It’s the Fourth of July, and in the United States of America, it’s the day we celebrate our independence! I love history almost as much as I love travel, and early American history is my favorite! If you’re looking for a great time to visit the USA, or if you live in the States and want to feel extra patriotic, here are some destination suggestions for you!

Boston

This is the place, my friends. This is where the “shot heard ’round the world” actually happened. This is where Paul Revere lived and began his midnight ride. It’s also home to the Red Sox, the Freedom Trail, and Boston Harbor–location of the Boston Tea Party! Every July 4th, costumed historical interpreters read the Declaration of Independence from the balcony of the Old State House.

Philadelphia

Philly is another hotbed of exciting early American history! In fact, its nickname is the “Cradle of Liberty.” Check out the Betsy Ross House, take a guided tour of Independence Hall, and don’t forget to try a Philly Cheesesteak! Philadelphia was the Nation’s Capitol city for 10 years before Washington, D.C., was ready to be the permanent capitol.

Washington, D.C.

Of course Washington, D.C., has to make the list. DC has incredible monuments, memorials, a fantastic parade, and a great fireworks show. Its purpose is patriotism! Don’t want to fight the crowds at the National Mall for the concert and fireworks show? My favorite viewing spot is around the Marine Corps Memorial and Netherlands Carillon across the river in Rosslyn. You will not only see all the fireworks, you’ll enjoy them with a view of the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Smithsonian Castle, Capitol, and Library of Congress. It’s stunning!

Colonial Williamsburg

Want a taste of real colonial history? You have to celebrate in Colonial Williamsburg! They have a wonderful fireworks display, and you will walk the same streets as young Thomas Jefferson, George and Martha Washington, George Wythe, and more. See the British Governor’s Mansion just as it would have been left when he and his family fled for their lives! Learn about colonial life, and find out the difference between the stocks and the pillory!

Small Town, USA

Small towns all across America have some of the best celebrations in the country! My Aunt Melissa and family live in a neighborhood in Franklin, TN, that’s a bit like Mayberry. They have a Fourth of July parade every year that the whole neighborhood participates in! I got to help out one year when their float’s theme was “Hawaii: The 50th State.”

Where are you spending the Fourth this year? Have we inspired you to travel for it next year?