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4th of July celebration in Arlington Photo by Yasin Ozturk/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Where to Celebrate the 4th of July in D.C.

Honor the holiday with a rooftop soiree, family-style barbecue, and everything in between

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There are a few major cities to properly celebrate America’s independence: Boston, Philadelphia, and of course, our nation’s capital. Outside of just basking in the historical structures, D.C. gets in the 4th of July spirit with themed parties starring standout food and drink specials. Restaurants around town gear up for the arrival of tourists and locals alike looking for that perfect vantage point to watch fireworks from all directions.

Ahead is a roundup of how spots are commemorating America’s 247th birthday on Tuesday, July 4, from celebratory brunches to cookouts with all the fixings.

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Casa Kantuta

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For pre-Fourth plans, consider Adams Morgan’s cool Bolivian basement bar for drink specials all night and a DJ spinning from 9 p.m. to close on Monday, July 3.

Boundary Stone

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For those in search of a more low-key affair, the Bloomingdale standby will be open on July 4 from noon to 6 p.m., with happy hour running all day.

From July 1 to the 4 at Certo!, enjoy a special menu watermelon, blueberry and feta salad, barbecue pulled pork pizza, and for dessert, a homemade ice cream trio of strawberry, blueberry and vanilla garnished with malted waffle wedges and mixed berry coulis. Wash it all down with the Aviation American Gin Fizz (Aviation gin, tupelo honey and local thyme syrup, lemon and prosecco).

Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge

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Inspired by former First Lady Claudia Alta Taylor “Lady Bird” Johnson, Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge is throwing a party from 7 to 9 p.m. on July 4. The hotel’s evening will include intimate views of the fireworks, a two-hour open bar of specialty cocktails and a special menu featuring lobster corn dogs, crab sliders, popcorn chicken and s’mores lollipops. Dress code is elevated casual and spots can be reserved here for $175. 

Dovetail Bar & Restaurant

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In honor of Independence Day, Dovetail will be offering an extended brunch from Saturday, July 1 to Monday, July 3 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Burnt end pork shoulder barbecue plates and bottomless mimosas will be available for a fun $17.76. Other items include smoked mushroom poached eggs Benedict, smoked baby back pork ribs, and an open-faced omelet of Boursin cheese, salsa rosa, and verde avocado and a sunny side egg.

St. Anselm

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The American-inspired tavern in Union Market will open its doors from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. for lunch and dinner from 5 to 11 p.m. A slew of chef’s specials will be available including wagyu hot dogs topped with pimento cheese and chiles with crunchy slaw and house fries; classic cheeseburgers topped with 1000 Island dressing and American cheese; and red white and blue firecracker sorbet popsicles layered with nostalgic Pop Rocks candy.

Unconventional Diner

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This year, Unconventional Diner is offering a fried chicken party pack that can be pre-ordered and picked up on July 4 from noon to 6 p.m. The meal is comprised of eight pieces of chicken, mashed potatoes⁠, four cornbread muffins⁠, four vanilla cupcakes, and more. Party packs cost $58 and are available for pre-order via Resy through 3 p.m. Sunday, July 2.

The Jefferson, Washington, DC

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The Jefferson D.C. and EmbarkDC are teaming up and allowing guests to book private boat tours along the Potomac River to view fireworks from the water or experience iconic historical landmarks such as Mount Vernon, Old Town Alexandria, National Harbor and Georgetown starting at a whopping $900. Guests can also choose from a selection of historical tours curated by in-house historian Susan Sullivan Lagon.

Ellington Park Bistro

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The French newcomer offers luxe picnic baskets fit for alfresco dining under the fireworks. Chef Frank Morales created three different offerings––blanc, rouge, bleu––each featuring a unique assortment of charcuterie and cheese, sandwiches, sweets, bottles of wine, and cocktails ($80-$150). Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance by calling the restaurant.

