An All American JULY

With my open love affair with France it may surprise you to hear me say this: skip Bastille Day in Paris and enjoy 4th of July celebrations here in the States.  Bastille Day in Paris is sort of like St. Patrick's Day in Ireland - it sounds like loads of fun but in reality there isn't much celebration going on and pretty much everything is closed.  So instead of battling large crowds in the heat in Europe, pack a picnic dinner and get on the road and find your own slice of Americana.

For a historical Independence Day celebration check out the Bristol, Rhode Island 4th of July Parade which has been held since 1785 and is the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.  It may only date back to 1973, but the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular held every year on the banks of the Charles is just as memorable.  This is the one time each year that you don't have to be a blue blood to see the fabulous Boston Pops.  Make sure you've got a seat by 9:30pm when the 1819 Overture is performed and you'll be all set for when the fireworks start at 10:30pm.

If you're not so much of a gourmet that you can enjoy good ol' American hot dog then be sure to check out Nathan's Annual 4th of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island. 

If your pallet calls for more spice and you can brave the heat, check out the Annual Go 4th on the River in New Orleans to watch a fireworks display from dueling barges on the river while enjoying an oyster po'boy.  For those who dig fireworks with a drawl, here's a list of fun 4th celebrations in the South.

And if your 4th of July celebration will take you no further than your own backyard, you can always be a part of the patriotic celebration in our nation's capitol,  A Capitol Fourth, via radio or TV.

Hit the Water!

What better way to avoid the heat and mosquitoes than swimming? The quintessential summer activity. The obvious choice is the beach. But if you're not a fan of sand in the crack or can't afford the pricey beach hotels here are some options that may be lighter on the wallet and without the jellyfish:

Natural Springs

The Florida springs are likely one of the most overlooked attractions the Sunshine State has to offer. Maybe we locals like to keep it that way, but since most are run by the state park system the admission is cheap and the amenities are pretty good. Check out this listing of Florida springs.  Most spring parks offer camping, and if tubes and canoes can't be rented on site you'll find some road side stores renting the gear.  Of course you can also visit springs throughout the South, like in Alabama and Georgia.

Northeastern Lakes

Although summer is the high season for the New York/Vermont Lake Districts, the extra cost is well worth it.  When you visit the small towns dotting the coast of Lake George, NY, with their A-framed mini-cabins and lake side chalets you'll feel like you stepped back in time.  Rent a boat or kayak, or simply dive into the  crystal clear lake from one of the many public beaches. If you're a Southerner like myself  you won't last too long in the cold lake water, but not to worry as there are plenty of shops, parks, and nearby attractions to explore.  Work up a sweat on the obstacle course in the trees at Adirondack Extreme or visit The Sagamore Hotel for lunch overlooking the lake.  And no trip to Lake George could be complete without a cruise on the Minnehaha Steamboat. 
If you go a bit further north past Lake George you'll hit Lake Champlain, with New York on one side and Vermont on the other. It will be up to you whether you want to enjoy the lake in New York or Vermont. You'll be sure to find plenty of mom & pop accommodations along the lakes or you could find a place of your own to rent on Vacation Rentals By Owner.