1. Wall Drug, South Dakota
Wall Drug is advertised on billboards for hundreds of miles, promising free ice water and quirky roadside attractions. First-time RVers often expect a kitschy wonderland, but in reality, it’s a crowded strip mall with overpriced souvenirs. Parking can be tricky for big rigs, especially during peak tourist season. After a long haul on I-90, many are let down that the stop doesn’t live up to the hype.
That said, it’s worth grabbing a quick coffee or donut if you’re already nearby. The Western-themed décor is fun for a short stretch, but you’ll probably move on quickly. RV travelers often report that the real draw is simply saying you’ve been there. For many, it’s more of a box to check than a destination worth lingering in.
2. Four Corners Monument, New Mexico/Arizona/Utah/Colorado
On paper, standing in four states at once sounds like a bucket-list moment. But when RVers finally arrive, they’re greeted by a dusty parking lot, long lines, and a small bronze marker in the ground. The site is managed by the Navajo Nation, and while the cultural booths are interesting, the attraction itself feels underwhelming. Most RVers don’t find it worth the detour from more scenic routes.
Another common frustration is the lack of shade or amenities for those traveling in larger rigs. The monument doesn’t take long to experience, so you’ll probably spend more time driving there than enjoying it. Visitors often leave feeling the novelty wore off in about five minutes. It’s better treated as a quick stop rather than a highlight.
3. Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts
When people imagine Plymouth Rock, they picture a massive, iconic stone marking the landing of the Pilgrims. The reality is a modest rock—about the size of a coffee table—sitting in a small portico. It’s historically symbolic but not visually impressive, especially after a long RV trek to coastal Massachusetts. Many visitors admit they blinked and almost missed it.
Parking in the area can also be a headache, particularly for RVs navigating the tight New England streets. The waterfront town is charming, but the rock itself rarely lives up to expectations. If you’re already in the area, it’s worth a peek, but it’s not a must-see on its own. Most RVers quickly move on to Cape Cod or Boston for more memorable sights.
4. Roswell Alien Attractions, New Mexico
The idea of visiting Roswell—famous for its UFO lore—sounds like a quirky detour. But many first-time RVers are surprised to find a small town where the alien theme feels more like kitsch than mystery. The UFO Museum is interesting but modest, and the downtown shops mostly sell the same alien-themed trinkets. It’s less otherworldly, more like a novelty pit stop.
RVers also note that Roswell is fairly isolated, making the journey a bigger commitment. If you’re expecting close encounters or elaborate exhibits, the reality may not meet your imagination. Still, the surrounding desert landscapes can be beautiful drives. Most travelers leave feeling it was a fun diversion but not a destination to plan a whole trip around.
5. South of the Border, South Carolina
Billboards for South of the Border stretch for miles along I-95, making it impossible to ignore. The massive sombrero tower and neon lights promise something wild and unforgettable. Once you pull off, though, most RVers find an aging roadside attraction with faded rides and empty shops. The novelty wears off quickly.
Parking is usually available, but the stop doesn’t offer much beyond gas and souvenirs. Families traveling in RVs often expect a big theme-park-style experience and leave disappointed. It can still be a fun place to stretch your legs or snap a few goofy photos. Just don’t expect much more than roadside nostalgia.
6. Carhenge, Nebraska
Carhenge is exactly what it sounds like—Stonehenge recreated with old cars. While quirky and free, it’s often smaller and less dramatic than travelers expect. RVers who go out of their way to see it sometimes regret the detour, as the novelty lasts only a few minutes. It’s best appreciated as a quick roadside attraction rather than a destination.
The surrounding area doesn’t offer much else for RV travelers, making it hard to justify the time. Still, if you’re already driving through western Nebraska, it’s worth a short stop. Families with kids sometimes enjoy the strangeness, but most agree it’s a “see it once and move on” kind of place. For RVers, the real challenge is just finding a good place to turn around afterward.
