Nothing beats seeing the Independence Day fireworks against DC’s skyline of monuments and memorial
Watching the fireworks is one of the highlights of Independence Day in Washington, DC and fortunately, the city and the surrounding area offer a plethora of scenic viewing options. President Biden and Mayor Muriel E. Bowser have welcomed visitors back to the District to celebrate the holiday in full with the fireworks display on the National Mall.
Find a spot on the National Mall
The National Mall is the most popular place to watch the fireworks display, with attendees staking out spots near the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and an array of other locales across DC’s most scenic space. The 17-minute display will start at 9:09 p.m. and will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
Experience the fireworks from across the Potomac River
Watch from across the Potomac River at some ideal viewing areas. Check out the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, and the nearby Netherlands Carillon in Virginia. With the mesmerizing Marine Corps War Memorial statue as the backdrop, the fireworks take on even greater meaning.
Take a family-friendly fireworks cruise
Your fireworks viewing can hit the next level with a sightseeing cruise along the Potomac River. Check out what safe options Embark DC Boat Tours, City Cruises and Monumental Boat Tours are offering for the Fourth of July holiday, as well as all summer long.
Several rooftop bars offer panoramic views of the fireworks
There a plenty of great rooftop bars that offer the ideal setting for watching the fireworks in the District. VUE Rooftop Lounge and Terrace at Hotel Washington, the Conrad Hotel’s Summit Rooftop, La Vie and Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel are just a few of the spots that could make for great Independence Day (or should we say night) revelry.
Check into a hotel overlooking the Potomac River or National Mall
For a luxurious place to experience the DC fireworks, check into The Hay-Adams, with a penthouse space that offers panoramic views of the White House and National Mall. Many of the guest rooms at JW Marriott Washington, DC also face the Mall, as well as the Mandarin Oriental Washington, D.C. on the Southwest Waterfront.