Best 4th of July Fireworks Shows
- shannastewart4443
- 4 days ago
- 23 min read
"I'm proud to be an American" - Lee Greenwood
My best memories of 4th of July have always been when I traveled somewhere else in the U.S. The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, and what better way to make it unforgettable than traveling to witness some of the best firework's displays across the country? From the dazzling Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks illuminating the New York City skyline to the historic Boston Pops Spectacular lighting up the Charles River, each city brings its own unique traditions to the holiday. Whether you’re watching a patriotic display against the backdrop of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. or feeling the rush of excitement along the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, traveling for Independence Day fireworks offers a one-of-a-kind experience. With vibrant parades, live music, and festive energy filling the streets, visiting a new city to celebrate the birth of the nation is a perfect way to combine adventure, tradition, and breathtaking views into one unforgettable trip.
In this post, I will cover some of the top places to see fireworks in the U.S. including:
New York City, New York
Traveling to New York City for the Fourth of July is an unforgettable experience! The city comes alive with patriotic celebrations, dazzling fireworks, and festive events.
What to Expect:
Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks – One of the largest fireworks displays in the country, launched from barges along the East River.
Best Viewing Spots – Popular locations include Brooklyn Bridge Park, Gantry Plaza State Park, and FDR Drive.
Parades & Events – Enjoy live music, street performances, and Independence Day celebrations across the city.
Summer Weather – Expect warm temperatures, with highs around 80°F (27°C).
Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest – A legendary competition in Coney Island where contestants race to eat the most hot dogs in 10 minutes.
July 4th Fireworks Cruises – Enjoy front-row views of the fireworks while dining and dancing on a luxury cruise.
Gansevoort Rooftop Soirée – A high-end rooftop party with stunning views of the fireworks, live music, and drinks.
Fourth of July Celebration at The William Vale – A rooftop party in Williamsburg featuring DJ sets and sunset views.
EDGE Sky Deck Fireworks Viewing – Watch the fireworks from NYC’s highest outdoor sky deck, with an open bar and live DJ.
Beach Day at Rockaway or Coney Island – Relax by the ocean and enjoy fireworks over the water.
Travel Tips:
Avoid Peak Travel Times – The busiest times to travel are July 3rd and 4th between 2 PM and 7 PM.
Book Early – Hotels and flights fill up quickly, so plan ahead for the best deals.
Public Transportation – The subway and ferries are the best way to navigate the city during the holiday rush.
Where to stay in NYC:
Family Option: Casablanca Hotel
4-Star Hotel
The Casablanca Hotel in New York City is a charming boutique hotel inspired by the romance of the classic film Casablanca. Located just steps from Times Square, this intimate retreat offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.
Romantic Option: The Pierre
5-Star Hotel
The Pierre Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel located on Fifth Avenue in New York City, directly across from Central Park. Since its opening in 1930, it has been a symbol of elegance and sophistication, attracting celebrities, dignitaries, and travelers seeking an upscale experience.
Luxury Option: The Peninsula New York
5-Star Hotel
Behind a century-old Beaux Arts facade right on the poshest stretch of Fifth Avenue lies the New York franchise of the phenomenal Hong Kong-based Peninsula Hotel. And if there’s anywhere in America that’s an appropriate spot for some mega-hospitality, Far East style, it’s this particular corner of midtown Manhattan, a stone’s throw from icons like Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and Tiffany & Co.
Service is characteristically precise and efficient, whisking guests through the grand columned lobby and up to the spanking-new guest rooms, all contemporary elegance with Art Nouveau furnishings and a subtle Asian influence. Views are phenomenal — overlooking this stretch of Fifth Avenue one feels at the very center of the world — and the amenities are state-of-the-art, with high-tech entertainment systems, infinitely adjustable lighting, and deep soaking tubs with LCD televisions and bath-side control panels.
The Peninsula Spa & Wellness Center spans three floors and some 30,000 square feet, with facilities to rival many a private athletic club. Particularly of note is the top-floor pool, offering almost unparalleled views of the midtown area. We say almost unparalleled because it’s hard to beat the Pen-Top Bar, where cocktails are accompanied by some of the most stunning vistas in Manhattan.