Ellington Park Bistro’s takeout picnic baskets.
Ellington Park Bistro

The Morrow Washington DC, Curio Collection by Hilton

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Celebrate Independence Day with a chic American-style barbecue buffet from 5 to 8 p.m. at Le Clou. Keep the party going at Upstairs at the Morrow, the hotel’s rooftop bar. For $75 per person ($39 for children under 12) guests will also receive free general admission to the the rooftop gathering.

Lincoln

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It’s an all-day affair at the venue named after our 16th president. From 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Lincoln is offering a bottomless barbecue feast where guests can enjoy brisket burgers, hot dogs, chicken, pork ribs, and to drink, Lincoln mimosas and patriotic mules. The dinner is $55 a person, $30 for children ages 6-12 with a two-hour limit.

CUT Above

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Chef Andrew Skala is offering a family style menu starting at 6 p.m. at the Georgetown hotel. Apps include roasted corn and jalapeno fritters and jumbo lump blue crab salad, with larger plates consisting of grilled Maine lobster with a herb chili butter and bone-in ribeye with Argentinian chimichurri. Finish with strawberry-watermelon popsicles, lemon-basil meringue tarts and dark chocolate cake pops. Tickets are $325 per person.

Ciel Social Club

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Splashed with seasonal decor of a Capri summer getaway and nearly 360-degree views of the Capitol dome, Washington Monument, and downtown D.C., Ciel Social Club will offer food and drink specials, live music, and party favors from 7 to 10 p.m. on Independence Day. General admission tickets (available here) are $180 and include a three-hour premium open bar and heavy passed hors d’oeuvres. This year, guests have the option to take themselves to the top of the festivities with VIP tables and bottle service. Tickets and tables are on sale now until Monday, July 3. 

Immigrant Food+ at Planet Word Museum

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On July 3, Immigrant Food and Planet Word will unveil their new summer cocktail flight just in time for the Fourth. Starting off is Southern Belle, a peachy take on a southern cocktail. Next up is the Basil Hayden with a house made peach and mint syrup, lemon and ginger beer. Finally, the Watermelon Sugar…High — watermelon infused vodka, watermelon sage syrup, lime, and ginger beer. The flight comes with three selections from the menu of the six new mules for $24.

Conrad Washington, DC

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The Conrad D.C. is offering upscale picnic baskets for hotel guests to celebrate the holiday weekend. Picnic baskets feature Route 66 chips, cookies, grilled asparagus and romesco, crudité with French onion dip, lavash, grilled bread, and more. Prices range from $60-$85 with an optional wine add-on starting at $85.

Top of the Gate

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The sophisticated rooftop bar and lounge at The Watergate Hotel boasts attracts guests thanks to its commanding 360-degree views of the D.C. skyline. This year they’re hosting a fireworks viewing party from 6 to 10 p.m. with two different ticket options. A standard general admission is $150, but a $395 VIP option includes reserved seating, a hot and cold food display, and a premium open bar with spirits, wine, and beer. A more expensive $595 option yields the aforementioned and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne and unobstructed views of the fireworks.

L'Ardente

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The glam Italian mainstay is serving up a three-course dinner on America’s birthday. Chef David Deshaies and his team are preparing a cauliflower panna cotta with Alaskan king crab, grilled

Maine scallops with burnt scallion risotto, and Mediterranean turbot with summer veggies. Each course will be accompanied by wine pairings, too. After dinner, head to Capitol Crossing’s rooftop conservatory for a fireworks viewing party complete with wines, bubbles and a variety of dessert bites. Tickets for both dinner and dessert are $225 person.

Vue Rooftop

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For an evening of patriotic fun, head to Red, White and VUE atop the Hotel Washington on July 4, from 6 to 10 p.m. with live entertainment and an open bar. Indulge in an upscale American cookout buffet with traditional favorites including hot dogs, burgers, and other specialty items by chef de cuisine Roberto Campos. Tickets are on sale now for $200 per person.

