13 BEST Places to Visit for 4th of July (USA)

338

Fireworks. Parades. Backyard barbecues. The Fourth of July is hands down one of the most electric times to travel in the U.S.

Over the years, I’ve spent Independence Day all across the country…from fireworks over the Pacific in California to deep in the heartland where patriotism runs strong. I’ve soaked in the energy of East Coast celebrations and explored small towns that go all out for America’s birthday.

For this guide, I didn’t just wing it. I did a deep dive into the top fireworks shows, most legendary parades, and the most patriotic cities and towns to bring you the best places to celebrate the 4th of July in 2025. Whether you want big-city spectacles or small-town charm, this list has the ultimate spots to light up your holiday.

The Top 4th of July Destinations in 2025 At a Glance

Here are some of the coolest places to celebrate fourth of July across the United States. I will cover the top ones in more detail in the following sections.

🔥 Best Fireworks Displays

• Washington, D.C. – Fireworks over the National Mall, iconic and unmatched
• New York City – Macy’s Fireworks Show lighting up the skyline
• Boston – Pops Fireworks Spectacular synchronized to live orchestra
• San Diego – Big Bay Boom, one of the largest waterfront displays
• Nashville – Fireworks over the Cumberland River set to live country music

🎉 Most Legendary Parades & Festivities

• Philadelphia – Historic parades & the Wawa Welcome America festival
• Chicago – Navy Pier celebrations & fireworks over Lake Michigan
• New Orleans – Unique Independence Day celebrations with jazz & culture
• Austin – Live music and fireworks over Lady Bird Lake
• St. Louis – Fair St. Louis with concerts under the Gateway Arch

🇺🇸 Most Patriotic Cities & Towns

• Boston – America’s birthplace, walk the Freedom Trail
• Washington, D.C. – Monuments, museums, and fireworks at the heart of it all
• Philadelphia – Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and historic reenactments
• Charleston, SC – Colonial charm meets fireworks over the harbor
• Williamsburg, VA – Revolutionary War reenactments & traditional celebrations

🌅 Best Small-Town Celebrations

• Bar Harbor, Maine – Fireworks over the Atlantic, lobster feasts
• Bristol, Rhode Island – Oldest continuous 4th of July parade in the U.S.
• Gatlinburg, Tennessee – Midnight Parade, fireworks in the Smokies
• Mount Rushmore, South Dakota – Fireworks at one of America’s most iconic landmarks

🍔 Best Foodie Destinations

• Kansas City, MO – All-American BBQ
• New Orleans, LA – Creole and Cajun flavors + waterfront fireworks
• Miami, FL – Cuban cuisine & beachside festivities
• San Francisco, CA – Fresh seafood, iconic Golden Gate fireworks
• Seattle, WA – Waterfront dining & Pacific Northwest flavors

🚤 Best Places for a 4th of July on the Water

• New York City – Watch the fireworks from a Hudson River cruise
• San Diego – Party boats for the Big Bay Boom
• Miami – Beach parties & fireworks over Biscayne Bay
• Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Lights on the Lake, a breathtaking display over the water
• Chicago – Fireworks from the Navy Pier or a boat on Lake Michigan

Now without further ado, here are the top 13 destinations in greater detail.

1. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. on the 4th of July is honestly where America’s heart beats the loudest. I’ve been to the fireworks on the National Mall multiple times, and watching those 17.5-minute displays paint the sky over the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial never gets old. This year’s show starts at exactly 9:09 PM on July 4th, and it’s completely free.

You’ll want to arrive way early though – I’m talking noon if you want a decent spot in the main viewing areas. The fireworks launch from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, so you’ve got multiple angles to catch the action. What makes D.C. special isn’t just the spectacular show, it’s the setting. You’re literally celebrating America’s birthday in the nation’s capital, surrounded by monuments that tell our story.

The whole National Mall becomes this massive outdoor party with food trucks, live music, and people from every corner of the country. I always tell people to text JULY4DC to 888777 for weather updates and alerts. If you can’t snag a spot on the Mall, head across the river to the Marine Corps War Memorial in Virginia – the view’s actually incredible and way less crowded. Trust me, spending July 4th in D.C. hits different than anywhere else.

• Read next: Must-Do Activities in Washington DC with Teens
• You may also like: Amazing Restaurants in Washington DC

2. New York City

New York City‘s Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks are back at the Brooklyn Bridge and East River this year, and they’re going absolutely massive. We’re talking 80,000 shells in 30 colors firing from four barges plus the bridge itself – it’s the 49th edition of the country’s biggest Independence Day celebration. The show kicks off at 9:25 PM on July 4th, and it’s completely free to watch.