For more on New York City, see my post: Best Hotels in every U.S. state - Part II
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is one of the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July, offering a mix of history, fireworks, and patriotic festivities!
What to Expect
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular – A legendary fireworks show over the Charles River, accompanied by live music from the Boston Pops Orchestra.
Harborfest – A multi-day celebration featuring historical reenactments, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
USS Constitution Turnaround – Watch the USS Constitution, the world’s oldest commissioned warship, sail through Boston Harbor in a special Independence Day tradition.
Parades & Events – Enjoy patriotic celebrations throughout the city, including events at Faneuil Hall and the Freedom Trail.
Fenway Park Tour – Explore one of the most famous baseball stadiums in the U.S. with a guided tour.
Freedom Trail Walking Tour – Discover Boston’s rich history with a guided tour of its most famous landmarks.
Local Fireworks Shows – More than 90 fireworks displays are scheduled across Massachusetts between July 1st and July 15th.
Chowderfest – Sample and judge free chowders from favorite local restaurants while supplies last.
Live Concerts – Catch performances from Ed Sheeran and other artists at Gillette Stadium.
Travel Tips
Expect Heavy Traffic – The Sumner Tunnel will be closed starting July 5, so plan alternate routes.
Best Travel Times – Avoid peak congestion by traveling before noon on July 3rd or after 6 PM on July 4th.
Public Transportation – The MBTA will offer free subway, bus, and commuter rail fares after 9:30 PM on July 4th.
Where to stay in Boston:
Family Friendly Option: Moxy Boston Downtown
3-Star Hotel
Moxy Boston Downtown is a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Boston’s Theater District, offering a modern, energetic atmosphere perfect for travelers looking for a lively stay. When you visit this hotel on Tremont Street in Boston, you will find yourself near Fenway Park, Chinatown, Boston Common, art galleries, theaters, and local nightlife. Back at the hotel, enjoy their signature cocktail on the house. Afterward, wander through the hotel and check out the wildly fun Bar Moxy, large writing walls, 56-inch projection TV, photo booth and 24-hour grab-and-go marketplace. With all the modern conveniences, this downtown hotel in Boston offers, you might be tempted to just chill out. So, when it's time to crash, head on up to your loft-inspired hotel room with modern furnishings, free Wi-Fi and walk-in showers.
Romantic Option: Boston Yacht Haven Inn & Marina
3-Star Hotel
Situated on Boston's historic Commercial Wharf, the Inn at Boston Yacht Haven offers luxurious accommodations with convenient access to numerous attractions, including the New England Aquarium, the famed Quincy Market, Boston’s theatre and financial districts, and downtown shopping, dining, and nightlife. A 10-room boutique Inn situated on Commercial Wharf, amid an exclusive 100-slip marina and distinguished by award-winning architecture and unique nautical styling. Step out of your room and onto a private balcony as you take in the Boston skyline or watch ships float across the harbor.
Luxury Option: Four Seasons Hotel Boston
5-Star Hotel
Quite frankly, you don’t come to Boston’s Back Bay to immerse yourself in some kind of avant-garde counterculture. And you don’t stay at a Four Seasons to have your ideas about hospitality turned upside-down. But not everything that’s valuable in the world is new — when it’s classic luxury hospitality you’re after, it’s hard to do much better than the Four Seasons Hotel Boston.
It was built in the Eighties, though it’s to its great credit that it feels substantially older than that — and the views of the Public Garden lend a certain timelessness. At the same time, a thorough 2017 renovation has left the interiors looking as sharp as can be, and there’s a refreshing absence of Old New England stylistic gestures. The rooms and suites are looking particularly fresh, and they’re pleasing to the other senses as well; the Four Seasons signature bed is phenomenally comfortable, and the marble-clad bathroom is practically a private spa.
