05/18/2026
America turns 250 years old this year, and four of the greatest cities in this country are each doing something remarkable to celebrate it. 🇺🇸
You can pick one city, go deep, and experience its unique piece of this anniversary. Or build the epic itinerary and hit them all by train, by car, or by plane. And the celebration isn't just the 4th of July; there are special events, exhibitions, and experiences running all summer long and into the fall.
Here's a taste of what each city is offering:
🫐 Boston — Sail250 brings tall ships from around the world into Boston Harbor for six spectacular days, July 11–16. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on July 4th is the official USA250 national fireworks event. But Boston's Freedom Trail, historic neighborhoods, and revolutionary sites make it worth visiting all season long.
🔔 Philadelphia — The city where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the nation was born. Special exhibitions and immersive experiences in 2026 make Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell feel more alive than they have in generations. This is the city that has been waiting 250 years for this moment.
🗽 New York City — The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island carry a particularly powerful meaning this anniversary year. Layer on Broadway, Central Park, and world-class dining, and New York delivers something memorable for every generation, all summer and fall.
🏛️ Washington D.C. — Brand-new exhibitions opening specifically for the 250th, including "In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness" at the National Museum of American History, which opened May 14th. The Smithsonian is free year-round. The Grand Fourth on the Mall will be historic. And the monuments are profound in every season.
Whether you choose one city or all four, this is a trip that only fully exists in 2026. I would love to help you and your family be there for the 4th, for the summer, or for a fall visit when the crowds thin out and the experience deepens.
And for my gluten-free travelers, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, and D.C. are four of the most celiac-friendly cities in America. You are in very good hands in all of them. 🌾✨
For the entire month of May, I'm offering 20% off all travel planning services from bespoke itineraries and resort vetting to full group and family trip planning. Every destination.
📩 Send me a message or comment USA to start planning your America 250 experience.
