19 U.S. Tourist Traps That Are Draining Your Texas Bank Account

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a vacation. New sights. New food. New “must-do” activities around every corner.

But some destination getaways are designed to cash in on your curiosity.

Before Texans know it, they’ve spent more than they planned on things they didn’t really need. Here are some of America’s biggest wallet drains, plus smarter ways to enjoy them.

Times Square Souvenir Shops, New York City

Times Square is a whirlwind of neon and noise. It’s thrilling, until you walk into one of its glittering souvenir shops.

Inside, you’ll find racks of mugs, shirts, and keychains that look special until you realize they’re mass-produced imports.

Many of these items can be found in other parts of the city for much less.

Street vendors sometimes add “exclusive” stickers to generic trinkets to make them look local. It’s a marketing move, not a quality upgrade.

If you want keepsakes, head toward neighborhoods like Chinatown or the East Village. You’ll still get a slice of New York charm, without the markup.

Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood Stands, San Francisco

The scent of sizzling crab and garlic butter is enough to pull anyone in. But not every “fresh” seafood plate here is fresh from the bay.

Many stalls bulk up servings with bread, fries, or lettuce. You’ll think you’re getting a feast until you notice how little seafood is actually on the plate.

Locals often bypass the waterfront entirely for small family-owned spots a few blocks inland.

The food is better, and you don’t have to elbow through crowds.

South Beach Drink Specials, Miami

Oversized margaritas, glowing martinis, and music spilling into the street, South Beach sells the vacation fantasy perfectly.

But those “special” drinks are often just a mix of sugary mixers with a splash of liquor.

A block or two inland, bars serve stronger, better drinks in normal glasses. The vibe is still lively, but your tab won’t sting as much.

If you want the photo op, split one of the giant cocktails with a friend. The picture will look the same, and you’ll avoid the sugar crash.

Mall of America Novelty Rides, Minnesota

Mall of America isn’t just for buying clothes: The indoor amusement park draws kids and adults alike. But it’s easy to blow your budget there without even realizing it.

All-day wristbands sound like a deal until you calculate how many rides you actually have time for.

Locals tend to skip the rides entirely and treat the mall as a people-watching spot.

If you want thrills, a dedicated theme park will often give you more rides for the same time commitment.

Pike Place Market “World-Famous” Coffee, Seattle

The original Starbucks is practically a pilgrimage site for coffee lovers. But here’s the secret: The coffee tastes exactly like it does at any other Starbucks.

What you’re really buying is the bragging rights and the photo of the storefront. The hour-long line is part of the story, not the flavor.

If you truly want a memorable Seattle coffee experience, visit one of the many local roasters nearby.
They often roast beans right in front of you.

You can still swing by the original store for your picture, but drink your latte somewhere new.

Walk of Fame Tours, Hollywood

The stars on Hollywood’s sidewalk are free to admire. Unfortunately, so are the aggressive tour sellers lining the block.

Many tours promise celebrity homes and “secret” filming locations.

In reality, most of this info can be found online, and the buses often pass by properties so quickly you can barely see them.

On foot, you can explore at your own pace and pop into small shops without being herded along.

If you want a real Hollywood moment, try to get free tickets to a live taping. It’s far more memorable than a blurry photo of a celebrity driveway.

Conch Fritter Stands, Key West

The smell of fried batter and seafood drifts down Duval Street.

Conch fritters are a local specialty, but not all are created equal. Some stands pad their batter with more dough than seafood.

The result? A heavy, underwhelming bite that’s more filler than flavor.

Ask locals where they go for fritters. You’ll likely be sent to a small bar or café a few blocks off the main drag.

If you want something lighter, try conch salad or ceviche. It feels fresher, tastes tangier, and is a lot more refreshing in the Florida heat.

Niagara Falls Wax Museum of History, New York

Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful sights in North America. Which makes it odd that so many visitors spend their time indoors looking at wax figures.

Many tourists say the museum feels dated, with celebrity figures that barely resemble the real people.

Your time is better spent on one of the free riverside trails or scenic overlooks.

If you want an indoor activity, choose a museum that teaches you about the history and geology of the falls.

You came for the roar of the water, not the smell of candle wax.

Bourbon Street Beads and Drinks, New Orleans

Bourbon Street thrives on spectacle. The music, costumes, and bead-throwing are unlike anywhere else.