Vue Rooftop

Buena Vida Gastrolounge

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Street Guys Hospitality’s Mexican gastrolounge will be offering the fixed price brunch of unlimited small plates throughout the holiday weekend. The meal is priced at $39.99 per person and will be served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free-flowing brunch cocktails, margaritas, and sangrias are priced from 99 cents to $2.99 each. From 5 until 10 p.m. on July 4, take the fun upstairs for a rooftop party with views of the fireworks. Drink specials include $6 margaritas and $5 Coronas and Pacifico.

Smokecraft Modern Barbecue

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Chef Andrew Darneille is offering a series of 4th of July packages that feed up to 8, including build-your-own nachos, two racks of dry-rubbed St. Louis ribs, and of course, the sampler platter with a pound each of pulled pork, pulled chicken, smoked turkey, prime brisket, and jalapeno cheddar sausage, as well as platters of wings, smoked avocado deviled eggs, and pork belly burnt ends. Meats are also available by the pound, as well as a la carte sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, baked beans, bourbon sweet mashed potatoes and coleslaw. Pre-order by Sunday, July 2 at noon.

Salamander Washington DC

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The posh Southwest hotel celebrates its first Fourth of July with a big backyard barbecue across its garden patio (5 p.m. to 8 p.m.). Hosted by Jack Arnold, expect demonstrations on the Big Green Egg grill, premium Kow Steaks, Good Ranchers poultry, lots of Truff Hot sauce, and cocktails powered by Absolut vodka and Uncle Nearest premium whiskey. The family-friendly event includes face painting, a magician, and caricaturist, plus live entertainment from a DJ and the 21st Grey Coat Battalion Fife and Drum Corp performing the National Anthem and traditional American folklore. Tickets are $175 with an open bar (or $135 without) and $65 for kids.

Tiki TNT & Potomac Distilling Company

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With expansive rooftop views of the National Fireworks show, head to Tiki TNT at at 7 p.m. for a big rooftop watch party. Each tiki ticket ($150) includes three drink tickets, passed island snacks, and a luau buffet featuring hot dogs, burgers, and a macaroni salad. Bookings available on Resy.

Smoke & Mirrors

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Atop the AC Hotel Marriott in Navy Yard is Smoke & Mirrors, a chic spot for some of D.C.’s best-dressed to congregate. On the Fourth, they’re offering a special Liberty Sparkler cocktail (private reserve High West bourbon, strawberry-blueberry syrup, sparkling rosé, and lemon).

Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf

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Pendry’s signature rooftop restaurant, Moonraker, will host an Independence Day party where guests can witness fireworks from across the river to another on the National Mall. Enjoy a selection of Japanese-American bites like wagyu cheeseburger sliders, Japanese potato salad, assorted sushi rolls, karaage chicken wings, and a dessert pie bar, an open bar with craft beer and five themed cocktails and a live DJ. Celebrations run from 6 to 10 p.m. at $200 per person.

Thompson Washington D.C.

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Situated steps from Nationals Park, The Rooftop at the Thompson wants Washingtonians and hotel guests alike to bask in 360-degree views this 4th of July. The 6,000-square-foot venue accommodates parties of all sizes.

Skydome Restaurant

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Head to Arlington for open seating in a theatre-style room with windows overlooking D.C. and the monuments. Tickets includes two beverages (beer or wine) for adults and two ice cream treats for kids plus an all-American dessert bar priced at $40 for adults and $20 for children. At Skydome, 21-and-up customers can partake in an all-American buffet complete with two complimentary beverages (beer or wine) for each guest for $125 per person. 

BARCA Pier & Wine Bar

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Barca Pier & Wine Bar is an unrivaled spot to watch the 4th of July fireworks. With its Catalonian cuisine, extensive wine selection, and a picturesque views of the Potomac, opt for a low-key, yet entertaining soiree while enjoying a glass of their favorite vintage and Spanish-Mediterranean small plates.

