Wondering where to go for the 4th of July? Mix things up this year with our guide to fifteen 4th of July destinations for your perfect short trip. Forget the usual BBQs and fireworks — enjoy the holiday with friends and family in exciting new places. Ready to take your 4th of July weekend to the next level? Let’s get started!
15 Unusual Places to Visit for a July 4 Getaway
For this purpose, we’ve curated a list of 15 unusual places to go for 4th of July celebrations that will make it a holiday to remember. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, this list of vacation ideas offers something special for everyone:
Sedona, Arizona
- Why visit: We love Sedona for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual vortex sites.
- What to do: Hiking trails like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge offer breathtaking views. Another type of activity here might be exploring the art galleries in the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. At night, stargazing at the Sedona Heritage Museum is a magical experience.
- What to pack: Sturdy hiking boots, a camera for the breathtaking views, and comfortable attire for warm days and cool evenings. Tip: Pack the Western Rise Evolution Pants for their durability and comfort on the trails, 1-2 Session-tees with odor-resistant properties, and a packable travel hoodie for added warmth during evening stargazing.
Source: cayleighanddavid
Asheville, North Carolina
- Why visit: This charming city in the Blue Ridge Mountains has a bohemian culture and vibrant arts scene.
- What to do: Driving the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway is a must, with stops at overlooks like Craggy Gardens for panoramic views. The Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, is fascinating, and the River Arts District is perfect for exploring studios and galleries. The great end of your day might be with live music and craft beer at a local brewery.
- What to pack: Pack 1-2 cotton tees, a light layer for cool mountain nights, walking shoes, and a sense of adventure. Tip: Consider great hiking pants from Western Rise and a breathable Venture hoodie.
Source: blueridgenps
Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Why visit: Santa Fe’s rich history, unique adobe architecture, and Southwestern cuisine always draw us back.
- What to do: Visiting the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is a highlight, and strolling down Canyon Road to explore art galleries is delightful. The historic Santa Fe Plaza and the Palace of the Governors offer deep dives into local history. Go for dining at The Shed or Cafe Pasqual’s for a taste of the local flavors.
- What to pack: Sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a taste for spicy food. Tip: Wear the travel chino shorts, and merino wool polo for breathability and great temperature regulation. Don't forget a sun hat for comfort during long walks in the sun. Take sweaters with UV protection for a colder yet sunny evening.
Source: Sean Pavone, Getty Images
Door County, Wisconsin
- Why visit: Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County’s quaint villages and scenic waterfronts are so charming.
- What to do: Kayaking in Peninsula State Park, visiting the Cana Island Lighthouse, and biking along Shore Road are always on our list. A traditional fish boil at the White Gull Inn is a must-try, and picking fresh cherries at local orchards is a treat.
- What to pack: A swimsuit such as Nomad Trunk Board Shorts, a hat for sun protection, and a good book to enjoy by the water. Tip: The Western Rise Evolution Shorts are great for both biking and casual dining, thanks to their quick-drying and comfortable fabric.
Source: amazingshots_lighthouse
Marfa, Texas
- Why visit: Marfa’s minimalist art installations and the mysterious Marfa Lights make it a unique destination.
- What to do: Exploring the Chinati Foundation’s contemporary art collection, visiting the Prada Marfa installation, and spending an evening at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area are our top picks. We also love sampling the local cuisine at food trucks and trendy cafes.
- What to pack: Lightweight clothing for the heat, a hat, and an open mind for artistic wonders. Tip: The short-sleeve button-up shirt in Pacific paired with fitted Evolution Pant offers the perfect blend of style and comfort for exploring art galleries and enjoying local cuisine.
Source: dv_over_dt
Finger Lakes, New York
- Why visit: Renowned for its stunning lakes, wineries, and waterfalls, the Finger Lakes region is a favorite.
- What to do: Touring local vineyards, hiking in Watkins Glen State Park, and taking a boat ride on Keuka Lake are always fantastic. The Corning Museum of Glass offers a unique and artistic experience.
- What to pack: Casual outfits, a good pair of hiking shoes, and swimwear. Tip: Pack the Limitless Merino Short Sleeve Shirt and men’s chino pants for a stylish yet comfy outfit.
Source: newyorkupstate
Taos, New Mexico
- Why visit: Taos’s historic Pueblo and vibrant arts community never fail to captivate.
- What to do: Visiting the Taos Pueblo, exploring the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, and enjoying the local galleries and the Harwood Museum of Art are highlights. Outdoor activities like rafting on the Rio Grande or lift riding at Taos Ski Valley add to the adventure.
- What to pack: Layers for varying temperatures, a sense of curiosity, and a camera for stunning landscapes. Tip: Pack a temperature-regulated StrongCore Merino Tee with a Venture Hoodie for layering.
Source: Taos
Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Why visit: Mackinac Island’s car-free environment, Victorian architecture, and bike trails are incredibly charming.
