Wednesday, July 2, 2025
By Grace Cady
Nobody celebrates the Fourth of July like the nation’s capital. Whether you are going it alone, looking for an adventure, making plans with friends and family or in the mood for dinner and a show, we have a lineup of all the best fireworks viewing options in the city.
(The National Mall)
The most popular and iconic viewing spot for Fourth of July fireworks in Washington is the National Mall. Attendees often stake out spots near the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial hours before dark to make sure they are settled for the 17-minute display launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Be sure to check out tips from the National Park Service about road closures, public entries, prohibited items and more here. If you’re unable to make it in person, consider tuning in to the Trust for the National Mall’s Monument cam for a virtual viewing party!
(Across the River)
For those who want to avoid the largest crowds at the National Mall, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial across the Potomac River offers a beautiful view of the fireworks.
(On the Water)
To watch the fireworks from the water, think about booking a family-friendly cruise across the Potomac. Embark DC Boat Tours, City Cruises and Sea Suite Cruises offer special Fourth of July waterfront tours, and are running all summer long.
(Biking)
For the adventurers who would rather not sit still, bike rentals may be the way to go. Watch the lights show from Mount Vernon Trail by renting wheels from Capital Bikeshare, Unlimited Biking or even a Lime E-bike. Once you make it to the top, it is the perfect place to hop off, chill out and enjoy the fireworks.
(Hains Point in East Potomac Park)
Planning to watch the fireworks in a group? Maybe Hains Point in East Potomac Park is the place for you. It’s a serene stretch of public land on a peninsula that extends into the Potomac River. It offers wonderful views of both the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers and the Washington Channel. There are several spots that feature spacious picnic tables – perfect for bringing family and friends together, or even a meal!
(Washington National Cathedral)
The Washington National Cathedral offers stunning views of the city. In fact, the top of the Cathedral’s tower is actually the highest. But if you can’t make it up there, finding a soft patch of grass and sprawling out a blanket will serve you well. If you choose to go there, consider packing a picnic or champagne and charcuterie to enjoy the fireworks.
(The Wharf)
Being only four blocks away from the National Mall, The Wharf is a great landing spot for an evening of food, drinks, fun and Fourth of July festivities. Patrons can grab a bite at one of the many waterfront restaurants, hang out at a bar or just make their way down to the dock and watch the fireworks display.
(Rooftops & Restaurants)
Wining and dining has never sounded better. It’s the Fourth of July, Washington will be buzzing and fireworks will be lighting up all corners of the sky. So naturally, the DC restaurant and rooftop scene has prepared for the occasion. Some of these spots include the VUE Rooftop Lounge and Terrace at Hotel Washington, the Conrad Hotel’s Summit Rooftop, La Vie, Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel, Hotel Hive, Lady Bird at Kimpton Banneker Hotel, L’Ardente, CityBar at Hyatt Place Washington DC / National Mall, Tag Rooftop Bar at the Embassy and more. Our personal Georgetowner recommendation for a great spot if you’re looking to stay close by is the Rooftop at the Graham at the Graham Hotel in Georgetown which offers a beautiful view of the Washington Monument and great cocktails! This year, the Graham is throwing an Independence Day Rooftop Fireworks Watch Party – tickets for the general public are $79 and include a complimentary welcome cocktail, hors d’oeuvres and “unmatched rooftop views”.
(Ned’s Club)
If you’re interested in watching the fireworks from an exclusive rooftop, consider checking out Ned’s Club. Situated in President’s Park, Ned’s Club offers sweeping views of the National Mall that favor a night of festivities. Members of the club, and their guests, can enjoy champagne, curated bites, live DJ sets and panoramic views of DC on this special evening.
(Jula’s on the Potomac)
For a belated fireworks experience, patrons can visit Jula’s on the Potomac – a waterfront restaurant in Old Town Alexandria. In celebration of Alexandria’s 276th birthday, the restaurant will be offering a two-person dining experience on the terrace with a six-course tasting menu and a fireworks display over the Potomac River. The event will run from 6 – 10 p.m. and be offered to adults only.