Where Should You Celebrate July 4th This Year?

PHOTO: Fourth of July fireworks in Washington DC. (photo via Flickr/Anthony Quintano) Independence Day is fast approaching. Do you have your travel plans set?If you’re looking to get away, there are firework displays and fun times all over. So it’s all about where you want to go and how you want to celebrate on July 4th.Here are some options around the world to consider for a holiday excursion.Boston  Experiencing the fourth of July in Boston should be a must for every American at some point in their life. Immerse yourself in the rich history that surrounds the city and its harbor (just don’t throw any tea in it!).Then, party all day and night at the annual Boston Pops concert. It’s a major event with a top-notch fireworks show and will also feature performances from Andy Grammar, Melissa Etheridge and Leslie Odom, Jr.Washington DCGet extra patriotic by celebrating the holiday in our nation’s capital. The Independence Day Parade will begin at 11:45 a.m. on Constitution Avenue and 7th Street. The United States Army Band’s music ensemble performs songs on the Washington Monument grounds, with a huge fireworks show later on the National Mall that will illuminate the night’s sky over the Washington Monument.You can get up close and watch the show from the Lincoln Memorial, or view it from any rooftop bar you can get access to.Atlanta If you’re looking for Fourth of July fireworks in Atlanta, Centennial Park District is the place to be. Make sure to arrive early, as this will be the city’s only fireworks display. Feast on some delicious burgers or hot dogs from The Varsity, then head over to the College Football Hall of Fame for an afternoon of family fun before walking to grab a spot in the park to watch the big show.For those who don't feel like walking anywhere, Lyft is offering a 25 percent discount to anyone traveling to the Centennial Olympic Park District between noon and 4 p.m., as well as anyone leaving the area between midnight and 2 a.m.  READ MORE Record Numbers Hitting the Road for Independence Day   New OrleansStay at the Royal Sonesta New Orleans and party all night long on your balcony overlooking Bourbon Street.If you’d prefer a different kind of show, check out the Dueling Barges Fireworks display at Go 4th on the River. Before the big event, arrive early and be amazed at the water show from the General Roy S. Kelley fireboat. It’s making a return appearance this year and will shoot out red, white and blue water fountains.ArizonaSpend time at the Grand Canyon National Park and stick around for the 39th Annual Grand Canyon 4th of July Celebration. Fireworks near one of the world’s greatest marvels, how cool would that be?There’s also Flagstaff, Arizona. After all, it has "flag" in its town name, which just feels right to celebrate on Independence Day. Flagstaff throws an old-fashioned community parade including vintage vehicles, floats and music. International You don’t always have to stay in the states to celebrate the Fourth. If you have the extra time off from work, turn your trip into an extended weekend at a tropical getaway!Pack your bags and book a stay at one of the many great islands in the Bahamas. Nassau is gorgeous as is Atlantis Paradise Island. You can hit the Aquaventure water park at Atlantis, get certified for scuba diving and snorkeling to see marine life up close or jump in a boat and go island hopping. I'd recommend heading to Exuma to swim with the pigs! Then there’s also Club Med San Salvador, which offers a massive beach with a private feel.Ka’ana Resort in San Ignacio, Belize is celebrating 10 year anniversary this year while offering complimentary nightly events from now until September 21—valued at $200 per person for a four-night stay—as well as a Summer Respite package that offers a 35 percent discount.Follow @EricBowman_