I’ve done this celebration both from the ground and from a boat, and honestly, the energy is unmatched. Mayor Adams released 100,000 free tickets for prime viewing spots in Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Seaport District, but they went fast. If you didn’t snag one, don’t stress – you can still watch from the elevated sections of the FDR Drive or really anywhere with an unobstructed view of the East River.

The city completely shuts down traffic around lower Manhattan starting at 3 PM, so definitely take the subway. What I love about NYC’s show is that it’s hosted by Ariana DeBose with performances from the Jonas Brothers, Eric Church, and Lenny Kravitz. The whole thing gets broadcast live on NBC, but seeing those fireworks reflect off the skyscrapers in person is something you can’t get from your couch. Just be prepared for serious crowds – we’re talking half a million people here.

• Read next: Unique Restaurants in New York City
• You may also like: Amazing NYC Experiences for Young Adults

3. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston’s Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is hands down one of the most patriotic celebrations in the country. I’ve been going to the Hatch Shell on the Charles River for years, and this year they moved everything up an hour earlier – the concert starts at 7 PM and fireworks begin at 9:40 PM. Keith Lockhart is celebrating his 30th year conducting, and the lineup is killer: LeAnn Rimes, Leslie Odom Jr., and Boston legends Bell Biv DeVoe.

The Oval area right in front of the Hatch Shell opens at noon on July 4th, so get there early if you want a prime spot. I actually prefer watching from the Cambridge side of the river – way fewer crowds and the view’s just as good. The finale with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with real cannons is absolutely incredible, and you can hear it echo off the buildings across the city.

What makes Boston special is that you’re celebrating in America’s birthplace. Before the fireworks, I always walk part of the Freedom Trail and grab some clam chowder. The whole thing’s free, and the MBTA runs extra service after 3 PM plus free rides after 8:30 PM. Pro tip: bring a blanket and some snacks because you’ll be there for hours, but trust me, it’s worth every minute. The combination of history, live orchestra, and those fireworks over the water creates this perfect American moment.

• Read next: Can’t-Miss Things to Do with Teens in Boston
• You may also like: Amazing Dessert Places in Boston
• For more reading: Free Things to Do in Boston

4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia doesn’t mess around with July 4th – they do a full 16-day Wawa Welcome America festival that’s honestly the most comprehensive Independence Day celebration in the country. The main event happens July 4th on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with LL Cool J and Philadelphia native Jazmine Sullivan performing, followed by fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art at 9:30 PM.

I love that Philly celebrates from Juneteenth all the way through July 4th because it tells the complete story of American freedom. You’ve got free museum days, Wawa Hoagie Day (seriously, free hoagies), and the Philly Pops performing at Independence Hall. The July 4th concert is completely free – gates open at 4 PM at Logan Circle, and you’ll want to get there early because this draws massive crowds.

What sets Philadelphia apart is that you’re literally in America’s birthplace. I always spend the day visiting Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell before heading to the Parkway. The fireworks shoot off right behind the art museum, creating this incredible backdrop. Plus, the whole thing gets broadcast live on NBC10, so even if you can’t see the stage perfectly, you’re part of this huge citywide party. Philadelphia knows how to celebrate America’s birthday better than anywhere else.

• Read next: Fun Things to Do with Teens in Philadelphia
• You may also like: Exciting Things to Do in Philadelphia at Night
• For more reading: Unique Restaurants in Philadelphia

5. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s July 4th situation is a bit different this year – Navy Pier isn’t doing fireworks on the actual 4th, but they’re making up for it with shows on July 2nd and 5th. The Saturday July 5th show is going to be extended to 15 minutes and features a partnership with the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, so it’s actually going to be pretty epic.

I’ve watched Navy Pier fireworks from both the pier itself and from boats on Lake Michigan, and honestly, the water view is unbeatable. The regular summer shows happen every Wednesday at 9 PM and Saturday at 10 PM, and they’re completely free. What makes Chicago special is that skyline backdrop – when those fireworks reflect off Lake Michigan with all those skyscrapers lit up, it’s absolutely stunning.

For actual July 4th, you’ve got tons of neighborhood celebrations throughout the city. I really like the setup at Winnemac Park for their “Fourth For All” event, and there are great shows in suburbs like Evanston and Oak Lawn. The Cubs are playing at home July 4-6 too, which adds to the whole holiday weekend vibe. Chicago might not have one massive downtown show, but the lakefront setting and that incredible skyline make any fireworks display here feel special. Plus, you can always catch a boat cruise or head up to one of the rooftop bars for those killer views.

• Read next: Epic Things to Do in Chicago at Night
• You may also like: Hidden Gems in Chicago
• For more reading: Fun & Unique Restaurants in Chicago

6. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville on the 4th of July is basically one giant music festival with fireworks, and I’m absolutely here for it. The main celebration happens along the Cumberland River with live country music performances leading up to the fireworks, which are synchronized to the music. I’ve never experienced anything quite like watching fireworks set to live country music with the Nashville skyline in the background.

