Life is not complete without exploring the world. But as much as you love Europe during the summer, or that trip you took to the Galapagos, there’s no place like home. However you look at it, the United States is a special place. It doesn’t mean that it’s perfect, but the foundation of our country is what makes this the greatest place on earth. The United States is the only country in the world that allows people who aren’t born here to earn the right to say they’re American. And speaking of earning, this country is one of the few places where you can work your a** off, and, with a little bit of luck along the way, not need a birthright to succeed. They don’t call it the “American Dream” for nothing. So Happy Birthday America. These are the top places to celebrate the 4th of July.
The 4th of July is always a treat. It’s in the middle of summer and you get to spend time around a barbecue with family and friends. Of course, there’s the excitement of fireworks that transports us back to the wonder of our childhood. This year we’ve created a list of hotels which are perfect for the long weekend. These places are as Americana as it gets, with the spirit of freedom and celebration.
The Location: Montana
Where to Stay: Montage Big Sky and Holland Peak Ranch
Overview
Montana is known as Big Sky country for a reason. This is where you get a sense of scale, with the largest expanse of bright blue sky tearing across the mountains. At night, the sky turns into a cluster of stars that shine and twinkle like almost nowhere else in the United States. The state alone has sixty four mountain ranges including the Rockies, in addition to being the home of Yellowstone National Park. This landscape is quintessential America, which makes it one of top places to spend the 4th of July.
The Montage
The Montage is a relatively recent hotel that finally provides a real luxury hotel experience in Montana. The Hotel is just a 45 minute drive from Yellowstone National Park too, which makes it a luxurious base to take in the great outdoors.
The hotel has one hundred rooms and suites in addition to thirty-nine residences, with the Spanish Peaks mountain range as their backdrop. For dining Montage has six different restaurants all based on local ingredients. You get cuisines from Northern Italian to Montana barbecue, wood-fired pizzas to take away picnic baskets.
The 11,000 square foot Montage Spa evokes a mountain ambiance with its variety of treatments and facilities. There’s bowling and beer nights on Mondays, a farmers market on Wednesdays, and an outdoor concert series throughout the summer. Besides going off on hikes, there are three rivers for fly-fishing, an eighteen hole golf course, and a pool.
Holland Peak Ranch
The Holland Peak Ranch is a 1,000 acre luxury ranch that is completely private and exclusively yours during your stay. It accommodates up to fourteen of your family and friends giving you a chance to spend some quality time together in Montana’s natural beauty.
There are three separate properties on the estate, each outfitted with luxury amenities. For dining you can choose to self-cater, have groceries delivered before you arrive, order in from local restaurants, or even hire your own private chef. There are no shortage of activities here; you can go horse riding, water tubing, fly fishing, hiking, and much more. The combination of privacy, luxury, and nature makes this one of the top places to stay during the 4th of July.
The Location: Washington D.C.
Where to Stay: The Rosewood and The Jefferson
Overview
There’s no place better to celebrate the ideals of the nation than in the capital. Washington D.C. is filled with historic monuments and some of the best museums in the country. Spend your days walking around the monuments of the tidal basin, exploring the halls of the Smithsonian, and eating a wide variety of international cuisines. Most importantly, the main firework show on the National Mall is something you’ll not want to miss.
The Rosewood
The Rosewood Washington D.C. is a luxury hotel that’s a boutique elegant and sophisticated experience. Its location in the heart of Georgetown means easy access to upscale shops, coveted restaurants, and historic landmarks. The hotel has fifty-five rooms which includes twelve suites and six townhouses, which is unique to any other hotel in Washington.
Rosewood has three dining options by Wolfgang Puck. In addition, the Rosewood has a fitness center, spa, and rooftop outfitted with a fireplace, pool, and bar. It’s a popular place for DC locals because you get views of the city, Washington Monument, and Potomac River from here.
The Jefferson
The Jefferson is a boutique luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Washington D.C. It’s close to both the White House and other historic landmarks of the city. The rooms and suites have luxury amenities with an attention to details that adds a personal touch. The Greenhouse offers a fine dining experience while the Quill features creative cocktails and contemporary comfort food. The Jefferson also features a fitness center and access to the University Club across the street. It’s pet friendly which is an added bonus and it is close to the big fireworks show in D.C.
The Location: Savannah
Where to Stay: The Andaz and The Drayton Hotel
Overview
The rich cultural heritage and historic charm of Savannah make it an ideal getaway for the 4th of July. It is a city filled with picturesque cobblestone streets, beautiful town squares, and a stunning coastal landscape. Savannah has retained much of its unique architecture that makes it a gem of the South. Additionally, its 4th of July fireworks are one of the biggest in the Southeast, taking place with the Savannah River as its backdrop.
The Andaz Savannah
The Andaz Savannah is a boutique luxury hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Savannah. Its location on Ellis Square puts it right next to the city’s top attractions like River Street, City Market, and Forsyth Park. It has 151 spacious rooms including 37 suites that combine a modern style with a Southern charm. The Andaz also has a coveted nightlife and dining scene. Its restaurant 22 Square has a new take on Southern comfort food with a farm to table approach featuring sustainable ingredients. The 22 Square Bar is a chic neighborhood spot with inventive cocktails. In addition, The Andaz has a rooftop pool and fitness center. The hotel is right along the river which makes it the perfect option for seeing the breathtaking fireworks display.
The Drayton Hotel
The Drayton Hotel is set in a historic building, originally constructed in the 19th century. Its recent renovation retained its architectural history while implementing chic modern amenities. The boutique hotel, located along the Savannah River, has fifty rooms and suites with stunning views of the city. Each option is decorated with unique style and charm, including custom furnishings and artwork.
St. Neo’s Brasserie is their seafood and raw bar restaurant with dishes inspired by the lowlands. Pendant Terrace and Bar is their rooftop option serving classic cocktails, small plates, and panoramic views perfect for sunsets. Additionally, the hotel also has an intimate low-lit bar and a cafe.
The Location: Martha’s Vineyard
Where to Stay: Harbor View Hotel
Overview
Go where the presidents go. Whether it’s the Kennedys, the Clintons, or the Obamas, each has spent parts of their summers in Martha’s Vineyard. The island, off the coast of Massachusetts, comes alive in the summer. It has beautiful beaches and nature preserves in addition to popular local eateries and charming small towns. In addition, Martha’s Vineyard has a long standing tradition of hosting an impressive firework display. (They kind of have to; there are Presidents in residence used to the DC fireworks). During the 4th of July weekend there are special events, live music, and parades. This is one of the top places to enjoy the 4th of July on the East Coast.
Harbor View Hotel
The Harbor View Hotel is a resort located in Edgartown, surrounded by miles of beaches. It considers itself the crown jewel of Martha’s Vineyard and is an iconic place to spend the 4th of July. The views of the Edgartown Harbor can be seen from the veranda, the outdoor pool, or from inside the comforts of your room. For your stay you can choose between three luxurious building types, each providing a unique experience. Or, opt for the Captains Cottages which are larger and more private. Their restaurant, Bettini, is the place to see and be seen, with a menu that showcases the island’s top dishes. For amenities, enjoy their pools, lawn games, yoga sessions, fitness center, and complimentary bicycles.
