Fourth of July in Nashville – Photo courtesy of Travel Channel
Fourth of July celebrations are one of my favorite parts of the summer. The birth of our nation goes hand in hand with family time, hours spent on a lake, barbecues, camping trips and spectacular fireworks shows. With Independence Day falling on a Saturday this year, it’s the perfect time to take a long weekend and explore the patriotic traditions in a different part of the country. We’ve rounded up some of America’s best destinations for the Fourth of July to help you plan your holiday road trip.
Nashville, Tennessee
The country music capital of the world is any music lover’s dream July Fourth destination. This free celebration in the heart of Music City includes performances by Martina McBride and the Nashville Symphony, and provides guests with a host of family-friendly activities. And, most importantly, Nashville’s fireworks display promises to be the largest in the country this year. Be sure to check out our Nashville travel guide if this sounds like your kind of Independence Day.
Washington, DC
Home to the nation’s president and capital of the U.S., it’s clear why this historic city exudes patriotism. The Independence Day celebrations in DC are endless, and most of them are free. Kick off the holiday by heading to the National Mall for the iconic National Independence Day Parade. Then, visit the U.S Capitol’s West Lawn for “A Capitol Fourth,” – a classical performance featuring the National Symphony Orchestra and a fireworks show.
Honolulu, HI
Plan a Fourth of July destination that doubles as a summer beach trip. The Aloha State is the perfect spot for beach-lovers who want to spend Independence Day seaside. Break out your American flag swimsuit and spend the holiday snorkeling, surfing or lounging on the beach. When the sun goes down, visitors can catch the island’s fireworks display while lying in the sand at Ala Moana Beach Park.
Philadelphia, PA
Spend your Fourth of July in the city where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence 239 years ago. The holiday festivities in Philadelphia begin on June 27 with the free “Wawa Welcome America” festival to put guests in the patriotic spirit. On July Fourth, visitors can watch the city’s Independence Day Parade, see a symbolic tapping of the Liberty Bell by the Founding Fathers’ descendants and stop by the “Philly 4th of July Jam” – the largest free concert in America. The performance is followed by a fireworks display.
Las Vegas, NV
Vegas is the place to go to party, and the Fourth of July is no exception. Red, white and blue themed celebrations fill the city’s pools, casinos, restaurants, bars and nightclubs on Independence Day. Fireworks shows will take place at several locations across the city for visitors to watch while sipping on a festive cocktail.
Boston, MA
Thousands of visitors are drawn to Boston for Independence Day each year – in addition to the city’s American history and revolutionary heritage, its fireworks show is bucket-list worthy. Take a walk along the Freedom Trail to see some of Boston’s historic landmarks during the day, then head to the riverbank for a concert by the Boston Pops and a spectacular fireworks show.
Where are you headed for Independence Day? Visit the new GreatAmericanCountry.com for travel tips to make your holiday road trip a success!