Music City really lives up to its name during July 4th – Broadway becomes this massive street party with live music spilling out of every honky-tonk. I always spend the afternoon bar-hopping and listening to the incredible local talent before heading down to the river for the main event. The fireworks usually start around 9 PM, but honestly, the buildup with all the live performances is half the fun.

What I love about Nashville is how authentic it feels. You’re not just watching a fireworks show, you’re part of this huge musical celebration where everyone’s having a blast. The barbecue and hot chicken scene here is incredible too – I always hit up Prince’s Hot Chicken or one of the BBQ joints before the show. The whole thing feels very Southern and welcoming, with that famous Nashville hospitality on full display. If you want July 4th with a serious musical twist, Nashville delivers in a way that nowhere else can.

• Read next: Things to Do in Nashville at Night
• You may also like: Coolest Restaurants in Nashville
• For more reading: Unmissable Activities in Nashville

7. San Francisco, California

San Francisco’s 4th of July fireworks over the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay create some of the most stunning visuals you’ll see anywhere. The main show launches from Pier 39 and the waterfront, giving you that iconic Golden Gate backdrop. I’ve watched from Crissy Field, Aquatic Cove, and even from boats on the bay – every angle is incredible.

The Fisherman’s Wharf area gets packed, but it’s worth dealing with the crowds for those views. What makes San Francisco special is that foggy, mystical atmosphere combined with those world-famous landmarks. I always spend the day exploring Chinatown or the Mission District before heading to the waterfront. The food scene here is unreal – grab some Dungeness crab or sourdough bread bowls while you’re waiting for the show.

Alcatraz sitting out there in the bay during the fireworks adds this really unique element you can’t get anywhere else. The city’s summer weather is perfect for outdoor celebrations, and there’s something magical about watching fireworks with the Pacific Ocean right there. I’ve done the Pier 39 thing multiple times, but my favorite spot is actually up at Coit Tower – you get the whole city spread out below you plus the fireworks over the water. San Francisco turns July 4th into this beautiful blend of patriotism and California cool.

• Read next: Things to Do in San Francisco at Night

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans does July 4th unlike anywhere else – it’s basically Mardi Gras with a patriotic twist. The main fireworks happen over the Mississippi River, but honestly, the whole French Quarter becomes one massive street party. I love how they blend traditional Independence Day celebration with that unique New Orleans culture – jazz bands, Creole food, and that infectious party atmosphere that only NOLA can deliver.

The Go 4th on the River celebration happens at Woldenberg Park along the riverfront, with live music all day leading up to the fireworks at dusk. But what I really love is just wandering through the French Quarter during the day – every bar has live music, street performers are everywhere, and the energy is absolutely electric. You’ll hear everything from traditional jazz to funk to blues.

Food-wise, you can’t beat New Orleans on July 4th. I always hit up Café du Monde for beignets, grab some jambalaya from a street vendor, and definitely get a po’boy from one of the local shops. The whole celebration feels very community-oriented – locals are super welcoming and everyone’s just having a great time. The fireworks over the Mississippi are beautiful, but it’s really the whole cultural experience that makes New Orleans special. It’s not just July 4th, it’s a full-on celebration of America’s diversity and music.

• Read next: Things to Do in New Orleans at Night

9. Miami, Florida

Miami‘s 4th of July is all about that beach party vibe with fireworks over Biscayne Bay. Bayfront Park hosts the main celebration with live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks show that reflects off the water. I’ve celebrated here multiple times, and there’s something perfect about watching fireworks while feeling that warm ocean breeze and having sand between your toes.

South Beach becomes this massive party throughout the day – people are grilling on the beach, playing volleyball, and just soaking up that Miami sun. The art deco buildings all lit up at night create this incredible backdrop for the fireworks. I always spend the day bouncing between the beach and Lincoln Road for some shopping and Cuban food.

What makes Miami unique is that international flavor – you’ll hear Spanish, Portuguese, and English all mixed together, plus the food scene is incredible. I never miss getting a Cuban sandwich and some stone crab when I’m here. The fireworks over the bay are beautiful, but it’s really that whole Miami energy that makes it special. The party definitely doesn’t stop after the fireworks either – South Beach nightlife is legendary, so you can keep celebrating well into the morning. It’s July 4th with a serious tropical twist.

• Read next: Epic Night Spots in Miami

10. San Diego, California

San Diego’s Big Bay Boom is legitimately one of the largest fireworks displays on the West Coast, and I can see why over 500,000 people show up for this thing. Four barges positioned around San Diego Bay fire off an 18-minute synchronized show that starts at exactly 9 PM on July 4th. I’ve watched from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, and the Embarcadero, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of those spots.

