7 Last-Minute Getaways for the Fourth of July

Some of the best Fourth of July firework shows can be found in Vegas, where resorts on the Strip launch fabulous, festive displays from their rooftops. You can often find cheap flights to Vegas year-round—even at the last minute. Make the most of your visit by embracing the no-holds-barred atmosphere: beat the daytime heat at a pool party; cruise the Strip on an open-top bus; and then get the best view of the festivities from a helicopter. Or if you're looking for something more sophisticated, catch a Cirque du Soleil performance.

With its lovely waterfront and historic district, Savannah offers a suitable scenic location to celebrate the nation’s birthday. Independence Day celebrations happen all over town, with highlights including live music and fireworks on River Street, a beach party on Tybee Island, and a “Red, White & Brews” bar crawl downtown. While you’re there, explore the city’s fascinating history: Take an American Civil War walking history tour or learn to make Prohibition-era cocktails at the American Prohibition Museum.

New Orleans always brings the party, and the Fourth of July is no exception. Join locals watching fireworks above the Mississippi River as part of the city’s “Go 4th on the River” celebration. Or take in the festivities from a balcony in the French Quarter: With its renowned Creole and French-American food offerings, the neighborhood provides a fitting location to celebrate France, the US’ great partner in revolution. To learn more about the two country’s battles for freedom, be sure to visit the World War II Museum.

With its rich revolutionary history, Philadelphia is a top destination for Independence Day. But if you’re looking for a smaller, less crowded alternative, try Allentown just 90 minutes away. Legend has it that American rebels hid the original Liberty Bell from the British, moving it from Philadelphia to underneath the floorboards of an Allentown church. Allentown is also perfectly situated for day trips to either Arlington Cemetery or to Philly to explore its top-notch restaurants and museums.

Easy to reach from Phoenix—just over two hours away by car—Flagstaff is typically 20–30°F (11–17°C) cooler than Arizona’s capital city, a bonus during July’s heat. It’s also one of the gateways to the Grand Canyon, along with nearby Williams, where the Grand Canyon Railway departs. Visit the national park for a ranger-led sunset walk or stop by on the way to Page, near Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where revelers celebrate July 4 with a parade and fireworks above Lake Powell.

As a Fourth of July destination, Sonoma has three clear draws: It’s just an hour’s drive from San Francisco; it’s more affordable than nearby Napa; and it hosts a nostalgic parade that departs from historic Sonoma Plaza in the heart of town. Beyond its world-renowned wineries, it also offers plenty of opportunity for adventure, whether it’s touring the European-esque countryside on eco-friendly bikes or viewing the “home of the brave” from the skies on a hot-air balloon.

If you’re in the New York area for the Fourth, but don’t want to deal with NYC’s infamous crowds, pull a Yankee Doodle and head out of town to the Hudson Valley, where holiday celebrations are held all week long. A little-known fact: The Hudson Valley is among the oldest grape-growing regions in the US. Start celebrating with a day of wine tasting before visiting Hudson proper, where locals gather at Lakefront Park near the historic downtown for a parade and carnival.