6 U.S. Tourist Traps That You Can Probably Skip Over

It can be rather hard to pick and choose which activities and attractions you want to do when you are on vacation. After all, there's only so much you can do with limited time--and often, money! Top tourist attractions may mean long lines and expenses, but just because lots of people visit a particular spot doesn't mean you shouldn't. After all, many sights receive top billing for good reasons. However, there are always things that sound like fun, but typically end up being a disappointment--and sometimes for no other reason than they cost too much or take too long to get there to be worthwhile. With that said, here are 6 tourist traps you can probably skip over and make better memories elsewhere.

1. Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail and Museum - Weldon Spring, Missouri

What do you do with 1.48 million cubic yards of remnants from the largest explosives factory and uranium factory that was abandoned in the 1960s? How about entombing it right where it was, inside a man-made mini-mountain for kicks. You can now stroll across 54 acres and venture atop the 75-foot summit...if that's your kind of thing.

2. Carhenge - Alliance, Nebraska

Carhenge can best be described as a replicate of England's Stonehenge, but with cars instead of stones. Vintage American automobiles are covered with gray paint...to make for a more "authentic" setting, one guesses. Admission is free, although donations are happily accepted.

3. Santa Claus House - North Pole, Alaska

Of course, everyone knows the North Pole isn't really in Alaska. Or that Santa's workshop isn't there either. While the oversized Christmas-themed gift shop offers an extensive collection of all things Christmas, a drive through the town has visitors going holiday overboard with everything being associated with Santa's North Pole digs. The store itself is free, but a visit to see the reindeer here has an admission price. Santa is there to hear what's on your gift list as well.

4. Boll Weevil Monument - Enterprise, Alabama

Do you really want to visit this southern town to see the world's only memorial honoring an insect? The cotton boll-devouring boll weevil has its own tribute. The statue shows appreciation for the insect's profound influence on the area's agriculture and economy.

5. A Christmas Story House - Cleveland, Ohio

This house was the beloved set for the A Christmas Story. For $11 per adult person, you can tour the quaint home and then venture across the street to visit the museum, which features props, costumes and memorabilia from the beloved movie. Or, for the price of a movie rental, you can watch the beloved holiday classic at home with family.

6. Four Corners Monument - Teec Nos Pos, Arizona

It's a long way from just about anywhere, and there's not much to do here other than stand on the monument spot and take a photo. There are a few artisans there representing the Navajo and Ute people. There's also a $5 admission fee per person. You'll be in and out in less than the half hour, but for those who have nothing but time on their hands, it is interesting to do...once.

Have you visited any of these tourist spots, and what are your thoughts after having gone? Do agree they are traps, or did you find worth in going to them? What other spots would you add to this list of places that can probably be avoided? We'd love for you to share your comments and even photos.

For places worth a visit, check out these hidden gems in each of the 50 states that will blow you away!