel Advisor and your info Everybody doesn’t go in for all the lights,camera, action so right on time… Thanks a bunch have a wonderful life.

Hi Reannon, I got your email and this post is perfect. We will absolutely check out East Freemont Street. Totally sounds like the vibe I’m looking for. If you think of anything else please let me know. Again, wonderful job on the blog! Catherine

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Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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How to Dress Like a Tourist

Last Updated: December 15, 2022

Accessories

This article was co-authored by Neepa Sikdar and by wikiHow staff writer, Amber Crain . Neepa Sikdar is a Personal Stylist and the Founder of Accessible Style. With 18 years of fashion experience, she specializes in working with female leaders to develop their style through personal styling, brand styling, and online styling. She also coaches women on personal style through her membership program. Neepa has worked with brands such as Nordstrom and J. Crew and has been featured in publications such as Business Insider. She holds a BS in Economics and English from Rutgers University and trained in styling through Fashion Institute of Technology. This article has been viewed 115,030 times.

Dressing like a tourist is easy! A bright Hawaiian shirt is a classic look, but neon prints and souvenir t-shirts are also great shirt options. For bottoms, definitely go with khaki shorts or cargo shorts. Slip into a pair of white crew socks and strap your sandals over them to create an iconic tourist vibe. Don’t forget accessories like fanny packs, leis, straw hats, and multiple cameras to tie your look together!

Things You Should Know

• Wearing a Hawaiian shirt is a classic way to stand out as a tourist. You could also pick a graphic T-shirt or a shirt with a loud, vibrant print.
• Go for bottoms like khakis or cargo shorts. For a more tropical vacation vibe, opt for a colorful sarong.
• Hold your items in a fanny pack and throw on some socks with sandals to complete the look.

• For example, try a shirt with a bright red and purple floral print.
• If you can find something with neon colors, go with that!
• A trick with florals is to choose them according to your height--for a petite size person, choose small floral prints; for average height, choose a medium floral print; and for plus size, larger or tall, choose a large floral print.

• You could also go with something that promotes a popular company that caters to tourists, like Señor Frog’s or Hard Rock Café.

• Bonus points if the name of your hometown is written right on the shirt!

• Try an over-sized plaid button-up with short sleeves in the brightest colors you can find.
• A neon tie-dye top is also a great choice.

• Wrap a sarong around your waist and slip into a pair of flip-flops to complete your outfit.

• Pair your khaki shorts with an oversized Hawaiian shirt for an iconic tourist look.

• Tuck a pink tank top with “Hawaii” scrawled on the front into a pair of mom-style, knee-length khaki shorts and you’re all set!

• You can go with any color, but khaki or tan cargos would be very authentic.
• Cargo skirts are another option you might prefer. Just be aware that they're not the most flattering style for skirts because their bulky pockets stick out. You'll also need to opt for a top that hits at your waist, you don't want to add bulk by tucking things in.

• Strap on a second fanny pack for extra oomph.
• If you can’t get your hands on a fanny pack, an overstuffed backpack will also do the trick. [4] X Research source

• Strap on an old-school camcorder for a retro tourist vibe.
• Keep one of your cameras in your hands at all times. Photograph everything excessively, of course!

Community Q&A

• Try a floral sundress or jumpsuit to create a slightly different look. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Wear a pair of binoculars around your neck for an added dimension. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Wear a pair of oversized sunglasses to complete your outfit. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

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• ↑ https://www.racked.com/2017/9/25/16301564/tourist-traveler-style
• ↑ https://www.liveyouraloha.com/not-look-act-like-tourist/
• ↑ https://www.mommyupgrade.com/tacky-tourist-costume-ideas/

About This Article

If you want to dress like a tourist, stick to obvious, flashy clothes that peg you as a foreigner. Go for a short-sleeved button-up shirt with a floral print or a vibrant pattern on it. Or, wear a souvenir t-shirt that promotes the location you’re in, like one that says, “I love New York.” Pair your loud shirt with khaki or beach shorts to go full tourist. If you’re near the beach, wander around in a bikini and sarong. You can also add a tourist accessory, like a fanny pack, a camera around your neck, oversized sunglasses, or a big safari hat, to complete your look. For more tips, including how to represent your hometown as a tourist, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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The Most Non-Touristy Things to Do in Las Vegas

When people come to Las Vegas, there are a few items that usually top the list of things to do : visit the Welcome to Las Vegas sign, walk the Las Vegas Strip, or see the Bellagio fountains. However, if you’re in town for an extended period of time, or it’s not your first trip to Sin City, you might want to try something new and experience a different side of the city. Here are some of Culture Trip’s suggestions.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Visit Lake Mead

The reservoir created by the Hoover Dam, also known as Lake Mead , is a popular place to boat, scuba dive, fish, and to spend holidays. It’s a 45-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip and home to the desert mountain sheep, mountain lion, and the great horned owl. There are also hiking trails, lookout points, and campgrounds that offer a picturesque getaway from the bright lights of Las Vegas.

