There’s no place better than the nation’s capital to catch a view of the Independence Day fireworks. Every year, there’s an incredible display over the National Mall where the fiery bursts of light crackle and pop over the majestic monuments.

While attending the show on the Mall can be crowded with tourists, there are a number of other spots throughout the DC area that make for excellent viewing.

National Harbor

While National Harbor does not host their own fireworks’ show, the MGM Hotel and Casino provides an excellent vantage point for celebrations all along the Potomac River. From the deck of the hotel, guests and visitors can view the main firework show on the National Mall as well as dozens of others across the region. From sundown until 10 or 11 PM the sky is lit up almost as far as the eye can see with many individual firework displays.

It’s a little tricky to get to MGM by public transit, so calling an uber or taking the water taxi is your best bet on a busy holiday evening.

The National Cathedral

As one of the highest points in the District, the National Cathedral makes it easy to look out over the rest of the city. There are a few specific viewing points where the trees have been trimmed that lets spectators view the fireworks from afar.

This is a much less crowded part of town and you have a number of restaurants and bars just a short walk away. While parking is limited, there are busses that run directly up Massachusetts avenue or down Wisconsin avenue that make it an easy spot for Fourth of July picnicking and enjoyment.

Lyon Place

Our residents are lucky to have one of the most incredible views of DC from the expansive roof deck atop Lyon Place. From our rooftop, you can look out over downtown Rosslyn, DC, and even Alexandria way off in the distance. On the Fourth of July, this means those viewing the fireworks from the rooftop will likely catch a glimpse of the light shows over the National Mall, Alexandria, the Wharf, as well as a number of smaller celebrations throughout the city.

The Fourth of July is just a few weeks away — how will you celebrate our nation’s independence?