The delicious smell of BBQ floating through the warm air of a Los Angeles summer evening can only mean one thing: it’s almost time for the 4th of July! With its eclectic mix of cultures, scenic spots, and endless entertainment options, LA is the perfect city to celebrate America’s birthday. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are our suggestions on how to make your 4th of July in LA absolutely unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
Enjoy Sun, Sand, and Fireworks at the Beach
Kick off your 4th of July with some classic California fun in the sun. Head to Santa Monica, where you can soak up the rays while watching the annual Independence Day Parade, play some volleyball in the sand, or try your hand at surfing. Santa Monica does not host fireworks at the pier, so as the long day winds down, find a cozy spot at nearby Corsair Field to enjoy local fireworks. Better yet, make your way over to Marina Del Rey where you can enjoy the fireworks at one of their waterfront restaurants or charter a boat for the closest view of the dazzling pyrotechnics!
Parking at these popular beach areas can be a nightmare, especially during summer holidays. We can help you avoid all the hassle and drop you off right at the beach and pick you up after all of the festivities, saving you the headache of finding a parking spot.
Take In a Patriotic Performance at the Bowl
For a musical 4th of July experience, the Hollywood Bowl is one of THE most iconic Los Angeles venues. The annual July 4th Fireworks Spectacular is a feast for the senses, combining live music with an epic fireworks display. Imagine swaying to the tunes of a renowned orchestra or band under the summer stars. It’s a blend of class and celebration that’s so uniquely LA. The Hollywood Bowl is known for its challenging parking situation, but we can help you avoid the traffic jam and long walk to the entrance.
Historic Celebrations at the Queen Mary
For a historical twist, celebrate aboard The Queen Mary in Long Beach. This retired ocean liner turned museum offers a unique experience with its “All-American 4th of July Celebration.” The ship hosts live entertainment, historical exhibits, and one of the best views of the waterfront fireworks. This event and parking are not free, so make sure to get your tickets in advance. Bear in mind that getting to Long Beach and navigating to The Queen Mary can be daunting, especially with holiday traffic, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get there and park.
Fun for Adrenaline Junkies at a Theme Park
If you’re a thrill-seeker, spend your Independence Day at Universal Studios Hollywood. The park offers a day full of excitement with its rides, shows, and attractions. Special 4th of July festivities include themed entertainment and of course, fireworks that you can enjoy from inside the park. Check out our previous post on how to plan the perfect trip to Universal and how to avoid the parking mayhem.
Fireworks Forever: Cinema in a Cemetery
Bust out your star-spangled shorts and get ready for a knockout movie and fireworks at this family-friendly event that takes place among the final resting places of Tinsel Town’s legendary past. Get your tickets online or at the venue, but they do go fast. Plan ahead and bring along your own picnic-style feast for those evening nibbles. You can even bring beer and wine if you like.
Community Celebrations That Rock the Block
Join in on a community tradition at the annual Gloria Molina Grand Park Block Party. This all-ages event is ideal for families and has something for everyone including tons of LA’s best food trucks, live music, games, and the return of the Grand Park Ferris Wheel. Stay until after dark and you’ll be treated to an amazing and pet-friendly alternative to traditional fireworks with a 3D drone show.
Final Thoughts
Fourth of July in Los Angeles offers so many different ways to celebrate, from beach bonfires to theme park thrills. However, navigating the city’s notorious traffic and finding parking can really put a damper on your festivities. Reduce your stress and forget about navigating through a maze of LA traffic or finding and paying for a parking spot that’s close enough to your venue.
That’s where we come in! Let us help you avoid all the hassles and get dropped off and picked up right at your destination. From Luxury Cars for you and your special someone to Charter Buses for your large family gathering, our services provide a smart, convenient, and stress-free way to ensure your holiday is filled with fun, fireworks, and unforgettable memories.
With our services, you can enjoy your celebrations as much as you like- especially if you plan to partake in any adult beverages. We even offer Day Trip Services for a full day of day-cationing. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!