Coterie, the hotel’s restaurant, is an intimate, brasserie style lounge preparing classic New England dishes with a French influence. And the hotel’s location could scarcely be more central — Back Bay, Boston Common, Beacon Hill, and Downtown Crossing are all within easy reach.
For more on Boston, see my post: Best Hotels in every U.S. state - Part II
Washington D.C.
Washington, D.C. is one of the most iconic places to celebrate Independence Day!
What to Expect
National Mall Fireworks – A spectacular fireworks display illuminating the monuments and memorials.
A Capitol Fourth Concert – A star-studded concert held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, featuring live performances before the fireworks.
National Independence Day Parade – A festive parade along Constitution Avenue, featuring marching bands, military units, and floats.
Mount Vernon Independence Day Celebration – Visit George Washington’s estate for special events, including museum tours and historical reenactments.
Rooftop Fireworks Viewing – Enjoy panoramic views from VUE Rooftop Lounge, Conrad Hotel’s Summit Rooftop, and Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel.
July 4th Fireworks Cruises – Watch the fireworks from a luxury dinner cruise on the Potomac River.
Family Day at Capital Jewish Museum – A kid-friendly event featuring outdoor games, crafts, and educational activities.
Independence Day Celebration at Salamander Washington DC – A high-end event with live music, gourmet food, and waterfront views.
Travel Tips
Expect Large Crowds – The National Mall will be packed, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Public Transportation – The Metro is the best way to get around, as roads will be congested.
Weather Considerations – July in D.C. is hot and humid, so bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing.
Where to stay in D.C.:
Family Friendly Option: Washington Plaza Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Discover the modern elegance of the newly renovated Washington Plaza. A balance of cosmopolitan sophistication and casual grace, this resort-like hotel offers spacious, boutique accommodations in an ideal location setting. Located downtown on Thomas Circle, the hotel sits in the city's trendiest neighborhood and is only minutes from the iconic attractions of the Nation's Capital. Lounge by the beautifully landscaped pool, a design highlight of the hotel's world-famous architect, Morris Lapidus. Enjoy innovative American fare dining at 10 Thomas Restaurant, a favorite of both guests and discerning DC residents, or plan your next business meeting or wedding in our 12,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, immersed in the stylish ambiance of this boutique hotel.
Romantic Option: The Jefferson, Washington, DC
5-Star Hotel
As the capital city of the United States, it’s only natural that Washington D.C. should be home to a fair number of grand, historic luxury hotels. Not all of them are quite as old-world as they seem, though. The Jefferson certainly has all the opulence and historical atmosphere you’d expect from one of the original grand dames, and the fact that it’s mostly the result of a 2009 renovation is neither here nor there.
What’s important is that the Jefferson combines old-world aesthetics with boutique-era services, amenities, and personality. The rooms are classic in design, but modern in function, with iPads in every room and suite and charging stations in the desks. Premier and Deluxe rooms are lavish, and the First Lady and Presidential suites are positively opulent — the latter featuring no fewer than five balconies with extraordinary views of the city and its monuments.
To all that is added a restaurant, The Greenhouse, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch under the hotel’s historic skylight, and Quill, an upscale cocktail bar and lounge. It’s a seemingly impossible blend, equal parts historical luxury hotel and contemporary boutique hotel, but The Jefferson carries it off.
Luxury Option: The Hay Adams
5-Star Hotel
Though today’s White House may not be the universally respected institution that it was in less partisan times, just across the street is another Washington D.C. fixture that’s lost none of its luster. The Hay-Adams Hotel is a 1928 Italian Renaissance monument, one whose privacy and discretion are near-legendary, and whose location, with the White House and the National Mall as a backdrop, is one-of-a-kind. Constant attention has kept it looking as opulent as can be, while constant technological improvements mean that, beneath its old-world elegance, the Hay-Adams is a thoroughly modern luxury hotel.
The Lafayette is the restaurant, named for its view of Lafayette Square, which, combined with its upscale but unfussy contemporary American fare, earns it a place of respect on the D.C. dining scene. And its subterranean bar is even more well known: Off the Record is adorned with caricatures of political figures from a variety of eras, and you never know what kind of business you might overhear at the next table. There are more youthful and more modern hotels in town than the Hay-Adams, but there’s no replacing a true original.
