The best U.S. cities to celebrate American festivities this year
As the fireworks season approaches and the summer travel season kicks into gear, Americans nationwide prepare to celebrate Independence Day in unforgettable ways. In 2025, the search for the ultimate Fourth of July destination will be more exciting than ever.
Luggage storage network Bounce.com has uncovered the best US cities for celebrating the country’s most beloved holidays, including the 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
We've revealed which cities offer the best blend of atmosphere and affordability by analyzing key factors like average hotel prices, parade schedules, and historical weather data. We have also considered how quickly travelers can reach the action, looking at transport times from major airports into the city.
Whether you’re a fireworks enthusiast, a family planner, or a spontaneous traveler, our guide is a go-to for planning a celebration in 2025.
The best U.S. cities to celebrate July 4th this year
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1. New York City
7.03 out of 10
New York City is an epic place to celebrate the nation’s favorite holiday, especially if you like big energy, fireworks, and a mix of iconic and local events. Some major 4th of July events include Macy’s 4th of July fireworks, one of the biggest shows in the country, and rooftop parties offering stunning skyline views. Macy’s is traditionally a free, public event, where the public can enjoy the fireworks without purchasing tickets. However, for the first time in over a decade, the city offered 10,000 free front-row tickets for prime viewing areas at Hudson River Park’s Pier 45 and 84, which have now been claimed.
The home of the Big Apple is probably more affordable than you think, with the average price for a one-night stay at a three-star hotel costing $150. Over the last year, 37,860 articles praised New York City for its 4th of July events, a testament to the city’s favor during the party season. An article by Hudson Yards suggested many spots with stunning views to watch the fireworks, including The Edge bar, for skyscraper views and a DJ, and Verano, which offers an open bar from 7:30 - 9:30 pm and a fireworks view over the Hudson.
2. Austin
6.85 out of 10
Austin is the go-to city in 2025 if you want big American festivities with a laid-back,
music-filled vibe. It is renowned for eight vibrant and diverse 4th of July fireworks events, including Willie Nelson's 4th of July Picnic, which returns to Austin in 2025 at the newly opened Q2 Stadium. This all-day music festival features an impressive lineup, including Willie Nelson & Family, Tyler Childers, Dwight Yoakam, Shakey Graves, and more. Ticket prices for the picnic vary based on seating and package options, but general admission tickets start as low as $80.
There’s also the Austin Symphony H-E-B July 4th Concert. It is Austin's largest free Independence Day celebration, with the Austin Symphony Orchestra performing patriotic music and ending with a grand fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake. Families can enjoy the fireworks from various vantage points along the lake, including the South First Street Bridge, Congress Avenue Bridge, and Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge.
Austin is an excellent option for convenient travel. It is a short 17-minute drive from the airport to downtown, one of the quickest access times, making it easy for travelers. It also has a clear sky score of 6, which suggests a decent chance of pleasant weather during the celebrations.
3. Seattle
6.19 out of 10
Seattle might not be the first city that comes to mind for 4th of July celebrations, but our research shows it should be. Known for its stunning natural beauty and iconic skyline, Seattle offers a uniquely scenic backdrop for Independence Day. There are five major fireworks events to celebrate the 4th of July.
Seattle’s signature free event, Seafair Summer Fourth, features a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Union, complete with choreographed music, food vendors, and family entertainment. With plenty of parks, water views, and boat rentals, there are endless ways to enjoy the show.
Seattle stands out for the highest searches, with 85 per 10,000 people, indicating strong local curiosity about its events. It is also reasonably affordable, with an average 3-star hotel price of $157 per night. The travel time from the airport to downtown is also moderate, at 31 minutes.
While the city’s clear sky score of 6 means there’s a reasonable chance of dry weather, locals know how to celebrate come rain or shine. If you’re looking for a festive atmosphere with a Northwest twist, enjoy the fireworks, fresh seafood, and waterfront views that Seattle delivers.
The ultimate U.S. Thanksgiving getaway cities in 2025
1. Las Vegas
6.79 out of 10
Las Vegas tops the chart as the best Thanksgiving destination. The city has something for all, whether you’re seeking festive feasts, family-friendly fun, or exciting entertainment. If you’re eager to tuck into a Thanksgiving feast, the Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas offers a German-inspired dinner with a festive Bavarian atmosphere. Revere Golf Club also offers a traditional buffet.
The exciting city holds many events over Thanksgiving, including the Barry Manilow Residency, where the legendary performer continues his residency at Westgate Las Vegas, offering a sensational show to kick off the holiday season. The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village provides a dazzling display of holiday lights, a decorated train, and an enchanted carousel. It is a cherished Southern Nevada tradition, perfect for families.
Las Vegas also ranked highest for Google searches among our top five US cities for Thanksgiving, with 97 per 1,000 people.
2. New York City
6.43 out of 10
NYC hosts its annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Thanksgiving, with giant balloons, marching bands, celebrities, and festive floats marching down Central Park. This world-famous event draws visitors across the globe, making NYC synonymous with the holiday for many. There are also plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner.
