Posted on: June 24, 2026, 10:44h.
Last updated on: June 24, 2026, 10:44h.
- A WalletHub survey ranks Las Vegas as the best US city to celebrate Independence Day
- Las Vegas edged out cities like New York, Orlando, and Los Angeles
- The city’s strong showing is also linked to entertainment options and typically dry July weather, ideal for fireworks
A new survey says the casino capital of the United States, not the nation’s capital, is the best place to celebrate the 250th anniversary of independence.
July 4 marks the 250th anniversary of the Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence, though the country’s founding document wasn’t signed until Aug. 2, 1776. Numerous July 4 events are planned in Washington, DC, but WalletHub, a personal finance website, says Las Vegas is the better choice for Independence Day celebrations and fireworks.
With high marks for Fourth of July affordability, celebrations, attractions, and activities, Las Vegas ranked No. 1 among the 100 most populous US cities.
Las Vegas is the best city for July 4th celebrations, in part because there’s no shortage of things to do, as the city ranks first in entertainment and recreational facilities. Las Vegas is also great for grabbing a meal out on Independence Day, as it’s one of the best cities for affordable restaurants with at least 4.5 stars,” the WalletHub team wrote.
The researchers also cited Las Vegas’ relatively low rate of fatal crashes due to intoxicated driving, as the region has an abundance of rideshare services and public transportation. Worries about the weather raining on the fireworks parade are also much subdued in Las Vegas, as Southern Nevada receives just two to four days of rainfall during July.
After Las Vegas, WalletHub ranked New York, Orlando, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis as the top five July 4 destinations. DC came in at No. 16.
Las Vegas July 4
National nonprofit roadside assistance servicer AAA projects that 72.2 million Americans will travel this Fourth of July. That’s a slight increase from last year, when a record 71.8 million US people traveled at least 50 miles from home.
Las Vegas will be a destination for millions, with the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (LVCVA) putting on a special fireworks show on July 4 in part of America250, Congress’s official initiative to plan and orchestrate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary nationwide. On July 4, Las Vegas fireworks from nine casino resorts will synchronize their shows.
As of June 24, there are plenty of Las Vegas casino hotel rooms available at reasonable prices for a two-night July 4 holiday stay.
For Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, inclusive of all taxes and fees, Sahara is $406, Park MGM is $655, and Circa is $675. For a more luxurious stay, Caesars Palace is $758, Bellagio is $1,054, and Wynn and Encore are $1,200.
The quoted rates include mandatory resort fees.
Economic Pressures
The WalletHub report detailed that many Americans are worried about inflation and AI.
The study found that six in 10 Americans plan to spend less money this Independence Day than they did last year. About three in five say higher gas prices will impact their plans, and nearly half believe their financial outlook is threatened by AI.
