With COVID-19 restrictions slowly easing and vaccines available, things are gradually regaining normalcy, and you may want to consider traveling again. That said, there’s no better way to enjoy your newly found freedom from the confines of your home than visiting top U.S. travel destinations this summer in celebration of America’s Independence Day. To make your trip as memorable as possible, we’ve compiled a list of the top spots you should check out to celebrate this Fourth of July.
Seven U.S. Travel Destinations to Visit This Independence Day
If you’ve always wanted to be surrounded by parades, American flags flying everywhere, barbeques, and patriotic people all around you, here are some top travel destinations to add to your travel list for Independence Day:
1. The Grand Canyon, Arizona
Patriotism isn’t just about celebrating American history – patriotism is also celebrating our country’s vast natural beauty. In that light, the Grand Canyon is one of the most epic and unique natural wonders in the world.
It’s famed for its colorful rock layers, copper-colored rolling rivers, and varied, picturesque landscapes. The Canyon is also among the best places on earth to watch the magnificent wonder of an unpolluted starry sky at night. It even received an International Dark Sky certification.
Having been in existence for billions of years now, the Grand Canyon oozes not just immense natural beauty but also history. It’s a perfect fit for you if you’re a nature lover looking to experience American history through nature.
2. The Statue of Liberty, New York City
Besides hosting the country’s biggest firework shows, New York City is also home to America’s most iconic landmark and symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty. Also known as Lady Liberty, the 450,000-pound copper sculpture was a gift from France to the U.S.
The sculpture now stands at Ellis Island and is said to symbolize America’s freedom and opportunity. It is the first thing that the over 12 million immigrants who came to America between 1892 and 1954 in pursuit of the American dream saw.
The torch Lady Liberty holds signifies enlightenment, and in her other hand is a tablet bearing the date of America’s Declaration of Independence. It indeed deserves a spot on your list.
While on your patriotic adventure through New York, be sure to stop by other spots of patriotic importance such as the Stonewall Inn, the 9/11 Memorial Museum, and the Space Museum.
3. The Freedom Trail, Boston
The famous American Revolutionary War started in Boston, and the 2.5-mile red-bricked route on the Freedom Trail is the best place to experience what it was like. The Freedom Trail connects sixteen sites, each signifying a milestone in the Revolutionary War.
It starts at Boston Common and ends at Bunker Hill, but you can begin your tour anywhere. The trail is made up of historical churches and war hero cemeteries, meeting houses, iconic museums, and a horde of other historical attractions that portray America’s patriotism.
While guided tours are the most popular way to explore this iconic trail, you can also take the tour on your own.
4. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia
If you would like to pay homage to America’s most heroic fallen soldiers, Arlington National Cemetery is an excellent patriotic spot for you. It is the country’s largest military cemetery, spanning over 600 acres. The cemetery has been the final resting place for more than 400,000 military veterans who’ve lost their lives since the American Civil War. Some notable graves to check out include President John F. Kennedy, Audie L. Murphy, and Glenn Miller.
Besides the 600-acre cemetery, the Arlington National Cemetery also features interesting historical attractions such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its famous ceremony, known as the Changing of the Guard.
5. The Liberty Bell, Philadelphia
Perched on a steeple across from the Liberty Bell Center, the Liberty Bell is among the most popular top U.S. travel destinations. It’s said to have been the first sound Americans heard before the Declaration of Independence was read. It was of significance during World War I, when the bell helped unite Americans at a time when the country was in deep political and financial troubles.
Previously known as the State Bell, the Liberty Bell gained even more patriotic importance after slavery abolitionists adopted its symbol. Its last big crack occurred on Washington’s birthday, and even though it doesn’t ring anymore, it’s a symbol of our country’s unity and endurance through history.
What’s most exciting about adding the Liberty Bell to your list is that it’s surrounded by a bunch of other popular patriotic spots, such as Independence Hall.
6. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
The gigantic faces of four great American presidents carved from granite rock at Mount Rushmore showcase America’s rich history, artistic zeal, and natural beauty. The four sculptures were completed in 1921 as a way to promote tourism to the area.
Although they were never completed due to funding issues, the concept has since been successful, as the memorial now attracts over three million annual visitors. Mount Rushmore, in general, is a symbol of the nation’s ideals of freedom and democracy. It also represents our country’s birth, growth, and preservation.
7. Washington, D.C.
In an area packed to the brim with fantastic patriotic attractions, it’s hard to pick just one, which is why we’ll recommend various attractions within Washington, D.C.
Unfortunately, most museums are still closed in DC but you can still visit outdoor locations such as memorials for Presidents Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln. You can also pay thanks to fallen soldiers at the WWII memorial.
Explore Top U.S. Independence Day Travel Destinations Today
There’s no better way to truly celebrate your American spirit than by visiting national travel destinations. While there’s an array of them to choose from, the destinations listed above are excellent places to start.
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