Backyard barbecues are great, but summer is a perfect excuse to book a weekend getaway. What a better time than around July 4th! Food, family, fun, and fireworks characterize some of these hot summer destinations. Most festivities are filled with star-spangled spectacles, parades and eating contests, but some of these getaways take a more historic approach.
Lake Tahoe, California
Spice up your July Fourth getaway by heading to Lake Tahoe to view the beautiful Lights on the Lake fireworks show. You can either view the show from the lake or by having a picnic at Nevada Beach State Park. Indulge in the smell of pine trees and panoramic views by staying at The Ridge Tahoe that overlooks the breathtaking Carson Valley.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff Arizona is jam-packed with activities on July Fourth weekend. Famous for its Annual Greater Flagstaff Chamber 4th of July Parade, the booming city promises a holiday full of art, music, and a front seat to a grand fireworks display. While you’re on your Independence Day getaway, why not visit the Grand Canyon National Park? And if you would rather celebrate America the quiet way, surround yourself with nature at WorldMark Pinetop and experience a simpler, nicer America.
Estes Park, Colorado
Nestled in the gorgeous mountains of Colorado, a few minutes from downtown Estes Park and one mile from the Rocky Mountain National Park, is the Rams Horn Village. Celebrating Independence Day in Estes Park guarantees one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the State. Start the day with the Coolest Car Show and admire over 100 cars, including classic, vintage, electric and steam models. Don’t miss out on the Big Band Concert, where you can enjoy music, food, local craft beer, and wine.
San Francisco, California
Celebrate America’s birthday with great pomp in San Francisco. Celebrations kick off on the weekend with the Annual Fillmore Jazz Festival, where you can enjoy live music, arts, crafts, and delicious food. Don’t miss out on the fireworks extravaganza in the evening of July Fourth and marvel at the spectacular display of fireworks from the Fisherman’s Wharf or Pier39. Catch a front seat to the excitement by staying at the Suites at Fisherman’s Wharf!
Las Vegas, Nevada
Take it up a notch and head to Las Vegas for an exciting getaway. Stay in the heart of the glitz and neon lights, as you navigate through the extravagant shopping and dining the city offers. Expect a one-of-a-kind vacation in Las Vegas and revel in the thrills of the fireworks show at the Caesars Palace. While you’re there, walk down the famed Vegas Strip and check out the July Fourth-themed open-air dining, retail, and entertainment options.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Want to have a quick getaway but don’t want to miss out on your delicious Independence Day barbecue? Why not head to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? The beach town knows how to celebrate July Fourth with its seafood shacks and barbecue joints along the beach. Enjoy the boat parades, the cupcake-eating contests, the vintage plane flyovers, and of course the myriad of magnificent fireworks display. Can’t make it on the fourth? No worries, Myrtle Beach has fireworks shows every Monday and Wednesday night during the summer months.
Maui, Hawaii
Step out of your comfort zone and leave the Continental United States for the crystal waters of Hawaii. Enjoy Lahaina’s electrifying display of fireworks that attracts over 20,000 people every year with a drink in your hand as you relax on the soft, sandy beaches. SFX has plenty of tropical resorts in Lahaina with luxury services and picturesque sceneries. Don’t miss out on the Lana’i Pineapple Festival that celebrates the island’s pineapple plantation history. The Fourth is a perfect excuse for an exotic stint in paradise.
New York City
Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Show over New York’s skylines. Need we say more? Rooftop bars and cozy NYC parks will give you a front seat to one of the nation’s most coveted fireworks shows. New York City displays another level of patriotism through the Statue of Liberty, the September 11 Memorial, and the richness of cultures around the city. Watch the Empire State Building proudly change its colors to the iconic red, white and blue as the fireworks dance in the background. The City that Never Sleeps is the place to be.
Orlando, Florida
Nothing screams America more than the Red, Hot & Boom at Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs on July Fourth. An incredible lineup of artists, good food, and a gorgeous lake attract hundreds of thousands of guests every year. You will be torn between enjoying Independence Day festivities at the various theme parks and checking out the community events, including the fireworks display and laser show at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando.
Lambertville, New Jersey
History buffs, we did not forget about you. Do you wish to go back in time and relive a part of history? Head to Lambertville, New Jersey. Walk along the same streets that General Washington and his army once did. The Fourth of July will take another meaning when you watch the gorgeous fireworks displays on the Delaware River.