But the same plastic beads handed out during Mardi Gras are sold to tourists year-round, often for several times what they’re worth.

A short walk to Frenchmen Street will still get you great live music without the chaos.

Plus, you’ll likely meet more locals than tourists.

And if you want beads, plan your trip for Mardi Gras season. They’re free, plentiful, and come with better stories.

Mini Golf, Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is the mini-golf capital of the world (yes, really!). The courses are colorful, creative, and everywhere you look.

But the novelty comes at a cost, especially if kids convince you to play “just one more” round.

If your group just wants some family fun, pick one course and make it a big event. Add a stop for ice cream afterward instead of another round of golf.

It’s probably easier on your budget, and you’ll still leave with fun memories.

Pancake Houses, Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is famous for its pancake breakfasts. The lines outside the most popular spots stretch down the block.

Inside, you’re greeted with themed décor and stacks of fluffy pancakes. But the experience can be slow and pricey compared to lesser-known diners nearby.

Ask a local where they go for breakfast. Chances are, it’s a small café that serves bigger portions without the wait.

If you still want to try a famous spot, go as soon as they open. You’ll beat the rush and have the rest of the morning free.

Resort Fees in Las Vegas

Las Vegas hotels are notorious for their “bargain” rates that double once fees are added.

The resort fee often covers things like Wi-Fi, a pool, and gym access, even if you don’t use them.

To avoid this, look for hotels that advertise no resort fees, or consider staying off the Strip.

The best defense against surprise charges is reading the fine print before you book.

In Vegas, the house doesn’t just win at the casino.

Alcatraz Souvenir Photos, San Francisco

The boat ride to Alcatraz is a memorable experience.

But before you board, photographers will stop you for a picture, whether you want one or not.

Later, you’ll be shown the print in a nice folder and encouraged to buy it. It’s an easy upsell, and many visitors give in for the keepsake.

Save your money and ask a fellow tourist to snap your picture with your own phone or camera.

You’ll still capture the moment, minus the pressure.

Navy Pier Attractions, Chicago

Navy Pier’s skyline view is stunning. Walking the pier itself is free and worth doing.

But the rides, shows, and restaurants add up fast. Even parking can cost more than you expect.

Plan ahead by choosing one or two attractions to splurge on, and skip the rest. That way, you can enjoy the pier without feeling like you’re being charged for breathing.

And don’t forget, some of the best views in Chicago are free from nearby parks along the lakefront.

Mount Rushmore Gift Shops in South Dakota

Mount Rushmore itself is free to see. The surrounding gift shops?

Not so much.

You’ll find plenty of shirts, mugs, and magnets, many of which aren’t even made in South Dakota. The higher prices here reflect the location, not necessarily the quality.

Drive to nearby towns and you’ll often find the exact same souvenirs for less.

Or better yet, take home something handmade by a local artisan. It’s a more personal reminder of your trip.

Theme Park Parking in Orlando

The excitement of visiting one of Orlando’s theme parks fades quickly when you see the parking fees. Worst of all?

There’s no discount for arriving late or leaving early.

Hotels with free shuttles can save you both money and the hassle of navigating crowded lots.

Some annual passes also include free parking, worth considering if you plan multiple visits.

Otherwise, budget for parking as part of your ticket cost so you’re not caught off guard.

Salem Witch Trial Souvenirs in Massachusetts

Salem’s witch-themed shops are a tourist favorite. But many of the “authentic” items are mass-produced overseas.

The better finds are usually tucked away in small, independent stores.

Think handmade candles, soaps, or jewelry with a local touch.

Not only are these more unique, but they also support the community instead of a chain gift shop.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours in Arizona

Helicopter tours over the Grand Canyon promise jaw-dropping views. And they deliver, for a high price and a short ride.

The park’s hiking trails and overlooks offer equally stunning vistas without the time limit.

Rafting trips down the Colorado River are another unforgettable, and often longer, alternative.

Save the splurge for something truly once-in-a-lifetime.

The Grand Canyon will still take your breath away from ground level.

Hawaii Airport Lei Stands

Getting off the plane in Hawaii and receiving a lei feels magical.

Airport stands know this, and charge for the convenience.

Shops in town sell fresher leis for less, and you can choose from a wider variety of flowers.