10 Awesome Fireworks Displays for 4th of July Getaways

Washington, DC

Your family can enjoy an Independence Day parade complete with floats, marching bands and giant helium balloons.

The fireworks in DC are said to be spectacular. Because they are set off over the Reflecting Pool, the experience is enhanced by the mirror effect. Historic landmarks in the background, such as the Washington Monument, make for memorable and beautiful photographs.

A reading of the declaration of independence can be witnessed on the Constitution avenue steps where you can meet historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin and you can witness the signing of the declaration of independence. Take your family to the Smithsonian for more educational fun, and don't forget to save time for the evening concert and fireworks show.

Boston, MA

Food, fun and fireworks, the festivities are free and you can expect to share the event with approximately 500,000 people.

Music accompanies the fireworks in Boston. The Boston Pops have a tradition of adding their expertise to the fireworks experience. Music like the 1812 Overture adds greatly to the experience. The historic significance of Boston cannot be matched - it's the home of the American Revolution.

Boston hosts "America's Biggest Independence Day Party" on the Esplanade with the fireworks on the bank of the Charles River. The festivities begin on July 3rd with a Boston Pops concert and wrap up with a flyover by the Vermont National Air Guard and a spectacular fireworks show.

New York, NY

Macy's isn't just for the Christmas parade. New York has a lovely fireworks celebration each year, and it only gets bigger. Macy's fireworks are a 25-year tradition.

Take into account the view of the Statue of Liberty and the emotion surrounding this area on Independence Day and it's sure to be a beautiful evening full of fun and amazing fireworks.

Louisville, KY

In a celebration known as Thunder Over Louisville, fireworks are detonated on a grand scale.

Thunder Over Louisville is said to be the largest display of its kind in the US - some even say the largest in North America. It lasts just under a half hour and includes a unique fireworks "waterfall" off a bridge.

Colonial Williamsburg, VA

Jump back in time and visit living history as it was made. Actors walking the streets and residing in historic houses, bring to life the American Revolution.

Give your children the opportunity to meet Thomas Jefferson, see how and where he lived, and view a reenactment of the signing of the declaration of independence.

In addition to the military reenactment, children's activities are provided on the palace green. Music will fill the air all day long with a variety of concerts. The fabulous holiday ends with a fireworks display.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg, VA

I have to admit my family and I enjoyed Busch Gardens fireworks much more than Colonial Williamsburg's fireworks... and they're just a few minutes down the road from each other! Depending on your timing and where you manage to park you can see a bit of both displays.

Mount Rushmore

The colorful fireworks lighting up the faces of the famous is an experience you won't forget.

However, in years past there have not been fireworks if the risk of wildfires is significant. So be sure to plan this trip ahead of time and consider some alternatives just in case.

Nashville, TN

The fireworks in Nashville are set off on Riverfront Park, which makes for a spectacular display.

This is said to be a great place for families, so if you want to take your kids along, Nashville might work well for you.

Addison, TX

They say they do everything bigger in Texas, and fireworks displays are no exception! Just outside Dallas, the suburb of Addison gets national attention on the Fourth of July.

Its fireworks display attracts nearly half a million people each year, so be sure to call at least six months in advance for hotel and restaurant reservations.

Lake Tahoe, NV

The fireworks at Lake Tahoe are launched from a barge on the water.

Once again, the reflective surface of the water enhances the experience. You can go out on the water by boat, or view from anywhere around the lake.

Other wonderful places to consider visiting:

Walt Disney World., Orlando Florida. While Disney offers fireworks every night of the year, the Fourth of July fireworks are among the best in the country.

Austin, Texas. The Austin Symphony Orchestra makes this trip worth the effort.

San Francisco. Pier 39 is the place you want to be during the Fourth of July celebration.