5 Last-Minute Ideas for 4th of July Travel

More than just fireworks, July 4th travel conjures up red-checked picnic tables, corn on the cob and beach barbecues centered around time with family and friends. And this year, the fortuitous timing of 4th of July landing on a Thursday makes it easy to stretch that one day off into an extra long weekend. 

Whether seeking mountain solace, warm beach vibes or urban adventure, I’ve rounded up a 4th of July selection of great properties that still have some availability.

Connect with me to plan & book your 4th of July travel. 

The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection, Rhode Island

Image courtesy of The ​​Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection

Once owned by the Vanderbilt family, this stately mansion is a sublime blend of old-world elegance and modern style. The sweeping double stairway and elegant fireplaces pay homage to the Gilded Age, while airy rooms and a colorful lounge provide updated flair. Posh rooms and suites are decorated in nautical tones, with some featuring soaking tubs. 

An on-site treasure is the hotel’s wellness area, which touts spa treatment rooms, an indoor pool and outdoor yoga classes. And if you’re too tired to walk to Downtown Newport’s restaurants, there’s a rooftop, garden and sophisticated dining room for upscale plates and creative drinks. 

Insider tip: Take a step back in time with billiards and whisky at the hotel’s Reserve Room, which can be reserved for Macallan whisky tastings.

Fora Reserve Perks:

• $100 resort credit, breakfast daily for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
  
  

The Ned NoMad, New York City

Image courtesy of The Ned NoMad

If you’ve ever longed for the glamor of 1920s New York City, The Ned NoMad is for you. Dark paneled walls, velvet banquettes and sultry lighting adorn the hotel’s lobby and cocktail bar, while generous rooms and suites opt for natural light, leather headboards and warm wood floors – the ideal place to spend a 4th of July staycation. 

Take time to savor the property’s stellar art collection, inspired by the original woman owner of this 1903 gem. Just north of Madison Square Park (hence NoMad: north of Madison), the hotel positions guests close to iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, as well as within easy reach of restaurants, shops and the subway. 

Insider tip: Head to Cecconi’s in the hotel to experience Negroni hour, which features a variety of Negroni-inspired cocktails each afternoon from 3 pm to 5 pm.

Fora Reserve Perks:

• Hotel credit, breakfast daily for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
  
  

Carneros Resort and Spa, Napa

Image courtesy of Carneros Resort and Spa

Set on 27 acres just 10 minutes from downtown Napa, Carneros Resort and Spa has plenty of room for both families and couples. Giving off a neighborhood vibe, charming individual cottages feature front porches and backyard fire pits, while residences are outfitted with kitchens for longer stays. 

Three restaurants and in-room dining take care of a variety of appetites, while the on-site activities keep guests busy with everything from pickle ball and spa treatments to two outdoor pools, including the adults-only hilltop pool. Make the most of wine country with the resort's new tasting room, and get local tips for everything from family-friendly vineyards to the area’s best romantic stops.

Insider tip: Families can opt to turn their cottage yard into a camp, complete with a tent, sleeping bag, kid-friendly campfire and s’mores kit. Or, if you’re in an adults-only crew, be sure to book a ticket to the summertime Sunday pool parties, an adults-only gathering complete with DJ, local tastings and specialty bites.

Fora Reserve Perks:

• $150 resort credit, breakfast daily for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
  
  

Caldera House, Wyoming

Image courtesy of Caldera House

Set in the center of Teton Village, Caldera House offers an exceptional mountain getaway all year round. The resort’s prime mountainside location means guests are steps from the Jackson Hole Aerial Gondola, ideal for reaching those sweeping views and a multitude of hiking trails, as well as the famous mountaintop waffles at Corbet's Cabin. Stylish suites are decked out with full kitchens and living areas, perfect for families, and on-site amenities include a spa with a fitness room, casual Italian and sushi dining options, and curated experiences, such as trout fishing, wooden boat tours and guided climbs. 

Don’t miss the holiday events, like a 10k run, parade and rodeo, making Teton Village a memorable choice for 4th of July travel.

By the way, when you book a four-bedroom suite with me, you’ll get 25% off your stay. Book your stay between June 1 and October 9, 2024 to take advantage of this offer.

Insider tip: The four-bedroom suites are more like residences, featuring complimentary snacks and soft drinks, impressively large kitchens and furnished balconies with fireplaces.

Fora Perks:

• $100 hotel credit, breakfast daily for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
  
  

Option: For another fantastic Teton option, check out the Four Seasons Jackson Hole. This posh mountain getaway features an all-season pool, gorgeous mountain views and on-site naturalist. Plus, if you book through me, you’ll get VIP perks through Fora's Four Seasons Preferred Partner program.

The Shore Club, Turks & Caicos

Image courtesy of The Shore Club

With four pools, a spa and a gorgeous beachfront location, The Shore Club offers a luxurious resort experience just a short plane ride away from the East Coast. And because it’s 4th of July, off-season deals abound. Bright and airy suites have tranquil outdoor spaces, soaking tubs and minibars, while spacious villas add full kitchens and private concierge service. 

Guests have their choice of multiple bars and restaurants, which feature lovely terraces and a variety of menus. For the ultimate relaxation, guests head to the Dune Spa for a treatment or soak in the sun on beachfront loungers. Other pluses include a kids’ club, tennis courts and on-site water sports.

Insider tip: Book a private dinner on the resort’s private yacht, or better yet splurge for an overnight yachting excursion.

Fora Perks:

• $100 resort credit, breakfast daily for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.