From food to fireworks to patriotic fun, these 4th of July destinations are where the party's at
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28 Places to Go for an All-American 4th of July
Updated on May 15, 2025
Best for trend-setting
Tallahassee, Florida
Blending Southern charm with natural beauty, rooftop views and festive local traditions, Tallahassee allows visitors to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Wakulla Springs, one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, or explore the floral walkways and scenic waterfront at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park. Downtown, Cascades Park buzzes with energy, thanks to its amphitheater, trails and splash pad—all leading into a vibrant evening scene complete with fireworks visible from rooftops like Charlie Park, where guests can dine and toast above it all.
Don’t miss: Celebrate America at Tom Brown Park is Tallahassee’s signature Fourth of July event, taking place Friday, July 4, from 6 to 10 p.m. The free, family-friendly celebration features live music, food trucks, kids activities and a grand fireworks finale at 9:50 p.m. Guests are welcome to pack a picnic or enjoy cold beer and bites from on-site vendors while taking in the festive atmosphere.
Where to stay: The AC Hotel Tallahassee Universities at the Capitol offers modern comfort and front-row views of the city’s skyline and fireworks from its rooftop restaurant and bar, Charlie Park. Overlooking Cascades Park, it’s the perfect base for guests who want to celebrate in the heart of the city with easy access to nature, nightlife and local flavor.
BEST FOR A RED, WHITE & BAYOU BASH
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of the most famous cities in the world, and there is always plenty to do in the Big Easy. Admittedly, it can be a bit hot and humid in the summer months, but that doesn’t slow down the multitude of events—and it means fewer crowds and lower prices.
Don’t miss: Less than a mile from Caesar’s Superdome, guests can attend the ESSENCE Festival of Culture during the holiday weekend to see performances by music legends like Boyz II Men and Summer Walker. On July 3, enjoy City Park Conservancy’s free community concert and fireworks display on the 1,300-acre grounds, home to an amusement park, botanical garden, golf, tennis, museums and more. The next day, head to Fourth on the River, an Independence Day celebration on the historic downtown New Orleans riverfront, complete with food trucks, live music and a fireworks display over the Mississippi River.
Where to stay: The Eliza Jane is a luxury boutique hotel located less than a mile away from NOLA’s famous French Quarter, and it offers guests a festive welcome into the city’s celebrations. The property’s unique past as home to the Peychaud Cocktail Bitters factory, Peters Cartridge shop and The Daily Picayune allows travelers to experience local history in full bloom. Guests can dine among elegant decor at Couvant, the property’s signature French-Southern fusion restaurant, and enjoy classic New Orleans cocktails ahead of the festivities at The Press Room, the hotel’s spirited lobby lounge and bar.
BEST FOR RURAL ESCAPES
Rapid City, South Dakota
The largest city in western South Dakota, Rapid City is the gateway to the Black Hills. It’s within easy reach of iconic destinations like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park and Custer State Park. Rapid City is also home to the City of Presidents, and its bronze statues are found throughout downtown, with visitors being able to learn about each president along the way. Main Street Square—complete with fountains—is a popular spot to spend part of the day.
Don’t miss: The Mount Rushmore Lighting Ceremony—24 miles from Rapid City—also takes place on the Fourth of July. Inside Rapid’s city limits there are five fireworks shows over several days: Black Hills Speedway Fireworks Show (June 28), Fireworks at Rapid City Elks Golf Course (July 4), Official Rapid City Fireworks Show at Executive Golf Course (July 4), Arrowhead Golf Course Fireworks Show (July 4) and Post 22 Fireworks Display (July 5).
Where to stay: Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City is located in the heart of downtown. Its restaurant, Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar, also has a rooftop bar where you can catch fireworks going off over the city. It was built in 1927 and has hosted a variety of presidents over the years.
Best for a Family Splashdown
Mashantucket, Connecticut
The newest addition to the Great Wolf Lodge family of waterparks and resorts just opened adjacent to the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut. Like all Great Wolf Lodges, it offers fun for the family day—and night. Book a cabana in the 91,000-square-foot waterpark as your home base while at the pools. It will give your family a place to regroup after runs down the Pequot Plunge, River Canyon Run and tours of the Crooked Creek Lazy River. Every night is a party—literally—at the GWL with the Hustle and Howl Dance Party followed by the immersive bedtime story of “The Legend of Luna.” Then, when it’s time to call it a night, head to your themed room—our favorite is the Wolf Den suite with a themed cave sleeping area with bunk beds.
