4th of July Historical Highlights Trip

Independence Day is a wonderful opportunity to explore some of America's historical sites.  Make the most of the long weekend with a road trip from Boston to Washington, DC. You'll end up in our nation's capital just in time to join in the annual 4th of July festivities.

The start of your trip occurs, fittingly, at the location of one of the seminal events leading to the American Revolution: the famous Boston Tea Party. Conveniently, 16 of Boston's major historical sites are located along the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail. 90 minute guided tours of the trail are available, or grab a map and go exploring on your own.

Day 3 consists mostly of a 6 hour drive to Philadelphia (see the map view for driving directions). When you arrive, you'll have time to check out the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. This is where the Declaration of Independence was written and signed, officially marking the start of the Revolutionary War. The original document is now on display at the National Archives in Washington, DC--the next and final stop of this tour.

From Philadelphia, it's just a short 2 and a half hour drive to Washington, DC (again, see the map view for driving directions). Once there, your first stop is the Capitol building. Free guided tours are available Monday through Saturday. In the afternoon, you should stop by a trio of sights that are very convenient to your hotel, starting with the National Archives, where the original Declaration of Independence is on display (along with other important documents like the U.S. Constitution).

Next up are the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials: two beautiful monuments commemorating two of America's most influential presidents.

The last day of your trip is also the most exciting: it's the nation's biggest 4th of July celebration. Starting with a parade in the morning and ending with fireworks at night, it's an all-day extravaganza of eating, entertainment, and fun.