Share
As America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, communities across the country are marking this historic milestone with special America 250 events that celebrate the nation’s history, culture, and enduring spirit.
In a previous roundup, we highlighted Fourth of July celebrations taking place across Texas. Now, we’re looking beyond the Lone Star State to showcase some of the exciting America 250 events happening throughout the United States.
Boston, Massachusetts
As the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston will be a centerpiece of the semi quincentennial. Families can walk the Freedom Trail to 16 iconic sites, from the Paul Revere House to Bunker Hill Monument. With hands-on attractions like the USS Constitution Museum and Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Boston is not to be missed in this historic year.
Additionally, as the backdrop for a number of major historic moments throughout the country’s history, the city is home to many of the Northeast’s most historic hotels and restaurants:
Omni Parker House
Located in Boston’s Theater District, this spot is known as the city’s oldest continuously operating hotel, founded in 1855. A landmark of literary and cultural history, it has hosted luminaries such as Emerson, Thoreau, and Hawthorne, making it a quintessential venue to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Groups can reserve historic guest rooms, host gatherings in storied spaces like the “Saturday Club” room, or arrange heritage hotel tours that explore its mid-19th-century origins and ties to Boston’s literary scene. For a deeper connection to the region’s past, planners can weave the Parker House into a larger “heritage journey,” pairing a welcome reception here with a revolutionary-era dinner at the Union Oyster House or an off-site retreat at Longfellow’s Wayside Inn. Together, these venues tell a story of authenticity, continuity, and living history, from colonial inns to Gilded Age hotels, perfectly aligning with the spirit of the nation’s 250th celebration.
Located within the historic Omni Parker House, Parker’s Restaurant has been a Boston institution since 1832, when Harvey D. Parker transformed a small café into what would become one of the city’s most storied dining rooms. Credited with inventing both the iconic Boston Cream Pie and Parker House rolls, the restaurant embodies Boston’s culinary legacy. Its ornate interiors set the stage for elegant dinners or receptions, while storytelling around its famous creations can add a unique layer of history to any 250th-anniversary celebration.
The Copley Square Hotel
Located on the edge of Boston’s aristocratic Back Bay neighborhood, this hotel is known as Boston’s second-oldest hotel in continuous operation, having opened in 1891. The hotel combines modern amenities with rich historical architecture, including stylish rooms, a robust fitness center, and a sleek, on-property restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine perfect for those who want to experience the flavors of New England without leaving the property. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s cozy spaces or explore the vibrant neighborhood, with historic attractions such as the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, and the Museum of Fine Arts just steps away. A significant number of important Boston educational and cultural institutions were originally located adjacent to Copley Square, reflecting 19th-century Boston’s aspirations for the location as a center of culture and progress. The Copley Square Hotel delivers an authentic Boston experience filled with history and contemporary offerings at a reasonable price, perfect for both leisure and business travelers seeking a unique and sophisticated stay in one of Boston’s most coveted locations.
Union Oyster House
Known as one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the United States, this downtown Boston gem has been in operation since 1826 (and the building itself dates back to 1716). Imbued with an authentic, old-world ambience thanks to dark wood paneling and historical artwork, this spot is a must-visit for New England clam chowder – a staple that drew in repeat customers including leading 19th-century statesman Daniel Webster and former U.S. President John F. Kennedy Jr. (whose ghost, rumors have it, still sits in his favorite plaqued booth from time to time).
Bell in Hand Tavern
Coincidentally located right across the street from Union Oyster House is Boston’s oldest tavern, founded in 1795.
New Native American Walking App along Boston’s Freedom Trail
A self-guided augmented reality walking tour across landmark sites shining a light on Boston’s Indigenous history is available June 29-December 31, 2026. This new, free app was developed in partnership with the North American Indian Center of Boston, produced and commissioned by White Snake Projects, and includes new, original music and lyrics by Wampanoag, Nipmuc, and other Native American artists living in Massachusetts.
Beginning at the Boston Harbor Islands Pavilion on Long Wharf and ending on Boston Common, the 1.2-mile-long tour traces Indigenous history through six stops in the heart of downtown Boston — from the internment of Native people on Deer Island during King Philip’s War, to the hanging of Nipmuc leader Tantamous from the Great Elm in 1676.
Each stop features a written narrative and original three-minute musical performance inspired by and/or about the historical event that took place there which have been devised by Native creators. INDIGENOUS STORIES users will be returned to the past through virtual stories, music, artifacts, and multimedia displays.
Download the free Hoverlay app available for iOS and Android devices and also available at WhiteSnakeProjects.org. Search for INDIGENOUS STORIES.
Wyoming
Independence Day at Independence Rock (July 4, 2026)
Celebrate this big American milestone at Independence Rock, a significant landmark along the historic Oregon Trail where thousands of pioneers carved their names into the granite as they ventured west. The event will feature living history reenactments and interactive historical vignettes from 9 a.m. to noon, bringing Wyoming’s frontier history to life at this iconic pioneer waypoint.
