Where to Celebrate Fourth of July With the Family

The Fourth of July is already right around the corner. The first official holiday of the summer kicks off with a low-key barbecue at home, day at the beach or big family outing.

Fireworks and food are both key elements to a fun Fourth and if your family wants to make a mini vacation out of it, we have a few suggestions.

Nashville, Tenn.

There’s no party like a rooftop party and the Westin Nashville has the highest one in all of Music City. Celebrate Independence Day with classic barbecue fare and all-American red, white and blue decorations with the added luxury of this Nashville property.

The Westin Nashville boasts a Red, White and BBQ package for visitors including accommodations for two nights, valet parking, a $100 spa credit and two tickets to the L27 Rooftop Lounge party. Enjoy the food, music and fireworks with rates beginning at $800. Visit the hotel site to book a room or just join the party with tickets here.

Philadelphia, Pa.

Fireworks and freedom are basically synonymous with Philadelphia. Head to the city of Brotherly Love for the weekend to enjoy Fourth of July celebrations, local traditions and a lot of history leading to the holiday. Begin with the Rocky screening at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, also the home of the famous Rocky Balboa statue, July 1.

Join the block party July 3 in Philadelphia’s historic district on Independence Mall and stick around for the parade and fireworks on July 4, beginning on Chestnut and 5th streets. Enjoy free live music, readings and reenactments in Old City and thousands of colorful participants marching through the streets.

Colonial Williamsburg, Va.

Go back in time with the kids during the Lights of Freedom celebration in Colonial Williamsburg, Va. Watch fireworks explode from behind the Governor’s Palace and the annual procession through the square. Enjoy traditional American music while the kids sing along.

Be sure to arrive early and bring a blanket or lawn seats, as the fireworks show is beloved by locals and can fill up. Merriment and music begins at 9 p.m., but check the site for more information and any other events your family may be interested in.