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Top American Destinations To Avoid In 2013
Here's the thing, though: I'm a pretty open-minded traveler. I've had plenty of unpleasant run-ins, transportation failures and otherwise terrible experiences – it comes with the territory. But I'm also not one to throw an entire city into the negative category. Instead, I took the most complained about places and looked into why they have a stigma, and conversely, wrote about what might make the social media users change their minds. Maybe the bad taste in these travelers' mouths will never go away, but hopefully this will end up changing some perceptions.
Detroit, Michigan
Complaint: "just plain depressing"
The Point: Once one of America's most prosperous cities, today Detroit seems more like a post-industrial ruin. Corrupt city officials, economic decline and budget mismanagement have caused law and order to break down in the city. In October, the Detroit Police Officers union went so far as to warn visitors to enter the city "at their own risk," and ALT (Alternative Luxury Travel) travel agency called Detroit the "Most Dangerous U.S. City to Visit for Gay Travelers" because of its increase in crime and the shuttering of a high number of landmark gay bars.
The Counterpoint: If you're looking for trouble in Detroit, you can easily find it – but that doesn't mean it will find you. The city still has a thriving music, art and theater scene, drawing creatives from around the country and world to live and visit here. And if you like cars, you can visit museums dedicated to both Ford and Chrysler, take a tour of the former estates of auto barons, or check out one of the many automobile-related annual events. There is still a lot of hope for this city, and earlier this year Gadling even wrote about it as a sustainable city to watch.
Reno, Nevada
Complaint: "ZERO attempt at a culture"
The Point: Reno makes the list of cities to avoid because, as one Twitter user put it, "it felt like where old gamblers go to die." It bills itself as the second largest tourist town in Nevada, and can't seem to shake the runner-up epithet of a tame, rundown version of Las Vegas. Most people sell the city by pointing out how close it is to Tahoe, which isn't really a reason to stay in Reno at all.
The Counterpoint: If you don't like casinos – Reno's number one tourist attraction – it might seem you are in trouble. The truth is, this city has the same good eats, music, nightlife and boutiques you find in any other major metropolitan areas – you just have to search a little harder to find the gems. The Nevada Museum of Art also has a surprisingly prestigious collection and is well worth a visit (even if it's just to kill some time during your layover to another destination). Yes, the pace of life is slower here than other major metropolitan areas, but many visitors might find that a redeeming quality instead of a negative one.
Daytona Beach, Florida
Complaint: "dodging trucks that were allowed to drive on the beach"
The Point: When you imagine a day along the shore, you probably don't conjure images of laying your beach towel next to cars and trucks. On parts of Daytona Beach, automobiles are allowed to park in the sand during select hours of the day, making the beach vibe turn from tropical to tailgating party.
The Counterpoint: Here's the thing: Daytona Beach is the home of NASCAR, so if you're visiting for a racing event, you probably don't mind a few cars on the beach. In fact, you might even enjoy the novelty of it. If you're not into it, that's OK too: there are plenty of other stretches of sand in for you to discover.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Complaint: "boring and flat"
The Point: Salt Lake City doesn't top many travel bucket lists, mostly because the local culture isn't too supportive of those who like to imbibe. Just a few years ago, the capital of Utah lifted a prohibition that limited the number of bars on each city block to two, but the city can't seem to escape the conservative stigma.
The Counterpoint: Fostered in part by the Sundance Film Festival, Salt Lake City has a growing film and art scene. Summer visitors can watch live bands outdoors during the annual Twilight Concert Series, and those who come in winter should know that the city is known for its close proximity to the slopes – 14 ski resorts are within an hour of Salt Lake City. Year round, the city has many small businesses worth seeking out, which makes it a great destination for those looking to skip chain restaurants and big box stores. And if your complaint is that the city is flat, take a trip to the nearby Bonneville Salt Flats, and you might be surprised to find out how beautiful a flat landscape can be.
Los Angeles, California
Complaint: "smoggy and snooty"
The Point: Los Angeles is notorious for its smog, a haze produced by millions of vehicles operating in a low basin surrounded by mountains. It's also an expensive place to visit, and the people who live there have a reputation as struggling actors, models and rock stars who will do anything to get ahead.
