The Fourth of July is always a great excuse to travel. It’s usually a paid holiday for many American workers and therefore worth using to explore. It’s just plain fun to check out parades, fireworks shows and other traditions in new cities. Make sure to read rental company reviews before you commit — having an enjoyable rental car experience can really make your trip special.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Yes, Las Vegas can be shockingly hot in July. But it’s one of the less popular holidays to spend here, so you can usually find great hotel deals. You’ll have your choice of fireworks shows at the Stratosphere, Caesar’s Palace, Mandalay Bay or Boulder City. Nothing says “I’m an American” like enjoying the glitz, glamour and party vibe that only Vegas has.
Denver, Colorado
If you have a family (or just don’t mind kids), Denver is a wonderful place for the Fourth. You can usually count on perfectly comfortable weather without being too hot. Enjoy the Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, which has a brilliant fireworks display at dusk. This is the perfect city for a laid-back Fourth.
Seattle, Washington
Seattleites live for their summers, and the really beautiful weather tends to show up in early July. The highlight is the epic fireworks show at Gas Works Park, which can be seen throughout most of the city. Gas Works itself is always packed all day, so get there very early to stake out a great spot.
Memphis, Tennessee
Barbecue: check. Eccentric ambiance: check. Picnics, parades and fireworks: check. If you don’t mind a lot of heat, you’ll love visiting Memphis for the Fourth. Residents are friendly and everyone is in celebration mode.
Seaside, Oregon
This little beach town just happens to be home to the biggest fireworks show on the West Coast. Hotel rooms book up months in advance, but early risers claim the best spots on the beach. The crowds are friendly and the weather tends to be a pleasant 75 degrees. Fly into Portland, rent a car and make the two-hour drive to the coast.
Boston, Massachusetts
Can you think of a better place to celebrate the birth of America than this city, full of American history? The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular has been a hit for decades, and it’s quite a sight. The event draws half a million people, so come prepared. If you stay in Boston proper, leave your rental car parked at your hotel and use public transportation.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago really knows how to celebrate Independence Day. There’s a parade, a major fireworks display and all sorts of specials for shoppers and foodies. The Fourth of July at Navy Pier is a magical experience you won’t want to miss.
Whether you want vibrant and bustling or more laid back, there’s a perfect Fourth of July destination for you. Enjoy this classic American holiday!
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