Don’t miss: Bigger kids on the search for more adventure will want to take a ride down the HighFlyer Zipline, part of the Foxwoods Resort. The one-mile-long zip line lets you fly from the Fox Tower, 350 feet off the ground, to the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center at a speed of nearly 60 mph!
Where to stay:Â When you book a room at the Great Wolf Lodge, you also get passes to the waterpark for the day of check-in and departure. The resort in Mashantucket has eight dining options, ranging from ice cream shops to the Hungry Wolf Food Hall for pizza and pasta and Fireside for steaks, seafood and more.
Best for an urban retreat
Chicago, Illinois
As someone who spent nine years enduring Chicago’s miserable winters, I can attest that the weather is finally perfect in the summer. So when it comes to a Midwest 4th of July getaway, this is the place to be. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, visitors can enjoy fireworks over Navy Pier every Wednesday and Saturday night. Pair the spectacle with Chicago’s world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods and diverse food scene for an unforgettable getaway.
Don’t miss: The Grant Park Music Festival, everyone’s favorite old-timey holiday celebration, includes an annual salute to America. Christopher Bell conducts the Grant Park Orchestra in this annual Chicago tradition, and the family-friendly celebration includes patriotic favorites, Broadway showstoppers and Yankee Doodle Fantasy, a musical barn-burner featuring the festival’s own principal percussionist Josh Jones.
Where to stay: Being on the river is a must, and the Hyatt Regency Chicago delivers. The property recently completed a $150 million renovation, so guests will stay in completely remodeled guest rooms and suites right in the heart of downtown and steps from the Chicago Riverwalk.
Best for mountain lovers
Aspen, Colorado
This charming mountain enclave may be ideal for skiing in the winter, but come summer, it’s the perfect temperature and one of the best places to go on the 4th of July. Pack your hiking boots and hit the many trails around the Roaring Fork Valley, take a ride on the Silver Queen gondola up Aspen Mountain, or get gutsy and try tandem paragliding from 18,000 feet for the best bird’s-eye view of town.
Don’t miss:Â The Old-Fashioned 4th of July Parade meanders through downtown (think: red fire trucks spraying water to the delight of children) with a Community Village that includes kids decorating bicycles, live music and dance, face painting and bounce houses, and community organizations hosting various activities.
Where to stay: The newly renovated Aspen Meadows Resort is located on 40 beautiful acres in Aspen’s quieter and more secluded West End, with some of the largest rooms in town. The property (considered a Bauhaus masterpiece from original designer Herbert Bayer) recently opened its new West End Social restaurant, with sweeping views of the mountains, as well as an adjoining cafe. The restaurant and its outside patio also happen to be the best place for watching the fireworks displayed over Aspen Mountain on Independence Day.
Best for West Coast gamblers
Las Vegas, Nevada
It’s fun to celebrate anything in Vegas, from bachelorette parties to our nation’s birthday, and getting to hit the blackjack tables or dance until the wee hours of the morning at a trendy nightclub is a bonus. Visitors can enjoy fireworks, food and fun this 4th of July at a number of locations around town.
Tripadvisor lists Las Vegas third in its 2025 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best U.S. Destinations. “The Tripadvisor community [loves] the city’s unique mix of high-stakes action and low-key relaxation, culture and dining options,” says Duncan Skehens, director of international communications for Tripadvisor. “With museums and art galleries (33%), food and wine tours (33%) and amusements and water parks (32%) topping their lists, it’s no surprise that many are looking at Las Vegas this summer.”
Don’t miss:Â The best locations to view the Caesars Palace fireworks display include outside the property near the Las Vegas Boulevard sidewalk, or the new Versailles Tower balcony rooms at Paris Las Vegas. And Kelly Clarkson launches her new residency, “Kelly Clarkson: Studio Sessions – The Las Vegas Residency,” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Friday, July 4. She has another show over the holiday weekend on Saturday, July 5 (and 18 performances scheduled through Nov. 15, 2025).
