Some places look better on a postcard than in person. You show up, swarmed by tour groups, jostling for the same blurry photo—and wondering why you came in the first place. Locals? They’ve long moved on. They know the secrets hiding just a few blocks (or towns) away. This list spills the tea: 8 hyped-up tourist traps that locals dodge—and 8 way better spots where they actually spend their time.
Times Square, New York City → Prospect Park, Brooklyn
Times Square is a place of sensory overload. Under the neon glow, throngs of tourists jostle past costumed characters and looming digital billboards. The air pulses with the energy of a hundred different languages, yet few locals linger.
Instead, New Yorkers retreat to Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Here, the chaos of the city feels worlds away. Designed by the same architects as Central Park, it’s a haven of shaded trails and expansive meadows. Families picnic on the grass while joggers enjoy serene pathways. It’s a breath of fresh air, cherished by those who call the city home.
Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles → Griffith Park Trails
The Hollywood Walk of Fame may be iconic, but it can feel more like a spectacle than a celebration. Tourists crowd the sidewalks, snapping selfies with star-studded plaques, while street performers vie for attention.
Locals, however, prefer the tranquility of Griffith Park. It’s a vast urban oasis offering skyline views and winding trails that lead to the back of the Hollywood Sign. Here, the city’s frenetic pace slows, and nature takes center stage. Hikers and dog walkers revel in the open space, appreciating a side of Los Angeles that’s refreshingly peaceful.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco → Inner Sunset Neighborhood
Fisherman’s Wharf is a sensory feast—and not always in a good way. Overpriced seafood, throngs of tourists, and omnipresent souvenir shops make for a chaotic experience.
San Francisco locals escape to the Inner Sunset neighborhood. Here, the atmosphere is more relaxed, filled with cozy cafes and local eateries. It’s a gateway to Golden Gate Park, where open spaces and cultural treasures await. Away from the bustling waterfront, residents savor a slower pace and authentic city life. It’s a corner of San Francisco that embodies community charm.
South Beach, Miami → North Beach or Key Biscayne
South Beach is synonymous with glitz and glam. Its sandy shores teem with sun-seekers and party-goers, creating a lively but crowded atmosphere.
For a more tranquil beach day, locals head to North Beach or Key Biscayne. North Beach offers a quieter shoreline with ample space to relax, while Key Biscayne’s calm waters are perfect for families. Both spots are a short drive from the city’s hubbub, offering a peaceful retreat. It’s here that Miami residents find solace, embracing the sun without the frenzy of South Beach’s famed parties.
Pike Place Market (Midday on Weekends), Seattle → Ballard Farmers Market
Pike Place Market is a Seattle staple, but weekends bring overwhelming crowds. Tourists and locals alike pack the aisles, creating a bustling, chaotic scene.
In contrast, Ballard Farmers Market offers a more relaxed experience. On Sundays, the market blossoms with fresh produce, live music, and artisan crafts. It’s set in a charming neighborhood, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. Residents appreciate the slower pace and local flavor, embracing the community vibe that’s often lost in Pike Place’s weekend frenzy.
Navy Pier, Chicago → Logan Square
Navy Pier might be a Chicago landmark, but it’s more tourist trap than tranquil escape. The boardwalk is filled with throngs of visitors, all vying for a piece of the skyline view.
Locals, in-the-know, head to Logan Square. This vibrant neighborhood is a tapestry of community gardens, indie cafes, and colorful murals. It’s a place where the city’s creative spirit shines. Unlike the Pier, Logan Square offers authentic charm and a welcoming atmosphere, where people gather to enjoy art, food, and local culture.
Bourbon Street, New Orleans → Frenchmen Street
Bourbon Street is famous for its boisterous nightlife, but it often feels like a sensory assault. Bars blare music into the night, enticing tourists who flock to its neon-lit allure.
Frenchmen Street offers a different tune. Known for its vibrant live music scene, it’s where locals gather for jazz, art markets, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here, the music spills into the streets, inviting impromptu dances and camaraderie. It’s a slice of New Orleans’ soul, far removed from Bourbon’s tourist-heavy draws.
The Strip, Las Vegas → Fremont East or Spring Mountain Road
The Strip in Las Vegas is a sensory overload. From flashing lights to packed casinos, it’s a neon extravaganza that never sleeps.
For a more genuine experience, locals frequent Fremont East or Spring Mountain Road. Fremont East is known for its local bars and music venues, offering a slice of vintage Vegas charm. Meanwhile, Spring Mountain Road boasts a diverse culinary scene, featuring some of the best Asian cuisine in the city. Both areas provide a break from the Strip’s relentless pace, showcasing a different side of Las Vegas.