The Counterpoint: Multiple California government agencies have been working to reduce smog. It's still a major problem, but it's not a reason to avoid the city's numerous landmarks and other attractions. Besides, the nearly 4 million people who live there don't seem to be too turned off by it. And that sheer number of people discredits the "snooty" point. Choose your company wisely and you can avoid self-important people with stars in their eyes – or at least learn to roll your own eyes and walk away.
Do you echo these social media users' sentiments, or can you get behind one of the cities above? Similarly, if you had a bad experience in a U.S. city and think it should be on the list, let Gadling readers know in the comments below.
Editor's note: In an earlier version of this article, the population of Los Angeles was incorrectly identified. The article has been updated to accurately reflect the current population of the city.
[Photo credit: Flickr user Ben Amstutz]
Complaint: "just plain depressing"
The Point: Once one of America's most prosperous cities, today Detroit seems more like a post-industrial ruin. Corrupt city officials, economic decline and budget mismanagement have caused law and order to break down in the city. In October, the Detroit Police Officers union went so far as to warn visitors to enter the city "at their own risk," and ALT (Alternative Luxury Travel) travel agency called Detroit the "Most Dangerous U.S. City to Visit for Gay Travelers" because of its increase in crime and the shuttering of a high number of landmark gay bars.
The Counterpoint: If you're looking for trouble in Detroit, you can easily find it – but that doesn't mean it will find you. The city still has a thriving music, art and theater scene, drawing creatives from around the country and world to live and visit here. And if you like cars, you can visit museums dedicated to both Ford and Chrysler, take a tour of the former estates of auto barons, or check out one of the many automobile-related annual events. There is still a lot of hope for this city, and earlier this year Gadling even wrote about it as a sustainable city to watch.
Reno, Nevada
Complaint: "ZERO attempt at a culture"
The Point: Reno makes the list of cities to avoid because, as one Twitter user put it, "it felt like where old gamblers go to die." It bills itself as the second largest tourist town in Nevada, and can't seem to shake the runner-up epithet of a tame, rundown version of Las Vegas. Most people sell the city by pointing out how close it is to Tahoe, which isn't really a reason to stay in Reno at all.
The Counterpoint: If you don't like casinos – Reno's number one tourist attraction – it might seem you are in trouble. The truth is, this city has the same good eats, music, nightlife and boutiques you find in any other major metropolitan areas – you just have to search a little harder to find the gems. The Nevada Museum of Art also has a surprisingly prestigious collection and is well worth a visit (even if it's just to kill some time during your layover to another destination). Yes, the pace of life is slower here than other major metropolitan areas, but many visitors might find that a redeeming quality instead of a negative one.
Daytona Beach, Florida
Complaint: "dodging trucks that were allowed to drive on the beach"
The Point: When you imagine a day along the shore, you probably don't conjure images of laying your beach towel next to cars and trucks. On parts of Daytona Beach, automobiles are allowed to park in the sand during select hours of the day, making the beach vibe turn from tropical to tailgating party.
The Counterpoint: Here's the thing: Daytona Beach is the home of NASCAR, so if you're visiting for a racing event, you probably don't mind a few cars on the beach. In fact, you might even enjoy the novelty of it. If you're not into it, that's OK too: there are plenty of other stretches of sand in for you to discover.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Complaint: "boring and flat"
The Point: Salt Lake City doesn't top many travel bucket lists, mostly because the local culture isn't too supportive of those who like to imbibe. Just a few years ago, the capital of Utah lifted a prohibition that limited the number of bars on each city block to two, but the city can't seem to escape the conservative stigma.
The Counterpoint: Fostered in part by the Sundance Film Festival, Salt Lake City has a growing film and art scene. Summer visitors can watch live bands outdoors during the annual Twilight Concert Series, and those who come in winter should know that the city is known for its close proximity to the slopes – 14 ski resorts are within an hour of Salt Lake City. Year round, the city has many small businesses worth seeking out, which makes it a great destination for those looking to skip chain restaurants and big box stores. And if your complaint is that the city is flat, take a trip to the nearby Bonneville Salt Flats, and you might be surprised to find out how beautiful a flat landscape can be.
Los Angeles, California
Complaint: "smoggy and snooty"
The Point: Los Angeles is notorious for its smog, a haze produced by millions of vehicles operating in a low basin surrounded by mountains. It's also an expensive place to visit, and the people who live there have a reputation as struggling actors, models and rock stars who will do anything to get ahead.
