If you’ve traveled internationally, you might already know about some of the major European tourist traps to stay clear of. However, this is not limited to countries like Italy, France, and England; there are numerous domestic tourist traps you might want to avoid spending money on.
In 2024, USA Today identified the Salem Witch Museum in Massachusetts as one of the top 100 biggest tourist traps globally, not just in the United States. It was ranked No. 2 on the list, with the Four Corners Monument (where Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico meet) taking the top spot. While it might seem like a historic and spooky adventure for the family, there are numerous reasons why the Salem Witch Museum should be skipped in any travel plans.
Reasons to skip the Salem Witch Museum
The admission to the museum is reasonably priced for solo travelers. According to the Salem Witch Museum‘s website, an adult ticket costs $19, seniors aged 62 or older pay $17.50, and children between six and 14 are charged $16. However, a family of five — two parents, two children, and a grandparent — would need to spend $87.50 to enter, excluding transportation and parking costs.
Based on TripAdvisor reviews, the Salem Witch Museum has a rating of just 3.1 out of 5, with many reviews stating it’s not worth visiting due to unremarkable puppetry and an overly serious tone in the exhibits — one reviewer even compared it to Chuck E. Cheese with witches. Like many underwhelming tourist traps worldwide, it might not be worth spending your hard-earned money on a subpar experience.
How to determine what’s worth your time while traveling
Money is tight these days, and it’s important not to waste any, especially on vacation. Once you’ve set a budget for travel, lodging, food, and transportation, it’s time to plan your itinerary—what you want to see and do and how much you’re willing to spend.
One of the best ways to gather information about potential travel spots is by checking travel sites like TripAdvisor or Travelocity. Travelocity even features an “Inspiration” section if you’re unsure where to start, along with a blog highlighting lesser-known attractions worldwide. Online reviews can also be useful. Additionally, friends and family who have previously visited your destination can provide valuable insights, advising whether to save your money on places like The Salem Witch Museum or invest in an expensive safari excursion in East Africa.
