fun places to travel for 4th of july

The 15 Best Places to Visit for the 4th of July

The United States has several holidays in honor of important days in its history, but perhaps none is more widely celebrated than the 4th of July, also known as our Independence Day. The day marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, officially declaring that the US would no longer be a part of the British empire. 

Throughout the country, you’ll find parades and fireworks displays, with some cities even breaking out the Declaration of Independence itself to read to an excited crowd. From small-town celebrations to massive festivals in some of our most historic cities, this list is sure to help you find the best place to be on the 4th of July for your Independence Day getaway!

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1. Go Back to Where It All Started at Plymouth

There are few places in the US more entrenched in our nation’s history than Plymouth , Massachusetts, the site of the first permanent settlement by Europeans in New England. This historic spot offers one of the best 4th of July vacation ideas with a full day of family fun , including a race, a parade, concerts, and a fireworks spectacular. 

While you’re in Plymouth, be sure to stop by some of the immersive, historic landmarks the city has to offer, like the Plimoth Patuxet Museums . It’s a great place to learn about not only the colonists’ history but also the history of the Native tribes of the region.

2. Spend the Holiday in Our Nation’s Capital

We couldn’t write a list of places to visit for the 4th of July without talking about our nation’s capital, Washington, DC . Independence Day in DC means America’s National Independence Day Parade , the free A Capitol Fourth concert on the West Lawn of the Capitol, and fireworks on the National Mall. 

3. Party It Up in New York City

There’s always a party starting in New York City , and the 4th of July is certainly no exception. These massive celebrations are what makes NYC one of the best 4th of July destinations. 

Just some of the many events happening in NYC in honor of Independence Day include the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks , the New-York Historical Society ’s all-day celebration, and rooftop parties throughout the city.

There are also some less patriotic-focused events happening around this time in NYC, like the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island!

4. Immerse Yourself in History in Boston

Boston is one of the best places to go for the 4th of July if you’re looking to be surrounded by our nation’s history. When you plan a weekend getaway for the 4th of July, you can walk the historic Freedom Trail to take in some of the most iconic sights around the city.

But the 4th of July in Boston also means the return of Harborfest , a family-friendly festival that runs for several days at the start of July. During the festival, you’ll watch historical reenactments, marches, musical performances, and fireworks shows and take part in activities like the art markets and the Chowderfest food festival.

For another free thing to do on the 4th of July in Boston, you can catch the Boston Pops free concert and fireworks show over the Charles River.

5. Find Your Fellow Americans in Philadelphia

The City of Brotherly Love is another of the US’s most historic cities and another one of the coolest places to visit for the 4th of July. As the home of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it’s no wonder why they go big in Philly for the 4th. 

Instead of just one day or even one weekend of celebrations, Philadelphia ’s 4th of July festival, called the Wawa Welcomes America festival, lasts 16 days. The festival actually celebrates both the 4th of July and Juneteenth, a day commemorating the end of slavery in the US. 

Featuring free admission to museums and landmarks, live concerts, hoagie giveaways from Wawa, and a fireworks finale, the Wawa Welcomes America festival is one of the US’s best summertime celebrations!

6. Go Fireworks-Free in Breckenridge

If you’re looking for places to go on the 4th of July where you don’t have to hear fireworks all night, you’re looking for Breckenridge . In 2019, the city indefinitely banned both public and private fireworks, so you won’t be seeing any fireworks displays here for the 4th.

Instead, you’ll see fireworks-free celebrations that invite you to get outside and experience the beauty of the city. Throughout the day, you can watch or even partake in trail and bike races or just enjoy strolling through art festivals, watching parades, and celebrating our history with a patriotic concert.

7. Step Back in Time in Williamsburg

If you’re looking to literally be immersed in history, Williamsburg is easily one of the best 4th of July destinations. Colonial Williamsburg puts on an amazing show in its immersive, historic neighborhoods, with events including a reading of the Declaration of Independence, costumed players marching through the streets, musical performances, and a fireworks showcase. 

8. Enjoy the Festivals around St. Louis

You might have to do a bit of traveling to see the best of the St. Louis area for Independence Day, so we definitely recommend going for a 4th of July weekend instead of just for the day of the holiday. In Downtown St. Louis, you’ll find America’s Birthday Parade featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and dance tropes decked out in red, white, and blue.

In nearby O’Fallon, there’s the Heritage & Freedom Fest , a multi-day carnival filled with rides, traditional fair treats, free concerts, and a parade. Over in Saint Charles is another multi-day celebration, the Saint Charles Riverfest , featuring a carnival, live music, children’s activities, and a fireworks extravaganza.

9. Spend the Day in Cape May

Summertime is the best time to be at the Jersey Shore, enjoying the warm water, sunny days, and fun-filled boardwalks. Over in Cape May, this 4th of July weekend getaway offers you an annual Independence Day Parade, followed by a fireworks spectacular. Enjoy a sunset on the beach before watching those bursts of color illuminate the sky!

10. Rock Out in Nashville

It’s so fitting that the Independence Day celebration in Nashville , one of the best 4th of July destinations, is called Let Freedom Sing . After all, they don’t call it Music City for nothing. This annual tradition brings together some of the biggest names in music for a free concert in the streets of Downtown Nashville. 

This patriotic party is then followed by one of the largest fireworks shows in the country, with pyrotechnics synchronized with a live performance by the Nashville Symphony. It’s a music-filled celebration you don’t want to miss.

11. Find History Come to Life in Dallas

Dallas is where you’ll find quite a few Independence Day celebrations, making this city a contender for one of the best 4th of July vacation ideas. Fair Park Fourth at historic Fair Park offers kid-friendly activities, local artisans showing off their masterpieces, the best food trucks in the area, and more live music and entertainment, all leading up to a fireworks spectacular.

Another celebration awaits at Klyde Warren Park , where little ones are bound to love the easy access to the children’s park. But the most unique celebration is over at the Dallas Heritage Village , where their Old-Fashioned Fourth invites you to join in the parade, dine on apple pie, and explore historic buildings, with funds going to support the local community.

12. Enjoy the Beauty and Fun of Pigeon Forge

With the Smoky Mountains surrounding you and tons of family-friendly activities to explore, Pigeon Forge is one of the best places to go on the 4th of July. Independence Day brings about the annual Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival , featuring live music, local food vendors, and a fireworks extravaganza.

If you plan on spending the whole weekend in Pigeon Forge, be sure to spend a day over in Dollywood , where you can ride coasters, see live shows, and check out their Summer Celebration. This annual tradition invites you to ride the rides well into the night before you watch the Sweet Summer Nights light-up drone show and fireworks finale. 

13. Find Celebrations Galore in Charleston

Charleston is one of the most vibrant and historic cities in the US, making it one of the best places to go for the 4th of July. During your 4th of July weekend getaway, you can stroll through the cobblestone streets and tour the colorful landmarks that call the city home.

For a one-of-a-kind fireworks show, get your tickets to the Patriots Point Fireworks Blast, where you’ll board the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in nearby Mount Pleasant. In addition to watching the fireworks on the flight deck, you’ll also enjoy plenty of food trucks and live music counting you down until sunset.

14. Experience the Charm of Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is considered the gateway to Acadia National Park , but it’s a destination all its own, and it’s one of the best places to go for the 4th of July. There’s a reason why their 4th of July celebration is consistently voted one of the best in the US!

Bar Harbor offers a whole weekend of fun, with the annual Lobster Scavenger Hunt, a pancake breakfast, a craft fair, a seafood festival, a parade, a concert series, and a fireworks display over Frenchman Bay. 

15. Wander Through the History of St. Augustine

What’s the oldest city in the US? You might be thinking of Boston or Philadelphia, as they’re so tied to American history, but the oldest city in the US can actually be found in Florida. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is a goldmine of beautiful historic landmarks, which is just one of the reasons why it’s one of the best 4th of July destinations. 

On this patriotic holiday, you’ll also find the Fireworks Over the Matanzas, featuring a two-hour concert in St. Augustine’s Historic District, followed by one of the biggest fireworks displays on the East Coast!

There you have it! The 15 best places to go for the 4th of July. What’s your favorite 4th of July destination? Let us know in the comments!

About the author:.

Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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16 Best Fourth of July Celebrations in the US: A Guide to the Most Spectacular Fireworks Shows

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The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence, and what better way to do so than with some spectacular fireworks displays and epic celebrations for families? From coast to coast, there’s no shortage of patriotic festivities to leave you feeling more American than ever. Whether it’s watching fireworks light up the New York City skyline or enjoying the cool sea breeze by San Diego Bay, there’s something for all ages on this special day. And let’s not forget about the irresistible smell of barbecue pits smoking all day long or hitting up a family-friendly carnival or amusement park! We’ve included a list of fantastic things to do, where to stay, and more suggestions for your trip. So, get ready for family-friendly fun and a tour of America’s most spectacular fireworks shows! 

Best Places for Families to Celebrate Fourth of July on the East Coast

The East Coast is undeniably one of the most exciting regions to be in during Independence Day! From Boston to Washington DC and everywhere in between, this part of America is where you’ll find some of the best festivities that will leave your family wanting more. Here are some of the best Fourth of July celebrations in the US for families! 

New York City

New York City is one of the most iconic cities in America, and it’s no surprise that it puts on a truly spectacular fireworks display for the Fourth of July. ​​​​​​One of the best places to catch a glimpse of the iconic Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular , which takes place over the East River, is from Brooklyn Bridge Park or South Street Seaport , where you’ll have breathtaking views of Manhattan and Lady Liberty herself. 

If parades are more your thing, head to Coney Island for their annual Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest and accompanying festivities. Then, Statue Cruises also offers special sunset cruises around Ellis Island with stunning views of lower Manhattan as well as an up-close view under Lady Liberty’s torches – imagine all that while enjoying patriotic music!

Of course, families can also take a stroll through Central Park or head over to Times Square to experience some true American spirit. You can also ​​see landmarks like the Empire State Building lit up by colorful pyrotechnics! Or, visit Ellis Island to learn more about American history. Then, check out one of NYC’s many museums, from the Museum of Modern Art or The Whitney for teens who are art lovers to the American Museum of Natural History for young dinosaur enthusiasts! 

Click here to check out the Best 4th Of July Weekend Getaways From NYC For Families To See Fireworks ! 

Where To Stay In New York City With Kids

Need family-friendly hotels in New York City? If you’re staying in Lower Manhattan, you’ll love The Millenium Hot el in the Financial District or the trendy Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Midtown Manhattan, try the Loews Regency New York or Omni Berkshire Place , which also has a Kids’ Club. For a true luxury experience, we also recommend the nearby St. Regis New York . Check out our list of the best hotels in NYC for families for more suggestions! 

Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City has long been a top summer destination for families, especially during the Fourth of July! With its exciting mix of sun-drenched beaches, lively boardwalks, and world-class entertainment, this seaside resort town has everything you need for an unforgettable Independence Day experience. In fact, families can enjoy a spectacular firework display over the boardwalk on July 4th. Plus, since it’s summer, there are also weekly fireworks at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino every Saturday night. 

To enjoy the weather, rent an umbrella or cabana along Atlantic City’s 5-mile stretch of white sand, open to the public. Families can also stroll down the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk to visit some shops. (Stop for saltwater taffy from James Candy Company!) After, you can entertain kids by taking them to the Playcade Arcade . Or, ride one of the adrenaline-pumping rides at the Steel Pier Amusement Park – enjoy the view from the Ferris wheel! There’s also the Atlantic City Aquarium and other kid-friendly attractions. Then, right outside Atlantic City, visit Lucy The Elephant, a giant statue/landmark featuring a tiny museum inside. Finally, adults can also check out the casino offerings or visit one of the restaurants in the Marina District.

Atlantic City is also one of the 20+ Best Places For Families To Visit During Memorial Day Weekend From NYC !

Washington DC

Washington DC comes alive for the Fourth of July, earning its spot as one of the best places to visit for Fourth of July celebrations in the US for families! With a history as rich and vibrant as America itself, it’s no surprise that this city knows how to put on a show. Plus, families visiting the city can take advantage of A Capitol Fourth , a free concert before the fireworks on the National Mall. Then, gear up for the grand finale: a spectacular light display over DC’s famous monuments on July 4th! 

To commemorate American history, check out one of DC’s many museums, from the National Portrait Gallery and the National Air & Space Museum to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History . Of course, don’t miss the opportunity to stroll the National Mall and see iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Jefferson Memorial. And, there’s always Smithsonian’s National Zoo , where kids can see over 1,500 animals, including pandas! Plus, at the Sylvan Theater , you’ll also find a special activity area for families, featuring activity booklets for kids and educational scavenger hunts.

In nearby Virginia, you can also celebrate July 4th at George Washington’s Mount Vernon home . With live music, fireworks, and a chance to meet an actor playing George Washington, it’ll be a lot of fun for all ages!

Where To Stay In Washington DC With Kids

Families will find a range of kid-friendly hotels in Washington DC to fit their budget or itinerary. One great luxury option is the Willard InterContinental Washington, an IHG Hotel , located right in downtown DC, within a short walk of the city’s most famous sights. To stay in a less-trafficked area, the luxury Omni Shoreham Hotel features a sprawling property with a seasonal outdoor pool. If you’re searching for a more affordable option, consider the budget-friendly Capitol Hill Hotel . For more recommendations, check out our list of Parent-recommended Hotels in Washington D.C. for Families here !

READ NEXT : Best Neighborhoods For Families To Stay In Washington DC

Families who want to celebrate July 4th somewhere special should check out the cradle of the American Revolution, Boston ! This historic city offers a mix of summer and historical activities during your weekend getaway. This includes Boston Harborfest , which takes place from June 30th through July 3rd this year and transforms the city with historical reenactments, musical performances, and more patriotic-themed fun. Plus, there’s a special firework show on July 3rd at Boston’s Long Wharf! Boston Pops also hosts a Firework Spectacular every July 4th on the Esplanade , which features a fun concert that culminates with a firework display. 

Other than the fireworks, there are lots of things to do in Boston with kids during the summer. Listen to music on “The Steps,” at Washington and Franklin Street in Downtown Crossing or walk the Freedom Trail for your daily dose of American history, including visiting Paul Revere’s House . Don’t forget about Faneuil Hall Marketplace , where you can indulge in shopping or local food. Older kids will also love seeing a game at Fenway Park . Other events are scheduled throughout the week, like puppet shows and readings of the Declaration Of Independence. Or, take a cruise around the Boston Harbor for a better view! 

RELATED : 25 Amazing Things to Do in Boston with Kids

Where To Stay In Boston With Kids

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Boston for families , we have a few suggestions. In the Back Bay, you could book a room at Fairmont Hotel Copley Plaza , Four Seasons Hotel Boston , or Westin Copley Place . In downtown Boston, stay at the Omni Parker House Hotel or the Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel . Families who want to stay by the water will love the Boston Marriott Long Wharf . Need more options for family-friendly hotels in Boston? Read about our top picks for the Best Hotels in Boston for Families .

Philadelphia, PA

When it comes to celebrating America’s Independence Day, Philadelphia tops the list! Known as the birthplace of our nation, this historic city offers a myriad of festivities that will leave you and your kids feeling proud to be an American. In fact, every year, the city hosts its Wawa Welcome America festival , a sixteen-day extravaganza with live music, fireworks, and other patriotic events. This includes a fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on July 4th! 

Families can also take advantage of free museum days to learn more about American history at the African American Museum of Philadelphia , the National Liberty Museum , or the Free Library of Philadelphia . Or, visit the National Constitution Center , where families can learn all about how our government works and more fun facts about this iconic city. Families looking for an interactive museum for their kids will love Benjamin Franklin’s namesake The Franklin Institute . And speaking of iconic – don’t forget about Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center ! Other events rotate, but often include block parties with live music and kid-friendly entertainment. Though unconfirmed for this year, there’s usually a free concert on July 4th as well. 

Where To Stay In Philadelphia With Kids

There are plenty of hotels in Philadelphia for families. If you need somewhere to stay during your weekend getaway, consider the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia , Loews Philadelphia Hotel , or Kimpton Monaco Philadelphia . Families also like to book apartment-style accommodations through Airbnb or Vrbo . 

Best Places for Families to Celebrate Fourth of July in the South

When it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July, there are few better places than the South! From mouthwatering barbecues to epic firework displays, we’ve rounded up the best places to visit in Texas, Tennessee, and beyond. Keep reading to find out more! 

Nashville, TN

Nashville is THE PLACE to be for families looking to celebrate the Fourth of July in style! Known as Music City USA, this charming southern city boasts some of the best Independence Day festivities that will surely make your heart sing. In fact, the iconic “Let Freedom Sing” celebration is held annually on July 4th in downtown Nashville and features live country music, food trucks, stunning firework displays that light up the Nashville skyline, and fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. Best of all, it’s free – just bring a blanket or some chairs! 

