The US is home to some of the world’s biggest and most fascinating attractions. However, many are in decline due to loss of interest, environmental concerns, and the cost of upkeep. Sadly, these are 18 American attractions that used to attract millions but are now facing extinction.
Route 66
The iconic Route 66 continues to be one of the most traveled roads in the US. However, due to highway redevelopment, 85% of the original Route 66 no longer exists. The two-lane road could not handle heavy traffic, so most sections were replaced by interstates.
The Mojave Desert
The Mojave Desert’s vast landscape faces severe threats to its unique ecosystem, including climate change, mining, and energy projects. While it is a protected site, tourism greatly increases its risk, and off-road vehicle use is also a severe issue in the desert. All of this has contributed to dwindling interest among tourists.
Alcatraz
Nestled on a small island off the coast of San Francisco, the infamous Alcatraz Prison has attracted hoards of visitors since it became a tourist attraction. According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the prison itself closed due to the expense of operating, but as an attraction, it is also threatened by erosion.
New Orleans’ French Quarter
The most famous corner of New Orleans, the French Quarter, remains the city’s leading tourist spot. The French Quarter’s charm is its heritage and architecture, but preservationists have concerns about retaining its history. Societal pressures threaten its character, and flooding is also a concern, deterring many tourists.
The Mississippi Delta Blues Trail
The Mississippi Delta Blues Trail is one of the most endangered attractions in the US due to massive economic shifts. The state’s economy is struggling, making it difficult to attract visitors, and limited funding is available to maintain and preserve these historic sites.
Niagara Falls
Hugging the border between the USA and Canada, Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in both countries. However, environmental concerns and development threaten the natural beauty that makes the waterfalls so attractive. The area relies heavily on tourism and is struggling to find a balance between tourism and conservation.
The Oregon Trail
Rich in heritage and bursting with the history of American pioneers, the Oregon Trail and its landmarks are one of the country’s most important educational spots. While conservationists thoroughly maintain the site, it’s unfortunately at risk of natural erosion and overdevelopment.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is a symbol of American history, representing the four most influential founding fathers. Each year, over two million visitors flock to the national park, but this is starting to decline. Once again, the National Park Service cites erosion for its dwindling popularity, in addition to cultural sensitivity issues.
Yellowstone National Park
Renowned as America’s first national park, Yellowstone has become even more popular in recent years thanks to the hit TV show. This increased tourism has actually dramatically boosted the economy, but this has come with the challenge of balancing tourism and conservation, which could threaten the sustainability of this attraction.
Salton Sea
For decades, the Salton Sea’s water levels have been shrinking, and the area is facing collapse. The shallow waters have killed off fish species, and the area has stopped attracting migratory birds. The declining waters have also exposed the lake bed, posing threats to human health and deterring visitors.
The Redwood Forests of California
The ancient redwoods of California are some of the most impressive trees in the US, creating some truly breathtaking landscapes. However, these views are sadly threatened by climate change, disease, and logging. There is currently a huge push towards sustainable tourism, but the redwoods continue to pose a high risk.
The Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon National Park is a household name and one of the most popular national parks in the US. However, human activity threatens its phenomenal beauty. Environment America states that water pollution from waste and air pollution from metropolitan areas are the major concerns here, greatly reducing its popularity.
Florida Everglades
The Everglades National Park is Florida’s most unique ecosystem. This magnificent labyrinth of forests and wetlands allows you to explore the beauty of the great outdoors. Sadly, water quality has gradually diminished over the years, leading to endangered species, habitat destruction, and tourism loss.
The Liberty Bell
Adopted as an iconic symbol of American independence, the Liberty Bell has a huge place in US history. However, due to its lack of relevance to current US culture, the Liberty Bell is struggling to attract visitors, and there is a desperate need for an education remodel to appeal to younger generations.
The Space Needle
Built for the 1962 World Fair, the Space Needle has a huge spot in US history. Despite being Seattle’s most recognizable landmark, it’s facing a decline in tourist engagement due to dramatic city development. There is now a lot more on offer in Seattle, so the Space Needle is having difficulty maintaining interest.
Olivewood Cemetery
While Olivewood Cemetery may be one of America’s most unusual tourist attractions, it is highly relevant to African-American history. Located in Houston, Texas, the cemetery is a UNESCO Site of Memory, according to Texas Monthly, but it is currently one of the most endangered historic sites in the US.
Hearst Castle
Media genius William Randolph Hearst built the opulent Hearst Castle as his home in the heart of California. With huge maintenance costs, Hearst Castle requires a great deal of tourist interest, which has dramatically declined in recent years. The huge property currently needs a big cash injection to keep it afloat.
Boston Freedom Trail
Finally, it’s Boston’s 2.5-mile-long Freedom Trail, which consists of 16 historically significant sites. An invaluable part of the country’s history due to its connections to the American Revolution, urban development and limited visitor engagement is sadly making the Freedom Trail increasingly difficult to preserve.
Up Next: 18 Reasons Why Men Get Grumpier As They Age
You might read this and be able to relate, or you may feel you’ve become grumpier the older you’ve gotten. Or maybe you know of a male friend or relative who has. Here are 18 reasons why men get grumpier as they age.
18 Reasons Why Men Get Grumpier As They Age
17 Products Millennials Refuse to Buy and It’s Affecting the Economy
Millennials have been the center of so much media attention due to their spending habits. Their unique ways of spending have built up and crushed many traditional industries. In this article, we look at 17 things millennials stopped buying and how that has impacted society.
17 Products Millennials Refuse to Buy and It’s Affecting the Economy
Where Even Truck Drivers Won’t Stop
Truck drivers tend to be hardy souls—well-seasoned travelers who aren’t often afraid to rest up or refuel in risky locations. However, there are certain U.S. locations that even the most road-weary trucker refuses to stop at for fear of criminal activity or natural dangers. Here are 17 such locations that even experienced truck drivers approach with trepidation (or not at all).