Where to Go for the Fourth of July – Top Fireworks & Events

The Fourth of July is one of the most exciting holidays in America, when there are fireworks, parades, barbecues, and a sense of patriotism. Are you wondering where to go for a memorable Independence Day celebration? These are the greatest locations to go! Whether you prefer historic sites, picturesque lakefront views, or big-city fireworks, we’ve got you covered.

New York City, New York – Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks

Nothing compares to enjoying the Fourth of July in New York City. Every year, Macy's puts on a spectacular fireworks display that is timed to music, lighting up the sky above the East River. Thousands gather along the waterfronts of Manhattan and Brooklyn for the best views. If you want to avoid the crowds, book a rooftop party or a fireworks cruise instead.

Visit the Statue of Liberty to learn more about the city before the fireworks, or stroll through Central Park to see live performances. Independence Day is just another example of how New York throws a great party!

Washington, D.C. – Largest Fireworks Display

What better place than the nation's capital to celebrate America's birthday? With marching bands, floats, and military units, Washington, D.C., goes all out for the Fourth of July with the National Independence Day Parade down Constitution Avenue. The fireworks over the National Mall, with the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument providing a stunning view.

The National Mall offers the most iconic Fourth of July experience in America. This two-mile park stretches between the Lincoln Memorial and the U.S. Capitol, providing front-row seats to the nation's largest fireworks display.

Boston, Massachusetts – Where Independence Began

Boston is one of the greatest locations to celebrate the Fourth of July because of its rich history. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a must-see, featuring patriotic songs played by a live orchestra before the fireworks display.

The Old North Church is where the American Revolution really began. Remember the famous line "one if by land, two if by sea"? This is where they started Paul Revere's ride. On July 4th, it's extra special - you can hear the old church bells ring and see where history happened. It's small but powerful, and right in the middle of Boston's best sights. Perfect for a quick but meaningful stop during your Fourth of July visit.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – The Birthplace of America

Philadelphia, the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, celebrates the Fourth of July with great vigor. For several days, the Wawa Welcome America Festival features a huge parade, free concerts, and museum days.

Benjamin Franklin Parkway has the best view of the fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Before the show, have a classic Philly cheesesteak or take a photo with the Liberty Bell.

Nashville, Tennessee – Music & Fireworks

For a Southern interpretation of Independence Day, travel to Nashville. Timed to a live Nashville Symphony performance, the Let Freedom Sing! Celebration features one of the nation's largest fireworks displays. What’s the best? The fireworks are launched from multiple rooftops in the downtown area, creating a 360-degree show.

Dive into Nashville's musical heart at the Country Music Hall of Fame, where interactive exhibits and famous items, like Elvis' gold Cadillac, tell the story of America's most famous genre. On July 4th, special patriotic performances will light up the museum's outdoor plaza.

Orlando, Florida – Theme Park Fireworks

Orlando is the best place for families and thrill-seekers to spend their Fourth of July vacation. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios feature spectacular fireworks displays in addition to patriotic performances and special parades.

Experiencing magic this Fourth of July when fireworks explode over Hogwarts Castle at Universal's Islands of Adventure. The famous light show gets a patriotic twist and special nighttime projections bring the wizard world to life. Get to the park early to ride all of the thrill rides before the evening show.

Chicago, Illinois – Fountain Fireworks

Every Fourth of July, Chicago turns into a red, white, and blue wonderland with one of the best fireworks shows in the Midwest. The city's lakefront location means that there are natural breezes during summer celebrations. Its world-class museums and deep-dish pizza restaurants are great places to spend the day before the main event started at night.

Chicago's Buckingham Fountain is the perfect fireworks viewing spot on July 4th. This massive marble fountain (one of the world's largest) offers open sights to multiple fireworks displays across the city. Arrive by 7 pm to watch the fountain's water show with patriotic music before the sky lights up.

St. Louis, Missouri – Gateway Arch Fireworks

St. Louis throws an amazing Fourth of July party at the Gateway Arch, the city's most famous landmark. This 630-foot-tall silver arch becomes the center of the celebration with incredible fireworks shot right over the Mississippi River.

The best part? The fireworks light up the whole arch, making it glow red, white and blue. Come early to get a good spot on the grassy riverbank. For something really special, ride the tram to the top of the arch before the show - you'll see fireworks going off across the city! The show starts around 9:15 pm, but people start claiming spots by afternoon. Bring a blanket and some snacks to enjoy while you wait.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Fireworks Over the Atlantic

Myrtle Beach offers a traditional summertime and patriotic experience. Live music, sandcastle competitions, and fireworks over the ocean are all part of the daylong celebration at the beachside city. 

Myrtle Beach's SkyWheel offers the best seat in town for Fourth of July fireworks. This 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel provides stunning views as fireworks explode over the Atlantic Ocean. To witness the sunset and the fireworks reflected in the water below, schedule your ride for just before dusk.

Las Vegas, Nevada – High-Roller Fireworks

Enjoy Independence Day from a height of 550 feet on the tallest observation wheel in the world, the High Roller in Las Vegas. The most unusual way to see fireworks in the city is from this enormous Ferris wheel.

The best part? As your glass cabin slowly rotates, you'll be able to watch several fireworks displays simultaneously. Casinos start their displays between 8 and 9 p.m., so plan your ride during that time. Each ride lasts about half an hour, which is ideal for seeing the most spectacular light displays.