Go to the drive-in

Drive-in theaters are a thing of the past, except in Las Vegas. Today, they make up less than two percent of all movie theaters in the United States, but the West Wind Drive-In Theater in North Las Vegas is fully operational. Tickets are cheap, and no one will say anything if you bring food, but there is an old-fashioned snack stand available for popcorn and candy. Visiting the drive-in is a great way to spend the warm summer nights in the city and see a different side of it.

Attend First Friday

First Friday is a monthly, community art event that takes place in The Arts District in downtown Las Vegas. Food trucks, artists, and performers line the streets of the district, making it a fun way to spend a Friday night with friends and family. The event is free to attend, but parking can be problematic, so arrive early, carpool, or take an Uber.

Eat at the Bootlegger

Bootlegger Italian Bistro proves that some things in Las Vegas never change. Open since 1949, the Bootlegger is one of the oldest restaurants in the city, and it has remained a family-owned operation ever since. The restaurant features original recipes of the family matriarch, Maria Perry. It sits on Las Vegas Boulevard south of Mandalay Bay, making it an easy Uber or cab ride from your hotel. Popular menu items include pollo scallopini, tiramisu, and the house specialty lasagna.

Drive out to the Extraterrestrial Highway

Las Vegas might be world famous for its nightlife, but at one time, it was better known for its alien connections. Alien aficionados, marathon runners, and anyone looking for the infamous Area 51 frequent the Extraterrestrial Highway. The 98-mile (157.7-kilometer) stretch of Nevada State Route 375 north of Las Vegas gets its name from the infamous military facility located in the middle of the desert. Along the highway, you can find alien jerky and an alien-themed gift shop and kitschy little café called The Little A’Le’Inn . Photography is prohibited in and around Area 51, and the guards on duty strictly enforce this regulation.

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Go paddle boarding

Las Vegas doesn’t come to mind when you think of water sports. However, at Lake Las Vegas, guests can take part in a variety of activities both on and off the water. Introductory paddle board lessons are available, as well as yoga on paddle boards, Duffy boat rentals, kayaking, wake boarding, and flyboarding.

Visit the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Hiking Trail, Park Campers and rock climbers love Red Rock Canyon . The 19 hiking trails and six climbing areas draw outdoor lovers of all types throughout the year. The only developed camping area is the Red Rock Canyon Campground, which is closed during the summer because of the heat. For those who just want to enjoy desert scenery, the 13-mile (21-kilometer) loop that cuts through Red Rock allows visitors and bikers to get a comprehensive view of the park.

See a show at Baobab Stage Theater

If you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to miss the Baobab Stage Theater . Located inside Town Square, the Baobab Theater is part fashion boutique and part theater and hosts concerts, plays, and fashion shows year-round. Owner Wassa Coulibaly, a former Cirque du Soleil artist, initially opened the theater to showcase her own play Red Dress but has kept it open since.

Go to Valley of Fire State Park

Park If you’ve got a car while you’re in Las Vegas, take an hour drive outside of the city to Valley of Fire State Park , which features Aztec sandstone formations, petroglyphs, and a wide variety of wildlife. Valley of Fire has also appeared in a number of Hollywood films over the years, from Viva Las Vegas to Total Recall . Points of interest inside Valley of Fire include the Beehives Formation, Atlatl Rock, and Rainbow Vista Trail.

See Purple Reign

Purple Reign is a show for all Prince lovers and children of the ’80s. Located inside the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino , Purple Reign pays tribute to The Artist (Formerly Known as Prince). With beautiful dancers befitting Prince’s band The Revolution, Jason Tenner brings back the spirit of the beloved singer. If you go on a Friday night with a VIP ticket, you can attend the after-party, Purple Reign After Dark.

See Divas Las Vegas

Currently showing at The LINQ , Divas Las Vegas is the city’s quintessential drag show. Frank Marino, the host and headlining female impersonator with razor-sharp wit, is a classic Vegas performer; his career on the Las Vegas Strip has spanned nearly 30 years and shows no sign of slowing down. The show features Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry, along with an original, heart-wrenching performance of “What Makes a Man a Man.” The show offers a full bar throughout the performance and seating is similar to that found at a dinner theater, so you’ll likely find yourselves sitting across from strangers.