Wyoming’s Capital City Celebration (July 4, 2026)
Bring the whole family to Cheyenne for an all-day Fourth of July celebration at the Wyoming Capitol Complex. The America 250th festivities include a patriotic parade, Governor’s address, military flyover, live music, cultural performances and a firework finale over the Wyoming State Capitol’s golden dome.
Virtually Walk the Oregon Trail (May through September 2026)
Folks far and wide can virtually walk Wyoming sections of the Oregon Trail using the Pacer app, choosing routes between Fort Laramie to Independence Rock (154 miles) and South Pass to Fort Bridger (196 miles). Participants who successfully complete the challenge will be awarded with a themed medal. Registration and medals are free but are limited to the first 1,000 individuals or groups. The Pacer app allows you to record how far you have walked by connecting Apple Health, Apple Watch, Google Fit, Samsung Health, Fitbit, Garmin or manually entering steps.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Stars, Stripes and Seaside Spirit: Celebrate America 250 in Myrtle Beach
Along South Carolina’s Grand Strand, events, attractions and festivities spotlight the region’s enduring spirit, creativity and resilience that have helped shape the nation since 1776. From military monuments and living history farms to fireworks and All-American attractions, The Beach provides the ideal landscape to celebrate the spirit of the nation. Unique ways to mark America 250 along the Grand Strand include:
Exploring a Coastal Legacy
- Step back into the Revolutionary War era and follow General Francis Marion, the elusive “Swamp Fox,” whose mastery of the region’s wetlands helped outmaneuver British forces. Today, visitors can explore historic markers, trails and protected lands that honor his late-1700s campaigns and enduring legacy.
- Just outside Conway, the Horry County seat, sites tied to the Battle of Bear Bluff and the historic communities around Galivants Ferry offer a glimpse into the region’s Revolutionary War landscape and Francis Marion’s campaigns. The county was named in 1801 for Brigadier General Peter Horry, honoring his service in securing the nation’s future.
- Take a road trip along sites that shaped America’s early story, including U.S. Highway 17, which closely traces the historic Kings Highway, a 1,300-mile colonial route built to connect Charleston and Boston.
- In the fishing village of Little River, the oldest settlement in Horry County, visitors can admire the natural beauty of Vereen Memorial Gardens, which served as one of President George Washington’s overnight stops during his 1791 Southern tour.
- Explore Georgetown’s historic waterfront, where museums and colonial-era sites bring the region’s rich maritime and cultural history to life.
- Discover a piece of American ingenuity on Pawleys Island, home of the Original Pawleys Island Rope Hammock, first crafted in the late 1800s by riverboat captain Joshua John Ward and still hand-woven and available for purchase today.
Immersing in Living History
- Visit Brookgreen Gardens to explore the Lowcountry History Center and interpretive exhibits. Discover the region’s rice plantation past, Gullah Geechee culture and deeply connected natural heritage.
- Experience Freewoods Farm in Myrtle Beach’s Burgess community, the nation’s only African American living-history farm of its kind, where demonstrations, tours and exhibits bring the stories of small family farms from the late 19th to mid-20th centuries to life.
- Explore the L.W. Paul Living History Farm at the Horry County Museum, offering daily demonstrations showcasing farming practices and rural life from 1900–1955, and uncover the region’s agricultural heritage, innovation and resilience.
Enjoying Tributes and Celebrations
- Tour Warbird Park, home to retired military aircraft and memorial plaques honoring the legacy of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base and the airmen who served from the Cold War through the Gulf War.
- Celebrate the nation all summer long with events, dazzling fireworks shows and an array of unforgettable 4th of July parades featuring elaborately decorated golf carts and boats.
Discover all the ways to celebrate the nation in Myrtle Beach by visiting VisitMyrtleBeach.com and SouthCarolina250.com.
WonderWorks Myrtle Beach
This summer, families can blast off on an unforgettable adventure at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach, where space exploration, hands-on learning, and patriotic celebrations come together under one upside-down roof. With more than 100 interactive exhibits, exciting attractions, and special offerings celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, WonderWorks offers an indoor destination packed with discovery, excitement, and family fun. Guests of all ages are sure to have a blast and make lasting memories during their time at one of Myrtle Beach’s top, must-see attractions.
Space enthusiasts will not want to miss checking out WonderWorks Myrtle Beach this summer. July 20th marks Space Exploration Day and National Moon Day each year, commemorating Apollo 11’s historic first moon landing anniversary. There are several activities guests can engage in at WonderWorks to get a feel for space travel. Stepping into the Space Discovery Zone will give space fans of all ages an immersive, educational experience, as it highlights the wonders of our galaxy and space exploration.
From climbing into replicas of the Mercury Capsule or an EVA space suit, to flying a virtual space shuttle on a mission to Mars, to exploring the moon’s surface with Google Moon, the interactive exhibits keep galactic learning fun and exciting. The Astronaut Training Challenge gives thrill seekers an opportunity to feel the effects that outer space has on humans by allowing four people to get into a gyroscope that spins and rotates in random directions, offering a feeling of weightlessness and g-forces. The Space Discovery Zone provides an out-of-this-world summer vacation experience for all.
