Where to Spend the 4th of July

The Fourth of July is one of the best holidays to head out on a fun trip in the States. The country is festive, there are fireworks a'plenty, and the weather is amazing. Whether you have a big family or it's just you and a friend hitting the road, there are lots of places to visit this year.

Vermont
Twin Farms

Why It's Worth Visiting: This 300-acre estate is located just 10 miles north of picturesque Woodstock, Vermont, which has a Rockefeller estate, art galleries, and plenty of historical properties to explore. The farmhouse on the Twins Farms property was built in 1795, and the estate has been open to the public since 1993.

Nashville, Tennessee
Loews Vanderbilt Hotel Nashville

Why It's Worth Visiting: Nashville, Tennessee has a certain homegrown vibe that's great on the 4th, and a Vanderbilt-linked property is completely apropos to visit over one of our most patriotic holidays. Fine art, two restaurants, and two bars complete this stunning hotel's offerings. You can get a room with a view of Vanderbilt University, too.

Pennsylvania
The Lodge at Woodloch

Why It's Worth Visiting: Do you live somewhere that gets absolutely swamped in the summertime? Head to the spa to unwind. The Lodge at Woodloch is considered Pennsylvania's most luxurious spa destination, and you'll be able to relax the right way at this glamorous, tucked-away spot. Fresh and innovative dining options complete the hearty feel.

Boston
Boston Harbor Hotel

Why It's Worth Visiting: The Harbor Hotel is located at one of the oldest wharfs in the United States, so you're getting a slice of history right there. The hotel's snapped up Conde Nast's "Best Places to Stay" distinction and is a top place in the city to take in Boston's incredible fireworks display. Add this to your must-visit list!

Taj Boston

Why It's Worth Visiting: To celebrate its 75th anniversary, the Taj Boston underwent an extensive renovation. The hotel is right across the street from the Public Harden--another slice of Boston history--and it is surrounded by galleries and restaurants for the picking, not to mention the theatre district.

Fifteen Beacon Hotel

Why It's Worth Visiting: Celebrating the nation's history seems even more appropriate when you stay in a hotel built in 1903. The Fifteen Beacon Hotel is sleek and restful, which will provide a good foil to a rousing night of fireworks and dining al fresco. If you have extra time, consider spending a night in Cape Cod, too.

Chatham Bars Inn

Why It's Worth Visiting: New England-style cottages are dotted along this pretty resort, and they are perfect if you're traveling with family over the holidays. The Chatham Bars Inn should be on your list someday, and visiting this area over the summer, then it's even more of a must-book.

Florida
South Seas Island Resort

Why It's Worth Visiting: Get away from the craziness of the Fourth of July and head to Florida's South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island. This is one of Parents Magazine's Top 10 Beach Resorts for Families, and it is situated on a fantastic 330 acres. South Village and North Pointe, located in the same resort, provide different accommodation options.

You probably noticed that we included a few extra Boston luxury hotels. Boston's a great place to visit on the 4th, since the Boston Harborfest and Pops Spectactular are some of the best Fourth of July celebrations in the nation. If you want to steep yourself in some old-fashioned, Revolutionary culture, Boston's the place to be. It helps that they have great historically-themed ice cream, candy, and snacks, too.