Are you wondering if DC is worth visiting for July 4th?
As a Certified Travel Consultant, I’ve researched the best tips for 4th July in Washington, D.C., so you don’t have to. July is one of the busiest and hottest times of the year to visit DC, but it’s also one of the best places to visit on the 4th of July.
As the capital of the United States of America, it’s only natural that visitors want to experience the most patriotic time of the year. However, with over 700,000 people attending the festivities, the crowds and knowing what to do can be overwhelming.
If it’s your first time visiting DC on July 4th, several tips will help make your experience amazing.
1. Choose a Hotel Based on Location
There are many hotel options to choose from in DC for the July celebrations, but the location is essential to keep in mind if you wish for less hassle and easy access to events. I sprung for the expense of the Waldorf Astoria, centrally located for the parade, musical events, fireworks, and much more. If the Waldorf isn’t within your budget, find a hotel centrally located in the location, and you won’t be disappointed.
2. Book Ahead and Tour the Whitehouse
Touring the White House requires advance planning, but with the legacy of history found within the walls of the house, it’s well worth it. Public self-guided tours are 45 minutes long and take place between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Even though you will receive a set tour time, you do need to arrive early, as the lines are long. To tour, you need to submit a request to your member of Congress a minimum of 21 days in advance and a maximum of 90 days.
If you are an international visitor, contact your home country’s embassy in DC. Tour slots are granted on a first come, first serve basis, so submit your form early as tours fill up quickly.
Know what you are allowed to bring before you go; if you show up with prohibited items, including backpacks, you will be turned away. Please click here to uncover allowable items. All guests over 18 years old are required to present a valid, government-issued ID, and foreign nationals must present their passport upon check-in.
3. Book a Tour of The Capitol
Reservations are not required when visiting the U.S. Capitol, but I highly recommend it if you want a personalized free experience. The Capitol visitor center is open Monday – Saturday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. U.S. residents can request a tour directly through the offices of their Representative or Senators.
These Congressional offices sometimes offer their own staff-led tours, and most can help reserve a general tour. You can locate your representative here or your senators here.
4. Enjoy Some Live Music
Visitors are encouraged to attend free concerts. Last year, the U.S. Air Force Band showcased local DC artists along Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 12th and 13th Streets NW at 5 p.m. It’s a great way to come together with family and friends and free to the public.
5. Line Up Early for The Parade
With a vast number of attendees, it’s important to arrive early. The annual Independence Day Parade starts at 11:45 am on the 4th, and you can find a spot along Constitution NW Avenue or 7th Street NW.
The parade consists of floats, balloons, military, and bands from all over the country that have been invited to play. I recommend bringing a bottle of water to stay hydrated as the parade lasts until 2 pm.
6. Take in The Fireworks
The 4th of July fireworks show is held over the National Mall, and it’s absolutely spectacular. But it can get crowded, so be prepared to arrive early and bring your patience to go with the flow of the crowd when the fireworks end. It can take up to 2 hours to exit the National Mall.
Check with your hotel for alternative and best viewing options as I had a great view without being in the center of the crow, and the exit was seamless and not as crowded. There is a security checkpoint when you enter the Mall, and no glass bottles or alcohol are allowed. Admission is free; the show starts at 9 pm.
The Wrap-Up
And there you have it—the 6 best tips for an amazing visit 4th July in Washington DC.
With so many free museum options and monuments to visit, making the right selection for a short stay can be overwhelming, especially during the holidays. But if you follow these six valuable tips, you are sure to have an amazing and memorable visit.
For excursion bookings, click here with Viator.