Where to stay: Located in the heart of The Strip, Paris Las Vegas features more than 3,600 guest rooms and suites, including the recently renovated Versailles Tower—an investment exceeding $100 million. Guests staying in the new Versailles Tower balcony rooms can enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Caesars Palace fireworks and The Strip from the comfort of their rooms—I stayed here a few months ago and never wanted to leave my room because it was hands-down the best view I’ve ever had from a Vegas hotel room and the Fountains of Bellagio were literally right there. The resort also offers a two-acre pool underneath the resort’s Eiffel Tower replica, the Voie Spa & Salon and a variety of food and beverage options: try breakfast at Dominique Ansel Marché, lunch at The Bedford by Martha Stewart (don’t miss the epic bread basket and roast chicken), drinks at Vanderpump á Paris, and dinner at Nobu or Gordon Ramsay Steak.
Best for East Coast gamblers
Atlantic City, New Jersey
If you’re on the East Coast, consider hanging out on the Jersey Shore for the 4th. Take a trip to Atlantic City for an over-the-top trip filled with top entertainment, miles of gorgeous beaches and a dazzling fireworks display. Visitors can enjoy the Atlantic City Boardwalk, which comes alive in the summer months, and ride the new roller coaster at Steel Pier.
Don’t miss: Multi-platinum R&B and pop singer Jason Derulo takes the stage at Ovation Hall on Friday, July 4. Looking for free options? Experience the stunning summer fireworks displays, visible from the beach and the iconic Atlantic City boardwalk in front of Tropicana Atlantic City. Taking place throughout the summer (and of course on July 4), the fireworks light up the night sky at 10 p.m., offering a spectacular view.
Where to stay: The Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa is the OG of luxe resorts in Atlantic City, with large, elegantly appointed rooms, a whopping 14 food and drink venues to choose from and the dreamy Spa Toccare. Its outdoor pool is a lively see-and-be-seen space on weekends and holidays, with a DJ and poolside drinks and food service.
Best for a desert retreat
Scottsdale, Arizona
I may be biased, but my hometown of Scottsdale is the perfect place to experience nature, wellness and a 4th of July celebration in the Valley. Sure, it’ll be hot in the desert, but that’s why every resort in town offers swimming pools, misters and refreshing air conditioning—not to mention seriously reduced off-season pricing, which makes it a surprisingly good time to visit Arizona. And these are excellent deals: I’m talking five-star stays for less than $150 a night!
Don’t miss: My favorite property in town is the sprawling Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, which sure knows how to party. The hotel will be hosting its annual Freedom Fest from July 3 through July 6, complete with fireworks every night at 9 p.m. (and 12-minute extravaganzas on the 4th and 6th). There’s nonstop entertainment too, including military parachutist jumps from the All Veterans Parachute Team, a vintage air show, catch-and-release fishing derbies and more. This event is so popular that I never have to ask any of my friends where they’ll be spending the holiday—the answer is always the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Bonus: You don’t have to book a stay at the hotel to attend (though it is one of my very favorite properties in town), as everyone is welcome.
Where to stay: The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is an AAA Four Diamond property that’s a destination in itself. You may never want to leave the property, thanks to the pickleball courts, two championship 18-hole golf courses and the Revive Spa. Of course, first you’d have to pry yourself away from the newly renovated AquaRidge WaterPark, including an enhanced lazy river, exhilarating waterslides and an exclusive adults-only Sky Island retreat.
Best for history buffs
Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
Spend your Independence Day in a city that was crucial to our nation’s birth: Williamsburg. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a grander array of activities, which include everything from historic reenactments to spectacular fireworks, or a more intriguing destination for history buffs.
Don’t miss: Experience the excitement of the Declaration of Independence being read, and cap off the day with a stunning fireworks display set against the backdrop of the Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg. Or head to the American Revolution Museum for its July 4th Liberty Celebration, which offers everything from artillery demonstrations to outdoor re-creations of a Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm.
Where to stay: Many families rely on Woodlands Hotel & Suites for their Colonial Williamsburg base camp because it’s adjacent to the historic area. It offers a complimentary shuttle service to Merchants Square and the art museums, and on site, you can enjoy miniature golf, a splash park, a heated pool and a fitness center.
Best for beach bums
San Diego, California
San Diego’s Mission Bay is one of the best places to go for the 4th of July if you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday getaway. You’ll find waterfront accommodations, kid- and pet-friendly restaurants and nearby attractions like SeaWorld and Mission Beach’s Belmont Park. It’s located on 27 miles of sandy shoreline, so be sure to spend some time kayaking or paddleboarding.
