It is here once again, the great day of July 4th. The celebration of Americas gained freedom from the grip of the British. It is my favorite holiday by far. For those of you outside the US and unfamiliar with the 4th of July it mostly involves enjoying the outdoors whether it be at a beach or lake, lots of barbecuing capped off by fireworks. You will usually be surrounded by family, friends and plenty of adult beverages. This year I will be splitting my time between the beach and a lake with driving in between, but for many their plans involve flying. The 4th traditionally begins the summer travel season where airports are packed to the gills. Today I wanted to list out the 5 busiest airports in the US for the July 4th travel day as according to Hopper.com.
1. Las Vegas (LAS)
I have never heard of anyone going to Las Vegas for the 4th of July, mainly because of the heat, but Sin City is proving itself to be a year-round destination. Judging by the list of 4th of July events on vegas.com there does seem like plenty to do. Between epic pool parties, tons of fireworks and enough gambling to render you bankrupt, it’s easy to see why Vegas is a HOT HOT destination. Not to mention you can gamble in the airport. Are there any other US airports you can gamble at? Drop tripchi a line if you know the answer.
2. Los Angeles (LAX)
Is LAX old or just vintage? The smell of mildew permeates the terminals and the 70’s vibe is still going strong. Is there a North American airport that needs an update more than LAX? I think not. According to timeout magazine the best fireworks in LA can be seen at the Hollywood Bowl. LA can be a great city and I definitely wouldn’t mind spending a night at the Hollywood Bowl.
3. Atlanta (ATL)
I’m not surprised to see ATL on this list as they are one of the busiest airports in the world all year round. Not only will people be staying in Atlanta but many will be passing through, driving up the passenger numbers. If you are staying in Atalanta for the 4th be sure to check out the AJC Peachtree Road Race. The 6.2-mile race takes participants from the streets of Buckhead to the corners of Midtown, finishing in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. If running isn’t your thing check out Fireworks and Drag racing at Atlanta Motor Speedway sponsored by Papa Johns. Pizza, fireworks, racing and tons of beer what could possibly go wrong?
4. Chicago (ORD)
Chicago is my favorite North America summer city. I am more partial to flying into MDW as it is closer to the city and has fewer delays, but ORD is where you will end up most of the time flying into Chicago. Chicago has a lot to offer. Lake Michigan and the river provide tons of activities. One of my favorite things to do in Chicago is go on the Architecture boat tour. Grab a beer head to the bow of the ship, soak up the sun and learn about all the amazing buildings and architecture styles that have come through Chicago. If that’s not your thing grab a Chicago-style dog and watch the fireworks from the Navy Pier. You can’t go wrong with Chicago, just ask Oprah.
5. Denver (DEN)
5. Denver (DEN)
A high elevated airport for an extremely high city. If getting down with the green stuff isn’t your idea of a fun 4th of July, there is plenty more to see and do in Denver. You can go see a show at Red Rocks or see the Zach Brown Band at Coors Field. The annual Independence Eve Celebration in Civic Center Park will feature a free patriotic concert, an innovative light show on the Denver City and County Building and a stunning fireworks finale. There are a lot of great micro brews to taste in Denver so be sure not to drink and drive. Denver is heavily promoting their Denver B-cycle bike sharing program with locations all around the city, but don’t do that drunk either.
Whether you are flying, driving or biking to your destination this July 4th be sure to be safe. If you are flying be sure to use tripchi for all your airport adventures. Happy 4th to you all! Travel On!