Best Places to Visit for 4th of July | Weekend Getaways, Vacation Spots
Wondering what are the best places to visit for 4th of July this year? Choosing where and how to celebrate the most significant national holiday in America can feel overwhelming as you’re generally spoiled for choice.
Tiny towns and big cities alike will have their own festivities planned. From the best fireworks displays to mega parties and peaceful retreats, we’ve got something for everyone to celebrate this Independence Day.
Best 4th of July Vacations
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Whether or not the 4th of July happens to fall on a weekend, it’s the perfect time to take a few days off and have one of the best July 4th vacations possible. Take a look at some of these fantastic vacation options for the national holiday.
Honolulu, Hawaii
This July 4th, the beach could be the best destination if you’re looking for a tropical getaway. Honolulu in particular is a very popular choice. Of course, there are the popular luaus to attend and snorkelling adventures to go on. You can also learn how to surf if you want to do something a little more adventurous than catching a tan.
In the afternoon of the 4th, you can hula to the free Hawaiian music drifting from the Ala Moana Centre. Settle down on the beach when the sun starts to set for a fantastic fireworks display over the Pacific. It’s the perfect place to spend a 4th of July weekend. Need some help packing? Check out our ultimate Hawaii checklist here.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia knows how to party. It’s one of the best places for the 4th of July as it stretches the Independence Day celebrations over a whopping 16 days before a big blow-out on the fourth.
The Wawa Welcome America festival is undoubtedly one of the biggest draws with various activities and incredible free concerts featuring some famous names. Take advantage of the free admissions to many of the city’s museums and attractions and make the most of your experience in the birthplace of America.
The event ends with a breathtaking fireworks finale set to music over the Philadelphia Museum of Art on July 4th. Independence Day in Philly is truly a festive and patriotic experience like no other.
Yosemite National Park, California
It may be one of the less conventional 4th of July vacations to choose from, but Yosemite National Park gets booked up quickly over Independence Day. It offers a relaxed experience without the usual firework displays, but that’s not to say your holiday here will be completely void of entertainment.
Two of the nearby hotels and lodges offer massive barbeques to satisfy your appetite for hamburgers, corn on the cob, and other traditional 4th of July fare. Once you’ve had your share of pie and puddings, spend the rest of the afternoon winding down and watching some of the wildlife.
Instead of the usual fireworks, the California night sky boasts a light show of a different nature. Far away from the harsh city lights, cosmic clusters of stars form a sparkling canopy overhead while you stargaze from the comfort of your campsite. Yosemite offers a July 4th getaway that will leave you feeling refreshed like no other place.
Best Places to Go for the 4th of July
These locations are fantastic as a day-outing or a weekend getaway to celebrate Independence Day the way you want to.
Washington, DC
Spend this 4th of July holiday watching any of the multiple parades scattered throughout the capital city, complete with floats, costume-clad performers, and marching bands.
Between these patriotic spectacles, put aside some time to peruse some of the nation’s historical museums and monuments. If you really want to get into the spirit of the day, stop by the National Archives and gaze upon the Declaration itself.
There’s also an annual live concert — A Capitol Fourth — presented on the West Lawn featuring all manner of top-tier music performers in their respective genres, plus a celebrity host. Finish off the day by watching one of the most spectacular fireworks displays the nation has to offer at the National Mall against a backdrop of majestic monuments.
Mt. Rushmore, South Dakota
This location offers plenty of engaging historical things to do for the 4th of July. With the faces of four presidents carved into it, what better backdrop could you ask for to celebrate this national holiday than Mt. Rushmore?
Military bands entertain onlookers with patriotic tunes, and actors dressed up as the four famous presidents offer autographs and photo opportunities. They’ll even answer questions, so if you feel like having some fun, don’t be shy to engage with them.
There’s an official flag folding ceremony to attend during the day to add to the national spirit. Once the skies darken, settle down and gaze in wonder at the impressive fireworks behind the famous landmark.
Estes Park, Colorado
For an afternoon of old-fashioned family fun and other things to do on the 4th of July, head to Estes Park in Colorado. You’ll be able to experience Independence Day against the backdrop of gorgeous snow-kissed mountains and lush forested hills.
Take advantage of the scenic splendour and go paddle-boating or mountain biking through the day, or work on that hand-eye coordination in a round of miniature golf. There’s also an incredible car show for motor enthusiasts, showcasing everything from steam-powered vintage vehicles to hot rods and sports cars.
Listen to the patriotic tunes of The Estes Village Band at the Performance park theatre and then grab a local craft beer and some delectable food from The Big Bang! Concert as the sun begins to set. Head up to the Lake Estes Trail to get the best view of the massive fireworks display — completely unhindered by light pollution.
If you plan on sticking around for a few days, why not do a bit of day-tripping and check out some of the beautiful castles in Colorado.
Enjoy Your 4th of July Getaway!
There’s no wrong way to commemorate the founding of America, whether it’s quietly by a campfire or loudly at a heart-pumping festival.
Independence Day brings out the best celebratory spirit that the country has to offer, so take advantage of it. Grab your red, white, and blue paraphernalia and get in the spirit of the 4th of July at any one of these locations for a yearly experience you won’t forget.
