You know those attractions that you just have to go to, because they've been hyped up so much? Then you get there only to learn it doesn't live up to the buzz. That my friends, is the epitome of a tourist trap.

We've all been there. I specifically remember being SO excited to go to Wall Drug in South Dakota. Giant billboards pumping us up every mile as we got closer and closer. I literally just had to go to Google for a reminder as to what was there, that's how unremarkable it was to me. Sorry, I said what I said. BUT, apparently other people feel the same way, because Wall Drug is also named one of the worst tourist traps in the US.

How were the worst tourist traps determined? Cheapism talked to travel bloggers and industry professionals, along with reading online reviews to identify the tourist traps in every state.

Some are iconic locales now overrun or overrated. Others lure road trippers out of the way of their intended destinations. They might be cheesy, inauthentic, overpriced, crowded, boring, ugly, or just plain not worth the time. - Cheapism.

So, let's get to it. What is the worst tourist trap in Minnesota? Before we get to that, let's take a peak at our neighbor states, because lord knows we've all been to these attractions as well.

Iowa: Spook Cave

"There's not a whole lot to see here, folks — that's one of the primary criticisms of Spook Cave. An escorted boat tour of a flooded cave in McGregor (May through October) does give visitors a chance to learn about the history of limestone in the region and view stalactites. Whether that's worth $16 for adults and $11 for children is the question. There's also a pricey gift shop." - Cheapism. 

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Wisconsin: The Dells

"The Wisconsin Dells area is a tourist trap to end all tourist traps, with tacky water parks and wacky attractions now divorced from the namesake rock formations that originally drew sightseers. Even a breathless write-up on Roadside America admits, 'At times the Dells seems like a ravenous snake, swallowing tourists whole, digesting their lump of vacation energy and disposable income." - Cheapism. 

Also See: Two Popular Minnesota Attractions Make World's Most Boring List

And finally, Minnesota: Mall of America

"The Mall of America attracts 40 million visitors in a typical year with chain stores that most people probably have near their hometowns. Some of the biggest draws have high prices: $50 for a day at Nickelodeon Universe, around $24 at the aquarium, and $28 a person for the Crayola Experience. One saving grace: No tax on clothing in Minnesota." - Cheapism. 

Ouch! Some harsh things being said about the nearby tourist traps. What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with Cheapism?

To see the entire list, click here. 

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Weirdest Tourist Traps Even the Locals Love in South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa

I don't know if everyone will agree with the writers at Thrillist Travelabout which tourist attractions are the weirdest in the tri-state area.

I mean there are so many strange things to see when you travel. From giant pheasants and fish to giant balls of twine, there's no shortage of kooky, kitsch in the tri-state area.


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