As a native New Yorker, I can smell a tourist trap from miles away. (Times Square, anyone?)

That said, the term has garnered somewhat of a negative connotation ― but in all honesty, many of these locations are actually worth a visit at least once. Think about it like this: They’re considered attractions for a reason. They offer views or experiences that can only be found in that specific location.

We’ve rounded up a few options below. Sure, there are crowds. Sure, they might be corny. But they’re also 100% worth considering for your next vacation.

1. Mount Rushmore

Ever since I saw Mount Rushmore in a picture book when I was a child, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to visit.

Located in South Dakota, Mount Rushmoreis home to the popular 60-foot memorial featuring the faces of four former presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

Over 2 million people visit Mount Rushmore each year, so you’re bound to run into crowds, but even if it’s just to snap a quick picture, it’s well worth it to see this historical monument. While you’re there, check out the Avenue of Flags or take a hike on the mile-long Blackberry Trail. If you’re visiting during the summer, end your day by watching the light ceremony that takes place every night starting the Friday of Memorial Day weekend.

2. The Eiffel Tower

While you can see the Eiffel Tower from different vantage points around Paris, your trip isn’t truly complete without making a proper visit.

On my most recent trip to Paris, the Eiffel Towerwas packed even at 8 a.m. You’ll potentially be waiting in two- to three-hour lines to get tickets and enter the building, but the wait is worth it. I highly recommend getting a GoCity pass where you can book different attraction tickets and guided tours — it’s the easiest way to see the city if you don’t know your way around.

The view of the city is absolutely breathtaking and you’ll see areas you may not even get to explore during your visit. Keep in mind that the summit can be closed during your trip (as it was for mine), but the second level is still magnificent. The summit tends to shut down during inclement weather or if they are doing maintenance.

After your ascent and descent of the tower, head over to Place du Trocadéro to take some photos, grab some food from a local vendor, and spend some time sprawled out on the lawn in front. And don’t forget to make a quick trip back at night. The tower lights up every hour between dusk and 1 a.m. in the........

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