The one 'tourist trap' that's actually worth visiting in every state

Flickr/Geraint Rowland

• Famous tourist attractions don't always live up to expectations — but when they do, they're truly spectacular. 
• The Spud Drive-In Theater in Idaho is gimmicky, but delightful.
• You won't find a more whimsical stretch of road than the Enchanted Highway in North Dakota.

Nothing kills the holiday-high quite like squandering your precious time — and cash — waiting to see a hyped-up tourist attraction that ends up being an unmitigated let-down.

However, sites across the US have undeservedly been called tourists traps for becoming too crowded or too expensive, though many of them remain must-sees.

From the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon in Arizona to the admittedly tacky neon lights illuminating the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada, these are the tourist attractions actually worth visiting in every state.

ALABAMA: US Space and Rocket Center

Occasionally billed as Earth's largest space museum, the US Space and Rocket Center boasts a slew of notable artifacts, including a national historic landmark Saturn V moon rocket, an Apollo 16 command module, a Skylab orbital workshop, and an Apollo 12 moon rock.

ALASKA: Iditarod Trail Headquarters

Each year, a uniquely Alaskan tradition called the Iditarod, an annual long-distance sled dog race that spans over 1150 miles, takes place. The race's headquarters, located in Wasilla, Alaska, have long drawn both fans and critics of the race.

Many — especially animal activists — take issue with the race's use of dogs, so a visit to the headquarters offers activists a rare opportunity to actually meet members of the Iditarod founder's family, and converse with them in person. The HQ also features trophies, displays, photos, and videos.

ARIZONA: The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is Arizona's most well-known natural beauty, and for good reason: between its immense size and breathtaking views, this natural phenomenon is a must-see... despite the crowds.

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