7 overrated tourist destinations that will be less popular in 2024 and where to go instead

August 2024 · 5 minute read

As a travel planner, I've witnessed shifts in tourist trends — so I've gotten pretty good at discerning when a "hot spot" is overrated.

This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.

Here are overrated tourist destinations I think will lose some popularity in 2024 — and where you might want to visit instead.

The busy streets of Hollywood can get in the way of a successful trip.

Los Angeles isn't at the top of my list for 2024 travel. LeoPatrizi/Getty Images.

California's Hollywood, known for its Walk of Fame and appeal to aspiring actors and film enthusiasts, often disappoints in reality.

Although Hollywood has famous charm and history, its hectic streets and constant bustle can hinder visitors from a fun experience.

Glitzy premieres and celebrity sightings are sporadic, and day-to-day life is more chaotic than glamorous.

Cinema enthusiasts can instead explore lesser-known gems or attend film festivals in smaller towns like Austin, Texas.

And film lovers can visit Sedona, Arizona, or Savannah, Georgia, where some classic movies were shot.

For a fun Florida experience, look beyond the glamour of Miami Beach.

I find Miami Beach overrated compared to other Florida destinations. Alexander Demyanenko/Shutterstock

Miami Beach's popularity has turned the once serene coastline into a lively party destination.

The constant activity and crowded clubs, especially around South Beach, can overshadow the tranquility that many seek in a coastal retreat.

Instead, head north to Fort Lauderdale's quieter beaches or discover the beauty of Sanibel Island.

If you want to avoid the bustling nightlife, dive further into local culture by dining at family-owned restaurants and visiting charming cities like Coral Gables and St. Augustine.

The Las Vegas Strip is becoming less original.

Las Vegas, Nevada, seems to be getting clichéd and overcrowded. Westend61/Getty Images

Las Vegas, known for its dazzling lights and iconic Strip, has long been synonymous with extravagance and excess. But the neon-lit boulevard can lead to a somewhat clichéd experience.

The crowded casinos, ubiquitous slot machines, and over-the-top performances can leave visitors feeling like they've stepped into a well-rehearsed production rather than a unique travel adventure.

Instead, venture beyond the Strip to explore the Arts District, where colorful murals adorn the streets and avant-garde galleries showcase local artists. Or embrace the city's culinary scene fueled by innovative chefs in Downtown Las Vegas.

If you want to escape the frenetic energy of the casinos entirely, check out the serene beauty of Nevada's natural wonders, like Red Rock Canyon and the Valley of Fire State Park.

The Broadway bar scene in Nashville, Tennessee, can be overwhelming.

Lower Broadway in Nashville, Tennessee, overshadows its surrounding areas. f11photo/Shutterstock

Nashville, renowned as the Music City, has a magnetic draw, especially along the vibrant stretch of Broadway.

But large crowds and loud, honky-tonk bars can distract visitors from the diverse music scene and culture.

I recommend checking out some spots beyond Lower Broadway that offer a more nuanced perspective of the city.

Catch a local musician in a more intimate venue in neighborhoods like East Nashville or 12South, dive into the city's rich history at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, or explore the eclectic art scene in areas like The Gulch.

Historic streets in Charleston, South Carolina, have become jam-packed with visitors.

Charleston, South Carolina, has become overly popular, diminishing its charm. Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Charleston's Historic District, with cobblestone streets and colorful architecture, is undeniably charming.

But the city's popularity has led to packed streets and attractions, which can detract from an authentic Southern trip.

I recommend the areas surrounding Charleston, like Mount Pleasant or Sullivan's Island, which show off the state's history at a more relaxed pace.

These spots also give tourists access to local seafood markets and serene waterfront vistas.

There's more to see in San Francisco than the Golden Gate Bridge.

San Francisco, California, is surrounded by calmer areas that are still amazing. Sergii Figurnyi/Shutterstock

San Francisco's crowded attractions, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, often overshadow the city's cultural and artistic scene.

I recommend venturing beyond the well-known paths for a less stressful trip.

Explore the Mission District's colorful murals and vibrant art scene, or embrace the cuisine of North Beach and the Outer Sunset.

To me, these alternative areas offer a better feel of the city.

Times Square seems like a must-see, but it's an overcrowded NYC tourist spot.

Times Square, New York City, can be overcrowded and hectic. Luciano Mortula - LGM/Shutterstock

Time Square has a bit of a magnetic pull. But the sea of people, blinding lights of towering billboards, and constant hustle and bustle can be overwhelming.

For a less intense visit to New York, explore the charm of Greenwich Village's historic brownstones, the stunning views along DUMBO's cobblestone streets, or the lively jazz scene in Harlem.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o8HSoqWeq6Oeu7S1w56pZ5ufony1vsipqmasn2Kut7vInWSipl1nfXOAjKitnqqilsGmsIydnKysmaOutbXOp6pmrKKWw6a4jKmjmqaemr8%3D