Curbside’s Top Picks for Viewing the Nation’s Fireworks

It’s that time of year! The weather is spectacular, the kids are out for the summer, pool days are on the weekly agenda —– and everyone’s stressing about where they’re going to watch the Fireworks. Well, your wish is my command! Here’s a list of Curbside’s favorite spots to watch the Independence Day fireworks. Happy Fourth!

The National Mall, with Washington D.C.’s historical monuments and the U.S. Capitol in the background as a beautiful and patriotic backdrop to America’s Independence Day celebrations, the mall always serves as a winner for the 4^th! I know most people worry about the throngs of people in attendance and try to steer clear of this location, but the Mall offers a full day celebration for things everyone in the family can enjoy. From the parade along Constitution Avenue in the morning, to the many street vendors, live music, and celebratory festivities that fill your entire day until you watch the spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument at night; your Independence day will be packed with entertainment and things to do.Here’s the schedule:Washington D.C.’s Independence Day Parade starts at 11:45 AM and marches along Constitution avenue from 7^th Street to 17^th Street. Enjoy Marching Bands, military and specialty units, floats and VIPs. Plan to arrive early – the parade draws a big crowd!
Smithsonian Folklife Festival hours are 11am – 5 pm. The event includes daily and evening musical and dance performances, cooking and craft demonstrations, storytelling and discussions of cultural issues.

A Capitol Fourth Concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. A 4^th of July tradition includes a live concert by the National Symphony Orchestra and several pop artists performing patriotic music on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. It’s free and open to the public!

The Fireworks! They begin at dark, which is usually around 9:15pm. The fireworks are launched at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and light up the sky above the Washington Monument.
Another favorite is the East Potomac Park! A 300+ acre peninsula located between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River on the south side of the Tidal Basin. The park is a popular place to spend the day biking, golfing, running, fishing, playing tennis and picnicking. It has fantastic views of the city and will not fail you when looking for a spot to watch the fireworks with the family. Your kids can enjoy playgrounds and plenty of space to run around; definitely a family favorite. You can even enjoy the public pool (open June to mid-October from 1pm – 8pm on weekdays (except Wednesday) and Noon – 6 pm on weekends) while you wait for the fireworks to start at 9:15!

Number three requires tickets, but boy is it worth it! A dinner cruise aboard the Odyssey offers a first class view of the fireworks over the Washington Monument and throws in an amazing dinner, live entertainment and dancing, a premium open bar and great service. Check out their website HERE for more details.
The Marine Corps War Memorial (a.k.a. the Iwo Jima Memorial) is located on Marshall Drive between Route 50 and Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington,VA. It’s also right by the Rosslyn Metro Station if you plan on doing some drinking and want a safe trip home. Being right by the Arlington Cemetery, the Netherlands Carillon, a bell tower, and a beautiful park; you are at another gorgeous area for some sight seeing, picnicking, and firework viewing.
The Observatory above The Graham Hotel in Georgetown offers panoramic views of D.C., including the Washington Monument and her July 4th firework display. You’ll also have views of the other historic sights such as the Kennedy Center, Georgetown and the Rosslyn skyline. Get there early enough to grab your seat, order an awesome cocktail and watch the sunset as you prepare yourself for the show. Reservations are required, so book now! Check out their website HERE.
The W Hotel in Washington D.C. is the closest hotel to the White House and has an incredible rooftop view of the city and the fireworks! It hosts an annual July 4th celebration entitled “Boom with a View” and is selling tickets NOW! Check ’em out HERE. The evening offers an insane view of the National Fireworks display from the P.O.V. Roof Terrace and Lounge while serving first class cocktails that makes any occasion a special one. Guests must be 21 years of age and with a valid ID.
The Capella, in Georgetown, is another great rooftop with a view! Their package is a little unique and for a very limited number of people so call ASAP to see if there is space. It includes one night stay in one of their beautiful rooms with views of the C&O Canal and Georgetown. You will enjoy the fireworks from their private rooftop bar and lounge which offers alcoholic wines and cocktails as well as non-alcoholic cocktails. Capella’s Culinary Team will have a delicious barbecue that starts at 5pm – 8pm for 49$ per person and 29$ for children. On the morning of the 5th, the celebrations continue! Your package will also include breakfast for two in The Grill Room from 6:30 am – 10:30 am. Each room and suite includes daily afternoon amenities and a refreshment center with complimentary drinks, coffees and teas. Talk about a 4th to remember! Package deals sold HERE.
Last, but definitely not least, the Kennedy Center Terrace. With what is sure to be an amazing dinner partnered with a stellar show above an incredible view, you can’t go wrong with the rooftop of the Kennedy Center. Again, this spot will be in demand — book your seats now!

Happy Independence Day from Curbside!!