The best America's 250th getaways near D.C. for July 4 weekend
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Military bands will be performing at Williamsburg's big July 4 party. Photo: Courtesy of Brendan Sostak/The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
If you're hoping to celebrate America's 250th birthday without battling the D.C. hassle, you're in luck.
The big picture: The city sits in the middle of a region packed with Revolutionary-era history and small-town July 4 traditions.
- From colonial capitals to waterfront fireworks, these nearby destinations offer memorable ways to mark the nation's milestone birthday.
Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown, VA | About 2.5 hours from D.C.
Virginia's Historic Triangle is where some of the nation's earliest chapters unfolded — from the founding of Jamestown in 1607 to the decisive American victory at Yorktown. So yes, the region is going big for America's 250th.
- In Williamsburg, a major July 4 celebration featuring live music, military bands and fireworks will be broadcast nationally on PBS. Visitors can attend for free and catch performances by folk legend Judy Collins and others.
- Nearby Yorktown will host waterfront fireworks and special Independence Day events, while Jamestown offers a chance to explore the site of America's first permanent English settlement.
St. Michaels, MD | About 1.5 hours
Picturesque St. Michaels proudly embraces its nickname as "the town that fooled the British," a nod to a local legend from the War of 1812.
- Today, the Eastern Shore town still feels steeped in history, with harborfront cannons, historic homes and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum's collection of traditional vessels.
- Its Independence Day festivities are a destination in themselves, with a July 4 parade through downtown and the museum's popular Big Band Night and fireworks celebration on July 5 ($12 admission).
- The museum is also hosting a special exhibit, "Emblems of America," showcasing patriotic Chesapeake Bay carvings and folk art.
Between the lines: While you're there, nearby Easton is worth a stop for its colonial-era courthouse, boutiques and restaurant scene.
Annapolis, MD | About 45 minutes
One of America's oldest state capitals is leaning into its Revolutionary roots for the nation's 250th birthday.
- Annapolis 250 events around Independence Day include historic reenactments, Revolutionary-era music, family activities and a July 4 parade through downtown, capped by fireworks over Spa Creek.
- Annapolis is also hosting a special naturalization ceremony at the William Paca House, as well as events at the Hogshead Trades Museum and Museum of Historic Annapolis.
Lewes, DE | About 3 hours
For a beachside take on America's 250th, head to Lewes, known as "The First Town in The First State."
- Founded by the Dutch in 1631, the coastal town is one of the region's oldest European settlements and offers plenty of opportunities to brush up on local history between beach fun.
- The Fourth of July brings fireworks over the beach, a decorated boat parade and a relaxed small-town vibe.
- History buffs can also explore the Lewes Historical Society campus and museums, while Cape Henlopen State Park offers scenic coastal trails and World War II-era observation towers.