For more on D.C., see my post: Bucket List: North America
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a great place to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, food, and fun!
What to Expect
Navy Pier Fireworks – One of the biggest fireworks displays in Chicago, lighting up the sky over Lake Michigan.
Grant Park Music Festival – Enjoy live orchestral performances in Millennium Park.
Chicago Summer Festivals – Check out Taste of Chicago, featuring local food vendors and live entertainment.
Lakefront Activities – Walk or bike the Lakefront Trail, rent a boat, or relax at the beach.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend – A thrilling high-speed race through downtown Chicago on July 5 – 6.
Hyde Park Parade & Picnic – A family-friendly parade with floats, decorated bikes, and a traditional picnic in the park.
Chicago River & Lake Cruises – Take a fireworks cruise for a front-row seat to the Navy Pier display.
Beach Day at North Avenue Beach – Relax on the sand and enjoy fireworks over the water.
Outdoor Dining & Rooftop Bars – Celebrate with friends at patio bars like The Warbler or Recess in West Loop.
Travel Tips
Expect Heavy Traffic – A record 2.8 million Illinois residents are expected to travel over the holiday weekend.
Best Travel Times – Avoid peak congestion by traveling before noon on July 3rd or after 6 PM on July 4th.
Public Transportation – The CTA and Metra are great options for getting around the city.
Where to stay in Chicago:
Family Friendly Option: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile by IHG
4-Star Hotel
The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is a great choice for families, offering a mix of historic charm, modern amenities, and kid-friendly features.
Family-Friendly Features
Junior Olympic-Size Indoor Pool – One of the most beautiful indoor pools in Chicago, featuring original 1920s Spanish tiles and a terra cotta Neptune fountain.
Dive-In Movies – Families can enjoy weekly poolside movie nights, making for a fun and relaxing evening.
Spacious Accommodations – Offers large suites and connecting rooms, perfect for families needing extra space.
On-Site Dining – Includes Michael Jordan’s Steak House and ENO Wine Bar, with kid-friendly options available.
Prime Location – Steps away from Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile, making it easy to explore Chicago’s top attractions.
Pet-Friendly – Families traveling with pets can bring their furry friends, as the hotel welcomes pets.
Romantic Option: Viceroy Chicago
4-Star Hotel
The Viceroy hotels exist at the intersection of luxury-hotel extravagance and boutique-hotel tastefulness, and the brand-new Viceroy Chicago is no different. The building, a gently undulating glass tower, is pure luxe modernity, but the lower floors blend effortlessly into Chicago’s Gold Coast, thanks to the meticulously preserved façade of the 1920s-vintage Cedar Hotel, which was reassembled brick by brick once the tower was complete.
Such contrasts persist in the interiors as well; the gilded headboards recall the sort of hotels the pharaohs might have built, even as the rest of the furniture channels clean-lined Chicago modernist cool. The view commands the bulk of your attention, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, but these rooms are full of subtle stylistic charms, and feel fully realized, a reflection of Viceroy’s expertise (and that of the designers, TAL Studio).
Naturally there’s a vibrant social life here as well. Somerset, the restaurant, serves modern American cuisine in a split-level space that’s purportedly an homage to country-club culture, but is miles more stylish than that sounds.
Luxury Option: The Peninsula Chicago
5-Star Hotel
In the middle of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile of department stores and designer boutiques is the Peninsula Hotel, only the third in America. The Peninsula’s brand of Hong Kong luxury has fared well in New York and LA, but in the heartland?
Any doubts are immediately laid to rest by the uniformed bellboys, spiriting guests’ bags to the lobby before the cab driver can lay a hand on them. Other staffers seem possessed of a psychic ability to remember every guest’s name at once, a delightful contrast to the typically American nod-and-smile.
