The Tourist Attractions You Can’t Visit in 2025
While global travel is easier than ever, with more destinations being connected through countless new flight routes, some iconic attractions are disappearing. Whether due to natural disasters, financial struggles, or changing tastes, these once-popular sites are no longer accessible. Here’s a look at several major tourist spots you won’t be able to visit in 2025 — and perhaps never again.
1. Two Las Vegas Landmarks Gone
Las Vegas said goodbye to two major casino-hotels in 2024. The Mirage, a classic property from 1989, will be replaced by a Hard Rock hotel shaped like a giant guitar. The Tropicana, meanwhile, was demolished to make way for a new stadium for the Oakland Athletics baseball team, relocating to Vegas.
Plan B: Check out the futuristic Sphere, an event venue with a massive LED-lit orb, which transformed the Vegas Strip in 2024.
2. Chez Michou, Paris
The famous drag club Chez Michou in Paris’ Montmartre neighborhood closed in 2024 after the death of its beloved owner, Michel “Michou” Catty. Known for inspiring the musical “La Cage aux Folles,” the club was a Parisian institution for decades.
Plan B: For a taste of Parisian cabaret, head to Crazy Horse near the Champs-Elysees for burlesque and performances by top stars like Lisa from Blackpink.
3. The Rubin Museum of Art, New York
New York’s Rubin Museum, renowned for its Himalayan art collection, closed its physical location in 2024 and transitioned to a “museum without walls.”
Plan B: Explore the Nicholas Roerich Museum, a hidden gem on the Upper West Side, featuring stunning Himalayan-inspired artwork.
4. Fotografiska, New York
Fotografiska, the photography museum with a Stockholm-based origin, closed its Park Avenue location in 2024. While they hope to reopen elsewhere in NYC, for now, the museum is no more.
Plan B: Visit the International Center of Photography in the Lower East Side for dynamic photography exhibitions, talks, and book signings.
5. Wayfarers Chapel, California
California’s Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Lloyd Wright, is closing due to climate change and the risk of landslides in the area. The chapel will be dismantled and stored until a new location is found.
Plan B: Explore Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, known for its striking glass architecture, just 40 miles west.
6. Private Streets in Gion, Kyoto
Kyoto’s historic Gion neighborhood—famous for its geishas—is limiting public access to many side streets and alleys, to preserve privacy for residents and trainees.
Plan B: Learn more about geisha culture at the Gion Kagai Art Museum, which opened in 2024 and offers performances and exhibits on geishas.
7. Rothko Chapel, Houston
The iconic Rothko Chapel in Houston suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Beryl in 2024, and it’s currently closed indefinitely.
Plan B: Check out Rothko Rooms at museums like the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC, or Tate Modern in London for a dose of Rothko’s mesmerizing art.
8. Living Computers: Museum + Labs, Seattle
Seattle’s Living Computers: Museum + Labs, showcasing vintage tech and interactive exhibits, closed its doors in 2024. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the museum’s collection will be auctioned off.
Plan B: Visit the Museum of Pop Culture, also supported by Allen, for a colorful and eclectic collection of pop culture and sci-fi history.
9. “Double Arch” at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
In 2024, the Double Arch in Utah’s Glen Canyon collapsed due to natural erosion and changes in water levels, taking one of the region’s most iconic rock formations with it.
Plan B: Visit Arches National Park nearby, or explore other natural landmarks like Goblin Valley and Coral Pink Sand Dunes for beautiful, uncrowded views.
While these closures are sad, they open the door for new experiences. Whether visiting other cultural institutions or exploring different natural wonders, there’s always something new to discover. Keep exploring!
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