Where To See Fourth Of July Fireworks With Kids

Photo Source: Flickr Sadie_Girl

Summertime means cookouts, corn on the cob and fireworks; the best fireworks appearing over the Fourth of July weekend. Families flock to cities, lakes, neighborhood parks and beach towns to celebrate America’s independence, but not all are created equal. Here are just a few of our favorites that every member of your family will enjoy!

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon is a sleepy little beach town where hipsters and surfers collide with decent coffee and the iconic Haystack Rock, featured in the 1980s cult-classic movie "The Goonies." The 4th of July Parade is filled with small beach town charm, including face painting and strawberry shortcake, but you will have to head up to Seaside for the fireworks. Parents of smaller kids can take up residence at the Cannon Beach Inn, just two blocks from the beach. If you are lucky you will see a spark or two rise up over the bend that separates the two beaches. If not, well there are enough families playing with sparklers and enjoying a bonfire on the beach to add a little festive cheer to your evening. Best of all, it’s quiet fun for smaller children who might be scared of fireworks.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital doesn’t do anything small when it comes to celebrating national pride, so you can bet people will be camped out on the National Mall early in the day to enjoy the best seats in the house. If you don’t want to deal with the Mall and its massive crowds, grab dinner reservations at Washington Harbour in Georgetown for some of the best views of the fireworks. Hotels with the best views for fireworks include The Graham Georgetown, The W Hotel (POV Bar), Capella Hotel, and The Embassy Row Hotel in Dupont Circle. If you really don’t want to deal with the Mall crowds though, head to the Washington National Cathedral. This is one of the highest points in the city. Grab a patch of grass, make sure you are facing the Washington Monument, and wait for an explosion of color to hit the sky.

Disney World, Florida

Disney loves to celebrate every night with pyrotechnics, but it really pulls out all the stops for America’s Independence Day. Expect celebrations at Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Personally, I’d go with the Magic Kingdom if you want that memorable view of fireworks behind Cinderella’s Castle. If you want a fun party, Disney’s Hollywood Studio is the place for you. Guests staying at the Polynesian Resort will have one of the best (and easiest) views, as you can watch the fireworks at Magic Kingdom from your room, the restaurants or just outside of the hotel.

Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe has often been named one of the top five 4th of July fireworks displays in the country. You can see the fireworks from all over town, but the lake is where you will get the best view. Hop on a boat to take a cruise around the lake while you watch the fireworks with your family, or simply sit on the beach to take in the explosion of colors. Probably the craziest view you can ask for would be by helicopter though. Yes, you can take a helicopter ride to see the fireworks. Now THAT is a memorable way to celebrate America’s independence.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The City of Brotherly Love has been rocking the 4th of July weekend for decades and this year will be no exception. Expect a full weekend of celebrations, free concerts and fireworks, but the biggest will always be at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Big acts like Stevie Wonder and the Roots have played the art museum on the 4th of July in the past. Do not attempt to drive to the fireworks, instead stay downtown or take the subway (SEPTA) to and from the parkway. Pack a few snacks and a water bottle as the crowds are big, but the fun is too.

Where is your favorite place to see the 4th of July fireworks?

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