Last year, there were 4,170 searches for New York City’s Thanksgiving parade, which was by far the highest number on the list, a testament to the city’s favor during the party season. The average drive from the airport to downtown is longer than most cities, at 46 minutes, but the wealth of attractions makes up for the commute. Supported by a rich lineup of holiday events, ice skating rinks, and the famous Rockefeller Center lights, which kick off right after Thanksgiving.
3. Austin
6.36 out of 10
Austin’s vibrant culture, clear autumn skies, and warm hospitality help earn its spot as one of the best Thanksgiving destinations. Thanksgiving in Austin offers a mix of Texan charm and seasonal celebrations, with many events to get involved in.
The city’s ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot, an annual Thanksgiving Day run, brings thousands together for a good cause, supporting Caritas of Austin. The beloved tradition combines fitness, community, and philanthropy. While it doesn’t host a grand parade like NYC, the festive spirit in Austin is strong, with holiday lights, live music, and local Thanksgiving feasts at popular eateries like Threadgills and The Driskill.
There were 343 Thanksgiving-related articles showcasing Austin’s exciting line-up of events over the last year and 73 searches per 10,000 people, a testament to the city’s growing popularity during the festive season.
The top U.S. destinations to celebrate Christmas
1. New York City
6.43 out of 10
NYC is also a big hit during the festive season, and the city is full of magical vibes, including the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (and skating rink), Bryant Park Winter Village, Union Square Holiday Market, and Columbus Circle. There’s a full lineup of seasonal shows like The Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Although NYC doesn’t offer large-scale fireworks, its dazzling lights and festive spirit more than make up for it. The Saks Fifth Avenue Lightshow provides a mesmerizing light display synchronized to music and festive window displays starting in early December.
Some unique experiences include the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden, which showcases miniature trains winding through replicas of the city’s landmarks. If you’re a theatre fan, there are plenty of seasonal performances, including A Christmas Carol at Merchant House and George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center.
2. Phoenix
6.21 out of 10
Phoenix stands out as a warm weather alternative for a Christmas getaway in 2025, a top choice for those seeking winter sunshine instead of snow. While Phoenix doesn’t match New York’s high search volumes, it still saw 2,220 Christmas-related searches (13 per 10,000 people). The city offers a comfortable travel experience, with a short 11-minute drive from the airport to downtown and average 3-star hotel rates around $204 per night.
Phoenix combines Southwestern charm with traditional cheer during Christmas, from the Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden to the ZooLights display at Phoenix Zoo. It also hosts Christmas fireworks, adding an exciting visual spectacle to your trip that many cities don’t provide. Phoenix is a growing holiday hub for those who want to escape the cold but not miss out on the Christmas spirit.
3. Las Vegas
6.07 out of 10
Las Vegas also brings its signature sparkle to Christmas, offering a uniquely festive and fun experience. The city recorded 6,410 searches in the last year, or 97 per 10,000 people, the top search density of any city on the list, which shows its strong favor for holiday travelers.
When you’ve landed, getting into the city is easy with a quick 19-minute drive, so the city is accessible and appealing for those planning spontaneous getaways or extended holiday stays. Las Vegas offers a surprisingly robust lineup of seasonal attractions. The Bellagio Conservatory transforms into a dazzling winter display with thousands of poinsettias, lights, and a giant Christmas tree.
Despite its desert setting, Las Vegas maintains a festive atmosphere during Christmas, with various family-friendly attractions. The Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a 2.5-mile drive-through light show featuring a Santa tram, festive games, and plenty of photo opportunities. There are also plenty of festive pop-ups, with various bars and venues hosting holiday parties and rooftop ice-skating rinks.
The most iconic U.S. cities for New Year's festivities and fireworks
1. New York City
6.36 out of 10
New York is a premier destination for bringing in the New Year. In 2025, the city captivated visitors with its grand festivities, drawing an estimated 1 million people to Times Square for the iconic ball drop. The evening commenced with the lighting and rising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square. The event featured live music by artists such as Carrie Underwood, Jonas Brothers, and TLC. In 2024, there were four major fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve. However, the Central Park traditional fireworks display was canceled in 2024 due to drought and safety concerns.
The New York Road Runners (NYRR), who usually organize the fireworks during their Midnight Run in Central Park, initially planned to replace the pyrotechnics with a drone light show. However, this plan was also scrapped after a tragic incident in Florida, where a drone severely injured a child during a holiday event.
Beyond Times Square, NYC offers a plethora of live performances and events to celebrate the monumental occasion. Funk Flex’s Winter Fest is held on December 28 and features artists like Bryson Tiller and Meek Mill. The Harlem Gospel Choir is also at the Blue Note for a soulful performance on the big day.
NYC also offers unique New Year’s Eve cruises along the Hudson River, with spectacular views of the city’s skyline and fireworks, and plenty of rooftop parties for dancing the night away.
2. Austin
6.14 out of 10
Austin provides an unforgettable setting to celebrate New Year's Eve. Its official fireworks event takes place at Auditorium Shores. The event features live performances, food trucks, and a midnight fireworks display. It is free and open to the public, with a family-friendly atmosphere to ring in the new year.