- What to do: Horse-drawn carriage tours, visits to Fort Mackinac, and biking around the island’s perimeter are our favorite activities. Indulging in the island’s famous fudge is a sweet treat we never miss.
- What to pack: Comfortable biking clothes, a sunhat, and a taste for nostalgia. Tip: The Limitless Merino Wool Polo is perfect for a stylish yet comfortable walking outfit, while the Session Tee with Movement Shorts makes for ideal biking attire.
Source: mackinacisle
Savannah, Georgia
- Why visit: With its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and Spanish moss-draped oaks, Savannah is a Southern gem you would adore.
- What to do: Taking a ghost tour, visiting Forsyth Park, and exploring the historic district with stops at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Mercer-Williams House are must-dos. Dining at The Grey or Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room offers a taste of Southern hospitality.
- What to pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing for the summer heat, comfortable shoes, and a camera for the picturesque scenery. Tip: The Outbound Camp Collar made from breathable perforated fabric, paired with lightweight shorts is ideal for staying cool and comfortable in the summer heat.
Source: philiparambula on Unplash
Portland, Maine
- Why visit: Portland’s rugged coastline, lighthouses, and delicious seafood.
- What to do: Visiting the Portland Head Light, exploring the Old Port district, and taking a boat tour of Casco Bay are always on our itinerary. Enjoying fresh lobster rolls at Eventide Oyster Co. or The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a culinary delight.
- What to pack: Layers for the coastal breeze, comfortable walking shoes, and an appetite for seafood. Tip: The water-resistant AT Pant is perfect for their versatility and comfort. Pair them with a cotton Henley for an ideal outfit for exploring both urban and coastal areas.
Source: kaideck_photography
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Why visit: Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers outdoor adventures and charming attractions.
- What to do: Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and riding the Skylift to Ober Gatlinburg for panoramic views are highlights. Exploring local shops and dining in rustic mountain restaurants complete the experience.
- What to pack: Hiking gear, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and a sense of adventure. Tip: Pack 1-2 performance pants, a polyester-blended tee and a rain shell for unpredictable weather or layering. Also, do not forget about a sun hat - the Western Rise Versa Hat is great for hiking, providing sun protection and breathability.
Source: greatsmokynps
Bar Harbor, Maine
- Why visit: This quaint coastal town is the gateway to Acadia National Park, offering stunning ocean views and outdoor activities.
- What to do: Exploring Acadia’s trails like the Precipice Trail and Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views, going whale watching on a boat tour from Bar Harbor, and strolling the Shore Path for scenic coastal views are our favorite activities. Savoring local seafood at Geddy’s or the Side Street Cafe is always a treat.
- What to pack: Hiking boots, layers for changing weather, and binoculars for wildlife spotting. Tip: Wear an ultra-soft cotton polo with our travel pants which are great for both hiking and casual dining, thanks to their durability and comfort.
Source: acadianps, photo by Brady Richards
Olympic National Park, Washington
- Why visit: With its diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to alpine peaks, Olympic National Park is an adventurer's dream that we can't resist.
- What to do: Hiking the Hoh Rain Forest for a lush, green experience, relaxing at Lake Crescent with its clear blue waters, and exploring the rugged coastline at Rialto Beach or Second Beach are our top activities. Visiting Hurricane Ridge for stunning mountain views is a must.
- What to pack: Rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, and layers for varying weather conditions. Tip: Opt for Western Rise Evolution Pants are water-resistant and durable, making them perfect for the varied weather conditions of Olympic National Park paired with a naturally odor-resistant merino wool tee.
Source: olympic_nps, photo by Grant Longenbaugh
Aspen, Colorado
- Why visit: Famous for its winter sports, Aspen is equally stunning in the summer, and we love the year-round beauty.
- What to do: Hiking the Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed peaks in North America, enjoying mountain biking on the extensive trails, and attending the Aspen Music Festival for classical music performances are exciting activities of your choice. Visiting the Aspen Art Museum for contemporary art exhibitions adds to the cultural experience.
- What to pack: Layers for the mountain weather, outdoor mountain gear, and a love for both nature and culture. Tip: The sun hoodie is perfect for layering in the changing mountain weather over a cotton tee and comfy joggers.
Source: landscapesbysho
Nashville, Tennessee
- Why visit: Known as Music City, Nashville offers a vibrant music scene and Southern hospitality.
- What to do: Visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about music legends, enjoy live music on Broadway at iconic venues like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, and explore local cuisine at places like Biscuit Love and Hattie B’s Hot Chicken are must-dos. Taking a tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium is a highlight.
- What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, casual yet stylish outfits for nightlife, and a love for music. Tip: The Western Rise Limitless Merino Wool Shirt together with men’s chinos, is stylish and comfortable, perfect for a night out exploring Nashville’s music scene.
Source: sumsnet
With these unique and varied destinations, your 4th of July travel will be anything but ordinary and truly memorable.
