New York City is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in the U.S. The city has so many unique things to do, see, and experience — Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park — but many of these bucket list experiences also verge into tourist trap territory. Simply put, New York City is full of tourist traps. And The Trailer Park Lounge might just be the strangest tourist trap yet! This bizarre themed bar in New York City is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s ironic and iconoclastic, and so completely New York City.
Trailer Park Lounge is a themed bar in Chelsea that’s known for its vintage decor and kitschy vibe.
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
Trailer Park Lounge opened in 2000, and has become one of New York City’s most infamous dive bars.
BUBY/TripAdvisor
The decor here is unapologetically neon and flashy.
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
Holiday lights twinkle year-round, bowling pin lamps light the booths, and photos of Elvis cover the walls.
Detlev Meschke/Google Local
The menu here is peak mid-century comfort classics: Sloppy Joe sandwiches, tater tots, burgers, and fries.
Trailer Park Lounge/Google Local
The burgers are the stars here, with tongue-and-cheek names like the “Double Wide” and “Mother-In-Law’s Revenge.”
Trailer Park Lounge/Google Local
You can even go all out and get tater tots in your burger.
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
Of course your drinks will come with mini umbrellas and/or flamingos.
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
Recently, Trailer Park Lounge added an outdoor dining area that really takes the whole experience to another level, complete with fold-out lawn chairs and fake grass.
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
The thing is, if a tourist trap is aware that it’s a tourist trap, and embraces that fact that it’s a tourist trap… is it actually a tourist trap, then?
Detlev Meschke/Google Local
Or is it simply a must-visit attraction because it’s also an experience, and a place that’s managed to set itself apart in a city with nearly 27,000 restaurants?
Steve Kalmbach/Google Local
We’re going to go with the latter.
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
The Trailer Park Lounge is just plain fun, and definitely the most unique tourist trap in New York City. It’s truly an only-in-New-York experience. The Trailer Park Lounge is planning a big reopening at the beginning of June, and you can get updates and learn more on their Facebook page!
’the original’ TRAILER PARK LOUNGE & GRILL, NEW YORK CITY/Facebook
BUBY/TripAdvisor
Detlev Meschke/Google Local
Trailer Park Lounge/Google Local
Steve Kalmbach/Google Local
For more bizarre places you’ll only find in New York, be sure to check out these 12 hidden gems.
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