What Is The Worst Tourist Trap In All Of North Dakota?

Once again, no respect for North Dakota.

I shared a couple of maps that were taking potshots at North Dakota last week.  Basically saying that we have nothing to offer or to do and you should never go there.

(SEE ALSO: A couple of maps circulating show North Dakota as the punchline to a joke)

I strongly disagree with the sentiment that was portrayed in those maps.  North Dakota has so much subtle beauty if you just take the time to look for it.  Yes, it's not for everybody, but we like it that way.  We don't want millions of visitors invading our state.  We like our 5 to 10-minute commutes, wide open spaces, and friendly North Dakota "nice" people.

The website Cheapism just came out with an article that caught my eye.  The Worst Tourist Traps in each of the 50 States.

Cheapism is a website for frugal people who want to get the most out of their money.  They have a lot of good stories most of the time, but I have to firmly disagree with their take on North Dakota in their latest article.  More on that in a moment.

Before we get to North Dakota's Biggest Tourist Trap, let's run down what they have for our neighboring states.

Minnesota - The Mall of America.  Located in Bloomington, Minnesota.  As somebody who hates shopping, I can't say I disagree with this one.  The trap will be when you buy tickets for Nickelodeon Universe, The Aquarium, and The Crayola Experience.  All of them can be expensive, especially for a family.

South Dakota - Wall Drug.  Located in Wall, South Dakota.  I've driven by Wall Drug several times, but I don't think I've ever stopped.  Wall Drug started out as a drug store in 1931 but has morphed into a classic American tourist trap, according to the article, with a crowded and overpriced souvenir shop and eatery.

Montana - 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar.  Located in Haugen, Montana.  This was started in 1952.  There's also a restaurant, motel, convenience store, casinos, and "Montana's largest gift shop", according to the article.  In the bar, there are coins covering the walls, bar, and ceiling.  If you like to look at other people's money, while spending your own, this place is for you.

And finally, North Dakota's Biggest Tourist Trap?

North Dakota- Casinos.  Located across the state of North Dakota.  I'm not even going to bother telling you what the article said about them, because once again, I completely disagree.

Some people love to gamble and have money to do it.  This provides an outlet for them.  Not to mention, most of our casinos offer some of the best entertainment in the state.  We are especially lucky to have Prairie Knights Casino so close to us in Bismarck Mandan.  First class all the way.