To elevate guests’ visits even further, WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is hosting The Great American Summer of Wonder to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence on July 4, 2026. Now is the perfect time to get in on the celebration of American innovation and patriotism that will be running through Labor Day. Families will not want to miss the patriotic decorations, the official America 250 merchandise in the gift shop, and the “Red White & Delicious” family meal deal in the café that is only $17.76 and includes a large pizza, four soft drinks, and four freezer pops. There are also special offerings online, including a new Kids Corner Activity Sheet, and patriotic trivia questions with chances to win free tickets to WonderWorks on their Facebook page.
Branson, Missouri
America’s Most Patriotic Resort, Big Cedar Lodge, will commemorate America250 with an expansive lineup of summer programming honoring the nation’s heritage, heroes, and enduring spirit – think thousands of American flags, aerial tributes with patriotic military jet flyovers, patriotic picnics, a 5K rucking class inspired by military tradition, and of course, the resort’s legendary fireworks. The 4,600-acre nature resort in the heart of Missouri’s Ozark Mountains invites guests to honor 250 years of America’s iconic history and celebrate the nation’s freedom and its heroes with patriotic programming all summer.
Thousands of American flags will line the property’s rolling hills, lakes, and trails, creating a powerful visual tribute that sets the tone for a summer of celebration. Signature experiences throughout the America250 celebration include aerial tributes with patriotic military jet flyovers, patriotic picnics with live entertainment, glow-in-the-dark scavenger hunts, archery tag, and a 5K rucking class inspired by military tradition. Guests can also enjoy a full calendar of activities from kids fishing experiences and mini-golf tournaments to ultimate Frisbee, private sunset bonfires, and dinner cruises on the resort’s steamship inspired yacht, Lady Liberty, named after its original service near the Statue of Liberty and its enduring connection to American freedom.
On Independence Day, the celebration reaches its peak with a patriotic cookout, the Lady Liberty fireworks cruise, and multiple fireworks displays, including the iconic show at Top of the Rock. As night falls, guests can take in the resort’s legendary fireworks from lake cruises, private cabanas, or scenic overlooks, creating unforgettable moments under a sky lit in red, white, and blue.
For more information about Big Cedar Lodge’s foundational efforts as the Most Patriotic Resort in America, learn more here or to book a reservation, please visit www.bigcedar.com.
Orlando, Florida
Summer of Magic: Red, White & Wow at WonderWorks Orlando
To commemorate 250 years of the country’s independence, The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show at Orlando’s upside-down house will be presenting the “Summer of Magic: Red, White and Wow!” throughout the month of July 2026. This is a new, special show guests of all ages will not want to miss, as it offers an exciting, magically patriotic tribute to our nation’s founding, giving everyone the perfect excuse to celebrate all summer long. The Summer of Magic will be held at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. every night in July, with an additional 4 p.m. show time every Saturday throughout the month.
The new patriotic-themed show, “Summer of Magic: Red, White and Wow!”, celebrates America’s history, innovation, and imagination through a series of magical moments. Guests will experience a celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, uncover the mysteries hidden within the American dollar, watch young audience members create their own wonder through interactive magic, and enjoy dazzling illusions and sleight-of-hand inspired by America’s greatest innovations. The show also shines a spotlight on Florida’s unique contributions to the nation.
Along with the patriotic birthday party happening on stage, guests can dive into a classic American feast of unlimited pizza and salad, unlimited beer and wine, and a tasty, themed dessert to wrap up the night. There will also be two specialty cocktails available for purchase: the Star-Spangled Sipper and Blue Liberty.
The show will be performed five nights a week by resident magician, Phillip Kaiser. The other two nights will take on a unique twist with featured performances from guest headliners, including Jimmy Rook, Matt Marberry, Scott Humston, and Neils Sayers. Tickets often sell out and can be purchased in advance online.
Colorado to Utah Rail Journey
Elevated rail journey Canyon Spirit (formerly Rocky Mountaineer’s U.S. operations) immerses travelers in the American Southwest by taking them off the grid and onto the tracks that built the country. It is the most iconic way to celebrate, especially with a new route into Salt Lake City! The expansion connects the Rockies to the Red Rocks via a three-day, daylight-only journey between Denver, Glenwood Springs, Moab, and SLC.
Some bits on the experience:
- A new route between Denver, Glenwood Springs, Moab, and Salt Lake City that follows the river bends and canyons.
- Glass-dome trains showing the American Southwest exactly as it looked 250 years ago.
- Onboard storytelling from hosts who share the history of the surrounding landscapes as they unfold.
- No sleeper cars. We stop overnight in charming destinations like Glenwood Springs and Moab so guests can actually spend time in the landscapes they’re crossing.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cover photo courtesy America 250.