Don’t miss:Â The holiday fireworks show on Mission Bay is a time-honored tradition. This year’s Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom festivities will begin with an 18-minute fireworks display at 9 p.m. on July 4, set to a festive soundtrack. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay off Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, Marina District and Coronado Ferry Landing.
Where to stay: For the best views of the fireworks, book a room at the Polynesian-themed Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, located on the shores of Mission Bay and just a couple blocks from Pacific Beach. The fireworks won’t be the only bright thing that catches your eye on this property—resident parrots and macaws will be vying for your attention too.
Best for music lovers
Nashville, Tennessee
Celebrate Independence Day 2024 in Music City with the free “Let Freedom Sing!” July 4th event in downtown Nashville, one of the best cities in America for live music. This celebration will not only offer a large outdoor concert and Family Fun Zone—Nashville also promises one of the largest fireworks shows in the country.
Don’t miss: The pyrotechnics will be synchronized to a live performance by the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony. You’ll also get to enjoy headliner Chris Young along with Yola, Girl Named Tom, Blessing Offor and more at this free, family-friendly event.
Where to stay: With a great beach-resort atmosphere in downtown Nashville, Margaritaville Hotel is right in the middle of it all and will make you feel like you’re in an island paradise. Soak up the sun and take in fantastic views of the Music City skyline, including the fireworks, from the fourth-floor pool deck.
Best for partiers
South Padre Island, Texas
In case you hadn’t gotten the memo, South Padre—the island on the southern tip of Texas that’s surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and sparkling Laguna Madre Bay—is known as “The Firework Capital of Texas,” not to mention a party spot that hosts a wild spring break every year. In addition to year-round mild temperatures, white-sand beaches, emerald waters, great fishing and plenty of water-based activities, visitors can end every Friday and Saturday night through August watching a fireworks display at Clayton’s Beach Bar.
Don’t miss: The 4th of July kicks off with the SPI beach parade at 9 a.m. After a day of fun in the sun, you’ll be treated to a fireworks show over the bay, starting at 9:15 p.m.
Where to stay: The Hilton Garden Inn & Suites is right on the beach and just minutes from all the action (it’s right next to Clayton’s), including an educational excursion to the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, which is right across the street.
Best for a less-crowded Disney experience
Orlando, Florida
Downtown Orlando is typically known for its cool, under-the-radar rhythm, but “The City Beautiful” comes alive and bursts with an undeniable energy every 4th of July. And yes, it’s right near Disney, but more affordable and less crowded than it would be if you spent the night at one of the parks. Christina Petsos, an Orlando-based food influencer, says, “My favorite way to celebrate the 4th of July in Orlando is by catching one of the many fireworks shows. We have some of the most beautiful fireworks displays in the country—and the weather to match it! I like the Magic Kingdom fireworks, and they are great to view from the Polynesian. You can watch them from the resort’s beach or the hill near the bungalows.”
Don’t miss: One of the city’s most notable events, Fireworks at the Fountain, takes place at the iconic Lake Eola Park in the heart of downtown Orlando—this is the 47th year, and it’s still going strong. Guests can set up picnic blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy this free al fresco event that starts at 4 p.m. The fireworks begin at 9:10 p.m. and will be set to music by the Orlando Concert Band.
Where to stay: For the best views, pyrotechnic lovers might want to make their way to SkyBar at the AC Hotel Orlando Downtown. With its central location and 18th-floor vantage point, it will let attendees ring in the 4th in style. The bar offers sweeping views of the area, so guests can take in the Disney and Universal fireworks shows without the massive crowds.
Best for traditionalists
Washington, DC
Is it cliché to say that Washington, DC is the most patriotic spot in the country to celebrate our nation? Eh, maybe, but we still love it! While you’re in the area, you can also go back in time to George Washington’s days at Mount Vernon, get tickets to a baseball game at Nationals Park and visit museums galore, from the Smithsonian to the National Portrait Gallery.
Don’t miss: A Capitol Fourth, the star-studded concert that always precedes the epic fireworks show on the National Mall, will be held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol and is free to attend. Watch it light up the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol Building and add a glow to the Washington Monument. There is truly nothing like it.