The lobby is spacious and grand, located five floors up, above a retail concourse—another detail that’s more Far East than Midwest. Rooms are elegant as well, with flat-screen televisions, broadband internet, and messages thoughtfully delivered via a near-silent fax machine hidden in a desk drawer. Control panels by the bedside and in the bathroom allow complete control of the climate, the lighting, even the curtains.
Shanghai Terrace is one of Chicago’s top Chinese restaurants, and, true to its name, offers outdoor seating with a view of the Miracle Mile. The lobby lounge is an impressive space, lit by twenty-foot-high windows, and the bar, in contrast, is intimate and low-lit, with a roaring fireplace and a surprisingly hip crowd. Spa and fitness facilities are first-class, as is the location—neighbors include the Ritz-Carlton, the Water Tower, and the Drake.
For more on Chicago, see my post: Best Hotels in each U.S. State - Part I
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is one of the best places to celebrate Independence Day!
What to Expect
Celebrate St. Louis – A two-day event featuring live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a fireworks show with the Gateway Arch as the backdrop.
Salute the Troops Ceremony – A special event honoring active-duty service members and veterans.
Live Music – Performances from national and local artists, including Russell Dickerson and Gavin DeGraw.
America’s Birthday Parade – A historic parade featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and live performances, all set against the backdrop of the Gateway Arch.
Celebrate St. Louis – A reimagined version of Fair St. Louis, featuring concerts, parades, and fireworks in downtown St. Louis.
Heritage & Freedom Fest – A multi-day festival in O’Fallon, Missouri, with carnival rides, concerts, and fireworks.
Webster Groves Community Days – Includes a children’s pet parade, a traditional parade, and fireworks on July 3rd and 4th.
Eads Bridge Trolley Tour – A special tour celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Eads Bridge.
Grant’s Farm Drone Show Spectacular – A patriotic drone show featuring 150 drones choreographed to music.
Fair Saint Louis Fireworks Spectacular – A massive fireworks display launched from a barge in the Mississippi River, lighting up the sky near the Gateway Arch.
Welcome Neighbor International Picnic – A unique dining experience featuring a six-course Indian and Syrian meal, hosted by refugee chefs.
Travel Tips
Expect Heavy Traffic – St. Louis airports anticipate a surge in travelers, so plan ahead.
Best Travel Times – Avoid peak congestion by traveling before noon on July 3rd or after 6 PM on July 4th.
Public Transportation – Consider using local transit options to navigate the city during the holiday rush.
Where to stay in St. Louis:
Family Friendly Option: St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
4-Star Hotel
Within sweeping archways fresco and gold leaf detailing mosaics and glass windows, you ll find the St. Louis Union Station Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton. This AAA Four Diamond Hotel provides a truly elegant experience in the heart of a bustling metropolitan area. Transport yourself to a time when travel was an art and the fine details were important. Every guest room boasts timeless decor, a work area, 37-inch TV and spacious bathroom. Opt for a suite with a courtyard view concierge lounge access and added amenities. Several of the suites offer exclusive access on the historical side of the building and are individually railroad themed. Dining is a unique experience at this Union Station hotel with offerings ranging from upscale American cuisine to a quick sandwich or pastry. Savor delicious breakfast lunch and dinner at the Station Grille with lovely fountain views. Stop by the Grand Hall Market for your morning Starbucks coffee and grab a local treat or souvenir. After a busy day in St. Louis unwind with one of the many hotel amenities. Workout in the fitness center, swim some laps in the outdoor seasonal pool and revel in The Grand Hall Experience 3D Light Show.
Romantic Option:
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark
The Hilton is located in downtown St. Louis, across the street from Ballpark Village. The Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, are two blocks away. Visit our rooftop bar, featuring fire pits, panoramic city views, and live DJs during weekends. Enjoy our indoor pool, fitness center, and rooms with arch and ballpark views.
