4th of July Fireworks

guest post by Sherry Gray

It’s that time of year again, when the sky explodes with Fourth of July fireworks, an exuberant visual celebration equaled only by New Year’s Eve displays. Americans have celebrated their Independence with fireworks every year since 1776, and the stirring sight never fails to impress even the staunchest among us. To celebrate in comfort and style, consider staying at a hotel overlooking the grandest displays in the country.

Known for their lavish celebratory style, Macy’s sponsors New York’s incredible fireworks show over the Hudson River. For an unbeatable view, two hotels stand out:

New York City Fireworks by Macy

New York’s Ritz-Carlton in Battery Park offers a panoramic view of the Hudson and overlooks the Statue of Liberty. Package prices start at $375 per couple, and the luxury is legendary.  Details that make the Harbor View room the best choice in the land include an in-room telescope, the Statue of Liberty captured in handmade chocolate, and a pair of ferry tickets to Ellis Island. Since President Obama has promised that Lady Liberty’s torch will reopen to the public on July 4th for the first time since September of 2001, this year’s celebration will be extra special.

A new contender for the view is the W Hoboken. Across the river on the New Jersey side, the W boasts a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline from Frank Sinatra’s hometown of Hoboken. With package prices starting at $249, it’s a little easier on the wallet.

Fireworks in Washington DC

Where better to celebrate the nation’s independence than in the Capitol? The most luxury for the best value can be found at the Willard InterContinental Washington. Built in 1850, this elegant colonial style hotel is known as the ‘Crown Jewel of Pennsylvania Avenue’ and is listed with the national registry of historic places. It’s also a prime location for viewing the fireworks over the reflecting pool at the base of the Washington Monument.

Another great Fourth of July destination is the Hyatt Regency at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia.   With room prices starting at just $150 per night, you can soak up the historic ambiance in luxurious style, attend a free concert, visit the Betsey Ross house and check out the Liberty Bell.

Mount Rushmore by day

Few sights are as impressive as the annual fireworks extravaganza over Mount Rushmore. The Roosevelt Inn, located at the base of Mount Rushmore offers close proximity at a very reasonable rate. For the best view, they advise a trip to the Grand Terrace at the visitor center inside the park.

Fireworks in Florida

For fireworks on any given day of the year, the best destination in the U.S. might be the Royal Plaza in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Some of the most technologically advanced fireworks on the planet light up every night, launched from both Disney World and Epcot Center, making Lake Buena Vista the center of the daily celebration. At around $100 per night, the Royal Plaza offers affordable luxury and gets bonus points for being a Green Lodging hotel, one of the first area hotels to undertake environmental initiatives designed to protect Florida’s natural resources.

It’s a fact of traveling — sometimes you need to pick your hotel to be convenient to the airport. At a major hub like Chicago O’Hare, you have flights arriving and departing at all hours of the day and night. If you find yourself at O’Hare and in need of a place to stay, here are choices that fit any wallet.

Chicago O’Hare InterContinental

InterContinental Hotel O'Hare

The amazingly luxurious standards of the 4-star InterContinental brand, with the convenience of a location five minutes from the airport. The hotel offers every amenity, from suites with deep soaking tubs, original art work in the rooms and high threadcount linens.

InterContinental Hotel O'Hare

There is 24 hour complimentary shuttle service to airport, an art museum on site, and maid service twice a day. All this service starts at the surprisingly affordable rate of $149/night.

Renaissance Chicago O’Hare Suites

Renaissance Suites O'Hare

For a little less, you can still find spacious and comfortable lodgings. The Renaissance Chicago O’Hare Suites is located close to the airport, and offers guests free 24 hour shuttle service. This Marriott property prides itself on a warm and friendly atmosphere. The suites have separate sitting and sleeping areas, which is so nice if you’re traveling with your family. Updated amenities include in room refrigerators, two tvs in each suite and wifi. Rates start around $109/night.

The Comfort Inn O’hare

Comfort Inn O'Hare

If you’re looking for something a little more simple (i.e. inexpensive) the consistently reliable Comfort Inn O’hare is located just two miles from the airport. Guests can use the free shuttle service to both O’Hare International Airport and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Rooms at the Comfort Inn O’hare look pretty utilitarian, but they are roomy and clean. Free of charge, guests also receive a full breakfast, wifi in all rooms, a morning paper, and local calls.  If you have time to kills, there is a workout room and spa, with a whirlpool, or you can do some laundry, which is great if you’re on an extended trip. Rooms start around $80.