Study Says a Popular Southeastern Attraction is a Tourist Trap

A new study has named the most popular tourist traps in the world -- as well as in the U.S. -- and you may be surprised about which Southeastern location made the list.

Photo byCourtesy of Elvis Presley's Graceland

PhotoAiD surveyed 1,002 Americans to find out more about why tourists choose certain attractions, and which attractions tourists feel are "tourist traps."

One of the key takeaways during their survey included what the top factors went into labeling a spot as a "tourist trap." According to the survey, a place was labeled a "tourist trap" by visitors for its above-average pricing (30%), having amenities specifically tailored for tourists (28%), and its lack of cultural authenticity (27%).

With those factors in mind, PhotoAiD asked the survey participants which well-known spots in the world were considered the worst tourist traps. Here's what the survey found...

1. Skylon Tower (Niagara Falls, Canada)
2. Moulin Rouge (Paris, France)
3. Blue Lagoon (Grindavik, Iceland)
4. Checkpoint Charlie (Berlin, Germany)
5. Capilano Suspension Bridge (Vancouver, Canada)
6. Hobbiton Movie Set (Waikato, New Zealand)
7. Guinness Storehouse (Dublin, Ireland)

Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls, Canada, claimed the top spot with about 10% of the vote. Visitors felt like although the views were amazing, the long wait times and expense made it feel "trappy", especially considering there are nearby viewpoints that offer similar views with less crowds and a smaller price tag.

Now, focusing on the United States only...which spots did guests feel seemed the most like tourist traps? Hint: a Southeastern attraction made the list. Here's what the survey found...

1. Fisherman's Wharf (San Francisco, CA)
2. Winchester Mystery House (California)
3. International UFO Museum and Research Center (Roswell, NM)
4. Calico Ghost Town (California)
5. Pike Place Market (Seattle, WA)
6. Elvis Presley's Graceland (Memphis, TN)
7. Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory (Vermont)

Fisherman's Wharf was named the most "trappy" in the U.S. Guests felt like the iconic attraction is pretty crowded and is home to too many overpriced eateries. And, as you can see, Elvis Presley's Graceland in Memphis made the list too. Many guests just felt like it was too crowded and overpriced.

Now, just because an attraction is considered a tourist trap, doesn't necessarily mean you should avoid it...just know what you're getting into.

To see the study in its entirety, including what actionable steps you can take to avoid tourist traps, click HERE.

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