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Top 5 Tackiest Tourist Traps

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We've all seen them, and most of us have been helpless to their allure at one point or another -- the tourist trap. The idea of a tourist trap is to get hapless tourists to visit a well-known attraction, mainly for the purpose of taking their money. It's not a tourist trap unless there are multiple gift shops and you can purchase both a shot glass and a back scratcher with the destination printed on it. What constitutes a tourist trap is open to debate, though. Italians may consider the Leaning Tower of Pisa to be a tourist trap, and there are plenty of pictures of visitors pretending to hold the tower up to make their point. Others might argue that it's history worth seeing.

The same can be said for places like Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco or Times Square in New York. Both of these well-known attractions are mobbed with tourists eager to pay $10 for a bowl of "authentic" clam chowder or purchase an "I heart New York" T-shirt that will fall apart after three washings. But again, some might say that you can't visit New York or San Francisco without stopping by these places, even if you refuse to support the gift shops. Another telltale sign is if locals tend to avoid these spots like the plague.

What constitutes "tacky" is even more open for debate. One man's tacky is another man's must-see destination. We here at HowStuffWorks.com have scoured the world and attempted to narrow down what may be the top five tackiest tourist traps. Visit at your own risk and get ready to leave with a shot glass in hand.

• Hollywood Boulevard
• Liberace Museum
• Various Stonehenge Tributes
• Dinosaur World
• South of the Border

5. Hollywood Boulevard

Visitors to Los Angeles have plenty of options. Traditional tourists will no doubt pay a visit to Venice Beach, Griffith Observatory and the ultimate tourist trap -- Hollywood Boulevard. This famous street in the heart of Hollywood once shined with glitz and glamour. Today it's overrun with odd smells, panhandlers and tacky gift shops. There has been a big effort in recent years to clean Hollywood up, with some measure of success. The Hollywood and Highland complex is shiny and new and home to the Academy Awards, and other new complexes in central Hollywood offer up better shopping and dining options than in the recent past. But no one will argue that Hollywood Boulevard has seen its best days.

If you're into tacky, head down to the area around the famous Grauman's Chinese Theater. You can take a peek at the Hollywood Wax Museum or the Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum -- both across the street from Grauman's. Not to be outdone, the world-famous Madam Tussauds Wax Museum is opening a massive 44,000-square-foot (4,087-square-meter) Hollywood location in fall 2009. If that doesn't do it for you, visit one of the dozens of over-loaded gift shops for a miniature Oscar Award or pay five bucks for a Polaroid of you and a dude in a Darth Vader costume. Also check out the famous corner of Hollywood and Vine, just to verify that not much goes on there now. And remember to keep your head down on the sidewalk to see which legendary performer's star you're treading on with the Walk of Fame.

4. Liberace Museum

When it comes to tacky towns, casinos with unusual themes. In recent years, the gambling mecca has tried to steer away from these themed casinos that dominated the landscape in the 1980s and 1990s, but it still holds a tacky allure.

Enter Liberace, an entertainer that prided himself on loud, outrageous costumes and an extravagant, garish home life. The famous piano player once referred to himself as a "One-man Disneyland." Put Vegas and Liberace together and you have the makings of one tacky museum, which is kind of the whole point. For $15 you can see 18 of his famously decorated pianos, as well as some of the over-the-top wardrobe of the world-famous entertainer -- including the 200-pound (90-kilogram) "King Neptune" outfit. His jewelry collection and some of his luxury cars are also on display. Just one word to the wise, if you have an aversion to sequins, you might be better off avoiding the Liberace museum.

3. Various Stonehenge Tributes

What better way to show your tacky stripes than to erect a pseudo-replica of a concrete structure is built to scale and was originally christened as a tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I in 1930.

Then there's "Carhenge" -- a Stonehenge homage made from 38 junked cars and trucks. Each vehicle in this Alliance, Neb., monument is painted flat gray to match the real thing. Farmer Jim Reinders built it as a tribute to his father, and although some citizens wanted it torn down, it still stands. Retired oilman Al Shepperd of Kerrville, Texas, built a 60-percent-scale Stonehenge replica on his land after considering a pyramid and a fake UFO crash site. To spice things up, Shepperd also has a couple of Easter Island statue replicas. Finally, we have "Stonefridge," a replica in Santa Fe, N.M., that's made of, you guessed it, old refrigerators. Artist Adam Horowitz spent nine years erecting the tribute on an abandoned landfill. Horowitz broke tradition with the other Stonehenge replica builders by not sticking to the original specifications. What he ended up with was 200-plus refrigerators stacked 18 feet (5.4 meters) high in a semicircle with separate fridge towers in the center.