For families looking for something more low-key, there are plenty of other activities around town. Take a stroll down Broadway, where you’ll find live music at every turn, or visit one of Nashville’s many museums, like the Johnny Cash Museum or the Children’s Museum of Nashville . There are also plenty of kid-friendly attractions, including the Nashville Zoo . You can also grab some delicious Southern food at local favorites like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken or Monell’s Dining & Catering . Don’t forget about famous music venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame !

Plan your Nashville itinerary by reading about the 16 Best Things To Do In Nashville With Kids .

Where To Stay In Nashville With Kids

If you’re planning a vacation to Nashville, we recommend the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center , Omni Nashville Hotel , JW Marriott Nashville , the Renaissance Nashville Hotel , and the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort . We’ve also included more suggestions in our list of the best hotels in Nashville for families ! 

Fort Worth, TX

Get ready for a star-spangled celebration because Fort Worth is known to host one of the best Fourth of July celebrations in the US for families! The festivities kick off early with a parade through downtown featuring floats and festive music. Once the sun goes down, families gather together at Panther Island Pavilion to enjoy live music performances while munching on delicious food from local vendors in celebration of Fort Worth’s Fourth . As darkness falls, the real show begins as an incredible fireworks display lights up the night sky over Trinity River ! 

While the fireworks show is sure to be a hit, there are countless other activities to enjoy as well. Explore the city’s rich Western heritage at the Stockyards National Historic District or meander through the beautiful Fort Worth Botanic Garden . Animal lovers can’t miss a trip to either the Fort Worth Zoo or SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium . Families can also take a stroll through the Cultural District and explore museums such as The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth or the Kimbell Art Museum . And if it’s hot outside, head over to NRH20 Family Water Park just outside Fort Worth in North Richland Hills . Of course, don’t miss the delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Try Joe T Garcia’s or Mi Cocina for some mouthwatering dishes!

Look here for your homestay in Fort Worth with Vrbo!

Addison & Dallas, TX

Addison is about 30 minutes north of Dallas, depending on traffic.

If you’re looking for the best Fourth of July celebrations In the US for families, Addison should be at the top of your list! Located just north of Dallas , this little city packs a big punch with its extravagant Independence Day festivities. The day ends with energetic watch parties all up and down Belt Line Road at the many restaurants along this stretch (in fact, Addison has more restaurants per capita than any city in the US). You can also enjoy the show from Kaboom Town at Addison Circle Park . This world-famous fireworks show draws families from all around the region! 

Book a homestay in Addison through Vrbo here!

What makes this celebration truly unique is its famous airshow – complete with synchronized flying maneuvers and stunning aerobatics. There’s also live music, fantastic food, and other kid-friendly attractions to enjoy throughout the weekend, including carnival games, face painting, bounce houses, and more.

Other than the fireworks, families visiting Addison can indulge in a classic American breakfast at Benedict’s Restaurant . Then, head over to Cavanaugh Flight Museum , where you can explore historical aircraft and learn about aviation history. Families can also enjoy some retail therapy at the nearby Galleria Dallas ! Looking for more things to do? Head to nearby Dallas and check out these Fun Things To Do In Dallas That Kids Will Love .

RELATED : 16 Best Hotels In Dallas For Families

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans offers a festive atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else! With its unique blend of Creole and Cajun culture, the city comes alive with an unparalleled level of energy and excitement, as crowds flock to enjoy firework displays that illuminate its historic buildings and landmarks.

You can start your day watching patriotic parades on St. Charles Avenue or experiencing a cruise down the Mississippi River while taking in breathtaking fireworks displays at nightfall. The city’s annual July 4th celebration, Go 4th on the River , features a spectacular firework show by the Downtown Riverfront , featuring a boat water show with red, white, and blue colors! 

Families can also visit various parks around New Orleans throughout the weekend, such as Crescent Park and City Park . Both offer fun-packed activities like arts & crafts or face painting for kids, as well as live music, food, and games. For more excitement, head to Bourbon Street, where you’ll find lively street performances and endless entertainment options (best with teens or adult groups).

Animal lovers can also check out the different species at the Audubon Zoo . Or, take a stroll through the famous Jackson Square . And don’t forget about the famous beignets from Cafe du Monde ! Families interested in learning more about the city’s Mardi Gras history can also visit Mardi Gras World to see famous floats and learn how the annual parade comes together! 

Where To Stay In New Orleans With Kids

Families traveling to New Orleans should stay in the French Quarter. Here, you’ll find kid-friendly hotels like The Ritz Carlton, New Orleans , Grenoble House , and Omni Royal House . Or, put yourself in the middle of the action on Bourbon Street at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel !  For more information, read our article about family-friendly hotels in New Orleans . Families looking for additional room to spread out (with kitchen or outdoor space possibilities) can try Vrbo and Airbnb too.

Best Places for Families to Celebrate Fourth of July in the Midwest

Are you looking for the most epic Fourth of July celebrations in the US for families? Look no further than the Midwest, where there is no shortage of exciting festivities! From Chicago to Kansas City, keep reading for our suggestions! 

Chicago, IL

Chicago is famous for its epic 4th of July celebrations and is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy the holiday weekend! ​​​​With its stunning skyline and abundance of attractions, The Windy City truly knows how to put on a show, featuring yearly festivities that attract millions of visitors from all over the world. Families can enjoy extraordinary fireworks displays , live music concerts, and countless food vendors on the Saturday before July 4th at Navy Pier. Families can stroll along the pier while enjoying carnival games or hop onto the Ferris wheel for amazing views of Chicago’s skyline! 

Plus, every year at Grant Park , there are also free musical performances to celebrate July 4th, usually the Saturday before. The park also offers an impressive view of the city skyline and has plenty of space to lay down your picnic blanket while watching the show.

If you’re interested in exploring beyond just Independence Day events, many other family-friendly activities around Chicago are worth checking out. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry , then stop by the Field Museum , The Art Institute of Chicago , or the Chicago Children’s Museum . Or, enjoy a sunny day wandering Chinatown Square , Pilsen’s 16th Street Murals , and the Lincoln Park Zoo . Depending on the weather, you can also take a boat tour or spend the day at a Chicago beach ! 

Discover more things to do in Chicago, whether you are traveling with young kids or teens !

Where To Stay In Chicago With Kids

Need somewhere to stay in Chicago for July 4th weekend? Firstly, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers luxury accommodations in the middle of all the action. Not to mention, gorgeous lake and skyline views in the center of the Magnificent Mile. Another option families love along the Magnificent Mile is InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile , which beautifully combines vibrant local history with contemporary style.

Then, showcasing stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, Swissôtel Chicago offers European-inspired elegance in large rooms and suites, ideal for families with teens. Finally, for more suggestions, check out our list of the Best Family Hotels in Chicago ! 

Click here to Stay at The Langham, Chicago, for an Exciting Chicago Vacation with Kids ! 

Kansas City, MO

There’s no better place to experience the ultimate patriotism and family fun than in Kansas City , Missouri! This vibrant Midwestern city definitely knows how to celebrate Independence Day – everywhere you look, there are colorful flags and patriotic decorations adorning buildings and streets. Kansas City also hosts an annual Stars and Stripes Picnic at the National WWI Museum and Memorial . It includes live music, local vendors selling all different kinds of food and other goods, plus a huge fireworks display at the end of the night! 

If you’re looking for something more low-key, head to one of Kansas City’s many parks for a picnic and watch as the sky lights up with color. There’s also a smaller fireworks display at Overland Park , which hosts a yearly Star Spangled Spectacular with food, music, etc. For families with young children, Worlds of Fun Amusement Park offers a special Fourth of July celebration filled with rides, games, and patriotic-themed activities.

Moreover, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions throughout the downtown area, including interactive spots like Science City at Union Station or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City . Don’t forget about delicious BBQ from famous joints such as Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque or Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue ! 

Reserve your stay in Kansas City with Vrbo here!

Detroit, MI

Detroit is a vibrant city with a rich history and cultural landmarks and boasts some of the best Fourth of July celebrations in the United States for families! Every year, the Motor City turns up the heat with its spectacular Ford Fireworks display that illuminates the night sky in shades of red, white, and blue. It’s truly a spectacle not to be missed, featuring live music and other fun. Some of the best spots to see it are from the Detroit Riverwalk , Belle Isle Park , or Hart Plaza .

Families can also check out one of Detroit’s many museums, including the Detroit Science Center , the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History , and the Henry Ford Museum in nearby Dearborn. Visit the Detroit Zoo , or check out the art at The Detroit Institute of Arts . For families with younger children, try visiting Campus Martius Park , which has an outdoor playground as well as splash fountains for kids to cool off on hot summer days. You can also grab some food from one of the many food trucks around or dine at one of the nearby restaurants. Belle Isle Park also has a zoo, an aquarium, and plenty of green space to explore. Plus, Detroit is home to many professional sports teams, so kids can watch their favorite players in action!

RELATED : 45 Fun Places To Visit In Michigan’s Lower Peninsula With Kids

Columbus, OH

If you’re looking for some of the best Fourth of July celebrations in the US for families, then Columbus should definitely be on your list! From parades and fireworks shows to picnics in picturesque parks, this Midwestern city boasts many exciting activities and events that will ignite your patriotic spirit. One must-visit destination is Red White & BOOM! , which takes place downtown on July 3d and boasts one of the largest firework displays in the Midwest! The day-long celebration also features live music performances, a fun parade and street festival, and delicious food from local vendors. 

If you’re looking for something more low-key but still fun for the whole family, check out the Ohio Village Independence Day Celebration . You can experience what life was like in Ohio during the 10th century while enjoying old-fashioned games and crafts such as croquet or hoop rolling! For families with young children, COSI (Center of Science and Industry) offers interactive exhibits and science demonstrations that little ones will love. Nature lovers can’t miss Highbanks Metro Park , where you can enjoy hiking trails or have a picnic with your family on one of their many open fields. And if you’re looking to cool off, head north to Zoombezi Bay Water Park . Or, take a kayaking trip along the Scioto River ! 

Book your homestay in Columbus with Vrbo now!

Best Places for Families to Celebrate Fourth of July on the West Coast

The West Coast is the ultimate destination for families looking to experience the best Fourth of July celebrations in the US! From San Francisco’s waterfront fireworks show to San Diego’s patriotic festivities, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are our favorites! 

San Francisco, CA

When it comes to the best Fourth of July celebrations in the US for families, San Francisco isn’t just a city – it’s a patriotic playground! From parade floats and fireworks-filled nights to family-friendly festivals with food, music, and activities on every corner, this stunning metropolis has something for everyone come Independence Day. This includes special celebrations at Fisherman’s Wharf , where families can indulge in fresh seafood and explore colorful souvenir shops. Then, head to Pier 39 to say hi to some sea lions and witness a stunning firework display, all the while listening to live music! 

One of the best ways to enjoy the fireworks in San Francisco is by taking a bay cruise , where you’ll sail past landmarks like Alcatraz ! Many local companies offer this service, including themed cruises for July 4th! Be sure to take advantage of the fantastic weather too, and explore Golden Gate Park , stopping by the Japanese Tea Gardens or Botanical Gardens . The Exploratorium is another family-friendly attraction that offers hands-on exhibits exploring science, art, and human perception, ideal for young kids! 

On a sunny day, families can even stop by Stowe Lake to rent boats and marvel at the waterfall. (For nature slightly outside of San Francisco, head to Angel Island for hiking, kayaking, and more.) Adventurous families can also take a self-guided bike tour through neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury . Need more ideas? Find our top picks by reading about the 31 Totally Fun Things To Do In San Francisco With Kids This Summer .

Where To Stay In San Francisco With Kids

Need somewhere to stay in San Francisco with kids? To stay by the water, book a room at the Hyatt Centric Fisherman’s Wharf San Francisco , Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman´s Wharf , or the Suites at Fisherman’s Wharf . In Nob Hill, there are famous hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco , and Hotel Fairmont San Francisco . In the trendy Yerba Buena and downtown area, guests can stay at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis and the Hyatt Regency San Francisco . Those looking for more options in San Francisco can read about the Best Family Hotels in San Francisco .

RELATED : Spectacular 4-Day Itinerary for San Francisco with Kids

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV

With its crystal clear waters and picturesque mountain landscape, Lake Tahoe offers an amazing setting for a truly unforgettable Independence Day experience! Straddling the California-Nevada border, this stunningly beautiful location comes alive with everything that makes America great, from flag-waving parades and family-friendly festivals to dazzling fireworks displays reflecting over the lake’s glassy surface. One of the best places to see the July 4th fireworks in Lake Tahoe is the Village Green area near Incline Beach. 

Of course, if you’re up for an adventure, another fantastic way to see the fireworks is from the water, especially on a boat cruise. It’s no wonder why locals refer to this day as “Lights on The Lake!”

In South Tahoe, find lively boutiques, restaurants, and bars near the Heavenly Ski Resort . Families can also take a dip in Lake Tahoe’s warm waters at either Kings or Baldwin Beach , where families can also parasail, kayak, or rent a steamboat, among other water sports. Kids can also ride on a gondola from the Heavenly Village Center to see the lake from a new vantage point. Once you reach the top, navigate nearby hiking trails that are easy for children, like The East Peak Trail . For even more stunning views, don’t miss Emerald Bay State Park !

READ NEXT : Summer Activities in North Lake Tahoe Kids Will Love

San Diego, CA

San Diego knows how to celebrate Independence Day the right way! This coastal paradise offers a perfect blend of fun and excitement during July 4th weekend with unique fireworks displays , live music performances, and delectable food. Don’t miss out on attending The Big Bay Boom , San Diego’s annual firework show that lights up several locations across San Diego Bay. Or, go kayaking at Mission Bay , followed by indulging in scrumptious barbecue delights until it’s time for fireworks! 

Families can also head over to La Jolla Cove – known for its pristine beachfront and lush greenery – to see the sea lions. Or, visit SeaWorld San Diego for their Independence Day celebration, featuring a fun firework display! From Mission Beach to Pacific Beach, there are also plenty of places to set up, shop, and play in the sand.

San Diego also has plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as visiting Balboa Park or taking a stroll through Old Town State Historic Park . And, there are attractions like Legoland California Resort or Belmont Park – an amusement park along Mission Beach that features classic rides like bumper cars and carousels. Families can also rent bikes and ride along the beaches on Coronado Island , take an Old Town Trolley Tour , or take a whale-watching tour in San Diego Bay . 

RELATED : The Best 7-Day San Diego Itinerary with Kids

Where To Stay In San Diego With Kids

San Diego has so many family-friendly hotels! Situated on 400 sprawling acres, we recommend the Fairmont Grand Del Mar . It’s centrally located, kid-friendly, and even has four pools. Families who want to stay directly on the beach will love Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton . It’s housed on a Victorian property and is only five miles from downtown San Diego. Read our list of the best beachfront hotels in San Diego to learn more! 

Happy Fourth of July with Kids!

We hope you liked this list of The Best Fourth of July Celebrations in the US: A Guide to the Most Spectacular Fireworks Shows! From coast to coast and everywhere in between, families can experience some truly spectacular fireworks shows while also enjoying all kinds of fun activities. Enjoy Independence Day with your family! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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7 Festive Places to Visit for a July 4 Weekend Getaway

Because where else would you be.

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New York City’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show lights up the Manhattan skyline.

Photo by Songquan Deng/Shutterstock

No other holiday encapsulates summer quite like Fourth of July, when people revel in outdoor barbecues and parades (and, in the case of New York City’s Coney Island, gorge on hot dogs at breakneck speed). Complete your festivities with a nightly fireworks show, and you’ve got yourself an Independence Day celebration that would make the Founding Fathers proud.

Giving us even more of a reason to celebrate, July 4 lands on a Thursday this year. So if you’re lucky—or plan ahead—and can get your Friday off, you can let the good times roll over a four-day weekend getaway.

Feeling a red, white, and blue kind of summer trip? Here are the best places to be in the United States on July 4 that double as great weekend trip destinations.

1. New York City, New York

You won’t get much shut-eye with all of those fireworks, so why not see them in the city that never sleeps? The country’s biggest fireworks display is conducted by Macy’s , which launches a fireworks show from barges on either the East or Hudson River in New York City ( visit their website for the most up-to-date information for viewing locations ). Considering that more than 3 million live spectators come out to see the fireworks, your best bet to avoid the crowds is to find a restaurant or friend’s rooftop to see the event. Alternatively, you can consider smaller shows like the one on Coney Island , where you can walk down a nearly three-mile boardwalk and spend the day on the beach before the fireworks.

Daytime events abound for Independence Day as well, including Nathan’s annual hot dog–eating contest , which is held in Coney Island every July 4. Come to the Brooklyn neighborhood to see star player Joey Chestnut defend his title in the competition: In 2023, he managed to scarf down 62 of those dogs.

If you come to Bristol for Independence Day, expect a parade that goes all out—Revolutionary attire included.

Photo by James Kirkikis/Shutterstock

2. Bristol, Rhode Island

While the big cities duke it out to determine which place has the splashiest celebration for July 4, this Rhode Island town has gone the longest. The town of about 22,000 people started celebrating the nation’s independence in 1785 with a parade, and it’s become the longest continuing Independence Day celebration in the United States.

