New York Attraction Named One of World’s Worst Tourist Traps

Who doesn’t get excited when they’re driving down the road and see a random set of fishtails popping out of the ground along the highway (Vermont) or a ginormous basket office building (Longaberger in Cleveland)? We all do, even if some of us play it more cool than others.

Some roadside attractions are just better off viewed from the seat of your moving vehicle. Then, there are the attractions that are just straight-up money-sucking tourist traps that should be avoided at all costs.

Cheapism put together a list of the worst of the worst tourist traps in the United States and the top awful attraction in New York doesn’t come as much of a shock.

According to Cheapism, amid all of the incredible attractions and museums that can be found scattered throughout New York, the very worst tourist traps in the United States is one that garnered criticism and disdain from travel bloggers: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in Times Square.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, a chain museum known for its lifelike celebrity wax figures, has been deemed by many as an overpriced tourist trap. With an admission fee of around $44, visitors are left questioning whether the experience is truly worth the cost. Travel bloggers have expressed disappointment, claiming that the museum offers nothing unique or special to visitors of New York the Big Apple.

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In a city renowned for its iconic landmarks and world-class museums, it's not surprising that travelers are quick to point out the shortcomings of Madame Tussauds. New York City boasts world-famous institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim Museum, each offering unparalleled collections and immersive experiences.

While these museums showcase the best of art, history, and culture, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum falls short in comparison. Its focus on celebrity figures and generic interactive exhibits fails to capture the essence and soul of New York City.

Fortunately, there are plenty of alternative options for those looking for affordable and meaningful museum experiences in New York. The city is home to numerous hidden gems and lesser-known cultural institutions that offer unique perspectives on art, history, and the city itself. From the Tenement Museum highlighting immigrant life on the Lower East Side to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum showcasing maritime and aviation history, there is no shortage of fascinating and engaging museums to explore.