The Counterpoint: Multiple California government agencies have been working to reduce smog. It's still a major problem, but it's not a reason to avoid the city's numerous landmarks and other attractions. Besides, the nearly 4 million people who live there don't seem to be too turned off by it. And that sheer number of people discredits the "snooty" point. Choose your company wisely and you can avoid self-important people with stars in their eyes – or at least learn to roll your own eyes and walk away.
Do you echo these social media users' sentiments, or can you get behind one of the cities above? Similarly, if you had a bad experience in a U.S. city and think it should be on the list, let Gadling readers know in the comments below.
Editor's note: In an earlier version of this article, the population of Los Angeles was incorrectly identified. The article has been updated to accurately reflect the current population of the city.
[Photo credit: Flickr user Ben Amstutz]
Filed under: Arts and Culture, History, Learning, Skiing, Surfing, Festivals and Events, Food and Drink, North America, United States
Reader Comments (Page 5 of 11)
Alexandra Jan 8th 2013 4:20PM
Libby, your article is misinforming people of the many places that you wrote. To start, you have done a poor research of the every states mentioned; let start with the United States of America, simply as it's title unity of states. Each states are as if they were their own country with it's own major cities, history,way of life, etc ... An yes we need to learn to respect the opinions of others because we want them to come here and appreciate what we have to offer.
So Lily, when you write an article of any states you should not take it from a ONE negative perspective at all. Of course you are allowed to give it's negative aspect as part to keep vigilant when visiting. For starer with Reno, Nevada ... you should have done your homework in acquiring knowledge how this city started and see its' beauty. It is a nice place to enjoy a more relax atmosphere and de-stress your being in a happy mode. In regard to Salt Lake City, you contradict as how this place was praised as one of the best city to bring-up families, it has a lot to offer throughout the year! Now, in regard to Los Angeles CA. You must be envious. This one city that has beauty beyond due to it's people from all over the world. It is right that it does have smog/fog but it is not every day or that every single soul here are snobs. This is one city where you can bump into actors on bus, train, restaurants, shops and they are as everyone of us. This city have so many wonderful communities from all over ... Aside of the museums in DC, L.A. has been the only city that I know that offer free admission in various museums, parks, campgrounds, free events ... L.a. has so much to offer you just have to look a bit harder and take chance to go and enjoy new things in very unique sub-cities .... There is so much more! YOu probably be there life time and not finish to do every bit of things of fun!
So Lily, do spend more than a few minutes, hours or days before judging a place, it's people and their communities.
Bruce Jan 8th 2013 4:32PM
I lived in Utah for 25 years. Formerly from the SF Bay area and truthfully, 20 years ago this journalist might be correct, at least from her first perspective of the city. But, I think you'll see a dramatic change in the culture (FYI: There are more non-Mormons in SLC than Mormons), though I enjoyed and had many Later Day Saints members as friends. The point, if you like to recreate, there's something for everyone and in the countryside, you'll never see a bluer sky. If you haven't been to the Red Rock country in the south of the state you're missing something special. If it wasn't so cold there in the Winter, I'd still be living there.
Mike Jan 8th 2013 4:33PM
I've been to downtown LA, but where are the Americans? Every place i went had a foreign person tp assist me. I am not very fluent with foreign dialect.Had to say "what was that" alot. Yes, people do seem to be snobby there.I'm from Ohio, and the main problem here is High Unemployment, but clean air.
Joanne Jan 8th 2013 4:30PM
I frequently visit my family in Los Angeles; I live in San Francisco. If you plan your trip to Los Angeles and the County area, there is so much to see, you won't have enough time. From the La Brea Tar Pits and Farmers Market down town, to the Hunington Library and Gardens in San Marino in the county, there is everything in the world you could possibly want to see. Get several guides and go online. In addition, it is not always smoggy; it is usually not smoggy. I can't remember running into smog in the last several years, and I visit four times a year. Plan your trip.
oldcodger Jan 8th 2013 4:46PM
Several years ago I had occasion to travel to Houston where I rented a car. I've driven in Los Angeles, but I consider that a picnic compared to driving in Houston. I was caught up in 70 mile per hour traffic, literally bumper to bumper. I've never been more terrified in my life, and thankfully I haven't had to drive through that nightmare of a city again.
hopalong Jan 8th 2013 4:55PM
Thank colman young, for the mess in detroit.
