The 22 best places to spend the Fourth of July

This tiny community on the Vineyard is best known for the adorable gingerbread houses that dot the shores. However, every July 4th, there is a parade, beach fireworks, and summer concert series. It is a great place for solo travelers, families, and groups alike.

Every year in the morning, Boise hosts a giant parade full of marching bands, floats, and local clubs. Then, after the sun sets, there is a free fireworks show synced to music in Ann Morrison Park in the city center.

This adorable town in Texas Hill Country is ideal for those who want to sip some wine on the 4th. However, there’s plenty else to do for those less grape-inclined. The entire weekend around the holiday means multiple outdoor concerts, barbeques, and a bizarre Willie Nelson lookalike contest.

Who wouldn’t want to spend the 4th relaxing on the beach? Luckily, in Miami, that’s more than possible. If sand isn’t your thing, no worries, check out the many pool parties, and cookouts, or join a cruise for a day!

One of the Pacific Northwest’s premier outdoor destinations, Bend is also one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. And every year, residents celebrate independence with a huge pet parade downtown. Afterward, join the crowds floating down the Deschutes River.

Lake Norfork is a favorite vacation spot in Arkansas, and if you happen to be there during the holiday weekend, there’s plenty to do. The town puts on a spectacular fireworks display over the lake, which can be viewed from anywhere in town — your car, a campsite, or a boat!

The Fourth of July celebrations in Cheyenne are as Western as you can get. The rodeo shows and evening fireworks feel like nothing you’ve ever experienced! All in the beautiful state of Wyoming.

In the center of town, the Meadow Village Concert Stage hosts many community booths every year on Independence Day. Help yourself to free food, live music, and plenty of activities for kids. 

Located in scenic Door County, Egg Harbor is a lovely holiday spot. The community hosts a large gathering at Harbor View Park. Then, an impressive fireworks show over the bay is put on in the evening.

If tacos and sandy beaches sound like the best way to spend the Fourth, head down to Southern California. The city hosts multiple fireworks shows from Coronado Island to Mission Bay and Oceanside. 

This summer destination in Northern Michigan is the perfect place to relax during a busy holiday. Start things off with a fun island tradition, a stone-skipping competition, and other games. Then, watch simultaneous fireworks shows at night.

As part of Georgia’s “golden isles,” St. Simons does not disappoint when it comes to beaches. Additionally, the holiday weekend in July provides many festivities for those inclined. There’s an arts and crafts festival, a 5K, and live music all day and night. 

The Texan capital has plenty to keep you busy. Throughout the city, there are many festivals throughout the holiday weekend, with filling barbecues, bands, and parades.

July 4th in Philly is actually the end of the larger Wawa Welcome America festival that kicks off one Juneteenth. Visitors and residents can enjoy many free activities, museums, and block parties between these two national holidays.

In Boston, the Esplanade is the place to celebrate independence. Church bells, cannons, and the Boston Pops Orchestra all set the stage for one of the largest parties in the country.

If you’re a country music fan, you have to spend at least one Independence Day in Nashville. Up-and-comers, as well as big names, perform at the annual Let Freedom Sing event.

A coastal favorite for the holiday, Newport is a great place to be patriotic by the sea. The city hosts a Declaration of Independence reading, a gun show, and multiple fireworks shows, best viewed aboard a harbor cruise!

Colorado Springs is the perfect place to enjoy a nature-oriented holiday. Take a food tour, paddle one of the three lakes, participate in a fun run, or admire the mountains in the distance. After the sun sets, enjoy a fireworks display set to a live symphony.

If you want to get out of the city (New York or others) this Fourth of July, head upstate. The Finger Lakes are a great hidden part of the region, where you can relax on a dock with a drink in hand. Or go wine-tasting on the day before evening festivities begin.

South of Salt Lake, Cedar City is ideal for families and couples who want to enjoy the outdoors. Then, watch a patriotic parade before enjoying the fireworks show.

The nation’s capital is one of the most festive destinations where you can celebrate July 4th. Explore the national monuments and museums before enjoying one of the numerous light displays.

A college town in northern Washington state, Bellingham doesn’t shut down in the summer. Enjoy a day on Lake Padden or hike one of the area’s many trails before heading to the beer garden near the Squalicum Boathouse to watch fireworks.