It’s a title the town fully embraces, with festivities that make Independence Day a weeks -long event. The festivities start on June 14 with a Flag Day Ceremony —complete with a town crier—and conclude with the town’s famous July 4 parade . In between, celebrate events like a summer concert series and Fourth of July Ball . After Independence Day, take advantage of the prime weather and check out the Ocean State’s many beaches .

3. San Francisco, California

San Francisco ’s Pier 39 hosts several citywide celebrations throughout the year: One of them is a fireworks display every Independence Day. (Pro tip: Avoid the traffic in Fisherman’s Wharf by choosing to come and go using public transportation.) For daytime events, look to smaller locales like Sonoma for parades with a hometown feel. Or take the trip across the Oakland Bay Bridge to the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum . Every Independence Day, the retired warship hosts a Fourth of July BBQ on its flight deck.

If you can swing a weekend in San Francisco, there’s plenty of sightseeing to do , starting with a visit to the Golden Gate Park and to the Saturday farmers’ market at the Ferry Building. The city was ranked as one of the World’s Best Cities of 2024 because of the car-free street movement that has been rolling out since the COVID-19 pandemic—so definitely take a bike and bring your best walking shoes.

Concerts and fireworks are July 4 staples in Washington, D.C.

Photos by Redswept/Shutterstock and Roberto Galan/Shutterstock

4. Washington, D.C.

Quite the no-brainer when it comes to places to celebrate Independence Day, but if you’re heading to this city for the first week in July, there are quite a few events to put on your calendar. There’s the annual National Independence Day Parade on Constitution Avenue, where drum corps and bands march alongside floats in front of hundreds of thousands of spectators. You can also head to the National Mall and see top musicians perform at A Capitol Fourth , the U.S. national Independence Day celebration; 2023’s lineup included performances from Chicago and Boyz II Men.

The main fireworks show, hosted by the National Parks Service, draws hundreds of thousands of people to the heart of downtown. Want a less-crowded alternative viewpoint? Bring a blanket and go to Gravelly Point Park, a couple of miles north of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You’ll be able to see the fireworks from across the river, with the added bonus of seeing planes take off from DCA. Afterward, read advice from locals and check out what you can do over four days in Washington, D.C.

5. Nashville, Tennessee

You can count on music being a big part of Nashville’s July 4 celebrations, namely in its Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th event. Last year’s party featured headliner Brad Paisley, along with Ben Rector, The War and Treaty, Langhorne Slim, and Tiera Kennedy. The annual show concludes with fireworks in downtown Nashville. Catch the event from the rooftop of hotels like Bobby Nashville (last year’s tickets included a BBQ cookout), The Pool Club at Virgin Hotels , and W Nashville .

But while July 4 celebrations are great and all, you can’t leave Nashville before digging into its famous hot chicken or checking out a music museum. Take at least 48 hours to explore its distinct neighborhoods and outdoor spaces—including a replica of Athen’s Parthenon —to make the most of your time in Tennessee.

More than 200 years after the Boston Tea Party, the Boston Harbor is a place for Independence Day festivity.

Photo by Keith J Finks/Shutterstock

6. Boston, Massachusetts

Since that whole Boston Tea Party incident hundreds of years ago, Boston has been tied to the country’s independence. The city celebrates its history with Harborfest , a weeklong event that’s one of the country’s largest Fourth of July festivals.

From July 1 to 7, listen to the live music acts in Downtown Crossing and try different renditions of clam chowder at Chowderfest . At night, settle down along the Inner Harbor to see Harborfest’s fireworks launch from a barge at Boston’s Long Wharf. Spend the weekend to check out some of the new developments that have been happening in the historic city , such as the MGM Music Hall at Fenway, opened in 2022.

7. St. Louis, Missouri

Travel to St. Louis for July 4 and celebrate the nation’s independence in Gateway Arch National Park , the smallest national park in the country. The city celebrates with its America’s Birthday Parade , which has been going on since 1878 and was modeled after New Orleans’s Mardi Gras celebration (floats from New Orleans were even shipped to St. Louis during the first few years of the parade). You can watch 2024’s parade along Market Street in Downtown St. Louis and catch the nightly fireworks by the Gateway Arch.

After chowing down on classic Independence Day burgers and hot dogs, take the weekend to discover St. Louis’s iconic eats —gooey butter cake and pork steak, anyone?

The Best Places to Spend a Blowout Fourth of July This Year

Skip the big cities and head to these off-the-radar celebrations instead..

Updated on 6/28/2022 at 5:00 PM

Memorial Day may be the unofficial kickoff to summer, but the 4th of July is really one of the highlights of the season (a guaranteed three-day weekend doesn’t hurt, either). The federal fête’s origin dates back to 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was adopted and our country was, officially, independent from Britain. In the 246 years since, July 4th has come to signify the ultimate celebration of summer, a holiday dedicated to day drinking, barbecues , and being in the great outdoors—particularly somewhere along the coast.

Fireworks are, of course, a highlight, and it’s no surprise that some of the best shows are in metropolises like New York , DC , LA , and Miami — as well as some of the more dynamic southern cities like Austin and Nashville . But if you’re looking for an Independence Day filled with drawn-out patriotic parades, over-the-top, synchronized fireworks displays, and seafood spreads you can only find in coastal New England towns, here are the best places to celebrate America’s birthday in full fanfare.

Addison, Texas

Just a few minutes north of Dallas, Addison has fully cornered the “random town known for this one specific thing” market. Around Independence Day, its population mushrooms from less than 16,000 to something like 500,000 for Kaboom Town! —when 4.4-square-mile Addison sets off about 3,500 pounds of fireworks . Fireworks here go off July 3—not the 4th—and you’ll need a ticket (which is free) to join the party in the 12-acre Addison Circle Park. The display lasts about 25 minutes, which makes sense given that it’s a midsize sedan’s weight in fireworks. There’ll be live music and vendors from 5 pm, the Addison Airport Airshow (featuring historic warbirds, specialty aircraft, parachute jumpers, and aerial aerobatics) at 7:30 pm, and the fireworks show, which starts at 9:30 pm sharp.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada

The ideal 4th of July setup involves a lake town somewhere in the West, like Lake Tahoe. There’s a whole lineup of firework displays in the area, but long-time fave Lights on the Lake in South Lake Tahoe is consistently deemed one of the best shows in the country. Stake out a picnic table along the shoreline of Nevada Beach State Park and do your thing (BBQing and BYOBing) while tuning in to KRLT-FM 93.9 or KOWL-AM 1490 for patriotic jams—or you can hop aboard Tahoe Cruises’s 80-foot motor yacht, the Safari Rose, for a Champagne-fueled evening on the water. The 25-minute fireworks show—which is shot from barges anchored near the Stateline section of Lake Tahoe—begins at 9:45 pm, and the music is synchronized to the firing of the shells (it’s the largest of its kind west of the Mississippi), so you’re in for a Disney-esque display.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Declaration of Independence was signed here, and the good people of Philadelphia see that as a reason to really go off on Independence Day. The WaWa Welcome America Festival is a 16-day party that kicks off on Juneteenth and runs through the 4th. It’s packed with free museum days, film screenings, block parties, and a lot of (unfortunately, not-free) drinking. On July 4, there’ll be vendors, guest speakers, a concert helmed by pop stars Jason Derulo and Ava Max, and a parade that sets off at 11 am (and features Miss America 2022, Emma Broyles, as the grand marshal), leaving you plenty of time to get good and buzzy before the 9:30 pm fireworks display starts.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Michigan is not where you’d expect to find summer island vibes , but that’s probably because you haven’t been to Mackinac Island yet. Often ranked in the top 10 islands in the U.S., this spot is a tourist favorite—and for good reason. If it’s that idealized, apple pie image of American life you’re after (instead of the absolute maelstrom it's been of late), here is a place to find just that. Car-free, lined with pastel-hued historic homes and shops, Mackinac feels like a step back to a simpler time. Case in point: Independence Day stone-skipping contests , when professional stone skippers show off their skills competing for a coveted trophy. Of course, the island also has more traditional July Fourth festivities, with two fireworks displays going off simultaneously at dusk (around 10 pm). So, after finishing up dinner, swing by Scoops for a waffle cone and find a spot to settle in for the show.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Considered the “last real mountain town,” spending Fourth of July in Jackson Hole makes for a great start to a summer vacation in one of the nearby national parks like Yellowstone or Grand Teton. The festivities kick off with a mix of orchestra performers at the Grand Teton Music Festival on July 3, and continues the following day with the annual all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast on Jackson’s Town Square; a patriotic parade of classic cars and riders on horseback (a nod to the town’s western culture); a shootout reenactment show in the square; and, finally—after a quick rodeo at 8 pm—three fireworks displays around 10 pm. If you can, spend a few extra days to go camping at Shadow Mountain, tubing down Snake River, or jumping off the appropriately named “jumping rock” at Phelps Lake . And, if you’re still in town on Tuesday night, head over to the Silver Dollar for dancing.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, Maine, is just a few hours from Portland , and serves as the main entry point to one of the country's most-visited national parks, Acadia. It also has similar vibes to Mackinac—at some point, you’ll definitely find yourself eating homemade fudge or ice cream from a mom-and-pop shop while strolling along a beach so serene, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to get here in the first place. You can expect a full schedule of wholesome Independence Day activities. There’s a downtown-wide lobster scavenger hunt (which sounds more like lobster hide-and-seek of some sort? ), a pancake breakfast, a craft fair and marketplace, and a parade—plus a seafood festival of Maine classics like lobster and crab rolls. There’s also live music all day at the Town Pier leading up to the main event—the fireworks show on the waterfront over Frenchman Bay at 9:15 pm.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is the OG Fourth of July destination, since it was where the very first Independence Day parade was held. The city takes the national holiday so seriously, celebrations kick off at 12:01 am on July Fourth with a Midnight Parade . At noon, there’s the River Raft Regatta in downtown Gatlinburg, where contestants send uncrewed floatables of their own creation down the Little Pigeon River and hope for the best, since they can’t steer them. Prizes are awarded to the most creative and fastest floats. For $2, $3, or $5, you can even rent and enter your very own rubber ducky. Lest we forget, there’s also the (often-crowded) fireworks display shot off the Space Needle at 11 pm on July 4th, which is best seen from the city’s famous SkyBridge . (There’s even a VIP party on top of the mountain at SkyLift Park, if you don’t want to deal with crowds.)

St. Louis, Missouri

Calling itself “America’s Biggest Birthday Party,” Fair Saint Louis , as you can probably guess, has one of the country’s best fireworks shows. The three-day-long celebration in downtown St. Louis draws nearly 300,000 people to events like the 137th America’s Biggest Birthday Parade (taking place July 2 at 10 am) and free performances across Kiener Plaza and Ballpark Village (headliners include big-name acts like Third Eye Blind and X Ambassadors). While residents have the best spot for the big show, you can get prime seats for the fireworks at 9:30 pm nearly anywhere in town, since the display is along the Mississippi and framed by the landmark Gateway Arch. If you’re road tripping in the area for a few days, head over to Branson, home to Wild West-themed resorts, an 1880s-themed amusement park, and ziplines through the Ozarks .

Happy Independence Day, everyone!

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The Best Summer Towns For A Fourth Of July Weekend Getaway

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The Fourth of July is when we mark America’s birthday with food, festivals, and fireworks. But you don’t have to be in the big city to celebrate all of the things that make our country great. For a slice of small-town Americana mixed with beauty and tradition — plus patriotic fun — consider these places for your Independence Day getaway.

James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

Bristol, Rhode Island

For a dose of colonial history with your holiday celebration, Bristol, Rhode Island , is the place to be. This small seaside town, located southeast of Providence, has quite the claim to Fourth of July fame: With a parade that dates back to 1785 , Bristol has celebrated America’s birthday since the country was just nine years old. The parade is thought to be the oldest Fourth of July parade in the country.

The town might also host the longest patriotic party as well: The fun officially kicks off on Flag Day in June, with concerts, fireworks, a vintage baseball game, and even a formal ball. All of those events lead up to the big parade that begins at the intersection of Chestnut and Hope on the morning of the Fourth. It’s truly one of the most star-spangled and patriotic ways to spend your Independence Day, and it’s a great reminder of where America began and what our country is all about.

To take in the evening fireworks over some littlenecks, cherrystones, or quahogs, head to Quito’s Restaurant .

Ukrolenochka / Shutterstock

Cody, Wyoming

For a bit of Wild West adventure with your Fourth, check out Cody, Wyoming . This town, located about 50 miles from Yellowstone National Park’s east entrance, was founded by none other than William “Buffalo Bill” Cody in 1901. Cody still retains a frontier-town feel, as evidenced by its nickname: “Rodeo Capital of the World.”

Cody comes to life during the week of the Fourth with its annual Stampede Rodeo (July 1-4). In the mornings, traditional parades with veterans’ groups, marching bands, and floats wind through historic downtown Cody. At night, you can witness bull riding, barrel racing, and plenty of bucking broncos as cowboys (and cowgirls) compete for hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money at Stampede Park Arena. It’s a galloping good way to spend the Fourth.

For even more Wild West entertainment — and great eats — stop at the Cody Cattle Company for dinner, where you can enjoy a family-style barbecue meal while a country western band performs.

Jonathan Collins / Shutterstock

Cooperstown, New York

There’s nothing more American than baseball, and by spending Independence Day in Cooperstown, New York , you can celebrate both baseball and country in a quaint upstate setting. Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame ; however, the town’s historic homes, charming downtown, nearby wineries, and gorgeous Otsego Lake add to the allure of spending a summer weekend here.

The Fourth of July celebration and parade in the nearby town of Springfield is as star-spangled as it gets, featuring floats, marching bands, tractor brigades, and veterans’ groups. In the evening, enjoy cool breezes, colorful fireworks displays, and a concert at Glimmerglass State Park.

Consider a stay at the historic and iconic Otesaga , a grand lakefront resort that’s been around since 1909. It’s known for its great golfing.

Museum of Northern Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona , just a two-hour drive north of Phoenix, is perhaps best known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon. However, this alpine town is more than just a stopover spot. Outdoor activities abound, and miles of mountain biking and hiking trails wind through the city and out to the foothills of the nearby San Francisco Peaks. The town also boasts a bevy of microbreweries, fabulous museums, and some of the best stargazing in the world: Its Lowell Observatory , established in 1894, is where Pluto was seen for the first time.

Flagstaff’s Fourth of July celebration features a number of activities, including a parade, road races, and a concert, but the standout is the Hopi Festival of Arts and Culture. Since the 1930s, this festival and show has celebrated Native American artists from Hopi villages in northern Arizona.

Check out — or check in to — the Weatherford Hotel , where artists and authors have stayed since 1900.

ESB Essentials / Shutterstock

Friday Harbor, Washington

Only 65 miles from Seattle, San Juan Island is the largest of the islands in San Juan County, Washington, and it can be reached by ferry or float plane. Be sure to whale watch on your way there, since you’ll often see orcas in the Salish Sea; much of the island itself has been designated a national park.

Friday Harbor , the county seat and largest town in the island chain, is home to art galleries, shops, cafés, and a variety of inns and bed and breakfasts. While you’re there, take advantage of the gorgeous, temperate climate: Rent a bike, hike, or sunbathe on the rugged coastline. Learn more about the fascinating history of this place that was first an army encampment, then endured a Pig War before becoming a fish-canning town and ultimately a peaceful tourist haven. The Pig War is remembered each year during the Fourth of July celebration at Friday Harbor , when the town’s Kiwanis Club hosts — what else? — a Pig War barbecue. Other highlights include a picnic, a parade, live music, and fireworks.

Darryl Vest / Shutterstock

Gulf Shores, Alabama

For a bit of sand, seafood, and surf with your Fourth of July, consider the Alabama Gulf Coast. Once a sleepy fishing community, the town of Gulf Shores, Alabama , grew up around Gulf State Park, which opened in 1939. Now dotted with beachside condominium complexes and fabulous cafés, Gulf Shores is a popular holiday destination. Anglers will want to check out the park , which boasts a long fishing pier, poles for rent, and licenses available for purchase on-site.

On the Fourth of July, a street festival takes place at the Wharf at Orange Beach , a couple of miles up the coast. Even the palm trees there sparkle red, white, and blue for the occasion. If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for (or just watch) the Shark Run on Independence Day morning. Participants wear flag football belts and are chased by “sharks” along the 4-mile street-to-beach course. And on the evening of the Fourth, check out the incredible fireworks display on the Gulf State Park pier; Gulf Shores Beach is the perfect place to stake out a spot in the sand and see the show light up the sky.

trekandshoot / Shutterstock

Independence, California

There’s no better place to celebrate the holiday than Independence, California. This tiny, remote village nestled between Kings Canyon National Park and Death Valley National Park is popular with the hiking and rock-climbing set. Trout fishing is also a favorite pastime here, and camping and glamping options abound in the Eastern Sierra nearby.

