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5 Things to Do in Boston for 4th of July
Boston is home to America’s biggest 4th of July events and Encore Boston Harbor puts you in the spirit of freedom, fun and a good time for all with our tips on the things you must do in Boston on this very special day. From baseball to a true taste of the city and can’t miss cultural events, there’s no better time to experience the riches of the Cradle of Liberty.
Fenway Park Tour
If you’re a Red Sox fan, or a history buff, or simply drawn to legendary American sports venues, here’s something to tic all the boxes. Fenway Park, widely referred to as, “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” has been the team’s home in the heart of the city since 1912.
Ballpark tours are available daily, year-round, with a variety of options including a 60-minute guided tour exploring the historic grounds of the park complete with team, ballpark and player history. They even have a “Fenway in Fifteen” experience for fans who want to see the historic park but don’t have time for the full hour tour that includes a visit to the Nation’s Archives at the Royal Rooters Club and the Right Field Roof Deck with a stunning panoramic view of the ballpark and the Boston skyline.
Go for a Lobster Roll
Throwing some hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill might be your 4th of July go-to at home, but Encore Boston Harbor levels up on casual fare at On Deck, an American sports bar, located on the mezzanine level, open on Thursday from 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Go for something truly New England and all American with On Deck’s lobster roll made with lightly dressed Maine lobster meat, and lemon aioli on a brioche bun. Or try the Philly Cheesesteak with shaved prime steak, bell peppers, onions and cheese sauce, or the hearty bourbon BBQ bacon burger with applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, and onion rings on a pretzel bun. In addition to the extensive selection of beers at On Deck, don’t miss special summer season cocktails crafted with proprietary spirits blended and bottled exclusively for Encore Boston Harbor like Beach Season made with El Tesoro Encore Edition Reposado Tequila, Giffard pineapple liqueur, Giffard coconut syrup, and lime and Strawberry Fields, a refreshing blend of Bully Boy Encore Privé Gin, St. Germain, strawberry, and lemon.
Take the Free Water Shuttle
No one wants to deal with parking or driving on a holiday, which is why the free water shuttle which runs from Long Wharf North and Lovejoy Wharf to Encore Boston Harbor might just be the ticket of the summer. Our luxury motor yachts depart day and night, and it is an experience that makes getting to the resort just as fun as being at the resort — plus, it is a great way to reach other events going on in the city during the 4th of July holiday without sitting in traffic. In addition to the Encore Premium Harbor Shuttle, local water taxis and private vessels may use the Encore Boston Harbor boat dock to drop off and pick up visitors. Reservations for short-term dockage are available through Dockwa.
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
While staying at the Forbes Travel Guide® Five-Star rated Encore Boston Harbor, we recommend that guests take in the city’s rich culture offerings and during the 2024 Independence Day celebration there is no more thoroughly Boston event to attend than the legendary free Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. This takes place on the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade, with a performance by headliner and Tony-winning actress and Broadway star, Kelli O’Hara.
Joining O’Hara on the Esplanade stage are the Americana group The Mavericks, soul singer Darlene Love, and the Singing Sergeants from the United States Air Force Band. The concert begins at 8 p.m., and the half-hour fireworks show at 10:30 p.m. The spectacular finale is accompanied by Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture ending with drum rolls and cannon fire as church bells ring throughout the city. The best way to get to the Pops concert and Boston fireworks show is by public transportation and walking, as parking is very limited in the area and crowds will be dense.
Boston Harborfest
For those who want to make it more than a one day affair, Boston Harborfest starts on Monday, July 1 and continues through Thursday, July 4 ending with the Boston Pops Fireworks. Harborfest features hundreds of activities over Independence Day at Boston’s historic landmarks. It is one of the largest events of its kind in America, including historical reenactments, an arts market, Chowderfest, where Boston restaurants and bars compete to determine who makes the best clam chowder, live musical entertainment, and more. On Tuesday, July 2, Boston Harborfest hosts its own fireworks at Long Wharf starting at 9:15 p.m.