There’s lots of famous stuff in Tinseltown, from legendary movie lots to theme parks and the chance to spot an A-lister just walking down the street. The Hollywood sign may be iconic, but it’s illegal to get too close – it’s actually privately owned by a non-profit. You can hike up to it, and take some pictures, but that’s about it.
It’s an interesting view to see from afar, but your time in Hollywood will best be spent at the world-famous attractions like museums, restaurants, and shopping centers.
Have You Ever Heard of the Middle of Nowhere?
We've all wanted to be in four states at once. It's on my bucket list, that's for sure. Luckily, the Four Corners Monument, stationed right at the meeting of Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico, means it can really be done. It's the only place in the United States where four pieces of the union get to meet.
Unfortunately, there's literally nothing else to see there. You can take photos, but guess what? There's no cell service or wi-fi. There are even suspicions that the monument doesn't accurately display the proper borders, which takes the thrill away even more.
Let Freedom Ring – From Afar
It's an enduring symbol that almost every American has heard about. The Liberty Bell was famously rung after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, but the bell has been around since 1752 and has a large crack down the middle, which developed during the 19th century.
You can visit it in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While colonial fans and history buffs might enjoy their time, it's impossible to get too close to the bell, and others may find the long lines just to take a picture of a piece of metal less enjoyable.
Over-development, the Modern Scourge
You might not notice it, but Hawaii is a place for lots of tourists. There's lots of amazing stuff to do, but Waikiki Beach – possibly one of the most famous stretches of sandy beach and beautiful water the island chain possesses, might be a place to avoid.
It's brimming with luxury hotels, pricey shops, and chain restaurants, all of which can be found in lots of other places, places you didn't have to fly to. Visitors are recommended to instead visit the Na Pali Coast in Kauai, Lanai Lookout in Oahu, or Pipiwai Trail in Maui.
If You Don't Like Aliens, You Can Leave
If you're anywhere near Roswell, New Mexico, you're sure to know all about it quickly. Thanks to a 1947 weather balloon crash, theories of alien UFOs, abductions, experiments, and much more are still leaping across the world. Now the town is little more than a huge tourist attraction and alien enthusiast sanctuary.
Everything is alien or space-themed, and everyone who spends any amount of time there is sure to be crazy for the grays and greens of classic science-fiction stories. If you're just passing through, be sure to do it quickly.