The population booms each Fourth of July, since the town named for freedom celebrates in grand style. The day starts with a 5K followed by a pancake breakfast. An arts and crafts festival takes place on the grounds of the Inyo County Courthouse, and at the town’s Dehy Park, activities include a parade, pie social, and barbecue. In the evening, the Independence Volunteer Fire Department puts on a traditional fireworks display.

Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock

Mackinac Island, Michigan

For cooler temperatures, a Great Lakes setting, and a throwback sort of Fourth, head to Michigan’s famous state park, Mackinac Island . Situated between the state’s upper and lower peninsulas in Lake Huron, this historic vacation spot is known for its horse-drawn carriages (no cars allowed!), fragrant lilac trees, and decadent, delicious fudge. The island is only 8 miles around, so you can easily bike down the shoreline, explore areas occupied by the British during the War of 1812, and hike the limestone cliffs and caves, including Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf.

The island’s stately homes and historic downtown are carefully maintained, and so is the gorgeous Grand Hotel , which hosts an all-American Fourth of July picnic. There’s also the chance to win bragging rights at the island’s annual Independence Day stone-skipping contest, and you won’t want to miss the fireworks over the lake.

Christopher W. Becke / Shutterstock

Williamsburg, Virginia

Last but certainly not least, consider spending a truly historic Independence Day in Williamsburg, Virginia. Founded as the state’s capital in 1699 , it was one of America’s first planned cities. When the capital moved to Richmond, Williamsburg avoided explosive population growth and was able to maintain its historic center. Now the city is famous for shopping, wineries, and of course, Colonial Williamsburg .

Spend a Fourth of July here , and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. The holiday features a reading of the Declaration of Independence on the courthouse steps by an actor portraying Thomas Jefferson. You can also enjoy Fife and Drum Corps salutes and military exercises and reenactments. In the evening, there are numerous fireworks shows from which to choose, including displays in historic Williamsburg as well as in Yorktown and Busch Gardens.

Photo Credit: Ricardo Reitmeyer / Shutterstock

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

34 Super-Fun 4th of July Activities to Entertain the Whole Family

Fun things to do with a side of red, white, and blue 🇺🇸

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You could go the classic route and celebrate with tried-and-true 4th of July traditions, such as a blowout 4th of July cookout , complete with appetizers , salads , drinks , desserts , and homespun patriotic decorations , and then cap the evening off by watching a fabulous fireworks show near you . More in a playful mood? Try some 4th of July games, such as a water balloon toss or watermelon bowling. If you’re ready to get away from it all, our favorite places to go for the holiday include some of the most charming small towns dotting this country from coast to coast. Or, you can take it easy. Hang a flag, run through a sprinkler with the kids, and brush up on some 4th of July facts (did you know that our cheeky American ancestors celebrated the first Independence Day in 1776 with mock funerals for King George III?).

So there’s no need to feel beholden to the same old same this year! Plan a long holiday weekend filled with new (to you) old-fashioned 4th of July celebration ideas that the whole gang is guaranteed to love. Let the festivities begin!

Top 4th of July Activities

Curate a patriotic playlist.

Set the mood from the moment you wake up by queuing up a batch of patriotic songs . (P.S. For a little more twang, try our list of the most patriotic country songs .)

Celebrate in a Small Town

From fresh farmstands to festive parades every townsperson seems to attend, America's best small towns are some of the most excellent places to celebrate the 4th of July. If you're thinking about a holiday getaway this year, why not try the best small town in your state ?

Plan Patriotic Outfits

Whether you choose breezy summer sundresses or shorts-and-shirts combos in pops of red, white, and blue, it always adds extra fun to the holiday when the whole gang dresses in theme. Post a pic of the group on Instagram with a patriotic caption .

Win a Water Balloon Toss

To throw, cup your balloon and toss underhanded. As you and your partner space further apart, increase the height of the balloon's arc and aim for it to peak halfway along its journey. To catch, position yourself directly underneath the balloon in an athletic stance and use two hands or the crooks of your elbows to cradle the balloon into your lap with a soft swoop.

RELATED: 36 DIY Outdoor Games for Kids and Adults

Try Square Dancing

This classic American dance form is just as fun in the backyard as it is at a town hall.

Savor Summer Tomatoes

America's most popular summer produce can be the star of your 4th of July cookout with one of these wonderful tomato recipes .

America's birthday is the perfect reason to shop at a locally owned general store for all your cookout sundries and supplies. Lost River Trading Post in Wardensville, West Virginia (pictured) sells goods from more than 300 American artisans.

Make Your Own Ice Cream

Always wanted to make your own ice cream? Now's the time! And lucky for you, we've got easy ice cream recipes in every flavor .

Plan a Game Night

After the burgers have been eaten and the fireworks display is done, settle in for the evening with a fun game the whole family can play. (Rummy, anyone?)

Hang a Flag

And teach the kids about American flag etiquette in the process, including the proper way to fold it when you take it down.

Watermelon Bowling

Make the quintessential summer fruit part of your 4th of the July festivities with a friendly backyard game of watermelon bowling. (We recommend these refreshing watermelon recipes too!)

RELATED: 37 DIY Outdoor Games for Family Fun

Cut Flowers for the Table

Head out to the garden in the morning when it's cool and snip blooms for your 4th of July table. Bonus points if you have blue hydrangeas to complement a patriotic color scheme!

Craft a Patriotic Wreath

Create this easy and festive DIY decoration with red, white, and blue cardstock.

Get the tutorial at Blooming Homestead .

RELATED: 25 Patriotic Wreaths to Make for 4th of July

Throw a Family-Friendly Fourth U-Pick Party

Visit a berry-picking farm near you, then head home and turn the fruits of your labor into fruity desserts. When the baking is done, head outside to enjoy the sweet treats—like blueberry whoopie pies , blackberry tart , and raspberry-pistachio semifreddo —under blue skies.

Make a Water Park at Home

Break out the sprinklers and the garden hose to create a water park in your very own backyard. You can also create a simple obstacle course, which will keep kids entertained (and cool!) for hours.

RELATED: 5 Best Lawn Sprinklers for Every Size Yard

Take a Hike

Hit the local nature trails, or—with 4th of July falling on a long weekend this year—make a day trip out of it. See our definitive guide to the 50 best U.S. hikes including one in your state.

Go Camping in Your Backyard

Can't make it to a real campsite this year? Try a little backyard tent camping instead. Once your cookout's died down, watch fireworks from the comfort of sleeping bags and cap off the night with some (not super scary) ghost stories before sleeping under the stars.

SHOP SLEEPING BAGS

Watch a Patriotic Movie Outside

Weather permitting, set up an outdoor movie theater and cozy seating on your lawn, then sit back and relax with some of the best 4th of July flicks . Of course, if it rains, you can easily move the festivities, popcorn and all, into the family room.

SHOP POPCORN BAGS

Create a Care Package for Our Service Men and Women

Set aside time during Independence Day weekend to create a care package to send to members of the military. UPS offers free kits and you can see a list of things to include via organizations like Soldier's Angels .

Plan a Soda Float Social

Country Living contributor Lauren Akins helped dream up this genius summer idea, which is perfect for fending off the July heat and keeping your crew refreshed. Channel the 4th of July from decades past with glass soda bottles and a vintage-inspired bar cart.

SHOP STRAW DISPENSERS

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30 fun things to do on the 4th of July to celebrate America's birthday

It's the Fourth of July . If you haven't got big plans yet, it's not too late to make some.

There are so many things to do in honor of America's birthday including traditional favorites like watching fireworks with the family, listening to patriotic songs or hosting a backyard barbecue .

If you're still trying to decide exactly how to spend the holiday, don't sweat it because we've got you covered with a list of fun things to do on the Fourth of July guaranteed to please just about everyone in your crew.

From fitting in a little retail therapy to making star-spangled crafts with the kids, our list of July 4 activities will have everyone joining in to celebrate the good ol' U.S. of Yay this year.

And while we're sure you've got a few ideas of your own, you just might be inspired to try something new, even if it's just a red, white and blue cocktail or dessert .

Whatever you settle on, make sure to take lots of pictures, then share them on Instagram along with one of these these patriotic captions or freedom quotes .

Attend a festival

From coast to coast, cities across the country host all kinds of celebrations in honor of the Fourth of July, with some falling on the actual day and others are held the weekend before or after. Choose a festival near you and enjoy a day or two of events, music, food and good fun.

Shop 'til you drop

If you've got time to kill before the big fireworks display, why not take advantage of Fourth of July sales and deals ? Many retailers are open for business on the holiday (though they may have modified hours, so always check first) and there's nothing like a little retail therapy to help get you in the spirit of the summer season.

Go to the movies

They don't call 'em " summer blockbusters" for nothing. Some of the year's best movies debut in theaters over the Fourth of July weekend, so grab a bucket of popcorn, your best pals and see a film on the big screen. If the weather's miserable, make it a matinee. But if the sun is shining, pack up the car and take the family to the drive-in.

Seeing as the Fourth of July is about celebrating stars and all, why not spend a night or two under 'em? Whether you set up a tent in the backyard or go to an official campground, take in the sights and sounds of our country in the great outdoors. Even if you're the sort who prefers a plush hotel bed to sleeping bags, you can still have a campfire, tell ghost stories and watch for shooting stars without even sleeping under the stars.

Use the holiday to give back. Find a volunteer opportunity online, at your church or in your community. Even if it's just lending a hand to your neighbor, helping out is always appreciated. Go it alone or ask friends and family to join you in volunteering time this year.

Make red, white and blue treats

A Fourth of July cookout isn't complete until the flag cake is served. Or the strawberry shortcake . Or the ice cream cak e. Want to skip the slicing and serving altogether? Go with a less-mess Fourth of July dessert , like festive and fruity popsicles .

Host a hot dog eating contest

Give Joey Chestnut a run for his money this Fourth of July. Grill a bunch of hot dogs and see who can eat the most during a set time. A friendly reminder: You don't want anyone to spoil the fun, so tell them to take it easy.

See fireworks

If you're wondering if there are fireworks near you, there probably are! On the off chance that there aren't any, you can always watch some on TV or take matters into your hands by picking up fireworks at the store, depending depending on which state you live in. Even a pack of sparklers will help make your celebration feel more festive.

Try a new restaurant

Not all restaurants are open on July Fourth, but the ones that are will definitely appreciate your business. Do some homework and find somewhere you’ve never been before. It’s a fun Fourth of July activity, especially for anyone who would rather have someone else handle the cooking.

Go on picnic

You can’t go wrong with packing up a basket and going on a picnic. Make a few of your favorite finger foods beforehand, whip up an array of red, white and boozy cocktails, and find a scenic spot to enjoy 'em.

Visit a historical landmark

Even if you're far from the nation's capital, you can still find a local historical landmark to visit on July Fourth. While some landmarks may be closed for the holiday, plenty of others remain open and you might uncover some interesting history right in your own backyard.

Make a Fourth of July recipe

It doesn't get any better than a red, white and blueberry pie — especially on the Fourth of July. Try a new recipe (or two) and put together an on-theme feast. Right before you grab a bite, take a picture of your creation and post it on social media to show off your skills.

Attend a baseball game

What better way to spend July Fourth than at a baseball game? Load up the whole family and enjoy an afternoon at the ballpark. Bring on the hotdogs, peanuts and Cracker Jacks!

Visit New York City

There’s nothing quite like watching fireworks light up the Statue of Liberty. Catch the display on TV or check it out in person. There are celebrations across the Big Apple throughout the long weekend, so you're bound to find something to do.

Make Fourth of July-inspired crafts

Get the whole family involved and make a patriotic craft to celebrate America’s birthday. It doesn’t need to be complicated — just pick up some iron-on decals at the craft store to make festive t-shirts or craft a star-studded wreath to hang on your front door.

Watch a Fourth of July movie or documentary

If the weather rains out your big Fourth of July plans, host an indoor movie marathon instead. Show a summer blockbuster like "Jaws" or “Independence Day." Or turn it into a teaching moment by playing a documentary about how the Founding Fathers ratified the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It's your call!

Go to the beach

While going to the beach for the Fourth of July is hardly an original suggestion, shake things up by finding a new spot to call your own for the holiday. Wherever you end up, a day of sun, sand and ice cream never gets old.

Visit Washington D.C.

Named after the OG Founding Father himself, Washington is the place to be to get all the patriotic feels on the Fourth of July. Plan a pilgrimage to Mount Vernon, the birthplace of George Washington, or stay in the city center and visit all of the monuments. Just make sure you stick around long enough to watch the epic fireworks show on the National Mall.

Play outdoor games

Got water balloons? Break ‘em out. Badminton? Set it up. Cornhole? You know the drill. It's summer, so soak up the sunshine and play some backyard games with your family and friends. Whether it’s a chill game of croquet or nine innings of backyard baseball, it’s your time to shine and show the rest of the family who’s boss.

Create a care package

Fourth of July is a celebratory occasion, but it's also a moment to show your thanks to the people who make your freedoms a reality. Turn your thoughts into actions by sending packages to active members of the military and their families. Organizations like Soldiers' Angels offer guidance on what to send, everything from non-perishable food to toiletries to symbols of the home that they miss.

Attend a concert

So many summer concerts, so little time! July Fourth is the height of the season and between music festivals, concerts and other organized outdoor events, you’d be remiss to not attend at least one. Instead of hanging out at home, throw a couple of lawn chairs in the trunk and enjoy the music.

Decorate your home

Show Uncle Sam some love by decorating your house — indoors and out — with festive lights, flags and other Fourth of July decorations. It should come as no surprise that a red, white and bleu makeover will get everybody in the spirit.

Go swimming

If you've got a pool, have a party. Period. If you don’t, call your friends with the aforementioned pool and invite yourself over (kindly, of course). Be those people and show up wear matching Fourth of July swimsuits. You won’t be sorry.

Jam out to a Fourth of July playlist

Set the soundtrack for your celebration by making a patriotic songs playlist, including favorites like Bruce Springsteen’s "Born in the U.S.A" and Katy Perry’s "Firework." Don’t forget to sprinkle in a few classics — "The Star-Spangled Banner," perhaps?

Get a patriotic mani-pedi

Although most nail salons will be closed on Independence Day, you can still treat yourself to a spa day in the days leading up to July Fourth. Whatever activities you’ve got planned for the holiday, make sure to put your nails on full display.

Host a cookout

OK, you don't need us to tell you to do this — but we'll do it anyway. Even though it's an obvious choice, you can't deny that everyone loves filling up on hamburgers, hotdogs and other cookout staples on a hot summer day. Even if you don't or own a grill, many parks and public spaces have them, so pack a cooler and enjoy this summer staple.

Plan a 1776 party

If you're feeling positively revolutionary this Fourth of July, then travel back in time and host a 1776-themed party. Invite everyone over, dress up in powdered wigs and fancy attire, and play a bunch of drum and fife tunes. Finish off the day with a singalong screening of "Hamilton."

Attend a Fourth of July parade

Marching bands, firetrucks and people tossing candy scream "America" — don't ya think? Good news: Just about every small town in America has a Fourth of July parade, so you shouldn't have any problems finding one nearby.

Play board games

Mother Nature has a mind of her own, which means you may have to pivot and spend the day inside hiding from the raining. Board games are a solid option when the weather isn't cooperating. It gives everyone a break from technology and might just start a new family tradition.

Get the party started with some delicious eats

• Make way for these 4h of July appetizers
• Our very best 4th of July recipes

Sarah is a lifestyle and entertainment reporter for TODAY who covers holidays, celebrities and everything in between.

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Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in July in the USA

Summer crowds can be an issue anywhere, but if you are savvy enough, you will find some amazing places to explore this month. From my time traveling around this month, h ere are my favorite places to get you started…

1. Finger Lakes, New York State

This area is filled with beautiful watery landscapes punctuated by hundreds of stunning waterfalls. Some tumble between forested cliffs from upwards of 150 ft.

The awe-inspiring Taughannock Falls, which plunges from 215ft, is one of the few you can swim in. I personally love the whole of the Fingerlakes area; it’s a tranquil and scenic gem, and summer is the perfect time to visit.

Much of the waterfall action is centered around Lake Cayuga’s shores and Ithaca’s picturesque town, home of Cornell University. Ithaca is everything you’d expect from an Ivy League Town, full of stunning historic brownstone buildings and leafy avenues.

I recommend exploring all the beautiful parks and gardens which are in full bloom during this month and the weather is very warm too! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456
• Average temperature – 28 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring Watkins Glen State Park, which features 18 stunning waterfalls.
• Enjoying an afternoon out on the waters on a Wine Tasting Boat Tour!
• Taking a Sea Plane Tour which was a very memorable experience flying over Watkins Glen, Seneca Lake, and Canandaigua Lake.

2. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbour is a picturesque town on Mount Desert Island. Its shoreline sits along Frenchman’s Bay which is the gateway to the beautiful Acadia National Park.

I’m a real foodie, and I loved their top-class dining spots and being able to eat al fresco at the harbourside restaurants. 

For Nature Lovers, I highly recommend going on a Nature Cruises trip, which sails regularly from Bar Harbour. They offer an opportunity to spot porpoises, seals, eagles, and other marine life, as well as elegant mansions and the scenic lighthouse at Egg Rock.

