Three Last Minute 4th of July Weekend Getaways

By Jeff Bogle

Jun 28, 2021

Whether you’re looking for summer fishing trips or fun things to do on weekends, here are three perfect last minute 4th of July weekend getaways.

4th of July weekend getaways are the cornerstone of family summer vacations. Whether you’re looking for fishing trips, fun things to do on weekends, or just want a cool place to watch fireworks, here are three perfect places to celebrate 4th of July weekend this year!

Little Rock, Arkansas

Not only is Little Rock a stellar destination for fishing trips where you can catch largemouth bass, catfish, and bream in lakes and in the Arkansas River, spending 4th of July weekend in this southern capitol is also terrific because of the Pops on the River. This annual free event features music by the symphony orchestra, food trucks and kids activities. For a truly epic fireworks experience, grab a seat on the deck of the USS Razorback submarine after a day of summer fishing in North Little Rock! And don’t worry if you don’t catch anything, just head to the Lassis Inn for scrumptious fried catfish and a slice of American history this 4th of July weekend.

Nashville’s Big Backyard

If you’re looking for fun things to do on weekends this summer, grab your fishing poles and tackle box, and set out on the Natchez Trace. This 500-mile stretch connecting Mississippi to Tennessee is becoming famous for fantastic fishing trips, incredible hiking, and breathtaking landscapes away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The historic route is loaded with potential last minute 4th of July weekend getaways because it’s dotted with small towns from Nashville to The Shoals in Alabama, including the fascinating village of Leiper’s Fork, each with their own charming Independence Day weekend plans. Here’s how to plan fun weekend trips this summer.

Outer Banks

There’s nothing quite like a 4th of July weekend on the beach! Head to the Outer Banks for some legendary rest and relaxation, incredible summer fishing and a massive nighttime show! No fewer than four separate fireworks displays make this classic summertime destination one of the best 4th of July weekend getaways in the country. With fireworks being shot off from Avalon Pier in Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head Fishing Pier, the sound in Manteo, and the Avon Fishing Pier on Hatteras Island, the sky will be bursting with color!

Here are four more summer vacation spots perfect for fun weekend getaways to fish, hike and camp. And be sure to find the next free fishing days in a state near you.

Jeff Bogle
Jeff Bogle
Jeff is a dad of teen daughters, avid traveler, photographer, and freelance writer. He’s penned stories on family travel, outdoor recreation, the environment, parenting, and more for Fodor’s, Reader’s Digest, Parents Magazine, Good Housekeeping, PBS, and Esquire, among other publications. Find him on his blog, OWTK.com and on Instagram @OWTK. Jeff is also the publisher of the quarterly literary zine, Stanchion