Luxury Option: Four Seasons St. Louis
5-Star Hotel
Both Four Seasons and St. Louis find themselves putting their best feet forward at this surprisingly stylish luxury hotel, many of whose rooms look out over the Gateway Arch and the Mississippi River. The hospitality is, as always, highly professional, and while Four Seasons will never be mistaken for an avant-garde boutique-hotel brand, the building’s modern architecture and the contemporary décor inside demonstrate that they’ve been paying attention. An extensive spa and fitness center see to guests’ relaxation needs, and Cinder House features the cooking of James Beard winner Gerard Craft, as well as a bar with an impressive selection of local beers.
For more on St. Louis, see my post: Best Hotels in every U.S. state - Part II
Portland, Oregon
(where we are going this 4th of July!)
Portland is one of the best places to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, music, and fun!
What to Expect
Waterfront Blues Festival – One of Portland’s biggest annual events, featuring live blues performances and a fireworks show at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
Fourth of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise – Enjoy a 2-hour cruise on the Willamette River, followed by a dockside fireworks show
Portland Craft Beer Festival – A celebration of local breweries, offering a wide selection of craft beers.
St. Paul Rodeo – A classic rodeo event featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and fireworks.
Chamber Music Northwest Summer Festival – A classical music festival showcasing talented musicians.
Travel Tips
Expect Heavy Traffic – The Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest travel times, so plan ahead.
Best Travel Times – Avoid peak congestion by traveling before 7 AM or after 8 PM on July 3rd.
Public Transportation – Consider using TriMet buses and MAX Light Rail to navigate the city.
Where to stay in Portland:
Family Friendly Option: Hotel Rose Portland
4-Star Hotel
Portland is a city that is a little wacky, and Hotel Rose/Staypineapple fits right in with its wildly colorful interiors and sleek yet stylish rooms and suites. Located directly across from Tom McCall Waterfront Park on the sparkling Willamette River, this award-winning hotel spoils guests with easy access to nearby shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. And let’s not forget the many things that "Keep Portland Weird," like doughnut shops that serve as wedding venues, provocative murals, and iconic food cart gatherings.
Hotel Rose, a small but mighty Portland hotel, is unique with bold, bright colors and style for days.
Romantic Option: Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland
(where we are staying)
4-Star Hotel
On the West Coast, the 19th century is ancient history, and for a hotel that dates back to 1894, as does the Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland, the word “vintage” is a bit of an understatement. But while in its previous life this hotel was often guilty of resting a bit too comfortably on its history, today’s Vintage, on the inside at least, is a thoroughly contemporary boutique hotel.
When you’re talking about a Kimpton hotel this means social hour in the wine room every evening, it means your pets stay for free, and it means stylish PUBLIC bikes available for exploring the city. There’s live music on the weekends, there’s a game lounge on the second floor, and the service, as always, is as friendly and familiar as it gets. And the rooms are stylish and comfortable, without being aggressively avant-garde or excessively ostentatious.
The location, in downtown Portland’s commercial center, is perhaps a touch straitlaced — you’ll want to get out to the surrounding neighborhoods for the full Portland experience. When you’re ready to come home the Hotel Vintage’s restaurant, Pazzo Ristorante, will be waiting for you, with a hybrid Northwest-Italian cuisine and a bar that features an encyclopedic selection of local beers and Oregon wines.
Luxury Option: Ritz Carlton Portland
5-Star Hotel
At first glance Portland doesn’t seem like the sort of city that’s in need of a hotel of the Ritz-Carlton’s caliber; there’s more to this town, however, than quirky independent boutiques. And this is today’s Ritz-Carlton, not a Neoclassical edifice in white stone but the Broadway Tower, a modern glass skyscraper with spectacular views of the city, the river, and the Cascades. Expect contemporary-classic interiors, thoughtful modern luxuries, a lavish 19th-floor spa, and a restaurant that’s an upscale culinary love letter to the producers and purveyors of the Pacific Northwest.
For more on Portland, see my post: Best Hotels in each State - Part III
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City goes all out for Fourth of July celebrations, offering spectacular fireworks, live entertainment, and beachfront festivities!