Where to stay: You can’t go wrong at the elegant, contemporary Conrad Hotel, right next to the city center and just steps from the metro lines. Its special 4th of July package includes access to Summit at Conrad, the hotel’s iconic roof (and the perfect spot to watch the fireworks), dinner for two at the property’s signature restaurant, a curated welcome basket with red, white and blue goodies, access to the Sakura Club and more.
Best for a road trip
Fredericksburg, Texas
Come for the holiday, stay for peach season, because Fredericksburg is where you’ll find ripe, juicy Texas Hill Country peaches just begging to be eaten. (Seriously, I’ve never tasted anything like them before!) And if you’re looking for 4th of July vacations with a touch of sophistication, this is also where you’ll find many great wineries. In fact, it’s a Texas road trip you should take at least once, with cool stops on the 234-mile drive from Houston, including a wildflower farm and a turn-of-the-century farmstead.
Don’t miss: July 4th festivities include a kiddie parade around Marktplatz for children under 12, a community parade along Main Street and evening fireworks at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. Don’t miss the Fredericksburg Farmers Market while in town, the First Friday Art Walk and a horse race at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds.
Where to stay: Give yourself a little breathing room at Outlot 201 Guest Houses, which feature three traditional Sunday Haus–style cottages with all the comforts of home. I loved staying here because it was only a couple miles from Main Street, in the heart of the action, but I felt worlds away in the best way possible.
Best for nature lovers
Hot Springs, Arkansas
About an hour southwest of Little Rock, in the Ouachita Mountains, you’ll find Hot Springs, Arkansas—and as you may have guessed, this town owes its name to its natural hot springs. You can explore them at the spas on Bathhouse Row, the perfect way to unwind over a holiday weekend.
Don’t miss: The city offers its annual free public Independence Day fireworks display on Lake Hamilton on July 4th at dark. Fireworks will be shot from the middle of the lake, from barges located on the east side of Highway 7 at the first bridge and synced to music on radio station 97.5 FM.
Where to stay: Get front-row seats to all the 4th of July pyrotechnics with a stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton. In addition to the views of Lake Hamilton on the 4th and throughout your entire stay, you’ll enjoy a swimming pool and a signature DoubleTree chocolate-chip cookie upon arrival.
Best for natural beauty
Door County, Wisconsin
One of the most magical places I’ve ever spent my summer is Door County, Wisconsin, so I’m not at all surprised that Chicagoans vacation here, along the serene 70-mile peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Each of the main towns on this stunning peninsula, including Fish Creek, Egg Harbor, Ephraim, Sturgeon Bay and Sister Bay, has its own unique offerings but roughly the same charming vibe.
Don’t miss: The days surrounding 4th of July are busy indeed, with cherry season in full swing (honestly, this alone is worth coming for) and multiple holiday festivities including the Baileys Harbor Fourth of July Celebration, Egg Harbor Independence Day Celebration, Sturgeon Bay Celebrates and Sister Bay Freedom Fest.
Where to stay: Keep things quaint and cozy at the Hillside Waterfront Hotel in Ephraim. The Hillside is one of the most iconic buildings in Door County, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places; it’s also home to the longest porch in Door County. The location is also prime for attending Ephraim’s Monday-night summer concert series at the Harborside Park Gazebo.
Best for Midwestern charm
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Embrace Midwestern charm on Mackinac Island. Known for its world-famous fudge and historic fort, this spot on Lake Huron is known as “The Jewel of the Great Lakes.” One thing that sets apart this island from other U.S. islands you can visit without a passport is the lack of cars and chain hotels, which aren’t allowed—making this a truly one-of-a-kind 4th of July vacation spot.
Don’t miss: The annual Stone Skipping Competition at Windermere Point takes place at 9 a.m. on July 4th, during which professional stone skippers fight for a much-coveted trophy. The 4th of July fireworks display starts around 10 p.m.
Where to stay: The Grand Hotel, which has been welcoming guests since 1897, is a 388-room resort that offers a unique design and ambience in each guest room—no two are alike. The Old Fashioned Mackinac 4th of July Celebration package comes with three nights, breakfast and dinner daily, glow-stick and cotton-candy parties, an ice cream social, a picnic in the tea garden and a view of fireworks from the hotel’s porch. (Fun fact: It’s the world’s longest front porch!)
Best for city slickers
New York, New York
As you might have guessed, the July 4th fireworks shows in New York City are pretty epic, and there are plenty to choose from, depending on where you are and the vibe you’re looking for. The city boasts a variety of festive events, including parades, concerts and rooftop parties, making it a vibrant and exciting destination for the holiday.