Nearby 4th of July Getaways Ideas
If the destinations listed above don't work for you or you’ve visited them all, here are some more places to go for the 4th of July nearby, no matter where you’re located. We’ve also included some destination examples from our personal experiences:
- Cultural Festival: Music, food, and thematic festivals are traditional 4th of July activities found almost everywhere. For larger events, visit the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C.; the Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City, Utah; or the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe. Tip: Look for event calendars on local tourism websites or social media for details and schedules. And check out our latest festival packing list to be prepared for it.
- Art and History Museum Tour: Many museums have special exhibits around Independence Day. We recommend the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.; the Philadelphia Museum of Art; or the Museum of the American Revolution. Tip: Check museum websites for special events and consider purchasing tickets in advance.
- City Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt with clues leading to historic sites and landmarks in your city. For something new, consider places like Philadelphia with its Revolutionary War history, or Northern Michigan for small-town charm and 4th of July parades. Tip: Use local tourism apps or websites to plan your scavenger hunt.
- Historical Reenactments: Experience history firsthand with events like the reenactment of the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania and Colonial Williamsburg’s Independence Day celebrations in Virginia. Tip: Search local tourism boards or social media to find nearby reenactments.
- National Park Exploration: Spend the day hiking and exploring a national park. Consider Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Great Smoky Mountains. On the East Coast, Shenandoah National Park offers beautiful views and less crowded trails. Tip: Visit the National Park Service website to find lesser-known trails.
- Mountain Hiking: If you're up for a challenge, hike the Appalachian Trail, summit Mount Rainier in Washington, or explore the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Tip: Use hiking apps or local groups on social media to find the best trails and get insider tips. Get to know what to pack for a mountain trip before you even start planning it.
- Road Trip to Historic Sites: Plan a road trip to nearby historic landmarks with stops at lesser-known locations. Favorites include Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown in Virginia; Fort Laramie in Wyoming; and Mackinac Island in Michigan. Tip: Check local tourism websites or historical societies for hidden gems.
- Camping Under the Stars: Spend the night at a campsite under the stars. Recommended destinations are Joshua Tree in California, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Glacier National Park in Montana. Tip: Check campsite availability and book early through sites like Recreation.gov or local state park websites.
- Lake/Beach Activities: Spend the day at a lake or beach. Visit Lake Tahoe for its clear waters, Table Rock Lake, Missouri for Americana lake life, Michigan Lakes, or the Outer Banks in North Carolina. For beach destinations, consider Cayucos, Huntington Beach, and Pismo Beach in California for fireworks views from the pier. Tip: Local visitor centers and tourism websites can help you find the best spots and activities. Also, don't forget to check our lake packing list to save time when thinking about all the things you need.
Travel Tips for an Independence Day Trip
Well, now that you’ve decided on the destination for the 4th of July weekend, or you’re close to this point, it’s time to start your weekend preparation. To help you with smooth trip planning, we’ve prepared our top travel tips for 4th of July travel that work best for us.
- Plan Ahead: Booking accommodations and activities in advance is crucial for the Fourth of July. Popular destinations like national parks, beaches, and historic sites fill up quickly around the holiday, so secure your reservations early.
- Travel Deals: Look for travel deals on last-minute July 4th getaways to save on your trip.
- Pack Smart: Make a checklist of weekend travel essentials, including patriotic attributes. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and bug spray for outdoor festivities.
- Travel Early or Late: To avoid the holiday rush, try traveling during off-peak hours. Leaving early in the morning or late at night can help you skip the traffic and crowds.
- Use Navigation Apps: Make sure to use a reliable navigation app with real-time traffic updates. Apps like Waze or Google Maps can help you avoid holiday traffic jams and find the fastest routes.
- Comfort is Key: Bring along travel pillows, blankets, and comfortable clothing for long drives. Trust us, a cozy setup can make all the difference on a long road trip.
- Car Maintenance: Ensure your car is in good condition for hot weather travel. Check tire pressure, and oil levels, and have an emergency kit with tools, a flashlight, and jumper cables.
- Public Transportation: Use public transportation to navigate the city and reach attractions, avoiding traffic congestion.
- Avoid Heat and Humidity: Since Florida and surrounding areas can be overwhelmingly hot and humid, consider destinations further north or with cooler climates. Hydrate well and dress appropriately for the weather.
- Check for Specific Events: While local festivals and fireworks are common, check for specific events in smaller towns or suburbs that might offer better experiences than major cities.
- Consider Working Hours: Some tourist sites and businesses may be closed on the 4th of July, but national parks and public celebrations are typically accessible.
With these travel tips, your 4th of July trip will be smooth, enjoyable, and memorable. Get ready to hit the road and celebrate in style!
Summing up
Celebrate the 4th of July with a twist by exploring some of the unique places to go for the 4th of July getaways from our list. From the stunning red rocks of Sedona to the bohemian culture of Asheville, each location offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. We've shared our favorite spots and packing tips to ensure your holiday is unforgettable, making it easy to take your 4th of July weekend to the next level with friends and family. Happy 4th of July celebration!
