Happy 4th of July: Top places to Celebrate in the USA

The 4^th of July, is an iconic event in American history and culture. Celebrated annually by millions of Americans all over the world to mark the birth of independence in the USA, this date is a chance for Americans from all walks of life to come together and party.

With 50 states, all with their own unique qualities and niches, the USA is a haven for dream escapes. From vibrant cities and popular landmarks to vast mountainous countryside and picturesque national parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

So whether you want to rejoice in national pride with our friends on the other side of the pond or simply want to experience the USA and all its wonders for yourself, we are going to round up the best places you can visit in the ‘Land of the Free’!

San Francisco:

Ranked as one of the top destinations to visit for 4^th July, San Francisco plays host to an array of amazing attractions. From live music to the American holiday stable- barbeques, there is so much to discover in this vibrant city. Hop on one of the iconic cable cars that scatter the streets and head to the waterfront where this city by the bay comes alive during the 4^th July. Enjoy a day full of activities around Fisherman's Wharf before settling down to watch the firework displays at either Municipal Pier or Pier 39. For a truly magical experience, take a cruise around the bay and watch the dazzling display from the peaceful waters.  

For those of you who would rather take in the sounds and scenery of this cosmopolitan city why not take an early morning bike ride around the waterfront and see the famous Golden Gate Bridge before quenching your thirst at a wine tasting tour and ending your idyllic day at Stern Grove Park with a free 4^th July concert filled with musical talent. 

New York:

It only seems right that America’s largest-populated city makes an appearance on this list. Considered by many to be the number 1 city to visit on the 4^th July, New York is must visit US destination, whether it be on Independence Day or any other time of year. Whether you want to indulge in great food, take in some iconic American sights, or simply bask in the American atmosphere on Independence Day - however you want to spend the 4^th of July, the Big Apple delivers.

Start your 4^th July celebrations with a spot of sightseeing. Visit the Statue of Liberty, Times Square or the Empire State Building before heading over to Coney Island for a quirky New York tradition, more than 100 year’s old! Coney Islands 4^th July Hot Dog Eating Contest at Nathan’s sees hundreds flock to see Frankfurter-eating legends test their stomachs and try to chow down on as many famous Nathan’s hotdogs in 10 minutes. A beloved tradition for New Yorkers, it is definitely one for the list!

And if all those hot dogs haven’t put you off lunch, head down to Central Park for a 4^th July Barbeque. One of only 3 days in the year where grilling and barbecuing is allowed in Central Park take the chance to experience the American pastime for yourself in one of the most famous parks in the world.

Orlando, Florida:

Orlando is probably up there on most people’s holiday Bucket List - especially those of us who love theme parks and sunshine! Sat in the heart of the Sunshine State, Orlando is the ultimate family fun holiday. From Universal Studios to Walt Disney World to the Islands of Adventure- Orland is a playground for both little kids and big kids at heart. But how can you celebrate this national holiday in Orlando? Here’s just a few unusual ones!

Visit the Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom and hear the voices of America’s forefathers; see Capitan America himself walk the streets of Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal’s Islands of Adventure; soar like an eagle on the hair-raising ride Freedom Flyer at Fun Spot America or seize the chance to see a real American Bald Eagle on board an Orlando Boat Tour.

As we all know now, Fireworks are a given on the 4^th July and there is no shortage of displays to visit in Orlando on Independence Day. As dusk falls on this action-packed city, head to Walt Disney World and witness the sky erupt in glittering colours right above Cinderella’s castle- a magical way to end the day

Alaska: 

If you’re not wanting to attending extravagant firework displays or bustling street parties but still want to escape to the USA for the 4^th July then Alaska may just be the state for you. An untouched wildness encased in natural beauty, this subarctic state offers landscapes and experiences like no other. Journey to the snow tipped Land of the Midnight Sun and behold magnificent mountain ranges, rugged shorelines and flowered valleys. Take a trip off shore and see the creatures that call these icy depths home. From Whales and Sea Lions to Bears and Wolves, Alaska offers unique wildlife encounters that will live in its visitors’ memories forever.

But don’t worry this state still offers up some 4^th July attraction in case you’re in the celebratory mood. Visit the seaside town of Seward and witness their annual Mount Marathon race where locals scale a lung-busting 3,022-foot mountain in the hopes of being crowned the race winner. Or take a trip to the small town of Talkeetna and take part in their Alaskan summer tradition, 'Moose on the Loose!'

Or if you really want to get into the 4^th July spirit, head to Alaska’s capital city of Juneau where the celebrations kick off as the clock strikes midnight and dazzling fireworks are released into the sky over Gastineau Channel. Listen to the echoing booms radiate through the mystic mountains before enjoying Juneau’s 4^th July attractions including: the sand-dollar hunt, firehose race, sandcastle sculpting competition and more.

• Beach Holidays
• City Breaks
• Hays News
• Hays Cruise
• Hays Faraway