Below are places in the D.C. area where you can catch a peak of the national celebration.
National Mall area
If you plan to watch the fireworks display at the National Mall, be prepared for crowds, road closures and security checkpoints. Here’s what you need to know.
Fireworks explode over Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol, along the National Mall in Washington, Wednesday, July 4, 2018, during the Fourth of July celebration.
(AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana
Though far away from the hubbub of the National Mall, the Washington National Cathedral provides a great vantage point from which to see the fireworks. that this would be an ideal spot for families and light picnicking. With that in mind, glass, alcohol or fireworks are not allowed on the grounds.
Earlier on July 4, the cathedral holds an Organists will be joined by the Washington Symphonic Brass for a program of patriotic favorites.聽
(WTOP/Mike Murillo)
WTOP/Mike Murillo
The grounds of the Netherlands Carillon offer sweeping views of D.C.
(WTOP/Hillary Howard)
WTOP/Hillary Howard
Supreme Court Plaza
Take in the view of the fireworks from the Capitol Hill area. getting there early to claim a seat for unobstructed views of the fireworks.
(AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
AP Photo/Patrick Semansky
United States Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial)
The United States Marine Corps War Memorial, better known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, is seen in Arlington, Va., Monday July 4, 2011, as fireworks burst over Washington, during the annual Fourth of July display. The Washington Monument and the Capitol can be seen in the distance.
(AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)
AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster
Hang out in Georgetown and then amble to the Kennedy Center in perfect timing with the start of the fireworks. If you’re able to view the fireworks from the Kennedy Center’s Roof Terrace, you’re in for one of the best views of the fireworks.
(Courtesy Sean Shanahan)
Courtesy Sean Shanahan
A popular area for picnicking and relaxing, Hains Point has beautiful views of the Potoma River, the Anacostia River and the Washington Channel.
(WTOP/Dave Dildine)
WTOP/Dave Dildine
Grab your bike, go for a run, or have a picnic along the many picnic areas on the Mount Vernon Trail;聽and time your journey to coincide with the fireworks.
The 18-mile trail starts at George Washington’s Mount Vernon in Alexandria, Virginia, and winds along the Potomac River for uninterrupted views of the D.C. skyline.
(AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin
Enjoy a day at The Wharf, where there are plenty of activities and where you can take in a water view of the fireworks.
(AP Photo/J. David Ake)
And if you don’t want to deal with the crowds, the heat or the checkpoints and just want to see some small-town Independence Day extravaganza, here are some July 4 events outside of the District:
Abigail Constantino started her journalism career writing for a local newspaper in Fairfax County, Virginia. She is a graduate of American University and The George Washington University.