For travelers seeking a more upscale experience, Fairmont Austin hosts a glamorous New Year’s Eve Bash on its 7th-floor rooftop. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of downtown Austin, live music, gourmet bites, and a midnight champagne toast. Tickets are $125 per person and are available through the official event page. Electric Shuffle Austin, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”, attendees can enjoy high-tech shuffleboard, a live DJ, passed hors d'oeuvres, and an open bar in this lively and interactive setting. The event is 21+ only, and prices start at $125 for early admission or $159 for standard admission.
Over 2,100 New Year-related searches were conducted in the city, indicating strong public interest in celebrating the holiday.
3. Las Vegas
6.07 out of 10
For fireworks enthusiasts, Las Vegas is a top choice. Renowned for its dazzling nightlife, upscale venues, and iconic landmarks, the city offers a New Year’s experience that's truly one of a kind. There are four major fireworks displays on NYE in Las Vegas.
The city ushered in 2025 with its renowned “America’s Party” fireworks display, a synchronized pyrotechnic show launched from nine major resorts along the Strip rooftops. The eight-minute spectacle featured over 80,000 fireworks, choreographed to music, illuminating the night sky. While the fireworks display is free, some areas along the Strip may be restricted or require access tickets, especially near the launch zones.
Fremont Street, the second-most famous street in the Las Vegas Valley and the state of Nevada, also hosts the "Time of Your Life Celebration," with performances by big artists such as Flo Rida, 3oh!3, and Bow Wow. The event requires a $50 ticket for entry.
While the Las Vegas Strip hosts its iconic midnight fireworks, families can enjoy more relaxed viewing experiences at local parks such as Exploration Peak Park, Desert Breeze Park, and Majestic Park to avoid the crowds. There are also plenty of family-friendly events, such as Noon Year’s Eve at Town Square, which is free and features inflatable bounce houses, a rock wall, and a live DJ.
Cody Candee, CEO and Founder of Bounce.com, comments on our findings:
“New York City continues to set the gold standard for American holiday celebrations, and the Fourth of July in 2025 proves why it remains a top choice for travelers, especially families.
“From the iconic Macy’s fireworks show, now offering free front-row access at Hudson River Park, to countless family-friendly events, parades, and rooftop celebrations, NYC delivers an unforgettable experience for all ages.
“With over 38,000 total media mentions and the highest occasions score across the seasons, the city captures the nation’s attention every year. Families are also drawn by the unique combination of attractions, like Central Park picnics, skyline cruises, and world-famous museums and landmarks, alongside budget-friendly accommodation options.
“Whether planning ahead or making a last-minute getaway, New York blends tradition, spectacle, and accessibility unlike any other city in the U.S.”
Cody Candee also offers some tips on preparing for your American celebrations getaway:
1. Pack a flat-pack celebration kit
A lightweight portable “celebration kit” will bring a festive touch to your getaway. This kit can include small, travel-friendly items such as foldable decorations (like paper lanterns or mini bunting), reusable tupperware in patriotic colors for the 4th of July, or a Bluetooth speaker for music.
2. Have a luggage-ready photo backdrop
Travelers could also include a foldable, luggage-ready photo backdrop in their plans. Whether you’re heading to a beach house, a national park, or a city rooftop, a lightweight and compact backdrop can instantly turn any space into a festive photo opportunity.
3. The ‘occasion outfit’ protocol
Pack your special occasion outfit in your hand luggage, just in case your checked-in luggage gets lost. The last thing you want is to be without your planned outfit because of lost or delayed baggage.
4. Pack a firework viewing blanket in your carry-on
Packing a dedicated blanket specifically for firework viewing in your carry-on can enhance your comfort during Independence Day or any evening celebrations. A compact, foldable blanket can be a game-changer for sitting on grass, sand, or pavement for hours. It can also double up as a picnic blanket.
5. Use packing cubes to pack bulkier clothing items
For colder celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s getaways, use packing cubes to manage bulkier clothing items such as coats, thick jumpers, and thermal layers. These structured cubes help compress your clothes, maximize space, and organize your suitcase.
Methodology
A list of the top 30 most populous cities in the US was taken from Wikipedia.
The driving times in minutes from each airport to the city’s downtown area were found using Google Maps on 17th April 2025. Each city’s closest airport was used.
The average hotel price per night was taken from Booking.com for a three-star hotel. On 14 April 2025, these prices were converted from GBP to USD using XE.
Google News was used to find all articles mentioning “4th of July fireworks” and “4th of July parade”, followed by each city name. The same was done for Thanksgiving, using “Thanksgiving parade CITY”, “Christmas fireworks CITY” and “New Year fireworks CITY”. This data is correct as of 17 April 2025.
The number of searches was collected from Google Keyword Planner, using the search term “*CITY* 4th of July”. This data is correct as of 22 April 2025.
Each city’s weather type was recorded from Weather Spark on the evening of the 4th of July over the past five years (2020-2024). Each type of weather was given a score out of 6 to calculate a clear sky score for each city.
Using the PERCENTRANK formula in Google Sheets, each city was given a normalized occasion score out of 10. Each city was given a +2 to boost the scores.
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