What to Expect
North Beach Atlantic City Fireworks Celebration – A spectacular oceanfront fireworks show at 9:30 PM, visible from Steel Pier, Resorts Casino Hotel, Ocean Casino Resort, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and Showboat.
Tropicana July 4th Fireworks – A must-see fireworks display at 10 PM, launched in front of the Tropicana and at Steel Pier, produced by the famous Grucci fireworks company.
Live Music & Entertainment – Catch celebrity performers and DJs at Ocean Casino Resort, HQ2 Beachclub, Resorts Hotel and Casino, and Renault Winery Resort & Golf.
Parades & Festivals – Enjoy community celebrations, 5K races, and local parades throughout the Atlantic City area.
Beach Day & Boardwalk Fun – Relax on the beach, rent bikes, or visit Bally’s Beach Bar for live music.
Atlantic City Airshow – The Visit Atlantic City Soar and Shore Festival is set to take place July 15-16, featuring a MiG-17 fighter jet demonstration.
Comedy & Concerts – Catch Steve Augeri’s 80s Rock Tour at Ocean Casino Resort on May 16 or Jess Hilarious’ Bad Parenting Tour at Harrah’s Resort on May 17.
Travel Tips
Expect Large Crowds – The Boardwalk and casinos will be packed, so arrive early for events.
Best Travel Times – Avoid peak congestion by traveling before noon on July 3rd or after 6 PM on July 4th.
Public Transportation & Parking – Consider using shuttle services to navigate the city during the holiday rush.
Where to stay in Atlantic City:
Family Friendly Option: Tropicana Atlantic City
The Tropicana Atlantic City is an all-in-one hotel and entertainment complex in Atlantic City, New Jersey. It offers 2,000 rooms, attractions like IMAX, pools, shops, and restaurants, and a Family Fun Station with arcade games and prizes. The hotel also features family-friendly eateries and treats in The Marketplace. The spacious two-bedroom suites with a kitchenette provide all necessary amenities for families. The hotel has a family-friendly indoor pool and three seasonal outdoor adult pools.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
4-Star Hotel
The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City is a luxurious resort offering an elevated experience with world-class gaming, fine dining, and upscale accommodations. It’s known for its sophisticated ambiance, making it a perfect romantic getaway for couples looking to indulge in relaxation and entertainment.
Luxury Option: Ocean Casino Resort
5-Star Hotel
Ocean Casino Resort is a luxury oceanfront destination in Atlantic City, offering stunning views, upscale accommodations, and a vibrant casino experience. The resort features floor-to-ceiling windows in its sophisticated rooms and suites, providing breathtaking ocean views. Guests can enjoy a sprawling casino floor, multiple dining options, live entertainment, and a rejuvenating spa. The resort also boasts indoor and outdoor pools, nightclubs, and a concert venue, making it a premier spot for both relaxation and excitement. Whether you're looking to try your luck at the casino, unwind at the spa, or take in the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean Casino Resort promises an unforgettable experience.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans offers a unique mix of history, music, and celebration, making it an unforgettable place to spend Independence Day!
What to Expect
Go 4th on the River – A spectacular fireworks show over the Mississippi River, best viewed from Woldenberg Park or aboard a paddlewheeler cruise.
Essence Festival – A massive music and cultural festival featuring top artists and speakers, held at the Caesars Superdome.
City Park Picnic – A laid-back way to enjoy the holiday with BBQ, live music, and family-friendly activities.
French Quarter Fun – Explore historic streets, enjoy jazz performances, and indulge in classic Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Orleans 4th Fest at Crescent Park – A family-friendly festival with live music, food vendors, and prime fireworks viewing.
Creole Queen 4th of July Fireworks Cruise – Enjoy a river cruise with dinner, drinks, and front-row seats to the fireworks.
City Park Picnic & Concert – A laid-back celebration with BBQ, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Travel Tips
Book Early – Hotels and flights fill up quickly due to the Essence Festival and holiday crowds.
Avoid Peak Travel Times – July 3rd and 4th between 2 PM and 7 PM are the busiest times on the road.
