Best Beaches Near NYC in 2025: A Guide for Families

Submitted by Anna Fader on

Kid-friendly—and foodie-friendly—Jacob Riis Beach is a quick trip from the city. Photo by Sara Marentette

Summertime means beach season, and while there are lots of beaches near and even in NYC, some are more family-friendly than others. After packing up your gear and schlepping the kids by car, train, bus, or ferry, the last thing you want to find out is that your chosen beach has no bathroom, or bathing suits are optional. Skip the guesswork with our roundup of eight easy-to-reach beaches near NYC for families, including detailed info on attractions, food, bathrooms, and hidden costs. Most are within 2 hours of Manhattan by car and are easily accessible via public transportation, so you can plot a great daycation for your family.

Find more beach fun in our Beaches, Pools, and Water Playgrounds Guide, or check out these summer day trip ideas.

DC 4th of July Fireworks 2025: A Family Guide

Submitted by Christine Mooney on

See the DC fireworks light up the monuments. Photo by Anthony Quintano, via Flickr 2.0

Nothing says Independence Day like watching the Washington, DC 4th of July fireworks light up the night sky above the iconic memorials and monuments. It's a sight many families are eager to see, and that means viewing spots tend to get pretty crowded. Luckily, we have some ideas to help you navigate safely and get great views of the DC fireworks 2025.

Read on for the best places to watch the DC 4th of July fireworks in 2025. If your family can't get enough fireworks, scroll down for more fireworks shows in Maryland and Northern Virginia in late June and on July 4.

For even more fun summer activities throughout the DMV, check out our Ultimate DC Kids Summer Vacation Guide. Happy 4th of July!

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks in Orlando 2025: More Orlando July 4th Parades and Events

Submitted by Charlotte B on

Fireworks light up the night sky at Legoland FLorida. Photo courtesy of the Legoland Florida

4th of July fireworks in Orlando are just around the corner, and we're so excited to celebrate Independence Day 2025! From the best Orlando fireworks 2025 (at theme parks and beyond) to patriotic Orlando July 4th parades, we’ve rounded up tons of fun-filled family 4th of July events in Orlando and Central Florida.

Other things to do during Fourth of July 2025 weekend in Orlando include a summer trip to a nearby beach, visiting local natural springs, or spending a day on the water aboard kid-friendly boat trips. Whatever you choose, we hope you and your family have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Where To See 4th of July Fireworks in Atlanta 2025: More Atlanta July 4th Parades and Events

Elsa Simcik's picture Submitted by Elsa Simcik on

July 4th fireworks light up Marietta's night sky! Photo courtesy of City of Marietta

Enjoy spectacular Atlanta fireworks 2025 for a memorable holiday. (Bonus: it's on a Friday this year!) Practically every Atlanta suburb and intown neighborhood is putting on its own July 4th fireworks display, festival, and parade. Folks can also celebrate kid-friendly fireworks at Atlanta attractions like Stone Mountain Park, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, and Truist Park, cheering on our Atlanta Braves. Most of the patriotic parties in Atlanta will take place on Friday, July 4th, including Atlanta's internationally known AJC Peachtree Road Race! 

Read on for all the details about the best 4th of July fireworks in Atlanta and find even more ways to make memories in our Atlanta Kids' Summer Vacation Guide. 

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks in Philadelphia 2025

Submitted by Nicole O'Donnell on

Don't miss the Wawa Welcome America Party on the Parkway and Fireworks Spectacular at Eakins Oval. Photo courtesy of the event

Get ready to light up your 4th of July with some red, white, and BOOM! We've compiled a list of the best fireworks displays near Philly that will leave your kids dazzled and awestruck. Prepare for a night of wonder and amazement with the city's Party on the Parkway and Fireworks Spectacular, or watch the magic unfold in a suburban show complete with parades and festivals. Don't forget to bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, noise-canceling headphones, and bug spray, and get ready for a night you won't forget!

For more summertime fun, browse our Summer Activity Guide or check out our Top Festivals for Philly Kids to keep that party going all summer long.  

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks in Los Angeles in 2025

Submitted by Kylie Williams on

Celebrate 4th of July aboard the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach. Photo courtesy of Victori Solutions

Enjoy the tradition of the 4th of July fireworks in Los Angeles this holiday with friends and family throughout the city. 

"Oh, say, can you see" the 4th of July fireworks in Los Angeles? Whether you party late into the night at Grand Park, lug camping chairs to a local mall parking lot, or turn up the sound machines and hope the baby stays asleep, it helps to know exactly where to find all the 4th of July fireworks in Los Angeles. Grab a blanket and picnic and head to one of these spectacular 4th of July fireworks shows in Los Angeles near you. 

If you plan to celebrate the 4th of July at home, dive into desserts, Independence Day crafts, and more from our list of the Best At-Home Fourth of July Activities for Kids. Plus, discover seasonal fun with free things to do in Los Angeles this summer, free outdoor movies, free outdoor concerts, and even more in our Ultimate Los Angeles Kids Summer Vacation Guide. 

Please note, several local Independence Day events have been canceled or postponed, among them the annual celebration in Gloria Molina Grand Park. 

Pages