Top 8 Places To Celebrate 4th Of July

This article is from our print magazine issued July 1st 2022. To order a copy of the magazine please do so here.

If you’re looking for some of the most magnificent Independence Day fireworks shows throughout the United States, you’ve come to the right place! Keep reading to discover the best eight places to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Washington, D.C.

What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than by visiting our nation’s capital? Washington, D.C. has many Independence Day celebrations, from massive fireworks displays to patriotic concerts. Check out the fireworks over the D.C. skyline and monuments, and beforehand, don’t forget about A Capitol Fourth, an incredible show on the National Mall, airing on PBS. You can also head to Mount Vernon, which hosts an annual Independence Day celebration. Tickets include access to the onsite museums, the gardens, and the gravesite of President George Washington and Martha Washington.

New York City

There is no shortage of Independence Day activities in New York City! You can enjoy the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks, the largest Independence Day celebration, from Dumbo, Brooklyn Bridge Park & Promenade, or East River State Park. The South Street Seaport Annual Freedom Fest is another great place to view these fireworks, and in addition, you can enjoy drinks, a live DJ, and plenty of American food, like burgers, hot dogs, and pulled pork.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Between the vibrant nightlife scene, lively pool parties, and plenty of entertainment, Las Vegas is one of the most fun places to celebrate July 4th. Several casinos host Independence Day fireworks, like Caesars Palace, Mandalay Bay, Plaza Hotel Casino, and The STRAT.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is home to several fireworks displays, parades, and celebrations over the July 4th weekend. Falmouth, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod, has a magnificent fireworks show right over the water, and is synchronized to music as a bonus. If you want a beachy getaway combined with spectacular celebrations and the nation’s freshest seafood, Cape Cod is the ideal place to celebrate Independence Day.

Seattle, Washington

Not does July offer incredible weather in Seattle, but you can also find several things to do to celebrate Independence Day. Seafair Summer Fourth, held in Gas Works Park and Lake Union Park, boasts fantastic views of the fireworks shows, live music, delicious food, pie eating contests, and more. For a more family-oriented celebration, head to Bellvue Family 4th, a full-day festival in Bellvue Downtown Park.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco’s largest July 4th celebration is held at Pier 39, where you can find live music, entertainment, and plenty of barbecue. Fireworks are held at the end of the night. Aquatic Park is another place to celebrate July 4th. Enjoy an incredible fireworks display after a live music concert in the evening. While this event is free, you will want to get there early to find a spot!

Chicago, Illinois

Navy Pier in Chicago is one of the best areas to check out the 4th of July fireworks! You can catch the show north or south of Navy Pier along the waterfront. There are plenty of other things to do in Chicago during Independence Day weekend. Explore the Chicago Riverwalk, head to a Lake Michigan beach, or check out one of the other festivals, like the International Festival of Life or the Grant Park Music Festival.

Honolulu, Hawaii

While Honolulu is an incredible destination any time of year, it is especially lively during Independence Day weekend. After a day of soaking up the sun on the beach, enjoying the incredible restaurants in the Waikiki neighborhood, and exploring everything the area offers, check out one of the many fireworks shows around the island. The Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki offers a fireworks display, but if you want to venture further, head to Hukilau Marketplace in Laie on Oahu’s North Shore.

Nothing feels more American than enjoying some great food, spending time outside, and marveling at an impressive fireworks display. Luckily, these eight destinations will not disappoint in any of these categories. Happy Independence Day! Stay safe, stay focused and stay traveling. Happy Travels.