I suggest exploring the nearby magnificent Acadia National Park, which spans 47,000 acres of rugged Atlantic coastline interspersed by dense woodland, rocky beaches, and granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain, the East Coast’s highest point. The scenery is just extraordinary here! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
• Average temperature – 27 degrees

My highlights…

• Strolling along the gorgeous Shore Path coastal trail, where I could view the surrounding small islands.
• Admiring the wonderful New England Historic Architecture filled with character and quirky features.
• Hopping on a boat over to Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park and lots of outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

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3. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park lies within the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest. Stretching northwards towards the Canadian border, the park is unique as it encompasses over 900,000 acres and three specific ecosystems: temperate rainforests, glaciated mountains, and wild Pacific coastline.

In July, you are (almost!) guaranteed pleasant temperatures (although not too hot), making it an excellent time of year for wildlife spotting, hiking, and water sports. In the summer, there is also the opportunity to bike and stargaze on Hurricane Ridge.

If you only have a short time here, I’d recommend staying at the characterful Lake Quinault Lodge . This rustic lodge, built in the 1920s, is on the lake’s shores on the edge of the excellent Olympic National Forest.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
• Average temperature – 17 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the Obstruction Point Trail and seeing the gorgeous scenery.
• Visiting the incredible Hoh Rain Forest, the trees there are very unique!
• Spending a night at Hoh Rainforest Campground surrounded by stunning scenery.

4. Yachats, Oregon

The minute I set foot in Yachats, I loved it. Perched alongside Cape Perpetua on an unspoiled stretch of rugged Oregon Coastline, Yachats is remarkable and still a relatively hidden gem.

It’s home to tide pools, black basalt cliffs, fern gullies, and beautiful lighthouses amid crashing ocean waves. It’s a great place to kick back, relax, and take in the wonderful scenery.

There’s a good handful of charming resturants and shops, and all the shop owners we chatted with were keen to tell us about all the fantastic community events, from ClamBakes on the beach to the weekly summer farmers market.

I didn’t want to leave, and if you go, I am pretty sure you won’t either! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 241 Oregon Coast Hwy Box 728, Yachats, OR 97498
• Checking out the eclectic variety of shops in the downtown area.
• Tasting locally crafted award-winning beer at Yachats Brewing + Farm Store.
• Wandering along the beach to see the dramatic shoreline filled with magnificent rock formations and sea views.

5. Geneva-on-the-lake, Ohio

Established in 1869, I’m a big fan of this family-friendly vacation destination. Situated in Geneva State Park on the shores of Lake Erie, I love how quaint and old-fashioned this place is.

From June to August , you can bask in the summer sunshine on one of the beautiful lakeside beaches, charter a boat, or try any of the water sports available at the marina.

I also recommend trying the canopy tours, including sky bridges, zip lines, and adventure rope courses, for a real thrill. One of my favorite experiences was a laid-back tour of local breweries and vineyards. Alternatively, you can also play golf or eat al fresco while watching a beautiful sunset.

Explore some of the cute little local shops, swim in the crystal lake waters, or hike on the trails, trying to spot birds. Mini-golf and amusement arcades galore keep the kids happy, too. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 5540 Lake Rd E, Geneva, OH 44041
• Renting a jet ski!
• Take a trip to Madsen Donuts, filled with deliciously flavored donuts and friendly customer service!
• Eating a hearty American breakfast while gazing at the lake at Horizons Restaurant & Lounge.

6. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

This is a fantastic park to stay in the summer. It straddles the border between Northern Minnesota and Canada, consisting of acres of interconnecting lakes and waterways. The biggest landmass in the park is the Kabetogama Peninsula, which lies entirely within its borders.

Here, it’s all about the water, with many of the most beautiful parts only accessible by boat. To the east of the park is Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness, a stunning collection of forests, glacier lakes, and streams that draw millions of outdoor-loving visitors annually.

There are many accommodation options here, ranging from cute houseboats to lodges. I highly recommend exploring as many 50 miles of trails on the peninsula as possible. Amazing overlooks punctuate them, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

• Visitor’s Center Address: Voyageurs National Park- Rainy Lake Visitor Center, 1797 Township Rd 342, International Falls, MN 56649
• Average temperature – 25 degrees
• Traveling around the lakes by canoe!
• Seeing the Northern Lights (they can be seen all year round here).
• Admiring the beautiful Ellsworth Rock Gardens, built in the 1940s they took 20 years to complete.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

I personally think Boston is an extra special travel spot in July as it hosts the fabulous Summer Pops Concerts and breathtaking Fourth of July fireworks over the River Charles.

These are connected to Harborfest, a week-long celebration of the city’s unique maritime history that kicks off on Independence Day.

When here, I recommend chilling out on one of the fantastic city beaches, grabbing a picnic and a bottle of wine, enjoying Shakespeare on the common, or watching an outdoor movie under the stars. 

Boston has beautiful parks, fantastic architecture (both old and new) and a splendid esplanade, perfect for romantic summer strolls and plenty of picnics.

I also love the excellent food and craft beer scene, the al fresco dining options, harbor cruises, and the incredible whale-watching opportunities ( May to October ).

• Visitor’s Center Address: 139 Tremont Street Boston, MA 02111
• Average temperature in Boston in July – 28 degrees
• Hopping on a boat tour, sailing around Boston, and viewing the spectacular city differently.
• Sunbathing along the Boston Beach at the main waterfront.
• Watching the Red Sox at Fenway Park!

8. Half Moon Bay, California

This is a gorgeous coastal spot to spend a summer weekend or use as a base to explore the northern Californian coastline.

Its compact downtown area is filled with quaint eateries and attractive shops selling boutique products, from unique arts and crafts to delicious wine. 

There are many seafood restaurants here, but for a quirky dining experience, I’d recommend Daddy’Os, housed in an old rail car and serving delicious comfort food. 

Half Moon Bay is surrounded by protected parks and beaches, including the Mavericks, a famous stretch of coastline that hosts a world-famous annual surf competition. Other protected beaches, such as Poplars, are great spots for a sunset picnic, and the beautiful beaches here don’t get crowded like some neighbouring stretches.

I love that it’s a place that maintains a calm and relaxed coastal vibe even in the peak summer months.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 235 Main Street Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
• Average temperature  – 18 degrees
• Walking along the Coastside Trail, which stretches nearly 5 miles long and offers gorgeous views overlooking the ocean.
• Wandering along Main Street and discovering an array of shopping boutiques and fun dining options.
• Eating a hearty vegetarian lasagne at Half Moon Bay Joe’s.

9. St Michaels, Maryland

Once home to shipbuilding and oyster fishing, St Michaels is a small waterfront town in Talbot County, Maryland, home to around 1,000 people.

I love that it still has the look and feel of a 19th-century seaport and is home to a charming Old Town filled with historic houses; it’s a picture-postcard pretty spot!

Topping the list of beautiful, low-key summer vacation spots, it is known for its picturesque water bodies, which I think are needed during hot summer days (average temperatures are around 31°C).

It has fun, family-friendly attractions, attractive independent shops, quaint resturants, buzzing marinas, and the picturesque Chesapeake Bay.

Whether you want to sail on a yacht, swim to cool off on a hot afternoon or treat your taste buds to some mouth-watering local cuisines, I think St Michaels is a great option! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: PO Box 1206,  St. Michaels, MD 21663
• Average temperature – 31 degrees
• Visiting the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and walking through 18 acres of interactive exhibitions!
• Walking around Hollis Park for a quieter atmosphere after a busy day of sightseeing.
• Enjoying an exceptional dining experience at 208 Talbot Restaurant.

10. Buffalo River, Arkansas

This is an excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts, with many accommodation options. The river here is 153 miles long, and 100 miles of trails traverse its banks. Activities include canoeing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, rock climbing, swimming, and mountain biking (rentals are all available in the area).

The Hawksbill Crag trail is the only designated hiking trail through the wilderness area. When I hiked it, I saw incredible views of the steep bluffs formed by the winding river gorge.

I also loved the beautiful oak and hickory forests, ancient caves, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, including a herd of over 500 free-ranging elk.

There is plenty for history lovers, too; I would recommend visiting the eerie Rush Ghost Town and the even creepier Peppersauce Ghost Town at Calico Rock; both are designated historic districts with very chequered pasts! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 170 Ranger Rd, St Joe, AR 72675
• Average temperature  – 33 degrees
• Taking a dip in the Steel Creek swimming hole, 
• Soaring through the sky on a zipline on the Buffalo River Canopy Tour.
• Discovering the magnificent caves in the upper area, the Mystic Caves and Crystal Dome Caverns.

11. Traverse City, Lake Michigan

With a shoreline spanning 307 miles, I found choosing where to stay on Lake Michigan a little overwhelming. Still, I loved the spot I eventually decided on – Traverse City in Northern Michigan.

It was an excellent base to explore some of the most beautiful beaches and nature reserves along the lakeshore. It’s also a fantastic and vibrant city in  its own right.

I became a fan of the city because it offered fantastic boutique shopping, microbreweries, food carts, gastro pubs, and fine dining. It also has abundant public art, museums, galleries, and excellent urban walking, biking, and boating trails.

The Old Mission Peninsula, just a short drive from downtown, had some beautiful parks overlooking the water. Haserot Beach was an excellent relaxing place, and Bryant Park was the perfect picnic spot.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 101 W Grandview Pkwy, Traverse City, MI 49684
• Average temperature in Traverse City in July – 27 degrees
• Wandering downtown and discovering all the boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and galleries.
• Relaxing on the sandy Traverse City State Park Beach.
• Biking the paved Boardman Lake Trail which took me through lovely scenery.

12. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma

I’m a big fan of this beautiful 1,300-acre resort park beside Broken Bow Lake in Southeastern Oklahoma, which is perfect for a summer vacation.

The park offers numerous activities , including a curated lineup of campfire programs, nature hikes, and arts and crafts classes. It also has 12 miles of hiking trails and roped-off swimming areas along the banks of the lake and river.

If you love the view from the water, I recommend hiring a Yakanoe, kayak, or paddleboat. There’s a steam train, golf course, visitor center, and numerous gorgeous wooden cabins to stay in, all nestled within the stunning mountainous terrain.

Don’t miss catching the sunset over the impressive Broken Bow Dam! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: Broken Bow, OK 74728
• Average temperature – 34 degrees
• Hiking the scenic Cedar Bluff Nature Trail.
• Renting a kayak.
• Stopping by the visitor center and discovering all the activities going on.

13. Block Island, Rhode Island

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach summer getaway, I’d recommend Block Island. It is an incredible destination that houses the historic Southeast Lighthouse, the natural clay cliffs of the Mohegan Buffs, and many beautiful beaches. 

You can sunbathe in warm weather, dip in the sea on any of the island’s scenic beaches (notably Crescent Beach), sail, bicycle, or hike—there are plenty of things to do!

I recommend heading there for the famous annual Fourth of July parade, which includes a fabulous fireworks display! There are also plenty of accommodations on the island, ranging from cute Bed and Breakfasts and rental cottages to beachfront hotels.

• Visitor’s Center Address:   4 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807
• Average temperature  – 25 degrees
• Hiking up Mohegan Bluffs and seeing spectacular ocean views before heading down 141 steps to the beautiful beach.
• Visiting Ballard’s which had a lively vibe with live music, sunshine, and Tiki bars.
• Hiring a bike and exploring the island to see the famous lighthouses, Great Salt Pond, and nature trails.

14. Grand Teton National Park , Wyoming 

Set amidst the spectacular Teton Mountain Range in Northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, I love the breathtaking scenery, alpine lakes, and hiking trails!

I recommend boat trips to Jenny Lake or the Massive Jackson Lake, and for more adventurous people, go  rafting down the rapids. 

The 100-mile John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway is the perfect challenge for keen cyclists, taking in some of the park’s best wildlife and scenery.

Climbing enthusiasts can tackle Grand Teton, the tallest peak in the 40-mile Teton Range. My favorite highlight, though, was the spectacular sunsets! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Teton Park Rd, Moose, WY 83012
• Soaking up the scenery on a 10-mile float trip down the Snake River in Jackson Hole.
• Driving up to Signal Mountain and admiring the Instagrammable panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Hiking along the trail by Jenny Lake, which took me to Inspiration Point and the Insta-worthy Hidden Falls.

15. Lake Chelan, Washington

Beautiful Lake Chelan, between Seattle and Spokane, is a popular summer resort town with gorgeous scenery and a laid-back vibe!

Wenatchee National Forest, Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park, and Lake Chelan State Park are located along its shores and offer miles of scenic hiking trails.

At its Northernmost point, it provides a gateway to the breathtaking wilderness of Northern Cascades National Park.

During the summer, it is the perfect place to experiment with various water sports. I’d also recommend hanging out on beautiful beaches, hiking spectacular lakeside trails, and enjoying local produce at the Evening Farmers Market.

• Visitor’s Center Address:   216 E Woodin Ave, Chelan, WA 98816
• Average temperature – 30 degrees
• Checking out the fun Slidewaters Waterpark, rated in the top 15 in the country!
• Enjoying mouth-watering wines at Tuscan-inspired Tsillan Cellars & Sorrento’s Ristorante.
• Going to the High Trek Chelan and trying out their fun ziplines and obstacle courses.

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

In July, the stunning natural scenery at this spot is ablaze with color, and thrill-seekers will find the Middle Fork Whitewater at its best, with water levels perfect for an exhilarating raft ride!

I love that the flowers are in full bloom, and the huckleberries are at their sweetest from mid-July!

All the trails and roads are open in July, and I personally think it’s the perfect time for a drive along the scenic Going-To-The-Sun Road.

Miles of hiking trails traverse the park, and there is a vast collection of exciting wildlife, including rare wolverines, Canadian Lynx black bears, grizzlies, and mountain lions. 

Although July is usually warm and temperate, I recommend preparing for any eventuality as the weather can change on a whim, and parts of the park are incredibly remote!

• Visitor’s Center Address: West Glacier, MT 59936
• Average temperature  – 21 degrees
• Driving along the going-to-the-sun road is one of the most scenic journeys in the park, featuring an array of viewpoints.
• Catching a sunrise at the hidden Two Medicine landmark was an unforgettable experience!
• Dipping my feet in Lake McDonald to cool down on a hot day.

17. Ely, Minnesota

Ely is a historic city in Minnesota, with an estimated 3,500 residents and a summer temperature of 27°C in July.

Famous for housing the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, it’s one of my favorite destinations for lakeside activities, including canoeing! 

It has a rustic, rugged feel, but the quaint town is filled with interesting independent shops, cozy eateries and a thriving art scene.

I recommend visiting the International Wolf Centre, which is dedicated to educating the public about wolves, and going on the family-friendly Kawishiwi Falls Trail, which will take you to 70-foot-drop Kawishiwi Falls and Fall Lake Dam. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1600 E Sheridan St, Ely, MN 55731
• Renting a paddleboard and heading across the peaceful Bear Head Lake at the State Park.
• Going for a hike along the Kawishiwi Falls Trail and admiring the impressive waterfalls.
• Indulging in mouth-watering treats at Northern Expressions.

18. Monterey, California

I was super keen to see Monterey and the historic Cannery Row Historic District, and when I visited, I knew it had to be included on this list!

Summer doesn’t get too hot here, but the weather is pleasant, and I loved its unique boutique hotels, cute independent shops, and relaxed seafood resturants where I could gaze at the waves and ocean views while dining.

I recommend walking through Monterey State Historic Park to see some of the area’s oldest and most significant buildings, including the cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo (the oldest in California).

Plenty of outdoor pursuits are available, with excellent surfing and wildlife spotting along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail and The Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary .

• Visitor’s Center Address: 419 Webster St Suite 100, Monterey, CA 93940
• Average temperature – 20 degrees
• Wandering around the setting for John Steinbeck’s novel, Cannery Row Downtown, which is filled with cool shops and restaurants.
• Taking in the coastline views at Point Sur Lightstation, a historic landmark overlooking the ocean.
• Checking out the Monterey Museum of Art , which is home to over 14,000 pieces.

19. Marquette, Michigan

I think this is an excellent choice for a low-key, peaceful summer vacation far away from the kind of crowds you’ll find in the more popular summer resorts.

It’s a quaint, relaxed, small city surrounded by miles of breathtaking hiking and biking trails and beautiful inland lakes that give way to larger acres of water bodies and scenic shorelines. The water activities on offer here are endless and range from kayaking and canoeing to swimming and rafting.

History and art lovers will enjoy this place, as it is also home to several historic lighthouses and a thriving art scene. Head for Marquette Arts and Culture Centre for excellent art exhibits, thought-provoking lectures, and an extraordinary musical series.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 2201 US 41 South ,  Marquette ,  MI   49855
• Average temperature – 24 degrees
• Swimming out to the rock islands and lagoons at McCarty’s Cove before relaxing along the sandy shoreline.
• Biking the scenic Iron Ore Heritage Trail.
• Taking a sightseeing tour, which taught me all about the area’s history as well as enabled me to see all the best spots.

20. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park spans 369 sq miles of incredible scenery around the imposing 14,411 ft stratovolcano at its center.

This place always enchants me, and I love that the foothills are a fantastic blend of subalpine meadows, valleys, and waterfalls cascading from rocky plateaus. The scenery is seriously spectacular here! 

From July through August, wildflowers transform the Paradise area of the park in an abundance of color, and the slightly warmer temperatures make it the perfect time for hiking (but you’ll still need to wrap up warm). 

Numerous trails are available to explore, depending on your preferences for wildlife spotting, uninterrupted views, or rushing falls.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Sunrise Park Rd, Ashford, WA 98304
• Average temperature – 11 degrees
• Enjoying an evening of stargazing before watching a vibrant sunrise over the landscape.
• Visiting the stunning Myrtle Falls, which offered the most gorgeous views of the park.
• Crossing the suspension bridge located along Grove of the Patriarchs Trail which took me through the oldest trees in the park.

1 thought on “Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in July in the USA”

I love olympic national park sooo much. When I was here, I feel like no where else

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11 Best Places to Go for 4th of July in California

Posted on Published: June 21, 2023  - Last updated: March 7, 2024

Today I want to bring you my guide to the best places to go for 4th of July in California. From major cities to sunny coastal areas and mountain lakes, there are lots of popular locations for Independence Day vacations in the Golden State. Whether you’re looking for the best fireworks displays or you want to get away from it all, there’s a 4th of July destination in California for you this summer. Read on for my favorite spots. I’ve included a map, too.

4th of July in California

Having grown up in California, I’ve spent countless years in the state on July 4th. From family barbecues by the pool in the San Francisco Bay Area to long weekend trips to Lake Tahoe, I’ve spent Independence Day in a number of places throughout my home state.

In doing so, I’ve gained firsthand experience in many of the best places to go for 4th of July in California. In the process, I’ve been impressed by how many fun destinations there are to spend the holiday in.

Whether you only have one night or whether you can get away for a long weekend, there’s no shortage of spots you can travel to.

I’ve also learned a few lessons that I’ll pass on to you. First, it’s worth keeping in mind that a lot of places in California can be crowded on the 4th of July. This is particularly true of urban areas and anywhere with big fireworks shows.

It’s also the case in national parks and other travel destinations that are popular in the summer months. In light of that, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book things like hotels , flights, and rental cars well in advance. You can often get better rates and have a wider selection to choose from. You can see hotels and book a room here .

It’s also worth being strategic about where and how you spend 4th of July in California. Fireworks shows can get crowded, so planning to arrive in advance or finding a good vantage point farther away can be a good idea.

Whether you book a hotel with a view or find a rooftop bar near the fireworks, there are plenty of ways to ensure you get to see them.

1. Los Angeles

Los Angeles tops my list of the best places to go for 4th of July in California. With sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and world-class cultural attractions, the City of Angels is a great place to visit any time of year.

Independence Day is no exception. There are a lot of 4th of July events in Los Angeles every summer. From block parties to music festivals, outdoor movies, and fireworks displays, you can find anything you want when it comes to celebrations.

Popular events include Independence Day concerts at the Hollywood Bowl and the Rose Bowl, the Grand Park 4th of July Block Party, the fireworks display, live music, and decorations at Universal Studios Hollywood, the annual bodybuilding and figure competition on Muscle Beach in Venice, and the 4th of July Fireworks Show in Marina del Rey.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in LA here . There are lots of great options, from cool hotels to beachfront properties and more. My top pick is the STILE Hotel . I’ve had a great stay here, and I love the hip decor and rooftop bar. You can book a room here .

2. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is next on my list of the best places to go for 4th of July in California. This mountain destination is popular year-round, and beautiful sunny weather on the lake makes it the ideal escape for a holiday weekend. Whether you book a place to stay in Tahoe City, Truckee, Emerald Bay, or elsewhere, there are lots of good options.

There’s plenty to do in Lake Tahoe on the 4th of July, too. From mountain hikes to indulgent spa experiences, river rafting, great restaurants, biking, and water activities, Tahoe has it all.

There are special celebrations over the weekend and on the Fourth, too. Annual fireworks shows take place in Reno, South Lake Tahoe, and West End Beach at Donner Lake.

There’s also a Local Heroes Parade and community fair, pancake breakfasts, a drone-filled SkyShow in Incline Village, a Tahoe City Drone Show and celebration, and a Freedom Fest at Palisades Tahoe.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Tahoe here . There are lots of great options, from hotels to lodges, condos, lakefront cabins, and more. I love staying at Palisades . The lodge is great, the condos are spacious, and there are lots of activities on offer. You can book a room here .

3. San Diego

San Diego is another of the top places to spend 4th of July in California. This beachfront city in Southern California is a great escape for sunny weather and fun festivities on Independence Day.

There’s a lot going on in San Diego on the 4th of July. The city is home to California’s largest fireworks show, after all. The Big Bay Boom fireworks are displayed from four barges on San Diego Bay for the occasion.

You can watch them from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, Marina District, Coronado Ferry Landing, or a boat on the Pacific Ocean.

Beyond the fireworks, you can enjoy the annual Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade, the Crown City Classic 12K & 5K Run along the Coronado Bay, the Coronado 4th of July Parade, and other local celebrations and events.

If any or all of that sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in San Diego here . There are lots of options throughout the city, from iconic hotels on the water to beachfront apartment rentals and more. My favorite is the Hotel del Coronado . This famous resort is hard to beat. You can book a room here .

4. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is another of the best places to go for 4th of July in California. Summer is a great time to be here. The weather is beautiful, the hiking trails beckon, and the waterfalls look amazing.

When it comes to things to do for the 4th of July in Yosemite, there’s no shortage of entertainment. If you want to see fireworks, head to the Bass Lake Fireworks and Boat Parade on Independence Day.

People line the beaches and make a day of being on the lake for the festivities. Hundreds of boats venture out at dusk to enjoy the show, and there’s a great atmosphere.

If you want something historic, the Glorious Fourth of July Celebration in Columbia State Historic Park is for you. It features a community parade, games, a Flag Raising and Black Powder Musket Salute, and a concert on Main Street.

Yosemite National Park and the surrounding area can get very crowded on and around the Fourth, so make sure to book accommodation well in advance. You can see options and book a place to stay here . My favorite is The Ahwahnee . This historic landmark hotel is one of the most unique places to stay in California . You can reserve a room here .

5. Sonoma County

Next on my list of the best places to go for 4th of July in California is Sonoma County. This part of Northern California’s wine country is a great spot to celebrate Independence Day.

Downtown Healdsburg comes alive on the Fourth with live music, lawn games, a Duck Dash race, a farmers’ market, and a parade around the plaza. In the evening, don’t miss Healdsburg’s American Legion Independence Day Fireworks.

In Petaluma, Lucchesi Park will host Stars & Stripes, Dogs & Bikes, a family-friendly event complete with a bike parade, farmers’ market, craft station, dog costume contest, and more. When the sun goes down, the city will hold a fireworks show in Petaluma that can be seen from all over town.

If this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Sonoma here . There are lots of options throughout the county, from beautiful hotels to vacation rentals and more. My favorite is the Grape Leaf Inn in Healdsburg. This sweet B&B near the plaza has pretty guest rooms and a great atmosphere. You can book a room here .

6. Napa Valley

Right next to Sonoma County, Napa Valley is another fun place to spend 4th of July in California. Right in the heart of wine county, it’s a fun destination for celebrations of all kinds.

The annual Napa 4th of July Parade takes place in the city of Napa on the morning of Independence Day. It features floats, music, dancers, entertainment, and more. Afterwards the fun continues with the Celebration at the Oxbow Commons. The festivities include family-friendly activities and a free community concert.

In Calistoga, the Star Spangled Social & Parade is another great event. The parade goes along Lincoln Avenue and features dancers, horses, and festive entertainment. Afterwards, the Star Spangled Social in Pioneer Park offers live music, craft beer, boutique wines, local maker booths, and food vendors. At the end of the evening there’s a laser light show.

St. Helena hosts the Red, White, and Blue Bike Parade at Lyman Park, followed by a free Community Band Concert. In the evening there’s a Community Festival in Crane Park, after which a fireworks show will light up the sky.

Yountville hosts an annual 4th of July Celebration at Veterans Memorial Park. A free event, it features live music, food trucks, and fun activities for kids.

If all this sounds good to you, you can book accommodation in Napa Valley here . There are lots of options throughout the area, from luxury hotels to house rentals and more. My favorite is Indian Springs . This quirky collection of cottages and bungalows in Calistoga is a treat. You can book a room here .

7. Santa Barbara

Next on my list of the best places to spend 4th of July in California is Santa Barbara . This coastal city is known for its beautiful weather, sandy beaches, and fun shopping and dining. Summer here is hard to beat.

Santa Barbara has lots of going on for Independence Day, too. The Santa Barbara Waterfront features a range of festive family-friendly events and activities, from live music at the West Beach bandstand to dance performances, food and vendor booths, musical entertainment and face painting on Stearns Wharf, and a big fireworks show on the shore.

If that sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Santa Barbara here . There are lots of options throughout the area, from famous hotels in the hills to beachfront properties and more. I love staying at El Encanto . This luxurious hilltop hotel is hard to beat. You can book a room here .

8. San Francisco

San Francisco is next on my list of the best places to go for 4th of July in California. This city does a lot for Independence Day, from fireworks displays to waterfront celebrations and concerts in the parks.

The main event in San Francisco is the annual Independence Day fireworks display, which is launched from two barges on the bay by Fisherman’s Wharf. In the run-up to it, you can enjoy waterfront festivities, live music, and entertainment in and around the area.

Elsewhere, you can enjoy a free concert at Golden Gate Park’s Music Concourse, an open-air plaza in the heart of the city’s largest green space.

If either or both sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in San Francisco here . There are lots of great options, from waterfront hotels to apartments with views and more. My favorite hotel in the city is Hotel Triton . It’s in a great location by Union Square and I love the decor. You can book a room here .

9. Silicon Valley

Another great place to spend 4th of July is Silicon Valley. I know this because I spent Independence Day here most years when I was growing up. There are lots of events going on in the San Francisco Bay Area on the Fourth, from fireworks shows to parties, celebrations, and concerts.

Highlights include the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest, Chalk Full of Fun in Redwood City, the Rose, White and Blue Parade in San Jose, the 4th of July fireworks display at Great America, the 4th of July All City Picnic in Central Park in Santa Clara, the fireworks show at Leo J. Ryan Park in Foster City, and the annual 4th of July Parade from the Town Hall in Los Altos.

If you want something really special, book tickets for the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular with the San Francisco Symphony at Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View. It’s one of the highlights of the summer.

If any of this sounds good to you, you can book a place to stay in Silicon Valley here . There are lots of great options, from hotels to apartment rentals and more. My top pick is The Ameswell Hotel in Mountain View. I love its style and location in equal measure. You can book a room here .

10. Catalina Island

Back in SoCal, Catalina Island is another great place for a 4th of July vacation in California. It’s fun to take the ferry over and spend time celebrating Independence Day while soaking up the island atmosphere.

There’s a lot going on for 4th of July on Catalina Island, too. From home and business decorating contests to a golf cart parade on Casino Way, a dinghy parade in the harbor, a fireworks show over Avalon Bay, and a marching band performance on Wrigley Stage, it’s hard to beat this part of the Golden State for patriotic celebrations.

You’ll want to stay at least one night on Catalina Island to fully experience the festivities, and you can book a place to stay here . There are lots of options to choose from, including hotels, house rentals, and more. I had a great stay at the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel . It has beautiful rooms and great views over the island. You can book a room here .

11. Disneyland

Next on my list of the best places to go for 4th of July in California is Disneyland. This place knows how to throw a party, and Independence Day is no exception.

4th of July at Disneyland features spectacular fireworks set to patriotic music. It’s a great time to get into the spirit of the celebrations and see some of the best fireworks in California at the same time.

Disneyland gets really crowded over the Fourth, so you’ll want to book accommodation well in advance. There are lots of great options, from classic Disney hotels to local apartment rentals and more. You can see a range of options and book here . My top pick is Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa . You can book a room at this iconic hotel here .

4th of July in California Map

As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all the 4th of July travel destinations on my list. You can see it here . If you click on the blue pins, you can find more information and my relevant blog posts about each one.

Best Places to Go for 4th of July in California

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to where to spend 4th of July in California, and that it’s inspired you to get out and explore the Golden State over the summer holiday weekend. There are so many great places to travel for Independence Day, and this time of year is a fun one to be here. Happy travels!

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Best places to visit in july 2024.

Looking for summer fun beyond your neighborhood cookout? From national parks to quaint towns to scenic beachfront destinations, the following locales are excellent spots for a vacation in July. Travelers can expect warm temperatures, little precipitation and a bevy of things to do, see and experience. We weighed these factors and more to come up with the best places to visit in July. Cast your vote below to help U.S. News compile next year's ranking.

Olympic National Park

Cannon beach, aix-en-provence.

With highs between the low 60s and mid-70s and an abundance of daylight hours, the outdoors call during the summertime in Norway's capital city. Take a ferry or bus to spend a day at the Bygdøy peninsula, which boasts picturesque views of the area's natural landscape, as well as museums, beaches and walking and running trails for travelers to enjoy. Oslo visitors can also lounge on one of the urban beaches found around the city or explore the more than 60 miles of inlet at Oslo Fjord.

July is one of the busiest times of year to visit this popular Washington state national park. With low precipitation and average temperatures sitting comfortably in the 60s and 70s, it is the perfect time to explore must-see sights like Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rain Forest, which is thought to be one of the quietest destinations in the United States. Just keep in mind, you won't be the only one hiking through the spectacular scenery. Avoid the crowds by visiting outside of the park's peak hours (between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.).

Zanzibar, a Tanzanian archipelago, is an ideal, relaxed vacation spot if you're looking for coral white sands, turquoise waters and abundance of marine life. July, which sits in the dry season, is a perfect time to hit the beach. Beyond the sand, visit the UNESCO–listed Stone Town to see where African, Arabic, Indian and European cultures collide. Music lovers can visit the Freddie Mercury Museum, dedicated to the legendary musician who was born here. And no trip to Zanzibar would be complete without a spice tour to learn more about the rich history of the island.

Situated at the foot of the Swiss Alps and on the shoreline of Lake Geneva, Montreux, Switzerland, is a picturesque musical muse destination in July. The city hosts the Montreux Jazz Festival throughout the month, and close to 250,000 music lovers descend upon the area for endless days of jazz. Montreux was immortalized in the final Queen album, and visitors can snap pictures of Freddie Mercury's statue by the lake. Beyond musical attractions, travelers can cruise the largest lake in the Alps, visit the Lavaux vineyards or swim among the many beaches found in the area.

If you don't mind sharing the view from scenic overlooks like Mount Solaro and the Gardens of Augustus with hordes of other tourists, July is one of the most quintessential times to visit this Italian island in the Bay of Naples. Balmy temperatures in the 80s and minimal rainfall are ideal for posting up on a beach, taking a boat tour of the Blue Grotto and dining alfresco in Marina Grande. Plus, summer nights in Capri are great for enjoying the island's many lively bars and clubs.

Known for its luxurious resorts and striking pink sand beaches (Horseshoe Bay Beach and Warwick Long Bay are two visitor favorites), this British overseas territory beckons to travelers seeking a relaxing summer vacation. Average temperatures in Bermuda hover in the mid-80s in July, making it an ideal time for engaging in water activities like swimming and snorkeling. This is also one of the best times for fishing on the island – July draws anglers from all over the world looking to compete in the Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Championship.

There are many reasons to visit Juneau in July. Not only is this the warmest month of the year (daytime highs sit in the low 60s), but the days are long and the city's attractions, some of which close in the winter, are open for business. July is also prime whale watching season in Alaska's capital city and one of the best times of year for bear viewing. Although you'll spend more on airfare and accommodations by visiting during Juneau's peak season, you'll also be able to enjoy must-see sights like the Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Gardens without the frigid temperatures.

Considered one of the best summer vacation destinations in the U.S., Seattle offers travelers plenty to do in July. With highs around the mid-70s, you'll stay comfortable on a sightseeing boat tour to admire the Emerald City's picturesque skyline. Plus, you can enjoy live entertainment during the three-day Capitol Hill Block Party. Of course, Seattle offers many notable attractions, such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Once you've seen the sights, get a taste of the city's dynamic dining scene, coffee culture and beer bars.

One of Oregon's top travel destinations also happens to be home to one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Cannon Beach, a small coastal town in northwest Oregon, boasts nearly 4 miles of sandy beach characterized by its spectacular rock formations (including Haystack Rock), tide pools and robust birdwatching opportunities. In July, crowds descend upon the area and hotels book up fast, but this is a small price to pay for the pleasant daytime temperatures in the mid-60s and low chance of rain.

Summer brings warm weather and a full roster of events to this southern California beach town. Although this means longer lines and inflated room rates, July is one of the best times of year to enjoy activities like snorkeling at La Jolla Cove or strolling through Balboa Park, home of the famed San Diego Zoo. Visitors can also take advantage of July's many other offerings, including the annual Over the Line Tournament and the San Diego Comic-Con.

