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7 minutes readWhat is Independence Day?
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. It is a national holiday in the United States that marks the country’s independence from British rule. This day is celebrated with various patriotic displays, including fireworks, parades, concerts, and the flying of the American flag.
While this holiday weekend is packed with fun and celebration, it also comes with heavy crowds and pricey travel planes.
Consider using the booking platform RateHawk to secure the best prices this coming Independence Day.
1. New York City, New York
- Recommended hotel: The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue (5-star) (starting at $347 per/night)
- Best firework display: Macy’s 4th July display over the East River
You best believe that The City That Never Sleeps will offer spectacular fireworks shows that can be seen from various angles. One show you don’t want to miss is Macy’s July 4th fireworks. This classic, 10-year in-the-running display will light up the New York City skyline.
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Thousands of dazzling fireworks will be launched from barges along the East River, and a show will be choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack. Prime viewing spots include the Brooklyn Bridge Park, the East River Esplanade, and various rooftop bars throughout Manhattan.
Aside from the fireworks, New York City offers many activities to enjoy during the holiday. Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty, explore the Museum of Modern Art exhibitions, or enjoy a picnic in Central Park. For a truly unique experience, visit Coney Island for its historic boardwalk, amusement rides, and Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, a Fourth of July tradition.
2. Los Angeles, California
- Recommended hotel: Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows (5-star) (starting at $400 per/night)
- Best firework display: The Hollywood Bowl display
Are your clients more of West Coasters than East Coasters? Los Angeles, California, offers beautiful beaches and hikes, as well as endless inner-city activities and, of course, July 4th fireworks. One of the most popular displays is at the Hollywood Bowl, where a stunning pyrotechnic show is synchronized with live music performances.
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Before sundown, consider visiting Santa Monica Beach, walking down the vibrant pier, or strolling over to the Getty Center for its impressive art collection. For movie enthusiasts, a tour of Universal Studios Hollywood offers a behind-the-scenes look at film production and thrilling rides. For panoramic views of the city and an up-close look at the iconic Hollywood Sign, visit the Griffith Observatory.
3. Orlando, Florida
- Recommended hotel: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (5-star) (starting at $1,300 per/night)
- Best firework display: The annual show at Lake Eola Park
Known for its world-famous theme parks, Orlando ensures visitors of all ages have a memorable holiday experience. Let your clients spend their day exploring the wonders of Walt Disney World, where they can meet beloved characters, enjoy classic amusement rides, and experience the magic of Disney.
If theme parks aren’t their thing, consider offering a trip to the Kennedy Space Center, just a short drive from Orlando. Here, they can learn about NASA’s space missions, see real rockets, and even meet an astronaut. For a more relaxed day, offer them a stroll through the lush Harry P. Leu Gardens or take a scenic boat tour on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes.
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And as far as the best places to see fireworks this 4th of July, offer them to check out Lake Eola Park in Orlando, Florida. Here, they can witness the “Fireworks at the Fountain” show, an annual celebration of America’s independence. The festival begins in the afternoon and ends with a stunning fireworks display over Lake Eola.
4. Chicago, Illinois
- Recommended hotel: The Peninsula Chicago (5-star) (starting at 1,010 per/night)
- Best firework display: The annual show at Navy Pier
Chicago, Illinois, aka the Windy City, never fails to deliver a spectacular Independence Day celebration. The shows are stunning and can be seen from various vantage points throughout the city. One event you absolutely cannot miss is the fireworks at Navy Pier, which will be hosted on July 3rd this year. Each year, the city puts on a show that refracts dazzling lights over Lake Michigan. A few prime viewing spots include the pier itself, nearby beaches, and the lakefront parks.
Photo: Lenstacular Arya/ Shutterstock.com
Beyond the breathtaking fireworks, Chicago offers many activities to make your Fourth of July memorable. For one, your clients can take a lovely boat ride on the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. Here, they can catch panoramic views of the city skyline, learn about the history of Chicago, and even enjoy a light lunch and drinks. If they would rather be in the water than on it, offer them to try heading to one of the many beaches within driving distance of Chicago.
5. Miami, Florida
- Recommended hotel: Fortune House Hotel Suites (4-star) (starting at $847 per/night)
- Best firework display: Bayfront Park Miami
Offer your clients start their day by soaking up the sun at South Beach, renowned for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. For a cultural experience, offer them to visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami, where they can explore contemporary art exhibits and enjoy breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. If adventure calls, a boat tour of the Miami coastline is a must-do, providing unique perspectives of the city’s iconic skyline. During the holiday, many boat companies also offer rides that allow your customers to see fireworks shows from some of the best vantage points. These tours typically cruise along Biscayne Bay, offering passengers a unique perspective of the fireworks displays from the water.
Photo: Mia2you / Shutterstock.com
As night falls, Miami’s nightlife comes alive. Offer your clients to visit the rooftop bar at the 1 Hotel South Beach for stunning views and craft cocktails, or head to The Wharf Miami, an open-air venue along the Miami River, for food, drinks, and live entertainment. These spots offer excellent settings to enjoy the city’s fireworks while immersing themselves in Miami’s vibrant atmosphere.
6. Washington, D.C
- Recommended hotel: Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill (4-star) (Starting at $254 per/night)
- Best firework display: The annual show above the National Mall
While it may seem cheesy, what better way to celebrate Independence Day than in the capital? From exploring historic sites like Mount Vernon, which offers a glimpse into George Washington’s era, to catching a baseball game at Nationals Park, there’s something for everyone. The city’s renowned museums, such as the Smithsonian and the National Portrait Gallery, also provide a wealth of cultural experiences.
However, the highlight of the day is the dazzling fireworks display over the National Mall. As night falls, the sky lights up above iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol Building, and the Washington Monument, which all symbolize American pride and celebration.
Photo: gary718/ Shutterstock.com
It’s important to arrive before the show begins to ensure travelers can beat the crowds and find a seat that will offer incredible views. The best places to see the National Monument fireworks include the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, the National Mall for a central experience, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
7. Boston, Massachusetts
- Recommended hotel: The Colonnade Hotel Back Bay (4-star) (Starting at $340 per night)
- Best firework display: Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Boston, with its deep historical significance and vibrant atmosphere, offers a fantastic setting for celebrating Independence Day. One attraction, the Freedom Trail, allows visitors to trace the footsteps of American revolutionaries, making stops at sites like the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and Faneuil Hall.
On July Fourth, Boston hosts the famous Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on the Esplanade along the Charles River. Here, patriotic individuals can enjoy a dazzling fireworks show set to the tune of the live Boston Pops Orchestra. Each year, this Boston tradition brings locals and visitors from near and far close together.
Photo: Jorge Salcedo/ Shutterstock.com
Starting planning an Independence Day trip!
For travel agents organizing their clients’ Fourth of July adventures, RateHawk offers over 2.5 million hotels worldwide along with everything you may need, be it air tickets, flight transfers, or car rentals! Whether clients crave an urban scene or sun-drenched, RateHawk ensures competitive rates from some of the top hotels in the world.
Not only does our platform offer endless travel solutions, but it also provides a seamless booking process, guaranteeing a hassle-free travel experience and allowing your clients to focus on enjoying the festivities. Don’t miss out on securing their Independence Day getaway—book now and provide a holiday experience they won’t forget!
Cover design: Photo by Samuel Schroth on Unsplash
