If any city knows how to celebrate America’s birthday, it’s Washington, DC. Here you can celebrate our 242nd Independence Day amid all the historic splendor of the nation’s capital.
Start the morning with the National Independence Parade, take in a free concert on the West Lawn, and wrap it all up with the stunning Washington DC fireworks display over the National Mall.
Whether you catch the action from the comfort of your luxury apartment in Washington DC from 2000 Connecticut, The Asher, The Drake, The Harper and The Hamilton House. You can also seek out great spots in and around Washington DC to see the 4th of July fireworks, and you won’t want to miss the show.
Camp Out on the National Mall
The fireworks will be launched from the area around the Reflecting Pool starting at 9:09 p.m. on July 4th. That makes the National Mall a prime viewing location. It also means you’ll have to show up early with your blankets and chairs if you want to grab a spot here since it’s the busiest piece of real estate in the entire city.
On the bright side, you’ll be able to watch the fireworks shimmer in the Reflecting Pool and explode against a stunning backdrop that includes the nation’s most revered monuments.
Have a Memorable Experience at the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial
Head across the Potomac River into Virginia to see the fireworks rise up behind the Iwo Jima Memorial, the famous landmark that sits just outside of the Arlington National Cemetery.
One of the most inspiring places from which to watch the Fourth of July fireworks, the memorial also gives you a great view of the fireworks display. Look out at a stunning panorama of the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial as you watch the sky light up with color.
Catch the Full Show on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol
Join the National Symphony Orchestra and an all-star lineup of pop music acts for a PBS-hosted concert on the West Lawn. A Capitol Fourth starts at 8 p.m. and segues directly into the fireworks show, which can be seen in all its glory from the U.S. Capitol. No tickets necessary.
Cruise the Potomac River
A number of companies offer 4th of July cruises along the Potomac. Watch the fireworks reflect off the water as you drift down the river with food and drinks. You might be rubbing elbows with a lot of tourists and families, but that shouldn’t deter you. In fact, you should make it a point to take a fireworks cruise at least once in your life.
Hang Out at Your Favorite Rooftop Bar
Locals who want a less touristy experience can always hit up one of the many local rooftop bars that dot the downtown area. See the fireworks light up the sky while you chat with friends and sip your favorite cocktail. Just be prepared to show up early to beat the crowds.
Watch the Show from the Comfort of Your Apartment in DC
If you prefer not to wrestle with the crowds, you can always watch the show from the comfort of your Washington DC luxury apartment, provided you live somewhere near the National Mall and have access to a rooftop viewing area.
Anacostia Park, West Potomac Park, and East Potomac Park also offer incredible views of the July 4th display. Drop Keener Management a line if you know of some other great firework-gazing spots in and around the DC area.