Each year, thousands of Washingtonians and tourists, alike, descend on the Mall to take part in the annual illumination celebration. But there are other places to catch the show.
WASHINGTON — JULY 4: People watch a fireworks display from the Lincoln Memorial during an Independence Day celebration on the National Mall July 4, 2008 in Washington, DC. U.S. declared independence from the Great Britain 232 years ago today.
(Photo by Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images)
Photo by Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images
WASHINGTON, DC — JULY 04: Fireworks light up the sky over the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2013 in Washington, DC. July 4th is a national holiday with the nation celebrating its 238th birthday.
(Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images)
Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images
WASHINGTON — JULY 04: Fireworks light up the sky over the National Mall on July 4, 2007 in Washington, DC. The fireworks display illuminates the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and the US Capitol Building.
(Photo by Jamie Rose/Getty Images)
Photo by Jamie Rose/Getty Images
WASHINGTON — JULY 4: Unidentified party goers dance and wave American flags to the rehearsal sounds of the Beach Boys as the band gets ready for the “Capitol Fourth 2005” concert on the west front lawn of the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2005 in Washington, D.C.
(Photo by Chris Greenberg/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON — If you plan to watch the fireworks from the National Mall on July 4, plan on being crowded.
Each year, thousands of Washingtonians and tourists, alike, descend on the Mall to take part in the annual illumination celebration. But there are other places to catch the show.
Here are some of the best places to catch the fireworks display: Click the red buttons for details
Rooftop bars are another popular option. However, many require tickets or reservations, so call ahead of time to book your spot.
Here are the roofs with the best views: Click the red buttons for details
You can also catch the show from the Potomac River. Cruises, such as Spirit Cruises and Odyssey Cruises, offer special Fourth of July trips. Book your tickets early, as they tend to sell out.