2. Dinosaur World

What's better than a dinosaur-themed fun park? Three dinosaur-themed fun parks. If you're in Texas, Kentucky or Florida, you can pay a visit to Dinosaur World, where replicas of prehistoric creatures stand there for paying customers to look at. If you go expecting cool animatronics, you'll be disappointed. These dino-replicas are frozen in time and set along a wooded trail. If the thought of looking at dinosaur statues doesn't thrill you, you can always take part in the "fossil dig." The folks who run Dinosaur World plant various treats in a sandbox for kids to dig up. Sharks teeth, sea urchins and eight more real fossils are free for the taking for kids ages three to 12. Adults can "dig" for an extra two dollars.

The good news about Dinosaur World is that it's relatively inexpensive. Adult admission is $12.75, and kids under 12 pay only $9.75. You can celebrate your birthday if you want to host a party at Dinosaur World, but don't expect a catered meal with cake. There is no food at the park, but you can bring your own or have pizza delivered to the picnic area. And like all tourist traps, there is a gift shop. The park's Web site even advises that the T. Rex is the king of the gift shop, with more toys and souvenirs dedicated to the carnivore than any other dinosaur.

1. South of the Border

The mother of all tacky tourist traps is pretty hard to miss if you're traveling along Interstate 95 on the East Coast of the United States. Coming from either direction, you'll see no less than 100 different billboards starting about 200 miles (321 kilometers) away from this glorified rest area. The Mexican-themed stopover is the brainchild of Alan Schafer. The story goes like this -- he owned a roadside beer stand and noticed supplies for his venture were being delivered to "Schafer Project: South of the Border." Of course, they were talking about the border of South and North Carolinas, where the famous tourist traps sits today, but that didn't stop Schafer from being blinded by a blast of inspiration. He started importing Mexican souvenirs, and South of the Border (SOB) was born.

Visit one of two massive gift shops and choose from eight official SOB backscratchers or 22 styles of coffee mug. Purchase legal fireworks or get married in the Pleasure Dome wedding chapel. There are multiple restaurants, motels and an RV elevator where you can survey the forestland of Dillon County, S.C. At the end of the day, wash it all down with a margarita and a burrito, and then resume your trip to Florida.

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• "15 Worst Tourist Traps." Planetizen.com. 2009.http://www.planetizen.com/node/20995
• "America Unhenged." Roadsideamerica.com. 2009.http://www.roadsideamerica.com/set/OVERhenges.html
• "Dinosaur World." Dinoworld.net. 2009.http://www.dinoworld.net/
• "Liberace Museum." Liberace.org. 2009.http://www.liberace.org/
• "South Of The Border." Roadsideamerica.com. 2009.http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/2211
• Colin, Chris. "How to avoid the world's top tourist traps." Msnbc.com, October 18, 2007.http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21350306/
• Colin, Chris. "World's Top Tourist Traps." Forbestraveler.com. March 20, 2008.http://www.forbestraveler.com/best-lists/tourist-traps-story.html
• Petkus, Thadra. "Top 10 tacky tourist sites." Catalogs.com. 2009.http://www.catalogs.com/info/travel-vacations/top-10-tacky-tourist-sites.html
• Webber, Liz. "7 tourist traps you love." CNN.com. 2009.http://www.cnn.com/2008/TRAVEL/05/09/tourist.traps/

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25+ Tacky Tourist Costumes for Adults and Kids

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The concept of tourist costumes revolves around the attire worn by individuals when they engage in travel and exploration. These costumes typically reflect both practicality and a sense of fashion, taking into account the specific needs and cultural considerations of different destinations. While tourist costumes vary greatly depending on the location, climate, and activities involved, they share a common goal of providing comfort, functionality, and style for travelers.

The Tacky Tourist Costume has become a popular choice for costume parties, themed events, and even Halloween. This light-hearted and playful attire allows individuals to embrace the stereotypical tourist persona with a touch of humor and whimsy.

Here are the best Tourist Costumes for you!

1.) Tacky Adult Tourist Costume

This Halloween take a family vacation in paradise with this memorable Tacky Tourist Costume for Adults. You will find yourself laughing the night away.

