5 Fantastic Fourth of July Experiences You Shouldn't Miss

Posted on June 22, 2026

Back view of a family watching 4th of July fireworks together while wrapped in American flags.

'Cause I heard it in the wind.
And I saw it in the sky
And I thought it was the end
I thought it was the 4th of July.

Checking in before you start getting all gloomy and blue with this fan-favorite Soundgarden song, 4th of July. If there's one occasion when Americans lock in to celebrate apart from Thanksgiving, it's probably the 4th of July. Celebrated as the birth of the US as an independent nation, this holiday is highly anticipated. And speaking of holidays, you know we always have your affordable adventures covered. If you're still looking for fun ways to celebrate this special holiday, here are our picks you should consider:

  • Journey through the wonders of science and history at the American Museum of Natural History.
  • Feel the American spirit free and strong at the Monuments by Moonlight Tour.
  • Have a colorful and bricktastic Fourth of July at LEGOLAND Parks' Red, White, & BOOM!
  • Enjoy classic American theme park experiences plus 4th of July fireworks at Knott's Berry Farm.
  • Marvel at majestic sea creatures and fireworks spectacular at SeaWorld parks.

Are you ready for some fantastic experiences to celebrate the 4th of July? Plan your getaway with us! Read on.

Five for the Fourth of July: Our Best Picks for 4th of July Fun

Collage of exhibits and experiences at the American Museum of Natural History featuring a triceratops display, planetarium audience, and dinosaur skeleton.

1. American Museum of Natural History

Sure, socio-political history is very interesting, but have you ever tried exploring natural history? The American Museum of Natural History is the perfect for the science geek in you. As one of the most iconic NYC museums, it's a favorite destination of locals and tourists. The American Museum of Natural History never disappoints when it comes to delivering mind-blowing experiences you can't forget.

Explore the museum's vast collection of exhibits featuring larger-than-life displays of dinosaur fossils, the 94-foot blue whale, and more. Dazzling gems are also showcased along with immersive space-themed exhibits. Simply put, the American Museum of Natural History has something for everyone. Every corner will treat the science enthusiast in you, and we highly recommend visiting with your family. It's gonna be a fantastic day!

2. Monuments by Moonlight Tour Washington DC

There's a great reason why you see heroes and historic icons in monuments. Experience this ultra-patriotic tour showcasing the iconic monuments of Washington, DC. The Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Old Trolley Tours lets you see these famous historic monuments up close at night.

Collage of iconic Washington DC monuments at dusk featuring the trolley tour, U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and National Mall at sunset.

While on this tour, the expert guide will also share some memorable tales and anecdotes. In this activity, you can enjoy intimate views and learn a lot more about American History. Dive into the significance of the 4th of July and discover interesting facts about National Mall monuments, including:

  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Memorial
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial
  • Thomas Jefferson Memorial
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • National World War II Memorial
  • Washington Monument
  • Lincoln Memorial

The tour also has flexible starting and ending points, so you can experience it wherever you are. Have a meaningful 4th of July with the Monuments by Moonlight Tour.

3. Red, White & BOOM! 4th of July Fireworks - LEGOLAND Parks | CALIFORNIA | FLORIDA | NEW YORK

Collage of 4th of July activities and fireworks show at LEGOLAND parks featuring LEGO Statue of Liberty, Uncle Sam character, parade, and patriotic fireworks.

Ending the belief that kids can't celebrate the 4th of July, here comes the most bricktastic attraction for the occasion. LEGOLAND parks have always been a favorite of families in every season. And of course, the 4th of July is no exception. The top LEGOLAND parks in the US (California, Florida, and New York) will be hosting the Red, White, & BOOM!

It's an annual Independence Day celebration featuring enjoyable meet-and-greets with LEGO characters, games, themed entertainment, and a unique fireworks display! Instead of the typical blast of colors in the night sky, you will witness LEGO blocks bursting in the dark! Your family can also enjoy some space-tacular LEGO Galaxy experiences in California and Florida. Soccer enthusiasts will definitely have a field day at the FIFA® World Cup Experience. There are so many ways to have fun, so get your tickets and see for yourself.

4. 4th of July Fireworks presented by M&M'S® - Knott's Berry Farm

Now, we've finally reached the peak of American leisure experience and family fun. Knott's Berry Farm is your quintessential American theme park that basically has everything you need. Of course, your 4th of July celebration is not complete without Knott's Berry Farm's sweet and spectacular twist. The amusement park also features exciting summer events such as Ghost Town Alive and Knott's Summer Nights. Check out Knott's Summer Nights Market to satisfy all your summer cravings.

Collage of 4th of July fireworks, summer food, and shows at Knott's Berry Farm featuring rides, sweet treats, Summer Nights logo, and a stage performer.

After a long day of exploring iconic rides and thrilling coasters, don't forget to look up! This year's 4th of July Fireworks presented by M&M's® will be extra special, sparkly, and colorful! Expect to hear some patriotic music and sounds in the air. Hop into the ultimate amusement park adventure for the ultimate American holiday!

5. Fourth of July Festivities at SeaWorld Orlando and San Antonio

Collage of 4th of July fireworks, Sea Lions Tonite animal show, and drone show at SeaWorld Orlando and San Antonio.

Yeah, we all know that SeaWorld parks specialize in marine animal shows, conservation, and exhibits. But have you seen any of their fireworks shows yet? If you wish to spend a fun day with adorable sea creatures this 4th of July, come to SeaWorld.

SeaWorld Orlando and SeaWorld San Antonio are hosting some exciting happenings this summer. For Independence Day, these two parks will paint the night sky with colorful fireworks you can enjoy. But before the fireworks shows begin, you can make the most of your visit with Electric Ocean activities. See drones form into magical sea animals and light up the sky. Witness a jaw-dropping acrobatics show and treat yourself to fun and sea-mazing animal shows! Enjoy "Sea Lions Tonite," "Dolphins: Touch the Sky," and "Light Up the Night" featuring Orcas. Get ready for some flippin' fun and unforgettable 4th of July at SeaWorld parks!

Explore more 4th of July fun and affordable adventures!

Kids eating watermelon slices and waving American flags at an outdoor 4th of July celebration.

We hope that this list can help you plan an awesome adventure this Independence Day. 4th of July celebrations are on the way, so make sure to secure your tickets to these attractions and experiences! Remember that you don't need to spend so much to have so much fun. Check out FunEx for hot summer deals for your dream local and international destinations.

Wipe out that gloomy and grungy energy and get ready for a phenomenal Fourth of July! Grab your discount tickets, pack your bags, and swing by these unforgettable experiences. Have a fantastic 4th of July, FunExplorers!