Don’t miss: New York’s main event is the televised Macy’s 4th of July fireworks show. Thousands of shells with an array of effects will be launched from barges positioned along the Hudson River, with viewing opportunities in Manhattan between West 14th and West 34th Streets and in New Jersey. In years past, this has lasted 25 star-spangled minutes.
Where to stay: Located on 38th Street and Madison Avenue, the NH Collection New York Madison Avenue Hotel is centrally located and an easy walk to the 34th Street fireworks viewing location. Bonus: This property was voted the most Instagrammable hotel in North America and has amazing views of the Empire State Building.
Best for concert lovers
St. Louis, Missouri
Tell your friends to meet you in St. Louis for fireworks against the backdrop of the Mississippi River and the city’s iconic Gateway Arch. Before the festivities get underway, take a stroll to visit the city garden, zoo, science center and assorted museums. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions, but St. Louis is also perfect for a more grown-up trip. In addition to the city’s eclectic nightlife, Eater.com named St. Louis one of the top 15 restaurant destinations in America.
Don’t miss: What used to be called Fair St. Louis is now Celebrate St. Louis, but the festivities will still be epic. It features a parade through downtown, live entertainment, kid-friendly activities (including a family fun zone) and fireworks launching from barges on the Mississippi.
Where to stay: Everyone loves a Four Seasons property, and the terrace at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis comes with unforgettable views of the river and the Gateway Arch, making it an incredible viewing spot for Celebrate St. Louis. Of course, the views from your floor-to-ceiling windows are nothing to sneeze at either.
Best for a luxe getaway
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Spend the 4th on an island right here in the United States—Jekyll Island, Georgia. When the festivities are over, there’s still plenty to do, including spending time on the beach, checking out the gorgeous Gilded Age vacation homes in the National Historic Landmark District (once dubbed “the richest, most inaccessible club in the world”) and enjoying more than 20 miles of bike paths and trails.
Don’t miss: The signature Independence Day fireworks will light up the night sky at 8:45 p.m. They are best viewed from the beach side of the island at Great Dunes Beach Park or Oceanview Beach Park.
Where to stay: Complete your beachy 4th on the island with a stay at the modern Jekyll Ocean Club, a 40-suite oceanfront boutique hotel that features spacious suites perfect for a luxurious family getaway. The AAA Four Diamond property offers an oceanfront pool, a fire pit with s’mores kits and plenty of gathering spaces and prime spots for fireworks viewing.
Best for honoring our country's origins
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
No one does the 4th of July quite like Philly, one of the country’s most patriotic destinations. And where better to celebrate America’s birthday than in its birthplace? When you’re not watching fireworks light up the sky (or downing a cheesesteak), you can check out the Liberty Bell, as well as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. Art lovers should also check out the museums and 4,000-plus outdoor murals.
Don’t miss: The annual Wawa Welcome America—billed as the largest 4th of July celebration in America—offers 16 days of free fun from June 19 through July 4. The event series will culminate in a free concert featuring Ne-Yo, Kesha and Philly favorites DJ Diamond Kuts and Snacktime, and a stunning fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Where to stay: You’ll be treated to the best views in Philadelphia from the top of the city’s tallest tower—the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia. Book a room with views toward the museum and you can watch the fireworks while enjoying a gourmet room-service picnic right from your bed.
Best for small-town vibes
Cody, Wyoming
If you want to spend time in a charming small town, Cody is the place for you. July 4th is the biggest holiday of the year in this small northwestern Wyoming town in Yellowstone County. It’s so big, in fact, that it takes five days to pack in all the fun.
Don’t miss: The highlight here is the Cody Stampede Rodeo, now in its 105th year. Held on June 30 through July 4 this year, it features parades, rodeos and more. The city of Cody also hosts a magnificent fireworks display beginning at dusk on July 4th, and it can be viewed from just about anywhere in town.
Where to stay: The Comfort Inn at Buffalo Bill Village Resort is an easy walk to restaurants, galleries and museums on Sheridan Avenue, the town’s main street. You’ll get to watch the parades and participate in the other festivities without having to drive and find parking.