2.) Tacky Tourist Costume

In this Tacky Tourist Costume , you'll turn into every vacationer's worst nightmare! Our one-piece jumpsuit includes a hoop waist, baggy shorts, a T-shirt with a funny screen print ("Which way to the Buffet?"), and a tacky Hawaiian overshirt. Slip into th

3.) Tacky Tourist Costume Duo Set

Take up too much space on the subway with this Tacky Tourist Couples Costume ! This funny couples Halloween costume features two one-piece jumpsuits that make you and your best friend look like you need directions badly! Your duo will have so much fun pre

4.) Tacky Traveler Adult Costume

Say cheese! It's the Adult Tacky Traveler Costume! Put your socks and sandals on and get ready for summer vay-cay with the Adult Tacky Traveler Costume!

5.) Hawaiian Beach Cap

This Hawaiian Beach Hat is an awesome accessory for Halloween, or any tropical themed party this year! Grab one today to expand your costume apparel wardrobe.

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The Tacky Tourist Costume typically consists of various elements designed to capture the essence of a stereotypical tourist. It often includes a combination of mismatched and brightly colored clothing items, oversized accessories, and an assortment of touristy props. The key to a successful Tacky Tourist Costume lies in exaggerating tourist stereotypes and incorporating humorous details.

When assembling a Tacky Tourist Costume, one might start with a vibrant Hawaiian shirt adorned with loud patterns and colors. Pairing this with a pair of high-waisted, knee-length shorts in a clashing print adds to the comedic effect. The costume is often completed with knee-high socks, sandals, or sneakers that showcase the wearer’s distinct lack of fashion coordination.

To accessorize the Tacky Tourist Costume, individuals often opt for oversized sun hats, fanny packs, and cameras with large lenses. These accessories emphasize the tourist’s desire to document every moment while still maintaining an unmistakable sense of tackiness. Additionally, wearing sunglasses, preferably in a garish style, and sporting a lanyard with an oversized ID badge or a collection of keychains adds a playful touch.

Another significant aspect of the Tacky Tourist Costume is the use of props. Travel essentials like maps, guidebooks, and foldable city street plans can be carried around for added authenticity. It’s also common to see tourists clutching selfie sticks or walking around with an inflatable pool float in the shape of a flamingo or a donut.

The Tacky Tourist Costume allows individuals to embrace a carefree and fun-loving spirit. By exaggerating stereotypes and incorporating humorous details, wearers can bring joy and laughter to any occasion. It’s important to remember that this costume is meant to be light-hearted and in good fun, celebrating the enthusiasm and curiosity of tourists while playfully poking fun at their fashion choices and habits.

The Tacky Tourist Costume is a delightful way to express oneself at parties or events that call for a touch of humor. By combining mismatched clothing items, oversized accessories, and an array of touristy props, individuals can embody the spirit of a stereotypical tourist while spreading laughter and enjoyment among fellow partygoers.

Tourist Costume Ideas

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A British tourist and an American find the best steakhouses in Vegas

"Food Wars" hosts Harry Kersh and Joe Avella travel across Las Vegas to find the best steakhouse in the city. They'll be visiting three locations in just one day to see what the city has to offer. This is "Food Tours."

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Tacky Tourist Costume for Adults

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• 100% polyester jumpsuit
• Super soft material w/ wire in the waist
• One size fits most

Like a Sore Thumb

You've seen them before. Heck, maybe you've BEEN one before. No shame in that! But we bet you have a specific image in mind when you picture an overenthusiastic tourist. They're often dressed loudly, and they talk loudly, too. Well, who can blame them? They are on vacation and probably having a good time! Now you can pretend to be an out of town gawker, even at the party just down the street. Show off your savvy travel tricks in this silly Adult Tacky Tourist Costume!

Product Details

This jumpsuit has all the tacky details your heart could desire! Long, baggy khaki shorts are attached to an overly bright, Hawaiian style shirt. A bit of wire around the middle gives you that good food overload vacation bod! This suit is great on its own, but the best part is letting your imagination run wild with the accessories! Throw on some socks and sandals, or put on a large hat and sunglasses. Smear excessive amounts of sunscreen on your nose. A fanny pack and a selfie stick wouldn't look out of place, either! You can mix and match to your heart's content. Check out our website to find some of these perfect travel accessories!

Fun in the Sun

No matter how chilly the day of the event, there's always sun and beachy air when you wear this tourist suit! It could be fun to wander around your town and gawk at the sights—and have people gawk at you!

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