With plenty of street cafes, beer gardens and parks to visit and highs in the upper 70s, July is a perfect time to venture outdoors in Berlin. Tiergarten – the city's largest park and home to the Berlin Zoo – boasts 500-plus acres of green space and is an ideal place to walk, run or grab food and drinks at one of the many eateries found in the area. Visitors can also take a boat tour along the Spree River to see sites in the heart of Berlin. Plus, the city comes to life in July with its annual Berlin Pride celebration.

Popular music and wine festivals and pleasant weather characterize the month of July in Porto, Portugal. With average highs in the mid-70s, travelers can enjoy sightseeing in the Ribeira district, strolling across famous bridges like the Dom Luís I Bridge and wine tasting (Porto's namesake port wine is a must-try) without the stifling heat and humidity that other European cities see in summer. For visitors who need a break from the sunshine, the city offers the ornate Livraria Lello bookstore and the National Museum Soares dos Reis, Portugal's first public art museum.

Travel to this small college town in the south of France if your perfect summer getaway includes meandering down tree-lined boulevards and sipping coffee at charming cafes. July brings an influx of tourists, causing airfare prices and room rates to spike. But if you can swing it, the comfortable temperatures in the 70s and 80s make hiking Mont Sainte-Victoire and exploring popular thoroughfares like Cours Mirabeau a treat. What's more, the region's famed lavender is typically in peak bloom this month, so take a day trip to the surrounding countryside for a glimpse of the fragrant fields of purple.

Known for its inhabitants' longevity and as the birthplace of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, Ikaria is a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place to visit in July. The island's most famous beach, Seychelles, whose crystal-clear waters are surrounded by cliffs and rocks, is a picturesque place to spend the day. You can also learn about the island's history at the Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos. But July's most unique draws are Ikaria's renowned summer festivals, where visitors can dance, sample Ikarian wine and party with the locals well into the morning.

Sitting about 700 miles east of Madagascar, Mauritius draws sun-seeking travelers in droves. When you're not relaxing on the African island's pristine white sand beaches, go for a ride on the longest zip line in the Indian Ocean or explore Black River Gorges National Park's numerous hiking trails. With so much natural beauty to behold (think: verdant rainforests, stunning lagoons and breathtaking waterfalls) it's easy to see why Mauritius is lauded as one of the world's best island destinations . Plus, thanks to its location near the equator, Mauritius offers sunny skies and temps in the 70s in July.

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11 Best Places to Travel in July

These are the best places to travel in July in the United States and around the world.

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School is out, the sun is shining, and it’s summer vacation time in July. Families are packing up for road trips , and some might be heeding travel expert Samantha Brown ’s advice, “If it’s summer and everyone’s going to the beach, head to a city and enjoy all their free events such as outdoor concerts.” Cities around the U.S. and Canada combine summer festivals with lots to do outdoors. South Dakota is a family road trip favorite, and for those who crave a beach vacation , we suggest the sandy shores of Maryland, California, and Rhode Island. Alaska’s long days and warm temperatures make it a great July destination, whether for a cruise or a land-based vacation. If a European trip is on your wishlist, consider Croatia, where more than a thousand miles of coastline, history, culture, and summer celebrations await. Here are 11 of the best places to travel in July.

Related : 20 Classic Summer Vacations Everyone Should Take at Least Once

Québec, Canada

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A visit to this eastern Canadian province is the closest you’ll get to France without leaving North America. You’ll hear the French language, enjoy the cuisine and culture, and explore history, architecture, and outdoor adventure. Plus, summer is festival time, and from July 6-16, Québec City , the province’s capital, will host Festival d'été Québec , with major musical performers. Visitors can head to Gaspésie National Park for hiking, kayaking, and fishing or try to spot 13 different species of whales along the Whale Route . A multisensory nighttime experience set aboard a chairlift will debut at Le Massif de Charlevoix this June. For an all-inclusive experience, Club Med Québec offers views of the St. Lawrence River and surrounding mountains, guided hiking and mountain biking, and supervised activities for kids. In Québec City, stay at the boutique Auberge Saint-Antoine , or plan a lake vacation at Manoir Hovey , set on 30 wooded acres with an expansive new spa.

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If you’re looking for a classic seaside resort town, Ocean City might be the place for your summer vacation. Set on the Atlantic with a ten-mile public beach, classic wooden boardwalk, arcades, and restaurants, Ocean City is a perfect family destination. Trimper Rides features a Ferris wheel, carousel, and bumper cars for old-fashioned fun. Nearby, Assateague Island National Seashore offers hiking trails, camping, kayaking, and wild horse spotting. About 85 miles northwest, St. Michaels is a quaint harbor town with homes that date back to the mid-1600s. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour or a scenic cruise to get acquainted with the town. Stay at the boutique waterfront Inn at Perry Cabin , set on 26 acres along the Miles River, for sailing, golf, tennis, a spa, and locally caught Chesapeake Bay seafood at Stars . 

Bend, Oregon

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The central Oregon city of Bend , located between the Cascade Mountains and the high desert, is a summer destination offering hiking, fishing, boating, rock climbing, and floating down the Deschutes River. The Bend Summer Festival , July 7-9, features fine art, live music, food, cocktails, retail shops, a family play zone, and more. 30 breweries line the Bend Ale Trail , and you’ll also find cider, wine, spirits, kombucha, and restaurants. Mt. Bachelor , a winter skiing favorite, offers rock climbing, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting in summer. Lodging in the Bend area ranges from campgrounds and RV parks to hotels and resorts. At Juniper Preserve , guests can stay at the Lodge or choose a vacation rental with up to four bedrooms. Two golf courses, a spa , wellness activities, and dining are among the amenities at Juniper. 

Croatia‘s coastline along the Adriatic is more than 1,100 miles long with over 1,200 islands. The island of Hvar is a popular destination for its beaches , wineries, lavender fields, culture , and history. The Lavender Festival , July 14-15, brings traditional music, dancing, and lavender-based delicacies. The five-star Palace Elisabeth and newly renovated Beach Bay Hvar will be joined by several new hotels in 2023, including Villa Porta Maestra , built on the foundations of a Roman villa. About 120 miles south along the coast, just past Dubrovnik, is Cavtat, a unique town with a palm-lined waterfront promenade, outdoor cafes, and more than five miles of beaches. Hotel Supetar Cavtat , in the town’s historic center, features stylish rooms and a restaurant serving seasonal Mediterranean fare . On the Istrian Peninsula in the northwest, Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery , a 40-room Relais & Châteaux property, is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, with a spa , pool, and restaurant serving traditional Istrian cuisine. 

Columbus, Ohio

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Ohio’s capital is located in the central part of the state at the junction of the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers. July is a festive month in Columbus , starting with the annual Red, White & BOOM Independence Day street fair, parade, and fireworks on July 3. The Columbus Book Festival will celebrate the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s 150th anniversary with author talks, book signings, and entertainment on July 15-16. From July 21-23, the annual Jazz & Rib Fest will feature the finest in music and barbecue. Admission is free, and the festival is located along the Scioto Mile downtown riverfront. There’s plenty to do in dog-friendly Columbus, with parks, hiking and biking trails, and The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium , one of the country’s most renowned zoos. Events at the zoo include Zoombezi Bay Christmas in July , complete with Santa and his elves, from July 21-28. Stay at the new Junto Hotel , the first independent lifestyle hotel in Columbus.

Buffalo, New York

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Located at the western end of the state on Lake Erie and the Niagara River, Buffalo offers July temperatures in the high 70s and lots to do. The Taste of Buffalo (July 8-9) celebrates its 40th year with entertainment, food, wine, and more at a variety of downtown venues. While we’re on the subject of food, you can find your favorite version of the Buffalo specialty on the Wing Trail , but did you know that Buffalo has a unique pizza style too? Once you’ve experienced the city’s cuisine , be one of the first to visit the newly reopened Buffalo AKG Museum , housing modern and contemporary art. Enjoy the summer weather on Buffalo’s waterfront or see Niagara Falls , just 20 minutes away. Places to stay include The Richardson Hotel , set on the National Historic Landmark Richardson Olmstead campus , built by famed landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted (who designed Central Park) and architect Henry Hobson Richardson. 

Asheville, North Carolina

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An hour from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville is an ideal family destination in summer. At Asheville Treetops Adventure Park , you can ride mountain bikes or zipline through the trees, and there’s KidZip, a zipline adventure designed for kids under 10. At the WNC Nature Center , see the wildlife of the Southern Appalachian Mountains and learn about each of the 60 animal species that live there. Baseball fans will enjoy a game at McCormick Field with the Asheville Tourists , a Minor League team affiliated with the Houston Astros. In Pisgah National Forest , the Sliding Rock natural water slide is great fun for all ages. A tour of the Biltmore Estate is a must during a visit to Asheville, and there’s a special audio guide for kids, narrated by Cedric, the Vanderbilts’ Saint Bernard pup. The historic Omni Grove Park Inn features stunning mountain views, an expansive subterranean spa with two waterfall pools, a Donald Ross-designed golf course, and a variety of dining and cocktail venues. The Foundry Hotel , set in a former steel foundry, is a luxury boutique option downtown.

San Diego, California

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Perfect beach weather and lots to do outdoors make San Diego a great destination in July. Independence Day celebrations on Coronado Island include a Navy skydiving show, parades, and fireworks. At the Hotel del Coronado , family summer events include movies on the beach, surf school, bonfires, and Ocean Explorers kids programming. Shore House at The Del features residences complete with kitchens, and the newly renovated oceanfront Beach Village suites are spacious options. The Rady Shell hosts concerts throughout summer and a special July 4 event. See a miniature San Diego made of more than five million Lego bricks at Legoland in nearby Carlsbad. July brings ComicCon to San Diego (July 20-23) and thoroughbred horse racing to Del Mar starting July 21. San Diego offers a wide range of places to stay with a new Margaritaville opening in the Gaslamp Quarter in July, Town & Country in Mission Valley, and many dog-friendly options for the whole family.

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Every season in Alaska has something to offer, and July’s warm weather and long days make it a great time to visit. Alaska is the largest state, larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined, so there’s a lot of ground to cover — and a few ways to do it. Summer cruises are popular, and several lines have itineraries including Holland America Line , Ponant , Regent Seven Seas , American Queen , and Disney Cruise Line . In Eagle River , near Anchorage, the annual Bear Paw Festival will take place July 12-16 featuring music, food, competitions, carnival rides, and more. Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy Salmon Falls Resort in Ketchikan, a 90-minute flight from Seattle, where guided fishing excursions and adventure activities fill the days. The Alaska Railroad , famed for glass-domed rail cars, offers convenient scenic day trips and multi-day packages with overnight stays and activities like rafting, wildlife viewing, hiking, and more. The railroad is one of the best ways to get to Denali National Park , where a variety of bus tours are available in summer. 

South Dakota

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Visits to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park make for a classic family road trip . Be sure to stop at Wall Drug , the famed roadside destination. The Crazy Horse Memorial features a museum , restaurant, and special events in addition to the massive carving in the mountain. Visit the gold rush town of Deadwood in the Black Hills National Forest and explore Custer State Park to see bison, antelope, elk, mountain goats, and donkeys. Family-friendly activities throughout the state include visiting the Great Plains Zoo and Butterfly House & Aquarium in Sioux Falls, exploring Jewel Cave and Wind Cave National Park on guided cave tours, and panning for gold in the Black Mountains. Camping and glamping sites are perfect for travelers who want to spend a few nights sleeping under the stars. 

Rhode Island

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The smallest state is gorgeous in summer thanks to nearly 400 miles of coastline . The town of Westerly on Rhode Island’s southernmost tip is known for beaches, concerts, boating, and outdoor activities. This year, Bemelmans Gallery at the Ocean House celebrates the work of author and illustrator Ludwig Bemelman, creator of the Madeline series. Art is part of the experience at the five-star resort, and self-guided tours of the expansive collection are available for guests. In Providence, the annual WaterFire events illuminate three rivers downtown with more than 80 sparkling bonfires. Stay at the luxury boutique hotel The Beatrice , The Graduate Providence , or the Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel . In Newport, enjoy seaside views and Gilded Age mansions, including the iconic Vanderbilt mansion, The Breakers , and stay at the elegant Chanler at Cliff Walk .

Things to Do on 4th of July in Idaho

With less than a week left before July 4th, there’s just enough time to put together a celebration plan. To help you figure out what to do, here are some of the activities happening in communities around the state. Have a wonderful and safe 4th of July celebration!

Get started early with the Gem State Kiwanis Annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast at Julia Davis Park at 7 a.m. The fun wraps up at 11 a.m. or when the pancakes are gone.  Then head downtown for the We The People 4th of July Parade  at 11 a.m. near 10th and Jefferson   . Round out the day with Boise’s 4th of July Fireworks Celebration at Expo Idaho. Gates open for this free event at 6 p.m., fireworks start around 10:15 p.m.

Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Independence Day Festival at Storey Park. Starting at 3:00 p.m., enjoy bounce houses, slides and an obstacle course, kids games, live music, and not just food trucks but a food truck rally. Stay for the fireworks show, which starts at 10:15 p.m. or just after dusk.

Caldwell puts on a heck of a 4th of July celebration. Start the day at 9 a.m. with a parade, then check out the classic car show. The Patriotic Bike contest starts at 12:30 p.m., followed by a Pie Eating Contest. Brothers Park is the place to be for the fireworks which start around 10 p.m.

Melba is a small town with a huge 4th of July celebration. The Melba “ Olde Tyme ” 4th of July celebration begins at 7 a.m. with a Fun Run, then a parade, arts and crafts fair, car show, antique tractor pull, games, and tasty eats. Fireworks start at dusk with stadium seating available.

If horses, cattle, and cowboys are more your style, check out the famous Hailey “ Days of the Old West Celebration ,” which runs the 1st through the 4th. On the 4th, start with the famous Days of the Old West Parade on Main Street at noon. Follow that up with the 3rd Annual Draper Preserve RiverFest which kicks off at 1:30 p.m. with  live music, food, craft vendors, and a Children’s Carnival.  Check out the rodeo in the evening and then grab a seat for the fireworks show at dusk.

In Stanley , the party starts when you get there. Seriously, the starting time is listed as: “When you get in town.” Spend the day fishing, boating, swimming and enjoying the beauty of the Sawtooths. In the evening, head into Pioneer Park by 5:30 p.m. for the parade, followed by live music and a street dance. When darkness falls, sit back and relax while you enjoy the fireworks show.

A single day or weekend 4th of July celebration isn’t good enough for McCall . Instead, McCall is offering the “10 Days of Fourth of July Fun” celebration beginning June 30th. There’s too much to list, but on the 4th, among other things, check out the Thunder Mountain Days Parade, OR the 4th of July Kick-off Bubble Parade, a volleyball tournament, craft fairs, a street dance, and end the day with majestic fireworks show over Payette Lake. Head up to Brundage Mountain Resort for mountain biking, hiking, disc golf, and an uphill 10K race to the summit. If you prefer being pampered, sign up for a 4th of July Fireworks Cruise with McCall Lake Cruises, or make reservations for a Lakeside Fireworks Dinner at The Anchor Restaurant. Cap off your celebration at the DJ Dance party at the Yacht Club.

Not to be outdone, Rupert is hosting a multi-day “ United We Stand Festival “. Enjoy five days of festivities with Wild West shootout performances, a parade, a fun run, lawnmower races, live music, and of course, fireworks.  Take note, a fireworks display kicks off this festival on June 30th.

Coeur d’Alene

Just the excuse you needed to spend some time in beautiful north Idaho, Coeur d’Alene has the largest 4th of July Festival in the region. Start the day with the American Heroes Parade on Sherman Avenue. After, head to Coeur d’Alene City Park for live music and fantastic food. Close out the day watching north Idaho’s largest fireworks display over Lake Coeur d’Alene at dusk.

Idaho Falls

The 4th of July fireworks display in Idaho Falls has a earned a reputation for being the largest of its kind in the state and has been described as the “3rd-largest fireworks show west of the Mississippi.” But that’s not all there is to do at the new Riverfest Celebration , which replaces the “Liberty Festival” of previous years. Enjoy food booths, live music, horseback and wagon rides, motorsports exhibitions, and a tons of kids games and activities. When night comes, the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration fireworks show starts at Snake River Landing, and this year they are claiming it will be THE biggest fireworks show in the West. You don’t want to miss this!

Visit Idaho

Published on June 29, 2017

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12 Things To Do In Moscow: Complete Guide To A Unique Idaho City

Learn about Moscow, Idaho's history, and all the things to do in this picturesque city.

Read update

There Are More Things To Do While In Moscow, Idaho!

Moscow, Idaho, is a small city with plenty to offer lovers of the outdoors and culture aficionados. Moscow is the county seat of Latah County in the panhandle region of Idaho. It’s known as the home of the University of Idaho, which is a great campus with galleries and gardens for visitors to explore.

