I imagine there will be fireworks in DC around the Mall area for the 4th of July celebration. Where is the best spot to see the fireworks? Maybe some hills like around Arlington?
We’ve done the Mall. It gets unbelievably crowded, but can be fun if you get there early (like in the afternoon) and claim a spot. The view is terrific, of course. I suspect this year you may have to be there very early. And the bathroom scene might be a bit scary.
We’ve also been by the Iwo Jima Memorial. The view is more panoramic and the crowds weren’t quite shoulder-to-shoulder.
The last time we were in the Courthouse Road Quality Inn, on a 7th or 8th floor balcony. Not as close, but we could see the fireworks just fine (and I think it rained a bit too, so the comfort level was good). I think I enjoyed the last most, but that may be the old fart in me talking.
Get there early and sit on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. You’ll see the fireworks over the Washington Monument (and reflected in the Reflecting Pool).
Best place? quite possibly Channel 22.
Honestly. The spectacle is one thing, but getting there, staying there and getting back makes for a quite unenjoyable time.
Best uncrowded place: Malcolm X/Meridian Hill Park, at the top of the hill. The park is between 16th and 15th Streets NW. It has a little bit of a shady reputation but is not as bad as anyone from the burbs would like to think it is.
It’s not crowded, is a great place to picnic, and is away from the hustle and bustle on the Mall.
Also, I’ve viewed the fireworks satisfactorily from Cardozo High School (up on top of the hill, of course.)
Drop your anchor just downriver of Roosevelt Island, just upriver of Memorial Bridge. You get a roomy space to cook out, watch the show, and no real traffic problems heading out.
Of course, you must have a boat.
- Rick