No one plans to jump from one tourist trap to the next when visiting a new place. And yet, nearly 9 in 10 Americans admit to having been in a tourist trap in the past year, according to a recent study by PhotoAiD.
What makes a tourist trap? Usually it’s unnecessarily high prices, long queues, a lack of cultural authenticity and a souvenir shop full of things you definitely don’t need but suddenly feel like you absolutely have to have.
Nearly 70 percent of travelers felt that visiting a tourist trap detracted from their overall experience. However, it can also be nice to accept that something may be popular for a reason. The top reasons survey respondents gave for visiting a tourist trap included that friends and family wanted to go there, that the place was highly recommended in guidebooks, reviews and on social media, that there was curiosity and personal interest, and that the so-called tourist trap is considered a landmark. After all, is it even a trip to Paris if you don’t go to the Eiffel Tower?
The key may be to choose wisely. With that in mind, we own up to the “tourist trap” label. If you’re visiting Boston, accept the inevitable and put these five “tourist traps” at the top of your list.
Union Oyster House
Located on the Freedom Trail, America’s oldest operating restaurant and oyster bar boasts nearly 200 years of history. The food has been loved by generations of diners, not to mention the Kennedys. History runs through the veins of Union Oyster House and it’s worth stopping by for a bite.
The North End and Mike’s Pastry
The North End is a perfect example of an area that’s crowded because you just can’t miss it. The authenticity of a true Italian neighborhood hasn’t been lost in the years of tourist traffic, and while you may have to push your way through the street and bump into crowds to enjoy a traditional feast, your taste buds will thank you. And Mike’s Pastry makes really great cannoli.
Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall’s modern design was created with tourists in mind, but that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it. The historic hall has been a marketplace for over 270 years, and the current dining options cater to every taste. The lively street performers and shopping street offer fun for the whole family.
Jessica Rinaldi/Globe Staff Writer
Boston Duck Tours
Aside from a potential loss of dignity at being asked to quack in public, Boston Duck Tours are a classic experience for tourists and locals alike. A step up from a bus tour, the vehicle showcases Boston’s most famous landmarks by traveling on both land and water, providing an experience like no other.
USS Constitution Museum
Museums can be a gamble, especially when traveling with young children, but a visit to the USS Constitution can spark a full day of sightseeing adventures. Take the water taxi from Long Wharf and enjoy a ride through the harbor. Come to the Charlestown Navy Yard, where the Constitution is moored and history buffs and kids alike will enjoy exploring the oldest commissioned ship in the U.S. Navy.
You can reach Claudie Bellanger at [email protected].
