Where Locals Fear to Tread: 10 Places in Major U.S. Cities That Natives Avoid Chris Caggiano September 26, 2023 Chicago, Destinations, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco I have a friend in New York City who has lived there for 35 years. She’s been all over the various neighborhoods countless times, but there’s one place that she avoids at all costs: Times Square. The crowds, the noise, the buskers, the traffic, the scam artists. Even when she and I meet up to see Broadway shows together, my friend will scoot along Eighth or Sixth Avenue before walking the half block over to whichever theater is presenting our show. Anything to avoid the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue and the dreaded X where they intersect to create the so-called Crossroads of the World. A lot of locals in a lot of cities feel the way my friend does, and assiduously avoid those parts of town that draw the tourists. In any major U.S. city, you’re bound to find these places, and to be honest they serve their purpose: they’re great places for first-timers to begin — but hopefully not end — their tourism journeys. But travelers looking for something a bit more authentic will need to venture beyond the obvious spots. Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent U.S. cities, the places where locals wouldn’t be caught dead, and the places where natives are far more likely to congregate. Hollywood Boulevard – Los Angeles Hollywood Boulevard, nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, is a pilgrimage site for movie aficionados and eager tourists aiming to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities’ stars adorning the Walk of Fame. The iconic Chinese Theatre and the bustling Hollywood & Highland Center are magnets for visitors. Yet, the very appeal that draws tourists repels the locals. Angelenos, familiar with the glitter and glare, tend to steer clear of this glitzy strip due to the perennial crowds, ubiquitous street performers, and an array of overpriced souvenir shops. For a more authentic taste of Los Angeles, check out the city’s diverse neighborhoods. In Silver Lake, you’ll find the locals sipping artisanal coffee in hip cafes, browsing local art galleries, and discovering shops with a bohemian flair. Echo Park offers a blend of historic charm and a burgeoning arts scene, while Koreatown is a paradise for foodies with its endless selection of BBQ joints and late-night eateries. Los Angeles locals also cherish their extensive parks like Griffith Park and iconic waterfront neighborhoods, such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica, where they soak up the city’s natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Bourbon Street – New Orleans Bourbon Street, New Orleans Bourbon Street, nestled within the legendary French Quarter of New Orleans, stands as a global symbol of lively nightlife and raucous Mardi Gras revelry. For tourists, it’s an irresistible hub of entertainment and festivities. However, for the locals who call this vibrant city home, Bourbon Street can often be more of a cacophonous carnival than a leisurely stroll. Especially during the bustling peak tourist seasons, the Bourbon Street area transforms into a rowdy, deafening, and overcrowded nightmare, prompting many New Orleanians to give it the widest of berths. In contrast, locals in New Orleans seek the relative quiet and authenticity of the city’s soulful neighborhoods, including Marigny, Bywater, and Uptown. Marigny is a beloved area with a vibrant live music scene, including cozy jazz clubs and eclectic venues that resonate with the city’s musical heritage. Bywater boasts an array of live music venues, bars, and enticing restaurants. It’s a hub for local creatives and foodies, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a more authentic experience in the city. Uptown offers a different flavor of New Orleans, with its leafy streets and historic architecture. Locals love the music venues, neighborhood bars, and diverse dining scene. When it comes to cuisine, New Orleans locals vouch for the city’s renowned po’boy shops, located throughout New Orleans. These establishments serve up delicious, overstuffed sandwiches that are a true embodiment of the Crescent City’s culinary heritage. Whether you prefer seafood or roast beef, these po’boys are a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of New Orleans. Fisherman’s Wharf – San Francisco Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf, a quintessential tourist destination in San Francisco, draws visitors with its enticing seafood eateries, charismatic sea lions sunbathing on the docks, and rows of souvenir shops brimming with trinkets. Yet, the very attractions that lure tourists often deter San Franciscans. They see it as overly commercialized and marked by inflated prices. For locals in San Francisco, the Mission District, Haight-Ashbury, and the Castro are cherished hangouts. In the Mission, you’ll encounter a thriving food scene, characterized by taquerias serving mouthwatering burritos and a diverse array of eateries offering culinary delights from around the world. Haight-Ashbury, with its counterculture history, boasts eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and a bohemian spirit. The Castro is a hub for LGBTQ+ culture and hosts lively events and parades. San Franciscans revel in these neighborhoods’ vibrant art scenes, craft breweries, and community-driven cultural events. Times Square – New York City Times Square, New York City We’ve already talked about why locals avoid Times Square. But where are they more likely to head to when