Best for old-school boardwalk fun
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Looking for some good, old-fashioned beach fun on a boardwalk? You’ll find it here. Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk is lined with all the vintage favorites of vacation, including fudge shops and arcades, a family amusement park and several Ripley’s attractions. You’ll definitely want to check out the nearly 200-foot-high SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the country—perfect to catch the flashes in the sky if you get your timing right.
Don’t miss: Speaking of those fireworks, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see them, with seven official shows occurring in various spots from June 29 to July 4. You’ll also want to catch the 4th of July Golf Cart Parade at 11 a.m. on the big day, the Murrells Inlet 40th annual boat parade and Salute from the Shore, a “parade” of military aircraft flying overhead.
Where to stay: Set across 27 acres on the south end of Ocean Boulevard and next to Myrtle Beach State Park, the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel provides a scenic coastal escape. Multiple fireworks shows will be visible from the resort.
Best for Southern charm
Charleston, South Carolina
A quick flight from most major U.S. hubs, and an exciting road trip for regional travelers, this historic American city is an ideal place to go for 4th of July weekend. It’s full of rich history, quaint cobblestone streets and a highly regarded culinary scene, so you’ll be in good hands over the holiday weekend.
Don’t miss: Each year, the city hosts a sparkling fireworks show over the Charleston Harbor. And you can either check out the 4th of July festival at Riverfront Park, a free event featuring live musical performances, or head to the Patriots Point Fireworks Blast, where you can watch the fireworks from the deck of the USS Yorktown, a World War II aircraft carrier. (Seriously, how cool is that?!)
Where to stay: Avoid the crowds and get a bird’s-eye view of the celebrations from the HarbourView Inn. You’ll get incredible 360-degree views of the fireworks over the church-steeple skyline from the private rooftop terrace.
Best for a dog-friendly getaway
Huntington Beach, California
Surf City U.S.A. has one of the longest-running 4th of July parade traditions in the country, with a neighborhood celebration that’s been taking place since 1904 and is the largest 4th of July celebration west of the Mississippi. There are several days of activities planned for the 2024 holiday, including the Surf City 5K Run and a parade over a 2.5-mile route starting on Pacific Coast Highway and making its way past the Huntington Beach Pier and onto Main Street.
Don’t miss: At night, you can watch a massive fireworks display over the ocean from the pier or around a bonfire pit on the shore. Beach viewing is open to the public, but there are paid tickets for reserved seating on the pier.
Where to stay: Southern California’s most pet-friendly hotel, the Paséa Hotel & Spa, is conveniently located less than two miles from the famed Huntington Dog Beach, where your pup can run leash-free through the waves. There’s also a 1,100-square-foot outdoor play area outfitted with a lifeguard-station doghouse and decorated with a local artist-commissioned wall mural.
Best for full-on patriotic vibes
Boston, Massachusetts
The city that played an integral role in the American Revolution is also the site of a plethora of 4th of July–themed events (naturally). The big one is the famed Boston Harborfest, a multi-day festival that includes live entertainment, special Freedom Trail walks and a Changing of the Guard that will transport you back to 1775 so you can watch “colonists” interact with “British soldiers.”
Don’t miss: In addition to learning some fascinating 4th of July trivia, you’ll definitely want to check out the full-scale parade with marching bands and floats that culminates at the Old State House with a reading of the Declaration of Independence. There’s also an annual concert by the world-famous Boston Pops and a fantastic fireworks display.
Where to stay: Situated along the Charles River, the Royal Sonesta is an ideal location for experiencing both Cambridge and Boston, not to mention a prime spot for watching fireworks explode over the Boston skyline from the banks of the river. Plus, the hotel is pet-friendly, so you can bring Rover with you to celebrate!
How we chose the best places to go for 4th of July
We zeroed in on some of the most classically patriotic destinations known for their all-out annual celebrations. From there, we filled in the gaps with cities featuring some unexpectedly awesome fireworks displays and festivities. We also kept location in mind, striving to include major cities and other locales that are within driving distance from major cities, for those who don’t want to fly during the busy holiday.
About the experts
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Why trust us
At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experience where appropriate. For this piece on the best places to go for 4th of July, Jill Schildhouse tapped her longtime experience as a travel journalist, avid traveler and Arizona resident. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
- Melanie Fish, travel expert at Expedia; email interview, June 2024
- Christina Petsos, Orlando-based food influencer; email interview, June 2024
- Tripadvisor: “Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations”
