What Better Way to Kick Off the Summer?
Hot weather, barbecues, patriotism and no small number of fireworks are the key features of the Fourth of July festivities everywhere in the United States. However, some celebrations are bigger and better than others.
Independence Day is a great excuse for a summer holiday. Why not go somewhere new and be treated to an outstanding firework display while you’re there?
Here are 10 of the best places to go for the Fourth of July.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas knows how to do big flashy celebrations, and the Fourth of July is no exception. There’s a reason why it’s one of the top Fourth of July destinations. You can look forward to endless pool parties, massive patriotic decorations and of course fireworks, with resorts all competing to put on the biggest and brightest show.
Expect the parties to start on the Friday night before Independence Day and continue until July 5. In terms of Fourth of July travel, this may be better suited to travelers without children. Just because you’re in Vegas doesn’t mean it has to be an expensive weekend, either. There are plenty of freebies in Vegas in addition to the parties you’ll be making the most of.
New Orleans
Every city in the United States tries to outdo all the rest with fireworks displays on Independence Day. New Orleans is definitely a top contender for the finest show, making it one of the best places for a Fourth of July vacation.
The fiery extravaganza takes place along the Mississippi River, with two barges acting as the launching point for the dazzling lights.
You can watch the fireworks from any point along the riverfront, or for a truly spectacular experience, join a cruise on a riverboat so you’ll see the fireworks directly overhead as you glide down the Mississippi.
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San Diego
The military bases dotted around San Diego might be one of the reasons this town is so patriotic. Whatever it is, this is a place where people love their country and know how to throw a good party.
This laid-back destination kicks up its heels on the Fourth of July, treating visitors and locals alike to a gigantic fireworks display. More than 350,000 people fill the port-side parks to enjoy the spectacle — enjoy a picnic on the beach during the day and then head over to watch the show in the evening.
Nashville
One of the best places to go for the Fourth of July is the Music City. Independence Day celebrations in Nashville involve an incredible lineup of live music at a free concert in the heart of the city.
The event is family-friendly, so you can take the kids along to enjoy the games, attractions and music. Did we mention it’s free?
Pasadena
AmericaFest is in its 93rd year now. The Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena will come alive on the Fourth of July, with food, entertainment and, of course, a fireworks show keeping visitors enthralled.
There is a festive atmosphere all day, so it’ll be easy to get in the mood to celebrate America’s birthday!
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New York
Let’s be honest, it’s not as if you need an excuse to visit the Big Apple, as there are already plenty of things to do in New York City — but on the Fourth of July, there are even more reasons to visit. As well as festivities taking place around the city, you’ll be able to watch the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Show, said to the be largest display in the United States.
You’ll have to compete with the crowds to get a glimpse of the pyrotechnics, but it’ll be worth it just to feel the electric atmosphere!
Washington, D.C.
It has been three decades since Capitol Fourth first started. Each year it just gets bigger and better, so this event is one of the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July in 2019.
The massive, free concert takes place on the west lawn of the Capitol Building and regularly features some of the biggest names in music, along with the National Symphony Orchestra. Fireworks over the Washington Monument top things off in an uplifting display.
The best part? The whole event is free.
Lake Tahoe
The Lights on the Lake event makes Tahoe one of the most scenic Fourth of July destinations. You can scout out viewing spots around the lake for the fireworks display, which is especially spectacular thanks to the reflections in the lake below.
To enjoy the show from the water, you can board a luxury motor yacht with Tahoe Cruises, and enjoy a lavish dinner and champagne as you take in the show to a background of live music. Or, to take things to the next level, you can also catch the show in a helicopter swooping above it all.
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Bristol
The small town of Bristol on Rhode Island is the site of America’s oldest Fourth of July celebration and the perfect destination for Independence Day. First established in 1785, this long-running event is polished, but still full of life.
On the Fourth, a two-and-a-half-mile military, civic and fireman’s parade runs through town, followed by a concert at Independence Park.
There is also a Fourth of July ball for anyone who wants a dose of patriotic nostalgia and the chance to dress up and dance while the fireworks pop overhead.
San Francisco
On the Fourth of July in San Francisco, it’s all taking place at Pier 39. Bring your dancing shoes and your wallet, as there will be live music galore and an array of shops, eateries and exhibits
In the evening, look to the skies to see red, white and blue fireworks exploding over the bay. For an extra special view of the fireworks, you can make a reservation in advance at one of the restaurants along the pier.