I have to agree with the majority here who believe that some destinations, though touristy, are worth seeing. Washington DC, for example. The biggest draws are dredged with hordes of tourists, yet they are rich in history and culture and not to be missed. If you were to go off the beaten path to get a feel for the local culture, you might be in for a rude shock.

In defense of of the bad touristy, I offer this: Picture yourself in your leisure years on the RV trip of a lifetime--to see and experience as much as this great nation has to offer. You're cruising through the amber waves of grain, trekking over the purple mountains majesty, right above the fruited plain. If you see a sign that reads "World's Biggest _______", are you going to pass it up?

I know I'm not. But that's just me.