Blue Rock

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Escape the city for a weekend in Washington, Virginia. Enjoy a specialty sparkling wine pairing at Blue Rock to kick off July 4 celebrations. The sparkling wines pairing ($79) is available with the four-course tasting menu at the restaurant. The pairing features Thibaut-Janisson, Extra Brut; L. Aubry & Fils, Brut 1er Cru, Francoise Bedel, Dis Vin Secret, and finishes with Patrick Bottex sparkling rosé.

Casa Kantuta

For pre-Fourth plans, consider Adams Morgan’s cool Bolivian basement bar for drink specials all night and a DJ spinning from 9 p.m. to close on Monday, July 3.

Boundary Stone

For those in search of a more low-key affair, the Bloomingdale standby will be open on July 4 from noon to 6 p.m., with happy hour running all day.

Certo!

From July 1 to the 4 at Certo!, enjoy a special menu watermelon, blueberry and feta salad, barbecue pulled pork pizza, and for dessert, a homemade ice cream trio of strawberry, blueberry and vanilla garnished with malted waffle wedges and mixed berry coulis. Wash it all down with the Aviation American Gin Fizz (Aviation gin, tupelo honey and local thyme syrup, lemon and prosecco).

Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge

Inspired by former First Lady Claudia Alta Taylor “Lady Bird” Johnson, Lady Bird Rooftop Lounge is throwing a party from 7 to 9 p.m. on July 4. The hotel’s evening will include intimate views of the fireworks, a two-hour open bar of specialty cocktails and a special menu featuring lobster corn dogs, crab sliders, popcorn chicken and s’mores lollipops. Dress code is elevated casual and spots can be reserved here for $175. 

Dovetail Bar & Restaurant

In honor of Independence Day, Dovetail will be offering an extended brunch from Saturday, July 1 to Monday, July 3 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Burnt end pork shoulder barbecue plates and bottomless mimosas will be available for a fun $17.76. Other items include smoked mushroom poached eggs Benedict, smoked baby back pork ribs, and an open-faced omelet of Boursin cheese, salsa rosa, and verde avocado and a sunny side egg.

St. Anselm

The American-inspired tavern in Union Market will open its doors from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. for lunch and dinner from 5 to 11 p.m. A slew of chef’s specials will be available including wagyu hot dogs topped with pimento cheese and chiles with crunchy slaw and house fries; classic cheeseburgers topped with 1000 Island dressing and American cheese; and red white and blue firecracker sorbet popsicles layered with nostalgic Pop Rocks candy.

Unconventional Diner

This year, Unconventional Diner is offering a fried chicken party pack that can be pre-ordered and picked up on July 4 from noon to 6 p.m. The meal is comprised of eight pieces of chicken, mashed potatoes⁠, four cornbread muffins⁠, four vanilla cupcakes, and more. Party packs cost $58 and are available for pre-order via Resy through 3 p.m. Sunday, July 2.

The Jefferson, Washington, DC

The Jefferson D.C. and EmbarkDC are teaming up and allowing guests to book private boat tours along the Potomac River to view fireworks from the water or experience iconic historical landmarks such as Mount Vernon, Old Town Alexandria, National Harbor and Georgetown starting at a whopping $900. Guests can also choose from a selection of historical tours curated by in-house historian Susan Sullivan Lagon.

Ellington Park Bistro

The French newcomer offers luxe picnic baskets fit for alfresco dining under the fireworks. Chef Frank Morales created three different offerings––blanc, rouge, bleu––each featuring a unique assortment of charcuterie and cheese, sandwiches, sweets, bottles of wine, and cocktails ($80-$150). Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance by calling the restaurant.

Ellington Park Bistro’s takeout picnic baskets.
Ellington Park Bistro

The Morrow Washington DC, Curio Collection by Hilton

Celebrate Independence Day with a chic American-style barbecue buffet from 5 to 8 p.m. at Le Clou. Keep the party going at Upstairs at the Morrow, the hotel’s rooftop bar. For $75 per person ($39 for children under 12) guests will also receive free general admission to the the rooftop gathering.