Stay Hydrated – July in New Orleans is hot and humid, so bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
Use Public Transportation – The streetcars and buses are great for navigating the city without dealing with traffic.
Where to stay in New Orleans:
Family Friendly Option: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
4-Star Hotel
Discover the culture of the Big Easy from this hotel in downtown New Orleans, LA. Attend an event at Caesars Superdome or other nearby venues like Champions Square or the Smoothie King Center. Walk to the historic French Quarter, Arts District and Mississippi Riverfront, then unwind at the hotel pool bar. Make memories in this eclectic, vibrant city when you stay at Hyatt Regency New Orleans.
Romantic Option: Hotel Monteleone
4-Star Hotel
Hotel Monteleone is a historic and luxurious hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. Established in 1886, it remains family-owned and is known for its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and rich literary history. The hotel features 570 guest rooms, including 50 suites, offering a blend of classic charm and modern amenities.
Luxury Option: The Windsor Court
5-Star Hotel
Located in the heart of New Orleans Central Business District and one block from the French Quarter, the Windsor Court hotel is ideally positioned to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers. Windsor Court is one of only two hotels in the state to receive both Forbes four-star and AAA four-diamond ratings. The hotel recently completed a USD 22 million restoration and also features an impressive collection of 17th to 20th century art along with the recently opened Spa at Windsor Court. Outdoor heated pool and well-equipped exercise facilities along with 24-hour room service are also available. Guest Rooms and Suites feature wireless internet access with fully a stocked mini-bar and butler's pantry. Elegantly furnishings with beautiful views of downtown or Mississippi River allows Windsor Court to offer the finest accommodations in New Orleans.
For more on New Orleans, see my post: Best Hotels in each U.S. State - Part I
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor’s 4th of July celebration has been recognized as one of the best in the country, blending patriotic spirit with stunning coastal scenery.
What to Expect
Pancake Breakfast– Hosted by the Bar Harbor Rotary Club, featuring blueberry pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh coffee.
Independence Day Parade– A 1.8-mile parade through downtown Bar Harbor, showcasing vintage cars, decorated floats, and local organizations.
Craft Fair & Marketplace – A local artisan fair at the YMCA, offering handmade jewelry, pottery, quilts, and photography.
Seafood Festival – Enjoy Maine lobster rolls, crab rolls, hot dogs, and hamburgers at the Bar Harbor Athletic Field.
Live Music at the Town Pier – Featuring performances by the Bar Harbor Town Band, a local tradition.
Fireworks Over Frenchman Bay – A spectacular fireworks display over the water, best viewed from Agamont Park or the town pier.
Travel Tips
Arrive Early – Bar Harbor gets crowded, and there’s only one road in and out (Route 3), so plan ahead.
Parking – Free parking is available on July 4th, but spots fill up quickly.
Public Transportation – The Island Explorer bus is a great way to get around without worrying about traffic.
Weather – Expect pleasant temperatures, usually in the 70s°F (20s°C), making it a great escape from summer heat.
Where to stay in Bar Harbor:
Family Friendly Option: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
2-Star Hotel
The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is a charming and elegant hotel located in downtown Bar Harbor, Maine. Inspired by the historic 1895 Rodick House, this hotel blends classic architecture with modern conveniences.
Romantic Option: Little Fig
4-Star Hotel
Having undergone an exciting update both inside and out in 2022, the Little Fig Hotel features all new rooms and suites. On the corner of Cottage Street and Holland Avenue, you will enjoy walking mere blocks to the waterfront, the free Island Explorer shuttle, as well as dozens of shops, restaurants, and activities.
Luxury Option: West Street Hotel
4-Star Hotel
All of our chicly appointed accommodations marry classic northeast aesthetics, resort-style perks, and residential comforts. Whether you choose a guestroom or suite, you’ll have plenty of space complete with thoughtful amenities to make yourself at home. Discover your own idyllic waterfront retreat, from girlfriend getaways to anniversary celebrations, at West Street Hotel.
For more on Bar Harbor, see my post: Coolcations: relief from the hot summer
コメント