Top family-friendly, 4th of July celebrations

Fireworks above the Washington Monument, D.C. Credit: muohace_dc.

Not sure where to venture for your 4th of July family vacation? We talked with our best experts on family travel — the Orbitz Parent Panel — and got their top destinations for 4th of July celebrations. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, fun, or sun, let one of these excursions inspire the traveling patriot in you.

Washington, D.C. — Chris U.
I grew up in the DC area, and when I was a kid we would take the Metro down to the Mall. There’s nothing like watching 4th of July fireworks over the Washington Monument and shimmering off the reflecting pool.  It’s something everyone should do at least once in their lifetime. Make sure to get there early to stake out a seat and be prepared to battle the crowds. There are also great views across the Potomac River in Arlington or Rosslyn, or at various scenic spots along the river.

Los Angeles, California – Abby S.
The Hollywood Bowl in LA is hosting the July 4th Fireworks Spectacular. It’s the perfect spot for bonding with family, friends and other fellow Americans. It’s always an amazing evening with patriotic music, a picnic dinner under the stars, and performances from stars like this year’s country great, Vince Gill.

Sandusky, Ohio — Vanessa A.
For a thrilling 4th of July celebration, ourfamily loves to do the Starlight session (after 4:00 pm) at Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio. Later in the day, the temperature cools, the lines shrink, and the fireworks at night are what every 4th of July lover wants to see!

Boston, Massachusetts — Mary-Jo L.
This city knows how to capture the spirit of ’76.  For a memorable 4th of July event, nothing feels more patriotic than sitting along the Esplanade, watching amazing fireworks explode over the Charles River as the Boston Pops plays.

Dallas, Texas — Chris H.
No one does the 4th of July in North Texas like Kaboom Town in Addison, TX.  Start off the evening with Antique and Stunt Planes, catch one of the largest firework displays in the country and end your evening (while avoiding the traffic) with Cinema Under the Stars.

Chicago, Illinois –– Nina H.
For the ultimate 4th of July celebration, Chicago brings on an entire sensory experience. There’s the Taste of Chicago, where  you can sample everything from Deep Dish pizza to Eli’s cheesecake; free music at the Grant Park Music Fest, the nations only free outdoor concert series (featuring Rob Thomas & The Steve Miller Band this 4th of July); and fireworks exploding over Lake Michigan to the sounds of the symphony.

Beaver Creek, Colorado — Monica R.
Summertime is off season here,and also my favorite time to visit the ski town ofBeaver Creek. The weather is beautiful with crisp, clean air that’s perfect for hiking. For the 4th of July celebration, the small town crowds the hillside as fireworks explode across a backdrop of gorgeous mountain ranges.

Related resources

• Light on the Lake: The West’s best 4th of July vacation
• Ohio hotels
• Washington, D.C. packages and hotels
• Colorado packages and hotels
• Boston packages and hotels
• Dallas packages and hotels
• Chicago packages and hotels
• Los Angeles packages and hotels

Tagged: Family time, Top 10 Lists