The Best Places to Go for the Fourth of July

If there’s one holiday that demands sparklers, BBQ, and star-spangled everything, it’s the Fourth of July. And, while we can certainly celebrate with a backyard grill and a few friends, why not turn Independence Day into an all-out adventure? 

Whether you’re dreaming of fireworks lighting up a major skyline or craving a charming parade down Main Street, we’ve rounded up ten of the best places to go for the Fourth of July – five iconic cities and five small-town gems that go all in for America’s birthday.

New York City, New York

There’s no place quite like NYC for a blockbuster Fourth of July. The main event is the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, which light up the night sky over the East River in an epic display choreographed to music. It’s one of the biggest and most famous shows in the country, and you can watch it from parks, rooftops, or even a boat cruise on the river.

While you’re in town, you can also catch a Broadway show, wander through Central Park, or eat your way through neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy. For something festive during the day, see if you have time to check out Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island – a weird yet wonderful tradition. 

NYC knows how to party, and the energy here on the Fourth of July is absolutely electric. To help you round out your trip, here are a few more unforgettable experiences you might like to add to your itinerary. 

Washington, D.C.

Spending Independence Day in the nation’s capital feels about right. Each year, D.C. hosts a full day of patriotic celebrations, including the National Independence Day Parade on Constitution Avenue and the Capitol Fourth Concert on the West Lawn. The grand finale includes fireworks launched over the National Mall with the monuments lit up behind them.

Beyond the festivities, you can also take time to explore the Smithsonian museums (they’re free), the National Archives to see the Declaration of Independence itself, and other iconic spots like the Lincoln Memorial. D.C. is a city rich in history and pageantry, and there’s no better time to soak it all in than the Fourth of July. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Washington, D.C. 

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston doesn’t play around when it comes to the Fourth. This is, after all, the birthplace of the American Revolution. The city’s Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a must, combining live orchestral music with dazzling fireworks over the Charles River. The energy in the crowd is hard to beat, and there’s something really moving about celebrating freedom in the city where it all began.

During the day, you can walk the Freedom Trail, visit Paul Revere’s house, and explore the historic North End (don’t skip the cannolis). There’s also Harborfest, a multi-day celebration with historical reenactments, live music, and boat cruises around Boston Harbor. If you’d like your Fourth of July with a side of history and a dash of East Coast charm, this is it for you.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philly is the proud host of Wawa Welcome America, a full week of festivities leading up to the Fourth, including free concerts, museum access, block parties, and fireworks at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. On the big day, you can watch the Salute to America Independence Day Parade as you soak in the historic setting.

While you’re here, be sure to take a stroll through Independence National Historical Park, see the Liberty Bell, and stand in the room where the Declaration was signed. Philadelphia doesn’t just celebrate the Fourth. It lives it. There’s an extra layer of meaning to every star and stripe this time of year, making it all an unforgettable experience.