Elaine Jan 8th 2013 4:58PM
Dayton Beach has been a beach lover night mare for years. I was almost run over by a car there 55 years ago and there were not many cars on the beach then. The most horrible story is of a friend and his wife who were there to buy a condo for their retirement after spending many vacations there and were both run down by a drunk driver while walking at the waters edge. He died instantly. She lived buy only after many operations and is still in a great deal of pain. I'm sure this has happened before and will happen again. That is why we will not ever go to Daytona Beach!!!
Bev Jan 8th 2013 8:29PM
Sounds like you never have been to Daytona at all or maybe you were the drunk one you were talking about. People, Daytona has beautiful beaches and only one that allows cars on it. The cars are parked quite far away from the water so you have plenty of room to put your blanket down and enjoy the sandy beach.
Cape Jan 9th 2013 8:29PM
I think somebody got it twisted. Daytona is a GREAT place to visit.... Lived there for several yrs. What it should read is nice place to visit, but not to LIVE. I love Daytona Bch. we are all aware of the cars, there is signage EVERYWHERE warning of the cars. Take your eyes off the phone, ipad, nook, whatever, watch yourself and your kids. Simple.
By the way, I think Daytona is a wonderful host city, there is some group there all year round, we got your spring breakers, we got the summer vaca-ers, we got the races, twice a year, we got bike week, twice a year, we got the snowbirds from Canada and various other countrys all winter an Conventions all year, so if you don't like the traffic, perhaps mayhap you could go elsewhere next time, Lotsa beach to choose from down here in Fl. Frankley, I'm sick of dodging all of YOUR traffic. Grin and ty.
Frank Brock Jan 8th 2013 5:00PM
Reno the quality of life is great if you like hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing, golfing, kayaking, boating, eating, sports, gambling or sex. Otherwise its just normal
Rick Jan 8th 2013 4:58PM
The article was not only well written but well prefaced. I don't quite know how any one of the respondents who stoop to name calling and author bashing read the article with objectivity. As I grow older it becomes moreand more obvious to me that at a minimum half of what most people have to say is truley a reflection of themselves.
Jerome Jan 9th 2013 2:02AM
A huge mistake, is that LOS ANGELES does not have 25 million residents. In 2000 it had about 4 million
Ed Jan 8th 2013 4:58PM
I had the pleasure of visiting the Tahoe/Reno area back in 2011 and found it to be very enjoyable. There are a number of sites to see if you want to do some exploring and although it might not be as "exciting" as Las Vegas, I found all the casinos I visited to be nice and the people very pleasant.
Wesley Snipes Jan 8th 2013 5:08PM
Reno is so hipster that you would say that. Not to mention the fact that it is one of the best ski bum university areas of all time. Yes, it's dirty as butt, but that's just what hipsters and ski bums thrive off of!
bilko Jan 8th 2013 6:46PM
It is a hipster town. May I recommend the film, "Crazy 8" by Paul Thomas Anderson (his first I believe) as proof positive you are correct in your assumption.
R. Terry Jan 8th 2013 5:18PM
I often find myself viewing and judging cities based on stereotypes, so I found your article refreshing and guiding. So much of a traveler's experience depends a frame of mind and an eagerness for learning. Having said that, I will add that I live on the San Francisco peninsula, so you'll understand how the Southern part of the state might appear to a Northern Californian. There are redeeming qualities to be found in every location, if it needs to be redeemed. I have visited each of the spots touched upon by you and, based on your insight, I plan to give each of those locations a second chance at redemption.
Rick Jan 8th 2013 5:18PM
At least these cities are tops at something.
stoph Jan 8th 2013 5:18PM
Totally disagree about LA!!! Detroit was one of the most depressing places that I have ever visited. I am surprised St Louis isn't on this list...YUK!!!!
Unknown Jan 8th 2013 5:20PM
I was born and raised in California in the Los Angeles area. The area was great in the mid 1970's, but over the years with the increase of cars/people, pollution it got worse. I moved out of the state to the NW area and I was ill for two weeks with respiratory problems, my body was getting rid of the smog I was breathing. The only reason I would move back is because of the family, but now the media/press have glorified the celebrities and the $$$$$$. Society in LA is plastic and everyone is a barbie doll and the men have to look like the weight lifters on Venice Beach. It's a shame that all the native California's moved out of the state and resumed a more natural life outside of boundaries.
Tom Jan 8th 2013 5:24PM
Detroit, Cleveland, Wash. DC, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles. Any common thread here? What is the predominate political atmosphere?