Sparkling escapes: Fourth of July getaways that are pure fireworks
Summer's here, and the Fourth of July is just around the corner—time for fireworks, barbecues, and some much-needed relaxation. Whether you're dreaming of lounging on a sunny beach, hiking in the mountains, or soaking up some history in a patriotic city, planning the perfect getaway can make your holiday extra special.
Each of these destinations is rolling out the red, white, and blue carpet with holiday events and there's still time to find the perfect vacation rental for your celebration. Whether your wish list includes a patio for a cookout, outdoor space for games, or easy beach access, we’ve got all three in spades (or stars, you could say).
So, grab your shades and sunscreen, and let's get started on making this Independence Day one to remember!
Featured vacation rental: Waterway Fun
With 60 miles of coastline, Myrtle Beach—aka The Grand Strand—is an endless summer playground. You can spend your days riding the waves or sunning on the beach and cap it all off with a dinner of fresh coastal cuisine. Just don’t be late to snag a front-row seat at the annual Murrells Inlet Boat Parade.
Featured vacation rental: Crantzdorf Lodge
If the mountains are calling this Fourth of July, head to Gatlinburg at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, where you’ll find more than 800 miles of hiking trails to explore. The town is also famous for starting its holiday celebration earlier than anywhere else at 12:01 a.m. on the dot, with the annual July Fourth Midnight Parade. Not a night owl? Gain a new perspective on fireworks with a view from the suspension bridge at SkyLift Park.
Featured vacation rental: East Vail Vista
Hot tip: Colorado may be known for its ski slopes, but summer is a prime time to visit. With warm days and cool nights, thanks to the Colorado Rockies, there’s no shortage of outdoor recreation to enjoy with a backdrop of alpine scenery. And when visiting for Independence Day, visitors can partake in Vail America Days, a weekend-long celebration all across town with patriotic parades, firework displays, and more.
Featured vacation rental: Gallatin River Getaway
Big Sky is the closest access point to Yellowstone National Park and a must-visit if you're looking for a nature-filled Fourth of July. Before you celebrate Old Glory, pay a visit to Old Faithful or one of the park’s many geothermal wonders with a high chance of wildlife sightings nearby. You can also get mountain views and get your steps in at theBig Sky 5K Road Race. What better preparation for your July 4 cookout?
Featured vacation rental: The Keoniana #111
Consider yourself lucky that summer isn’t traditionally the peak season on Oahu. That gives you more real estate to spread out your towel on the island’s famous southern shores, and a shorter wait for fish tacos at Duke’s in Waikiki. For the Fourth, take to the seas with the Star of Honolulu Independence Day Dinner Cruise, complete with a firework display, live music, and Polynesian dancing.