they’re looking for entertainment and diversion? Well, New Yorkers are known for their penchant for exploration, and you’ll often find them flocking to the diverse NYC boroughs, each with its unique charm. In Brooklyn, there’s the adjacent areas of Williamsburg and Dumbo, which have become cultural hotspots and are known for their artistic communities, trendy boutiques, and a thriving food scene. Plus, the area offers panoramic views of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge: even jaded New Yorkers aren’t immune to the beauty of their city. In Queens, Astoria’s cultural diversity shines through its restaurants, offering a global array of cuisines: Asian, Greek, Egyptian, Italian, Middle Eastern cuisine and more pervade this welcoming neighborhood. And in The Bronx, you can experience Arthur Avenue, often referred to as the “Real Little Italy,” where locals indulge in fresh pasta, pastries, and imported cheeses from the local shops and markets. Beale Street – Memphis Beale Street, Memphis Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, is renowned worldwide as the heart of blues music. Visitors flock to this historic street to immerse themselves in the soulful sounds of the genre. However, while Beale Street is a top tourist attraction, locals in Memphis often opt for alternative live music venues throughout the city. These venues offer a more authentic and intimate experience, free from the bustling tourist crowds. In Memphis, you’re likely to find locals in vibrant neighborhoods like Cooper-Young and Overton Square. These areas are known for their thriving live music scenes, diverse dining options, and eclectic shops. Locals often frequent neighborhood barbecue joints and soul food restaurants, savoring the city’s culinary heritage. Memphis, after all, is celebrated for its mouthwatering barbecue, and you’ll find locals indulging in ribs, pulled pork, and other delicious Southern comfort foods at their favorite spots. Navy Pier – Chicago Navy Pier, Chicago Navy Pier in Chicago undoubtedly offers breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan and an array of fun attractions. However, it often earns the “too touristy” label from many Chicagoans who tend to go elsewhere for their leisurely pursuits. These neighborhoods give locals a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s genuine character. Each of these areas boasts a vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and diverse dining options. Wicker Park, known for its artistic vibe, hosts numerous galleries and trendy bars. Logan Square boasts a thriving food and drink scene, with its craft-cocktail lounges and farm-to-table restaurants. Andersonville, a charming neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side, is celebrated for its Swedish heritage, eclectic boutiques, and welcoming LGBTQ+ community. Pilsen, celebrated for its Mexican culture, offers a rich tapestry of art, music, and cuisine. Chicago residents also cherish the city’s lakefront parks and beaches, such as North Avenue Beach and Montrose Beach, for outdoor activities, picnics, and relaxation. These areas provide a serene escape from the bustling city while still offering stunning views of Lake Michigan. Faneuil Hall – Boston Faneuil Hall, Boston Faneuil Hall, situated in the heart of Boston, stands as an iconic historical site that beckons tourists from far and wide. This historic marketplace is renowned for its role in American history and boasts a bustling ambiance with lively street performances, souvenir shops, and an array of eateries. While the Faneuil Hall area can be diverting, locals often steer clear of the area due to its heavy tourist traffic, which can lead to crowded streets and inflated prices. For true Bostonians, the city’s authentic charm resides in its diverse neighborhoods. The North End, for instance, is a beloved enclave known for its delectable Italian cuisine, charming narrow streets, and the scent of fresh cannoli wafting through the air. In contrast, Jamaica Plain offers an escape into nature with its verdant parks and a thriving arts scene, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration. As evening falls, Somerville comes to life with its vibrant nightlife and music venues, making it a go-to spot for live music enthusiasts and those seeking the local music scene. You Might Also Enjoy: Plan the Ultimate Romantic Getaway at These Under-the-Radar Destinations Pike Place Market – Seattle Pike Place Market, Seattle Pike Place Market, nestled on the waterfront of Seattle, is an iconic attraction known for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, renowned fish-tossing antics, and the very first Starbucks store. Tourists flock here to witness the lively spectacle, but for many Seattle locals, it often translates to navigating through crowds and contending with inflated prices. Seattle residents tend to venture beyond Pike Place Market to explore the larger city. Capitol Hill is a nightlife hub, renowned for its energetic bars, live music venues, and a bustling LGBTQ+ scene. Ballard captures the essence of Seattle’s craft beer culture, boasting numerous breweries and an inviting maritime ambiance. Meanwhile, Fremont exudes a quirky charm with its eclectic art installations, vintage shops, and the beloved Fremont Troll. The city’s well-kept parks and scenic waterfront provide locals with tranquil escapes and recreational opportunities, making Seattle a dynamic and multifaceted metropolis. Are you a local in any of these cities? Where are the places where you like to go to get away from the crowds? Let us know in the comments below!
