Top 4th of July getaways by car from NYC. Where to go for fireworks and fun


Independence Day is a big deal in New York City — but sometimes, escaping the crowds is the ultimate celebration. Whether you’re landing at JFK or already living in the city, renting an SUV and hitting the road is one of the best ways to enjoy a festive, fun-filled weekend. 

From charming small towns to scenic beaches and mountain hideaways, we’ve mapped out the top 4th of July getaways from NYC by car that bring the fireworks and the good vibes.

Why leave NYC for the 4th of July?

There’s no doubt NYC knows how to throw a party. But on the 4th, the city gets busy. Think packed parks, long lines, and shoulder-to-shoulder fireworks viewing.

Hopping in a rental SUV and heading out of town gives you the best of both worlds:

  • Less crowded celebrations in scenic, laid-back settings
  • Flexibility to stop where you want, when you want
  • More space for picnic gear, camping chairs, and coolers
  • A chance to explore small-town Americana at its finest

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a romantic retreat, or just fresh air and open roads — there’s a perfect destination waiting just a few hours from JFK.

Prepping for the perfect road trip

Before we hit the road, here are a few quick tips to make your July 4th road trip from NYC smooth and stress-free:

Plan your route (and leave early)

Traffic can be brutal on holiday weekends, especially if you’re leaving Friday afternoon. Head out early or late — or better yet, start your trip Thursday night.

Rent a Reliable SUV

Look for an SUV with:

  • Plenty of trunk space for all your gear
  • All-wheel drive for mountain destinations
  • Comfortable seating for road trip naps

Check out Drivo.com for SUV rentals from JFK Airport or other NYC locations. Pro tip: look for unlimited mileage options to avoid extra fees on longer trips.

Don’t Forget to Pack

  • Lawn chairs or picnic blankets
  • Sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses
  • Snacks and water
  • A cooler with drinks & BBQ essentials
  • Fireworks-safe gear (if permitted)
  • Light layers (yes, even in July — mountain nights can be chilly!)

Book Your Stay Ahead

Hotels, motels, and even campgrounds book up fast around July 4th — especially in smaller towns. Reserve early to lock in a spot.

Best places to celebrate 4th of July near NYC

Here’s your go-to list of the best weekend trips from NYC for the 4th of July, broken down by vibe: beaches, mountains, and Americana towns.

Beach Getaways with Fireworks

Long Island (Jones Beach)

Distance: ~1 hour from JFK

A classic New York favorite. Jones Beach puts on one of the biggest 4th of July fireworks shows near NYC, and you’ll find family-friendly boardwalks, sand, and surf.
What to Do: Hit the beach early, walk the boardwalk, and stick around for the fireworks over the Atlantic.

Asbury Park, NJ

Distance: ~1.5 hours from JFK

This artsy beach town is perfect for a laid-back escape. Live music, craft beer, beach bonfires — and a colorful crowd.
Fireworks: Look out over the ocean from the boardwalk as the sky lights up.
Bonus: Don’t miss the vintage pinball arcade!

Cape Cod, MA

Distance: ~4.5 hours from JFK

Yes, it’s a longer drive, but Cape Cod is the definition of charming. Think lighthouses, lobster rolls, and old-fashioned parades.
Fireworks: Multiple towns along the Cape host shows.
Best Spots: Provincetown, Chatham, and Falmouth.

Mountain Getaways and Nature Retreats

The Catskills, NY

Distance: ~2.5 hours from JFK

Looking for a peaceful mountain getaway for 4th of July near NYC? The Catskills are ideal. Expect waterfalls, hiking trails, and cozy cabins.
Fireworks: Check towns like Windham and Hunter for small-town shows.
Activities: Tubing, kayaking, and stargazing.

The Poconos, PA

Distance: ~2 hours from JFK

Great for couples or families. Lake life, zip-lining, and water parks — plus small-town fireworks that feel straight out of a movie.
Don’t Miss: Fireworks over Lake Wallenpaupack.

Lake Placid, NY

Distance: ~5 hours from JFK

Yes, it’s a trek, but this Olympic town is worth the drive. Surrounded by the Adirondacks, it offers cool mountain air and lakeside picnics.
Fireworks: Set off over Mirror Lake — magical!
Things to Do: Visit the Olympic ski jump, hike High Falls Gorge, or rent a kayak.

 

Historic Cities & Small-Town Celebrations

Philadelphia, PA

Distance: ~2 hours from JFK

There’s no better place to celebrate American independence than the city where it started.
Events: Parades, concerts, and one of the best fireworks shows near NYC at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Top Spots: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Old City.

Boston, MA

Distance: ~4 hours from JFK

Boston throws a major 4th of July bash with the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular along the Charles River.
History + Fireworks = Perfect Combo
Other Highlights: Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, and seafood feasts.

New Haven, CT

Distance: ~2.5 hours from JFK

Yale’s hometown offers small-town charm, green spaces, and a fantastic fireworks show over Long Wharf.
Also Great For: Foodies (don’t skip the famous apizza) and casual walks through the historic campus.

Beacon, NY

Distance: ~1.5 hours from JFK

This small Hudson Valley town is trendy without being too busy. Art galleries, local breweries, river views — and a quiet but charming 4th of July celebration.
Don’t Miss: Dia:Beacon art museum and Mount Beacon hike.

Bonus tips for the ultimate Independence Day adventure

  • Check local listings for parades, concerts, and town fairs — many towns go all out.
  • Parking: Arrive early or park just outside town and walk in. Bring cash for local lots.
  • Where to Watch Fireworks: Ask locals for their favorite viewing spots (often better than the crowded main areas).
  • Stay Safe: Keep fireworks legal, don’t drink and drive, and stay hydrated.

Your independence day, your way

With so many 4th of July celebrations near NYC, your weekend can be as chill or as festive as you want. Whether you’re watching fireworks from a mountain lake or dancing on a boardwalk, it all starts with one thing: the freedom of the open road.

So what are you waiting for?
Rent an SUV from Drivo.com, throw your favorite playlist on, and make this 4th of July your most memorable one yet.

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