7. Hollywood Walk of Fame, California
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous sidewalks in the world, with over 2,700 stars honoring celebrities. First-time RVers, however, often find the area surprisingly gritty, crowded, and full of aggressive street performers. Parking an RV in Los Angeles is already a nightmare, and Hollywood Boulevard makes it even tougher. Many visitors say it doesn’t match the glamorous image they had in mind.
While it’s neat to spot your favorite star’s name, most RV travelers don’t linger long. The shops nearby are often tourist traps with inflated prices. For a better Hollywood experience, seasoned travelers recommend heading to Griffith Observatory or driving Mulholland Drive for views of the city. The Walk of Fame is more about bragging rights than an unforgettable stop.
8. The Alamo, Texas
The Alamo is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in Texas, but first-time RVers often find it surprisingly small. Surrounded by San Antonio’s downtown development, the site can feel overshadowed by hotels and shops. The mission itself is historically important, but the scale often disappoints those expecting a sprawling fort. Many visitors say they walked through in less than half an hour.
That being said, the River Walk nearby offers more for RV travelers to enjoy. The Alamo is worth visiting for its history, but you may want to set expectations accordingly. It’s not a full-day adventure but rather a short cultural stop. Pairing it with San Antonio’s other attractions makes it more worthwhile.
9. Times Square, New York City
Times Square is billed as “the crossroads of the world,” with bright lights and billboards dazzling visitors. For first-time RVers, though, it’s overwhelming, chaotic, and nearly impossible to navigate with a large vehicle. The parking situation alone makes it a stressful detour. Most visitors say it’s better experienced on foot, not in an RV.
The crowds, noise, and high prices can be a letdown after so much anticipation. While it’s undeniably iconic, many travelers feel one quick stroll is enough. New York has so much more to offer, from Central Park to world-class museums, that Times Square often feels like the least authentic stop. RVers usually prefer staying outside the city and taking public transit in.
10. Niagara Falls, New York Side
Niagara Falls is a natural wonder, but first-time RVers often find the U.S. side less impressive than they expected. The views can be partially obstructed, and the surrounding city has struggled with development. Parking an RV near the attractions is difficult and sometimes pricey. Many leave wishing they had crossed into Canada for the panoramic perspective.
That said, the U.S. side does offer up-close experiences like Cave of the Winds. But for sheer visual drama, the Canadian side often steals the show. RV travelers who don’t have passports can still enjoy the park but may feel underwhelmed compared to the photos they’ve seen. It’s a case where expectations often clash with reality.
11. Cadillac Ranch, Texas
Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo is a row of old cars half-buried nose-first in the ground. The concept is fun, and visitors are encouraged to spray paint the cars. However, first-time RVers often find it smaller and less impressive than expected. The site is right off I-40, but it takes only minutes to see.
Parking can be muddy, and maneuvering an RV into the lot isn’t always easy. The constant layers of spray paint mean the cars look more chaotic than artistic. Many travelers stop once, take a picture, and move on. It’s quirky but not usually worth a big detour.
12. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is iconic, but first-time RVers are sometimes surprised at how quickly the visit is over. The monument itself is smaller in person than it looks in photos. Once you’ve taken in the view, there isn’t much else to do beyond the visitor center and gift shop. Many visitors leave wishing there was more to explore.
Parking is plentiful but comes with a hefty fee, even for RVs. The surrounding Black Hills, however, offer plenty of scenic drives and better RV camping opportunities. Most travelers say the monument is worth seeing once but doesn’t live up to the hype. It’s a classic example of a short stop rather than a full experience.
13. Hoover Dam, Nevada/Arizona
The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel, but first-time RVers often struggle with the logistics. Security restrictions prevent RVs from driving across, forcing travelers to take a longer route. Parking is also limited and can be challenging for larger rigs. The dam itself is impressive, but the visit is often more hassle than reward.
Tours are available, but they don’t always fit easily into a road trip itinerary. Many RVers decide it’s not worth the detour once they weigh the parking, heat, and time. The views are best from a short stop rather than a long visit. It’s one of those attractions that looks more majestic in photos than in person.
This post 13 Travel Stops That Always Disappoint First-Time RVers was first published on Greenhouse Black.