Lincoln

It’s an all-day affair at the venue named after our 16th president. From 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Lincoln is offering a bottomless barbecue feast where guests can enjoy brisket burgers, hot dogs, chicken, pork ribs, and to drink, Lincoln mimosas and patriotic mules. The dinner is $55 a person, $30 for children ages 6-12 with a two-hour limit.

CUT Above

Chef Andrew Skala is offering a family style menu starting at 6 p.m. at the Georgetown hotel. Apps include roasted corn and jalapeno fritters and jumbo lump blue crab salad, with larger plates consisting of grilled Maine lobster with a herb chili butter and bone-in ribeye with Argentinian chimichurri. Finish with strawberry-watermelon popsicles, lemon-basil meringue tarts and dark chocolate cake pops. Tickets are $325 per person.

Ciel Social Club

Splashed with seasonal decor of a Capri summer getaway and nearly 360-degree views of the Capitol dome, Washington Monument, and downtown D.C., Ciel Social Club will offer food and drink specials, live music, and party favors from 7 to 10 p.m. on Independence Day. General admission tickets (available here) are $180 and include a three-hour premium open bar and heavy passed hors d’oeuvres. This year, guests have the option to take themselves to the top of the festivities with VIP tables and bottle service. Tickets and tables are on sale now until Monday, July 3. 

Immigrant Food+ at Planet Word Museum

On July 3, Immigrant Food and Planet Word will unveil their new summer cocktail flight just in time for the Fourth. Starting off is Southern Belle, a peachy take on a southern cocktail. Next up is the Basil Hayden with a house made peach and mint syrup, lemon and ginger beer. Finally, the Watermelon Sugar…High — watermelon infused vodka, watermelon sage syrup, lime, and ginger beer. The flight comes with three selections from the menu of the six new mules for $24.

Conrad Washington, DC

The Conrad D.C. is offering upscale picnic baskets for hotel guests to celebrate the holiday weekend. Picnic baskets feature Route 66 chips, cookies, grilled asparagus and romesco, crudité with French onion dip, lavash, grilled bread, and more. Prices range from $60-$85 with an optional wine add-on starting at $85.

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Top of the Gate

The sophisticated rooftop bar and lounge at The Watergate Hotel boasts attracts guests thanks to its commanding 360-degree views of the D.C. skyline. This year they’re hosting a fireworks viewing party from 6 to 10 p.m. with two different ticket options. A standard general admission is $150, but a $395 VIP option includes reserved seating, a hot and cold food display, and a premium open bar with spirits, wine, and beer. A more expensive $595 option yields the aforementioned and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne and unobstructed views of the fireworks.

L'Ardente

The glam Italian mainstay is serving up a three-course dinner on America’s birthday. Chef David Deshaies and his team are preparing a cauliflower panna cotta with Alaskan king crab, grilled

Maine scallops with burnt scallion risotto, and Mediterranean turbot with summer veggies. Each course will be accompanied by wine pairings, too. After dinner, head to Capitol Crossing’s rooftop conservatory for a fireworks viewing party complete with wines, bubbles and a variety of dessert bites. Tickets for both dinner and dessert are $225 person.

Vue Rooftop

For an evening of patriotic fun, head to Red, White and VUE atop the Hotel Washington on July 4, from 6 to 10 p.m. with live entertainment and an open bar. Indulge in an upscale American cookout buffet with traditional favorites including hot dogs, burgers, and other specialty items by chef de cuisine Roberto Campos. Tickets are on sale now for $200 per person.

Vue Rooftop

Buena Vida Gastrolounge

Street Guys Hospitality’s Mexican gastrolounge will be offering the fixed price brunch of unlimited small plates throughout the holiday weekend. The meal is priced at $39.99 per person and will be served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free-flowing brunch cocktails, margaritas, and sangrias are priced from 99 cents to $2.99 each. From 5 until 10 p.m. on July 4, take the fun upstairs for a rooftop party with views of the fireworks. Drink specials include $6 margaritas and $5 Coronas and Pacifico.

