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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 7 of 11)
Canyon Mar 18th 2013 12:26PM
AMEN!! :-)
slinky Jan 8th 2013 6:39PM
I have lived in Los Angeles for 27 years and cannot imagine living anywhere else. Anything you can think of to do is right here. You can go swimming in the ocean and skiing in the mountains on the same day. The food is amazing. The museums are fascinating. The people are, in general, quite nice. Public transportation isn't great but it's getting better. Yes, sometimes you have to brush away a little dirt but the diamond you will find under it is totally worth the effort. Come visit; I'll be your tour guide.
Jazzie Jan 8th 2013 6:56PM
Wow... A lot of hate out there. The only nice comments came from the SLC people and we all know they are Mormon and have to be nice.
I say we not spew negative at people.
Whatever happened to the old saying "If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing."
Chip Croft Jan 8th 2013 7:04PM
You're way off on LA. It is too big and diverse to judge by such a short, poorly informed piece. Smog is gone with the strict emissions laws and car manufacturing regulations. Haze, sometimes, but much more sunny and pleasant that anyplace I've ever lived in midwest and east. There is so much to do that when people visit I burn out on making decisions on where to go. I've lived in 13 different cities across the US and right next to NYC and I can tell you LA is the most fascinating of all. It should be the number one destination for 2013!
Rich Jan 8th 2013 10:20PM
Whoever your are who wrote about Los Angeles should really get out from his/her desk and see the city. You are greatly mistaken on your comments. It is one of the greatest cities in the world. Like all cities it has its bad points but the good points far outweigh the bad.
a Jan 8th 2013 7:25PM
If you eve win a free week end in Detroit, refuse it. Do yourself a favor and you may live longer, don't come.
greg sexton Jan 8th 2013 7:46PM
having grown up in reno... i will say the city has some issues... it is trying to move beyond the the gambling economy and on to a more metropolitan type of city. it certainly has a diverse culture. for a city the size of reno to have a full time opera company... or philharmonic is something to notice. the art museum is a wonderful day trip worth taking. obviously it's surrounding mountains and proximity to lake tahoe are a plus as well. the offerings aren't first class.... no one claims they are... but if you wish to have a taste of culture it's certainly there. as for gaming.. there are several resorts that rival vegas as far as fit and finish ... peppermill casino is certainly equal to or nicer than 90% of the casinos in vegas. there is always something bigger or better... anyone wasting their time pursuing that.. should by all means avoid reno....
Joe Jan 8th 2013 7:59PM
Of all the places in the US that i have visited Memphis was the worst. I lived there for a number of years only the result of my job not because i liked it. The place is a dump. It has no scenic beauty because is sits on the Mississippi River which is the only natural beauty or attraction in Memphis worth seeing. Elvis mansion is there but its nothing special in a run down 60s suburban area thats not to pretty and not safe. Memphis usually has between 300-400 murders a year thats pretty back for a place with less than 800,000 people. The school system the county and the city are the pits and these are some of the most unfriendly people in the nation that ive had the displeasure of meeting. Its like like New Orleans with nothing to see and is not a safe place to explore as a tourist. The closest modern attraction is in Tunica Mississippi about 35 miles south where you visit about 15 modern casinos but if you are like me and find casinos a total bore then the next nearest attraction would be the Bill Clinton Library in 144 miles away in Little Rock or the Ozark Mountians in northern Arkansas about two yours NW of Memphis. three hours too the east is Nashville and its country music scene definitely a lot better place to visit than Memphis and about the same size. Tupelo Mississippi an hour and 15 minutes southeast of Memphis in Mississippi has his boyhood home and tour of the sites that inspired him and shaped him into the swiveling commercial sensation that he became. Also southeast of Memphis is Forence Muscle Shoals region of NW Alabama where you can visit the Helen Keller Museum. The thing about Memphis is the deep south version of Detroit a dangerous crime ridden hood-for lack of a better word to discribe it. The best think about Memphis is there is two freeways and an airport to leave it. I vote it to be the worst of all the southern cities and would not recommend it as a place to visit or live. Its a rat hole.
Brian Jan 8th 2013 8:37PM
I was kidding. I grew up here I should know.
