Festive parade floats with passengers waving American flags. Marching bands belting out familiar tunes. Community residents banding together to create an epic festival. Red, white, and blue fireworks bursting over top of iconic United States landmarks. All this and more is on tap in cities across the U.S. this Fourth of July.
So, whether you’re hoping to explore storied spaces that played a pivotal role in our nation’s independence or hoping for a legendary party and parade, you’re sure to find what you seek in these devoted destinations from coast to coast.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Those looking to get a head start on celebrating Independence Day will want to head to Gatlinburg, which plays host to a Midnight parade at 12:01 a.m. on July 4, giving this Tennessee city the bragging rights of having "The First Independence Day Celebration in the Nation." Other fun festivities follow later in the day, including an annual river raft regatta, a free concert, fireworks, and more.
Where to Stay: Set 1,000 feet above Gatlinburg, The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg offers sweeping mountain views. Located a short trolley ride away from the heart of downtown and offering easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this family friendly hotel offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
When it comes to destinations steeped in American history and patriotism, few cities top Philadelphia. After all, the “City of Brotherly Love” was the setting of the original Fourth of July, serving as the spot where the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. Celebrating this historic holiday here makes for an especially memorable time, with the city going all out during a two-week-long extravaganza you won’t want to miss.
Where to Stay: Located just a half-mile from the legendary Independence Hall is Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City. From this 19th-century hotel with modern conveniences you can grab a complimentary Canopy Bike to explore other important nearby landmarks, such as the Liberty Bell.
Keystone, South Dakota
Another iconic landmark awaits just outside Keystone, South Dakota. The region makes for a popular pilgrimage for those looking to honor four important U.S. presidents at Mount Rushmore. In addition to marveling at the sculpted faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, visitors here can take in patriotic parades that weave through the Black Hills, filling the streets with vibrant floats, marching bands, and a true sense of Americana.
Where to Stay: Located near Keystone’s Main Street Square is Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton. Built in 1927, the hotel combines historic architecture with handcrafted Native American art in tribute to the area's Lakota and Sioux culture.
Seward, Nebraska
Located 70 miles outside of Omaha is the city of Seward, which was designated "America's Official Fourth of July City-Small Town USA" by resolution of Congress in 1979. The residents of this Midwestern enclave take this moniker to heart, with the yearly Independence Day celebration here providing a big dose of patriotism with a small-town feel. Every year brings a new theme to the city’s offerings, with more than 50 community groups and organizations bonding together to craft a family-friendly event.
Where to Stay: Located in nearby Lincoln, Nebraska, Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln is centrally situated for this American adventure. Explore Historic Haymarket, take a dip in the indoor pool, and enjoy a free made-to-order breakfast and complimentary drinks and snacks during the nightly Evening Reception.
San Diego, California
Sunny San Diego is home to thousands of service members, veterans, and their families, representing the Navy, Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. So, it’s no surprise that the love for America found in this Southern California city runs deep. The annual Big Bay Boom event, which launches fireworks simultaneously from four barges throughout San Diego Bay, is an epic spectacle that makes this an idyllic setting for a larger-than-life Fourth of July party.
Where to Stay: Set within the legendary Hotel del Coronado, Shore House at The Del, Curio Collection by Hilton features all the comforts of a beachfront home. Relax in the oceanfront pool, enjoy a dedicated concierge, and take advantage of full access to The Del's amazing resort amenities.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg is known for its authentic recreations of 18th-century life, making it an especially fitting place to celebrate America’s independence. Start by listening to a reading of the Declaration of Independence by actors portraying our Founding Fathers, then watch a cannon salute to the original 13 states, accompanied by fife and drum corps music, before closing out the perfect patriotic day with fireworks and a festive sing-a-long.
Where to Stay: At the center of Colonial Williamsburg is Homewood Suites by Hilton Williamsburg, which offers easy access to the area’s many attractions, as well as a free hot breakfast each morning.
Bristol, Rhode Island
The city of Bristol pre-dates the Revolutionary War by an entire century. And while Rhode Island may be the United States’ smallest state, there’s nothing small about the way the residents here celebrate the Fourth. The normally quiet Bristol comes alive each July when the city plays host to the nation’s longest-running Independence Day celebration, the Military, Civic, and Firemen's Parade, which has run annually since 1785. The event draws well over 200,000 red-, white-, and blue-clad revelers, making it among the most festive spots in America to celebrate.
Where to Stay: Nearby Fall River, Massachusetts offers a host of historic attractions. Stay at Hampton Inn Fall River/Westport, which offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience along with free hot breakfast daily.