What I love about the Big Bay Boom is how well-organized it is. The fireworks are perfectly choreographed to music that plays on 91X FM, and you can watch the pre-show starting at 8 PM on FOX 5. The economic impact is huge – this thing generates over $100 million for the local economy, so the whole city really gets into it.

San Diego‘s perfect weather makes this celebration ideal – 70 degrees, clear skies, and that beautiful bay setting. I always spend the day at Balboa Park or the USS Midway Museum before heading to the waterfront. Pro tip: take the trolley to avoid the parking nightmare, and get there early because the best spots fill up fast. The Port of San Diego even offers guaranteed parking through apps like ParkWhiz. Watching those fireworks reflect off the bay with the downtown skyline in the background is absolutely magical. Plus, it benefits the Armed Services YMCA, so you’re supporting military families while celebrating America’s birthday.

• Read next: Epic Things to Do in San Diego at Night
• You may also like: Amazing Restaurants in San Diego

11. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis puts on a fantastic July 4th celebration with Fair St. Louis under the Gateway Arch, and let me tell you, that iconic arch creates an incredible backdrop for fireworks. The main celebration happens at Kiener Plaza and the Arch grounds with live music all day leading up to the fireworks at dusk. I’ve been here a few times, and there’s something really special about celebrating America’s birthday with that symbol of westward expansion right there.

The Gateway Arch National Park hosts concerts and activities throughout the day, and the whole downtown area gets into the spirit. Busch Stadium often has Cardinals games during the 4th of July weekend too, which adds to the festive atmosphere. I love walking around the Soulard neighborhood during the day – great bars, live music, and that classic St. Louis hospitality.

You can’t visit St. Louis without trying the barbecue – the ribs here are absolutely incredible. I always hit up Pappy’s Smokehouse or one of the joints in Soulard before the fireworks. The Delmar Loop and Washington Avenue have great nightlife if you want to keep the party going after the show. What makes St. Louis special is that combination of Midwestern friendliness and that incredible Gateway Arch setting. The fireworks shooting up around the arch create these amazing photos, and the whole celebration feels very authentically American.

• Read next: Unique Restaurants in St Louis
• You may also like: Fun Things to Do in St. Louis for Young Adults

12. Austin, Texas

Austin’s July 4th celebration at Auditorium Shores along Lady Bird Lake is the perfect blend of live music and fireworks that only Music City can deliver. The Austin Symphony Orchestra performs with guest artists, and the fireworks are synchronized to the music. I love how the downtown Austin skyline reflects in the lake during the show – it creates this beautiful doubling effect.

Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool are packed all day with people having picnics and cooling off in the natural springs. The whole city really embraces that laid-back Austin vibe – food trucks everywhere, live music on every corner, and people just having a great time. 6th Street and Rainey Street are absolutely buzzing with activity before and after the fireworks.

What makes Austin special is that authentic music scene. You’re not just getting recorded music with the fireworks – you’re getting live performances that showcase why Austin calls itself Music City. The barbecue here is legendary too – I always grab some brisket from Franklin Barbecue or la Barbecue if I can handle the lines. The whole celebration feels very Texas – big, friendly, and with a serious appreciation for good music and good food. Plus, the warm Austin night and that beautiful lake setting make it perfect for outdoor celebrating.

• Read next: Fun & Unique Things to Do in Downtown Austin

13. Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s July 4th fireworks over Lake Union create some of the most beautiful reflections you’ll see anywhere, with the Space Needle and city skyline providing an iconic Pacific Northwest backdrop. The main show launches from a barge on the lake, and I’ve found that Gas Works Park offers some of the best viewing – plus you can have a picnic while you wait.

South Lake Union and the waterfront areas get pretty crowded, but the advantage of Lake Union is that there are viewing spots all around the lake. I’ve watched from Westlake Park, the Fremont Bridge, and even from boats on the water. The Seattle Symphony often performs at outdoor venues around the city during July 4th weekend, which adds to that cultural vibe Seattle is known for.

The food scene here is incredible. I always grab some fresh salmon or oysters from Pike Place Market during the day, plus the coffee culture is unmatched. Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square have great bars and restaurants if you want to make a full evening of it. What I love about Seattle is how the natural beauty combines with the urban setting. You’ve got Mount Rainier in the distance, Puget Sound nearby, and all that lush Pacific Northwest greenery. The fireworks over Lake Union with the Space Needle lit up is absolutely stunning, and the whole celebration feels very Seattle – outdoorsy, culturally rich, and with that famous Pacific Northwest chill vibe.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Seattle
• You may also like: Epic Things to Do in Seattle at Night