Washington D.C. ranked as the number 8 “must-see fireworks spectaculars happening this summer,” according to USA Today experts and readers. So, if you were planning on going away this Fourth of July, you might want to change your plans. The Fourth of July fireworks in D.C. above the National Mall draw in thousands from all over the country, and their light is going much farther than D.C.
The gobsmacking display of whites, blues, and silvers mirroring off the aptly named Reflection Pool are truly incomparable:
A bucket list destination for generations of Americans, the annual fireworks show on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. draws hundreds of thousands of spectators to the nation’s capital for a 35-minute display launched from both sides of the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial. Fireworks can be seen from a variety of locations, but “across the Potomac River or on a river boat offers the best views,” says expert Nicky Omohundro.
D.C. ranked number 8 according to the USA Today list. The top spot went to Navy Pier in Chicago, followed by San Diego’s Big Bay Boom, Addison Kaboom Town in Addison Texas, Philly, Nashville, Boston, Missouri, and finally D.C. Following D.C. as number 9 and 10 respectively are San Francisco and New Orleans.
If you can make it to the National Mall for the Fourth of July fireworks in D.C. it’s well worth it and something to mark off your bucket list! However, if you want to skip the crowds, t are below we also noted some lesser known yet equally fabulous options to observe Fourth of July fireworks in the D.C. area:
1. National Mall
The quintessential D.C. fireworks spot. If you’ve never been, this is your sign to go!
2. The Wharf
A popular yet slightly less crowded spot. Celebrate the Fourth at The Wharf with a waterfront fireworks display surrounded by boats and yachts in all sizes!
3. Potomac River
Speaking of boats…did you know you can catch the fireworks directly from a kayak on the Potomac River? There’s truly nothing like it but remember not to boat in the direction of the fireworks. Embark D.C. Boat Tours, City Cruises and Monumental Boat Tours offer special boating tours the night of the Fourth!
4. D.C. rooftop restaurants
Have dinner and a show by checking out some of these rooftop restaurants with unobstructed National Mall views!
- Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel
- Summit at the Conrad Hotel
- Vue at Hotel Washington
- Sky Bar at the Beacon Hotel
5. U.S. Supreme Court plaza
The 252-foot-wide plaza is a great vantage point for the Fourth of July fireworks in D.C. However, this popular viewing spot fills up fast. Come early!