Moscow’s landscape is particularly unique as it is set in the Palouse region , an area between Idaho, southeastern Washington, and even Oregon, known for its peculiar rolling green hills, which make it one of the most beautiful vistas in the state . d.

UPDATE: 2023/08/22 16:57 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with new stops in Moscow, Idaho, as well as tips, tricks, and things to experience in town. From fun waterslides to nature preserves to beer, here are all the reasons Moscow should be on the itinerary this fall and beyond!

Things To Do

Here is everything travelers need to know about planning a great trip to Moscow, Idaho, including the best time of year to visit, where to eat and drink, and the best activities.

1 Check Out The Historic McConnell Mansion

One thing to do while in Moscow, Idaho, is to go see the McConnel Mansion , located in Moscow's historic neighborhood. Here is where a home built by the former governor sits, now working as a place to learn more about Moscow, as well as see how life and architecture looked back then.

Constructed in 1886, this museum also features period rooms and decor, so it's certainly worth seeing for people in the area.

• Address: 110 S Adams St, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Dependent on season/tour

2 Soak Up The Sun At Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

The next thing to do in Moscow, Idaho, is to check out the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center . Here is where families or groups can enjoy the outdoor seasonal water park with a lazy river, large pool, waterslides & interactive play area.

This aquatic center boasts a great summer itinerary, making it perfect for travelers with children.

• Address: 830 N Mountain View Rd, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Open daily from 12 PM to 7:30 PM (Open at 11 AM on Saturdays and Sundays)
• Tickets: Children 3 and under FREE, Children 4-17 $5.75 including tax, Adults 18-64 $7.75 including tax, Seniors 65+ $5.75 including tax

3 Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute

Another idea while in town would be to visit the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute. Here is where people visiting Moscow can explore a 26.2-acre nature preserve in the city, as well as walk around and enjoy the fresh air.

• Address: 1040 Rodeo Dr, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Open Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM

4 See A Show At The Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

The next idea for a Moscow, Idaho, visitor is to catch a performance at the city's Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre . Here lies a restored historic theater that offers classic films, community events, and a variety of stage performances.

• Address: 508 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843

5 Cycle Some Of The Palouse Bike Trails

A very popular tourist activity in Moscow is to rent a bike and cycle through some of the Palouse bike trails. A popular trail is the 7-mile Bill Chipman Palouse Trail between Pullman in Washington and Moscow.

• Admission: Bike rental costs will vary; check out Paradise Bike Rentals
• Address: The trail end points are SE Bishop Blvd. (Pullman, WA) and Farm Rd. (Moscow, ID)

6 View The University Of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Spend an afternoon checking out the countless plants from across the world in the University’s Arboretum & Botanical Garden . The garden is open every day, from dawn to dusk.

• Admission: Free
• Address: 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2281, Moscow, Idaho

7 Head To The Moscow Farmer’s Market

Visiting the Farmer’s Market is the big thing to do in Moscow and is incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s held from May to October from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Check out the fresh produce and enjoy some local performers entertaining the crowds.

• Address: 101-155 W 4th St, Moscow, ID 83843

8 Camp Out In Robinson County Park

This campsite is great for those who would like to immerse themselves in nature but also want to be close to town, and the campsite in Robinson is just a ten-minute drive from downtown Moscow. This park has plenty of trails and picnic spots to enjoy.

• Admission: $20 a night to camp
• Address: 5168 Robinson Park Rd, Moscow ID 83843

Related: 8 Idaho State Parks To Add To Your Scenic Bucket List

9 Check Out The Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

For those wanting to learn about the history of the beautiful Appaloosa horse breed, native to the Palouse region, the Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center is a perfect place to spend the afternoon.

Here is where guests can tour the Davis-Gillman Activity Center, Gift Shop, and Picnic Area, all while learning more about this area's rich culture.

• Address: 2720 Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
• 1912 Center: Check out some local art and learn about cultural initiatives in Moscow
• Address: 412 E. Third St. Moscow, ID 83843

10 Tour The Third Street Gallery

Next up, guests of the city of Moscow, Idaho, can check out the Third Street Gallery. The Third Street Gallery is located on the second and third floors of Moscow's beautifully renovated and historic City Hall, making that another nice thing to see while here.

• Address: 206 W 3rd St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
• Hours: Seasonally/dependent on art and creators

11 Skate At The Palouse Ice Rink

Another fun stop in the Moscow area is the Palouse Ice Rink , a fun place to visit for all the family for some ice skating and hockey in the winter and rollerblading during the summer.

This could be a nice location to bring the family, especially for people with young kids.

• Admission: Adults - $10, Children 6-17 - $8.00, 5 and under free
• Family Admission (up to 5 members) - $35.00
• Address: 1021 Harold St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

12 Taste Local Moscow Craft Beers

Moscow has a pretty extensive craft beer culture, and it's well worth making a day of visiting some of the local breweries. Here are several great breweries to check out.

Moscow Brewing Company : Be sure to visit Moscow’s first brewhouse for some great history and even better beer

• Address: 630 N Almon St #130, Moscow, ID

Hunga Dunga Brewing Company - Offering unique IPAs, Stouts, and so much more.

• Address: 333 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

Rants & Rave Brewery - A brewery and a grill, what’s not to love?

• Address: 308 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID, USA

13 Best Time To Go To Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, the temperature can reach into the 90s and can be quite dry. The winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and the area receiving some snowfall. Spring and fall are mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s.

The best time of year depends on what visitors have planned for the trip. The months of June, July, and August are great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Related: Drive Mesa Falls Scenic Byway & See Idaho's Most Stunning Views

However, in the winter months, there are local mountains and resorts suitable for snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing for those interested in winter sports. The Palouse Ice Rink is a popular spot for locals and visitors during the winter, too, and also offers some family-friendly activities the whole year round. Even a scenic road trip can be enjoyable during Idaho's winter .

The city tends to be a bustling hub of activity during its festivals, like the Rendezvous in the Park music festival, which usually takes place on the third weekend in July, or the Moscow Winter Carnival, which takes place in early December.

14 Best Ways To Get Around Moscow Idaho

Moscow is a very walkable city, and most of the main destinations for tourists can be accessed on foot, especially during the summer. Getting around on a bike is a great option; Moscow has 36 miles of paved trails, so renting a bicycle in town could be a good choice for visitors.

• Paradise Bike Rentals is a convenient bike rental shop on Main Street.

Moscow also has a public bus system called the Sustainable Moscow Area Regional Transportation or SMART transit that covers two loops, one in the west and one in the east of the town, and the fixed routes are free.

There are multiple taxi and rideshare companies in Moscow, and Uber and Lyft are also available. Here are some local Taxi company options:

• Moscow Taxi
• Pegasus Taxi

It’s possible to rent a car coming from the regional Pullman Moscow airport from companies Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.

15 Where To Eat In Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has some great spots for food, drinks, and coffee if visitors know where to look. The food options in Idaho tend to pleasantly surprise visitors. As it's a student town, there are more than a few fun bars too.

Best Breakfast in Moscow, Idaho

One World Café, Breakfast Club, Varsity Diner

Delicious Lunches in Moscow, Idaho:

Shari’s Café and Pies, Einstein Bros Bagels, Stax

Fantastic Dinners in Moscow, Idaho:

Nectar, Tapped - Taphouse & Kitchen, Lodgepole

Great Coffee Shops in Moscow, Idaho:

Café Artista, Bucer's Coffee House Pub, Steam Coffee

Fun Bars in Moscow, Idaho:

John’s Alley Tavern, Mingles Bar & Grill, Neat Whiskey Bar

16 Where To Stay In Moscow, Idaho

There are a number of hotels and rentals in the city, although some travelers also opt to stay in the nearby Washington state town of Pullman. Here are a few options in Moscow itself:

Highly rated hotels in Moscow Idaho

Best Western Plus University Inn : Room rates at the Best Western Plus University Inn start from $120 per night

• Amenities: Swimming pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and bar
• Address: 1516 Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moscow : Room rates at the Fairfield Inn & Suites start from $140 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, and fitness center
• Address: 1000 West Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843, United States

Mid-Tier hotels in Moscow

The Monarch Motel Room rates at the Monarch Hotel start from $100 per night

• Amenities: garden/chill-out area
• Address: 120 W 6th St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Hotel Mccoy Pullman Room rates at this property start from $140 per night

• Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking
• Address: 455 Southeast Paradise Street, Pullman, WA 99163

Related: Idaho The Potato State: Why Not Sleep In A Hotel Shaped Like One?

Budget hotels in Moscow Idaho

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moscow Pullman : Room rates at La Quinta Inn & Suites start from $130 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, airport shuttle, shuttle to local attractions
• Address: 185 Warbonnet Dr, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow / Pullman: Room rates at Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow start from $80 per night

• Amenities: Mobile check-in, Wi-Fi, free coffee & breakfast Item
• Address: 175 Peterson Drive Pullman Hwy and 175 Peterson Dr, Moscow, ID 83843

17 Tips For Visiting Moscow, Idaho

Moscow is a University city in north central Idaho and has a population of just over 25,000. It’s about 8 miles east of the Washington State border. It’s been home to the University of Idaho since 1889.

Moscow is served by a regional airport, The Pullman Moscow Airport is four miles west of the city, and the closest major airport is Spokane International Airport in Washington, located within 90 miles east of the city.

From here, visitors can rent a car or arrange a shuffle to get to Moscow; it will take about an hour and 40 minutes.

Related: Explore Idaho's Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Boise & Things To Do

Moscow is located along Highway 95, which runs north and south through the city. It’s also possible to travel to Moscow by bus from Spokane and Seattle. It’s good to know a little bit about the unique landscape travelers will get to explore when visiting Moscow. It’s part of the Palouse region, which encompasses parts of north central Idaho, southeastern Washington, and a little bit of Oregon.

Its distinctive and peculiar rolling green hills are made of a material called loess, which is mainly dust and silt blown in over thousands of years from the southwest.

After periods of deposition and erosion in harsh weather, unique dune-like shapes formed in the landscape. The Palouse region is a major agriculture zone, mainly for grain production, and it's also a stunning place to experience as a tourist.

18 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Moscow, Idaho

A perfect day in Moscow will start with a great breakfast, so head to the popular One World Café for a delicious bite to eat and then get ready to take on some of the incredible Palouse biking trails. Rent a bike for the afternoon and take the Bill Chipman Palouse trail nearby by Pullman and back.

Don’t forget to bring a camera. Head for lunch at Stax for some soup and sandwiches, and then visit the University of Idaho campus for a stroll through the arboretum and Botanical Garden. While on campus, check out some of the famous landmarks, like the Kibbie Dome or the Prichard Art Gallery.

In the evening, enjoy a fancy dinner at Lodgepole and polish the evening off with a drink at John’s Alley Tavern.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Fort Collins Fourth of July: 10 things to do this Independence Day

It's a Fort Collins Fourth of July.

After trying out a new date last year — 2022's Fourth of July festivities took place on the Saturday before the holiday — Fort Collins is returning its Fourth of July celebration to, well, the Fourth of July.

The Tuesday will be packed with things to do in and around City Park, from the traditional FireKracker 5K and parade down Mountain Avenue to a trolley ride and Fort Collins Symphony concert.

Here are 10 things to do this Fourth of July in Fort Collins.

Some Fort Collins Fourth of July traditions

Independence Day Parade

Where: Mountain Avenue

When: 10 a.m. July 4

Get ready to line Mountain Avenue for Fort Collins' annual Fourth of July parade. The parade will go westbound down the picturesque Old Town street starting at 10 a.m. and travel between Howes Street and Jackson Avenue, according to the city. The parade's judging station and announcer will be stationed at Mountain Avenue and Sherwood Street.

Free trolley rides

Where: City Park trolley depot

When: Noon to 5 p.m. July 4

Take a free ride back in time by hopping on one of Fort Collins' historic streetcars this Fourth of July. The cars will run from noon to 5 p.m., taking off from the City Park Trolley Depot. The rides will be free thanks to a sponsorship by Elevations Credit Union.

Not just Fort Collins: Here's what Windsor, Timnath and Wellington have planned this Fourth of July

Where: City Park

When: 4-9:35 p.m.

Tunes will once again waft over Sheldon Lake this Fourth of July. Live music is planned in City Park leading up to its annual fireworks show. Music starts at 4 p.m., with the Fort Collins Symphony taking the stage at 8:10 p.m. to perform its annual free concert of patriotic and film music favorites ahead of the night's fireworks show, according to the symphony.

Beat the heat: Your guide to splash pads in Fort Collins

When: 9:35 p.m.

Where: Sheldon Lake at City Park

Fort Collins' traditional Fourth of July fireworks show will set off over Sheldon Lake around 9:35 p.m., depending on wind and weather conditions. Since parking is not permitted in City Park on the Fourth of July — and parking around the park will be sparse — the city encourages attendees to walk, bike or take public transit to the park if they can. The MAX bus will operate 30-minute service from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10-minute service from 5 p.m. to midnight on the holiday. Shuttle buses will also take people from Colorado State University's Moby Parking Lot and the Downtown Transit Center starting at 5:30 p.m. and will return visitors to their respective lot after the fireworks display. Here's a full list of the city's planned Fourth of July road closures.

Fourth of July things to do for families

Go for a swim

Where: City Park Pool

When: 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 4

Take a dip in City Park Pool this Fourth of July as part of the city's special holiday pool hours. The pool will be open from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the holiday, with a daytime drop-in rate of $7 for youth (ages 2-17) and seniors and $8 for adults. If the pool reaches capacity, there will be a wait, according to the city.

A family fun zone in City Park

Where: East of City Park playground

When: Noon to 4:30 p.m. July 4

Bring the little ones out to City Park's family fun zone — complete with games and giveaways — just east of the park's playground.

For the sports fans

The Stars & Stripes Golf Tournament

When: 7:30 a.m. July 4

Where: City Park Nine golf course

Kick off your Independence Day with a round of golf at City Park Nine. To learn more or sign up for the tournament, contact the course's pro shop by calling 970-221-6650.

FireKracker 5K

🎵 Baby, you're a firewooork ... zooming through Ciiity Paaark 🎵 Lace up your running shoes for the annual FireKracker 5K, which will take off from the intersection of City Park and Sheldon Drive at 7:30 a.m. Adult race fees are $45 until June 30, after which the fee increases to $50. For more information, or to register, visit runsignup.com.

Festival eats: 5 Taste of Fort Collins foods (and drinks) you can try all summer

Baseball at City Park fields

Where: City Park baseball fields

When: 1-7 p.m.

Take yourself out to the ballgame this Fourth of July, with the traditional Old Timers Baseball Game kicking off City Park's baseball offerings at 1 p.m., followed by a matchup between the Boulder Collegians and Fort Collins Force at 4:30 p.m. 

For the Fourth of July foodies

A Fourth of July food truck rally

Where: Sheldon Drive in City Park

When: 1-9:30 p.m. July 4

Area food trucks are working the holiday shift in City Park this Fourth of July as the FoCo Food Truck Rally — a Tuesday evening summer staple in the park — ready to feed the masses starting at 1 p.m.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly listed the start time of the Fort Collins Symphony's Fourth of July concert. It will begin at 8:10 p.m.

More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
• Kuta, Bali, Indonesia - $79.79
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
• Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
• Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
• Delhi, India - $98.05
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

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Calendar of Events

See what’s happening around Louisville

The Louisville community is buzzing with fun and exciting events.

No matter what time of the year you're considering visiting us, you'll discover bourbon & culinary experiences, seasonal festivals , and plenty of opportunities to experience Louisville's horse racing events including iconic races like the Kentucky Derby .

For current museum & attraction exhibits and ongoing public tour options, click here .

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17 April Events To Attend in Louisville

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Shakespeare in the Parks: A Midsummer Nights Dream Louisville, Kentucky Details   Open in Google Maps

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Sonic Sensation Exhibit 727 W. Main St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Shining a Light: Women in Sports 144 N. 6th St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

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The 2024 Shining A Light series featuring Women Athletes and the various ways women are making an impact in sports. The exhibition featuring international...

Hermitage Horse Tour 10500 W. Highway 42 Goshen, Kentucky 40026 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Experience a closer look at the inner workings of an operational Thoroughbred Nursery! Our tours guide you through Hermitage Farm’s illustrious history in the...

Hermitage Farm Bourbon Tasting 10500 W. Hwy 42 Goshen, Kentucky 40026 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Our guided tastings are enjoyable for bourbon connoisseurs and novices alike! Join our delightful Bourbon Stewards in learning about Kentucky’s rich bourbon...

Kentucky Rivalries 829 W. Main St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

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From archrival teams like the Cats and the Cards to dueling editors, competing caves, and beefing barbecues, Kentucky Rivalries captures the most iconic...

South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art 2035 South Third St. Louisville, Kentucky 40208 Details   Open in Google Maps

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The Best of Louisville in One Fun Tour! Our tour is a Sightseeing Tour, Hop-on/Hop-off Attractions Tour, Bourbon Tour, Wine Tour, Beer Tour, Food Tour and...

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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