This year's Fourth of July falls on a Saturday and it's America's 250th birthday. That means celebrations are bigger, crowds are larger, and hotels are booking faster than ever. Here's where to go, what to expect, and how to lock in your stay before it's too late.
NEW YORK CITY
For America’s 250th, New York is going all out. The 50th annual Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks will launch 60,000 shells over the East River, visible across NYC and New Jersey. The celebration also includes 40+ tall ships in New York Harbor, Revolutionary War exhibits, a Yankees game, Coney Island, and Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest before the fireworks begin.
Best viewing spots: East River waterfront in Brooklyn, Lower East Side piers, or rooftop bars in Williamsburg and DUMBO.
WASHINGTON D.C.
There’s no better place to celebrate America’s 250th than Washington, D.C. The city is hosting Salute to America 250 on the National Mall, featuring what organizers call the largest fireworks display in U.S. history, plus a parade, free concerts, a state fair, and live music at 4th on the Wharf.
Pro tip: Arrive the day before to visit the National Archives and see the original Declaration of Independence without July 4th crowds.
BOSTON
As the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston delivers one of the country’s most historic Fourth of July celebrations. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular features live performances and fireworks over the Charles River, while the city’s Freedom Trail, historic landmarks, and annual Declaration of Independence reading bring the nation’s founding story to life.
Don’t miss: Book a table along the Charles River Esplanade early — this is one of the most in-demand spots in the city on July 4th.
NASHVILLE
Nashville lives up to its Music City reputation with the free “Let Freedom Sing!” celebration, featuring live performances, the Nashville Symphony, and one of the country’s largest fireworks shows. With the holiday falling on a Saturday, it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend of live music and Lower Broadway nightlife.
Where to stay: Look for hotels in the Gulch or SoBro neighborhoods for walking distance to the concert grounds.
PHILADELPHIA
Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, hosts the massive Wawa Welcome America celebration with concerts, fireworks, parades, and free museum days. For the 250th anniversary, the city will also bury a time capsule at Independence National Historical Park to be opened in 2276.
Pro tip: Philadelphia hotels near Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are best for the show.
SAN DIEGO
San Diego combines perfect summer weather, beautiful beaches, and the Big Bay Boom, the largest fireworks show in Southern California. Spend the day exploring La Jolla, the Gaslamp Quarter, or Coronado before enjoying panoramic waterfront fireworks over San Diego Bay.
Local tip: The bay-facing side of Coronado gives you an unobstructed view of the Big Bay Boom without the downtown crowd density.
MIAMI
Miami celebrates the Fourth with waterfront fireworks, live entertainment, and plenty of ways to enjoy the city… from South Beach and Brickell rooftops to watching the show from a boat on Biscayne Bay. With the holiday falling on a Saturday, it’s an ideal destination for a long summer weekend.