Smokecraft Modern Barbecue

Chef Andrew Darneille is offering a series of 4th of July packages that feed up to 8, including build-your-own nachos, two racks of dry-rubbed St. Louis ribs, and of course, the sampler platter with a pound each of pulled pork, pulled chicken, smoked turkey, prime brisket, and jalapeno cheddar sausage, as well as platters of wings, smoked avocado deviled eggs, and pork belly burnt ends. Meats are also available by the pound, as well as a la carte sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, baked beans, bourbon sweet mashed potatoes and coleslaw. Pre-order by Sunday, July 2 at noon.

Salamander Washington DC

The posh Southwest hotel celebrates its first Fourth of July with a big backyard barbecue across its garden patio (5 p.m. to 8 p.m.). Hosted by Jack Arnold, expect demonstrations on the Big Green Egg grill, premium Kow Steaks, Good Ranchers poultry, lots of Truff Hot sauce, and cocktails powered by Absolut vodka and Uncle Nearest premium whiskey. The family-friendly event includes face painting, a magician, and caricaturist, plus live entertainment from a DJ and the 21st Grey Coat Battalion Fife and Drum Corp performing the National Anthem and traditional American folklore. Tickets are $175 with an open bar (or $135 without) and $65 for kids.

Tiki TNT & Potomac Distilling Company

With expansive rooftop views of the National Fireworks show, head to Tiki TNT at at 7 p.m. for a big rooftop watch party. Each tiki ticket ($150) includes three drink tickets, passed island snacks, and a luau buffet featuring hot dogs, burgers, and a macaroni salad. Bookings available on Resy.

Smoke & Mirrors

Atop the AC Hotel Marriott in Navy Yard is Smoke & Mirrors, a chic spot for some of D.C.’s best-dressed to congregate. On the Fourth, they’re offering a special Liberty Sparkler cocktail (private reserve High West bourbon, strawberry-blueberry syrup, sparkling rosé, and lemon).

Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf

Pendry’s signature rooftop restaurant, Moonraker, will host an Independence Day party where guests can witness fireworks from across the river to another on the National Mall. Enjoy a selection of Japanese-American bites like wagyu cheeseburger sliders, Japanese potato salad, assorted sushi rolls, karaage chicken wings, and a dessert pie bar, an open bar with craft beer and five themed cocktails and a live DJ. Celebrations run from 6 to 10 p.m. at $200 per person.

Thompson Washington D.C.

Situated steps from Nationals Park, The Rooftop at the Thompson wants Washingtonians and hotel guests alike to bask in 360-degree views this 4th of July. The 6,000-square-foot venue accommodates parties of all sizes.

Skydome Restaurant

Head to Arlington for open seating in a theatre-style room with windows overlooking D.C. and the monuments. Tickets includes two beverages (beer or wine) for adults and two ice cream treats for kids plus an all-American dessert bar priced at $40 for adults and $20 for children. At Skydome, 21-and-up customers can partake in an all-American buffet complete with two complimentary beverages (beer or wine) for each guest for $125 per person. 

BARCA Pier & Wine Bar

Barca Pier & Wine Bar is an unrivaled spot to watch the 4th of July fireworks. With its Catalonian cuisine, extensive wine selection, and a picturesque views of the Potomac, opt for a low-key, yet entertaining soiree while enjoying a glass of their favorite vintage and Spanish-Mediterranean small plates.

Blue Rock

Escape the city for a weekend in Washington, Virginia. Enjoy a specialty sparkling wine pairing at Blue Rock to kick off July 4 celebrations. The sparkling wines pairing ($79) is available with the four-course tasting menu at the restaurant. The pairing features Thibaut-Janisson, Extra Brut; L. Aubry & Fils, Brut 1er Cru, Francoise Bedel, Dis Vin Secret, and finishes with Patrick Bottex sparkling rosé.

Related Maps