Greta Jan 8th 2013 9:57PM
I appreciate your comments. I have never been to Memphis but wanted to go yet never hear anything good from those who live or have lived there. I think I will pass.
Brian Jan 8th 2013 7:47PM
Evidently some of you folks just need to come on down to Memphis.
Kevin O'Neill Jan 8th 2013 8:16PM
Thanks for presenting both sides of Detroit, still one of America's most fascinating cities albeit a very challenging place to live. I've seen a lot in my almost 33 years living here and hope and pray that the comeback of this once magnificent city will continue. I work in the historic Fisher Building and marvel at the architecture each time I walk into the building. The recently restored Detroit Historical Museum is a gem! And walking through the hallways of the original Motown building and studios still gives me chills! And a trip across the river to Windsor, Ontario, Canada is always a treat! I guarantee you will enjoy your visit here.
Glo Jan 8th 2013 7:55PM
We live in the No. California foothills, and Reno is only 90 minutes away. We go there about twice a year, and we actually prefer it to Las Vegas. Some of the Casinos offer excellent restaurants, and the riverfront area is alive with some high end stores and wonderful walking paths. Lots of summer activities along the river also. Skiing is only minutes away at Mt. Rose, and from most of the casino hotel room windows, the view of the mountains is spectacular. There's Harrah's Auto Museum, and the Convention Hall, not to mention the biggest bowling alley, ever. When there we don't only gamble and dine, we visit Carson City, and better yet, Virginia City, a wild west silver mining town. Then, there's always a side trip to Lake Tahoe. You can still get a casino room for a very reasonable price, especially the middle of the week. We prefer to fly from the Reno airport, than the Sacramento one. Parking is cheaper and it's much less crowded. Sure, there are some seedy areas, but most cities have those.
Jay Jan 8th 2013 8:09PM
Who writes these types of articles? Salt Lake City is too flat? Are you kidding? Salt Lake is surrounded by huge mountains and the city limits extend right up to 12,000 foot peaks. Too flat... Please open your eyes.
Greta Jan 8th 2013 9:55PM
Agreed! Salt Lake City has BEAUTIFUL mountains!
Robert Jan 8th 2013 8:13PM
My family and I just moved to the Detroit area. Yes, it looks rundown in some areas. But there is allot to do here. From casino's to theater to a variety of clubs and bars. Not to mention the museums that are all over the place along with a very nice zoo for the kids. I have lived in LA and Orlando, I understand when you move somewhere it takes time to find entertainment and such. But I also have found bad things everywhere. One persons opinion should be compared to many others. Thank you for understanding.
Canyon Jan 8th 2013 8:17PM
LA smoggy? LOL when was that writer Ms Libby Zay here? 1978?
Due to strict smog emissions, there is not much smog anymore
Chicago is smoggier
Snooty? OMG, LA locals are by the friendliest people in the nation. I think it's due to all the sun here, the snow covered mountains, fabulous beaches, culture abound, endless things to do and see, perfect climate and so much more.
Expensive? if you want to stay in Beverly Hills at the Four Seasons it is.
There are many fabulously hip and family friendly places to stay in a city the size of a small country.
WE LOVE LA
Bev Jan 8th 2013 8:19PM
Wow, these people don't research what they write. Actually there is only one beach in Daytona you can drive on the beach and on that beach there is plenty of beach area to sit that wouldnt be next to a car. Its funny how they make it sound like a parking lot. Just shows they don't know anything about Daytona.
Jess Jan 8th 2013 8:40PM
Did who ever write this make an attempt to visit any of the places and look beyond the tourism? I've lived in Reno for some time and I love it here. Hiking, skiing, floating the river in the summer, the abundance of good local restaurants, bars, and shops, great live music comes through here constantly, free movies and music in the park all summer, thriving local sports teams from The Ace's, Reno Bighorns, and Battle Born roller derby, art town, pride week. This is just a small amount of the things to do outside of the casinos. Try venturing away from the casinos next time maybe ask around, you'll be pointed in a good direction.
CC Jan 9th 2013 4:16PM
Well said!! I love Reno!!! Great place to come for vacation!!! I don't think this writer ever ventured from her casino hotel room by the sounds of it!