Top 10 Overrated Tourist Traps in Florida

Overrated Tourist Traps in Florida

1. Everglades Alligator Farm

Located in Homestead, Florida, this commercial alligator farm showcases alligators through shows and exhibits. While it offers a glimpse into these fascinating creatures, critics argue it exploits animals and presents a staged, unnatural environment.

Alternative: Visit the Everglades National Park instead. Immerse yourself in the natural Everglades ecosystem through hiking, camping, airboat tours, and wildlife observation in its natural habitat.

2. Wall Drug

Located in South Dakota, not Florida, this iconic roadside attraction is known for its kitschy charm and exaggerated claims of being "the world's best drugstore." While it can be a fun stop for some, it's primarily a large souvenir shop with limited historical value, especially considering its location error.

3. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Situated on Merritt Island, Florida, this complex offers tours, exhibits, and simulations related to the U.S. space program. However, its high cost, crowds, and focus on entertainment over historical accuracy might not be ideal for everyone.

Alternative: Check out the Astronaut Hall of Fame & Museum in Titusville, Florida. This museum delves deeper into the history of American astronauts and the space program, offering a more personal and intimate experience.

4. Naples

This city on the Gulf Coast of Florida is known for its upscale shops, restaurants, and beaches. While undeniably beautiful, Naples can be pretty expensive, with prices exceeding the value of the experience, especially compared to other Florida destinations.

Alternative: Consider Bonita Springs, a charming beach town north of Naples. It offers a similar coastal experience with a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices.

5. International Drive in Orlando

This central tourist strip in Orlando is lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions like miniature golf courses and Ripley's Believe It or Not! While it can be a fun spot for some, it's often crowded, overpriced, and lacks the cultural or historical significance found elsewhere in Florida.

6. The Conch Train Tour in Key West

This narrated train tour takes visitors through the historic streets of Key West. However, the time can be slow, repetitive, and expensive, and the information provided might be readily available online or through other, more engaging means.

Alternative: Explore Key West on foot or bike. This allows you to experience the town at your own pace, stopping at points of interest and soaking in the unique atmosphere.

7. Miami Beach

While the beaches and Art Deco architecture are undeniably stunning, Miami Beach can be pretty expensive and overcrowded, with the focus often placed on nightlife and partying.

Alternative: Explore alternative beach towns like Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, or Cocoa Beach. These offer a similar beach experience with a more relaxed vibe and potentially lower costs.

8. St. Augustine Ghost Tours

These tours take visitors on haunted walks through the historic streets of St. Augustine, often incorporating storytelling and theatrics. While they can be entertaining, the historical accuracy of the ghost stories is often questionable, and the experience might not be suitable for young children.

9. Shell Factories

Scattered throughout Florida, these factories sell mass-produced souvenirs from shells, often not locally sourced or handcrafted. These items can be overpriced and contribute to environmental concerns related to excessive shell collecting.

Alternative: Support local artisans and businesses by purchasing unique, handcrafted souvenirs from street vendors or small shops.

10. Underwater Walking Tours

Offered in various locations in Florida, these tours allow participants to walk along the seabed while wearing a helmet. However, the environmental impact of these tours is a growing concern, and the restricted movement and controlled environment might not provide the best underwater experience.

Alternative: Consider snorkeling or scuba diving with a reputable company prioritizing eco-friendly practices and responsible tourism.

It's important to remember that these are just a few examples, and what one person considers a tourist trap might be another person's favorite destination. The key is to research, consider your interests and budget, and choose experiences that will be most enjoyable and fulfilling for you.