Stars, stripes, and staycations: What travelers are doing this July 4th

Searches in the US have jumped by 20 percent compared to last year this July 4th weekend, with guests taking advantage of the extended holiday weekend.¹ With staycations and road trips on the rise, many travelers are eager to enhance their trips  by booking unique experiences and services along the way.² Here are firework-worthy ways for travelers to make the most out of their long weekend.

Travelers are hitting the highways and seeking adventure close by

This July 4th weekend, travelers are eagerly embracing staycations, with an approximately 32 percent increase in short-distance travel within 300 miles of home.³ With the recent launch of  Airbnb Experiences and Services, guests have the perfect opportunity to make the most of their long weekend road trips by crafting their own adventure-packed itineraries right in their own backyard. No matter the routes travelers choose, here are some exciting experiences and services available during the holiday weekend across the US:

Northwest

• Explore the Historic Murals of the Mission District with Precita Eyes Muralists (San Francisco, CA): Visit and learn about the compelling community murals in San Francisco’s Mission District.
• Blend, Taste & Take Home Your Own Cider Creation (Portland, OR): Craft your own signature cider at a nationally recognized Pacific Northwest cidery.
• Sail Puget Sound (Seattle, WA): Set sail from Shilshole Bay Marina, watch for wildlife, and enjoy stunning views.
• Take an Epic Sunrise Balloon Ride (Driggs, ID): Float above Teton Valley at sunrise, enjoying the tranquility and breathtaking views.
• Blue Flower Trail Ride (Livingston, MT): Capture striking vistas on this guided horseback trek.

Southwest

• Explore Santa Monica Farmers Market with a Chef (Santa Monica, CA): See and savor LA’s dynamic food culture with a professional by your side.
• Golden Hour Photoshoot and Historical Walk (Los Angeles, CA): Have a quick photo shoot at golden hour, sunrise or sunset, and enjoy historical facts about the neighborhood all from a local.
• Lone Star Dinners by Justin (Austin, TX): Enjoy a casual 3-course meal or a family-style brunch right in your Airbnb (or at home!) made by Chef Justin, who was once a chef at restaurants in California and at Austin’s Hotel Van Zandt.
• Weave Colorful Fabric Pieces Alongside an Artist (Santa Fe, NM): Uncover freestyle techniques to create vibrant woven art with step-by-step guidance.
• Hike Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend (Phoenix, AZ): Explore natural paths and discover mystical sites on Navajo Land.

Northeast

• Shuck Oysters by the Harbor (Boston, MA): Shuck oysters on the East Boston docks while learning the craft and enjoying the view.
• Cycle Maine’s Coast and Uncover Lighthouse Lore (South Portland, ME): Pedal a scenic trail, learn local lore, and stop at historic lighthouses.
• Kayak Through Vermont’s Tranquil Waters (Newbury, VT): Paddle over off-the-radar still waters, and spot otters, loons, and beavers.
• Learn the Art of Scrimshaw (Newport, RI): Create a personalized scrimshaw bookmark with a seasoned artist.
• Acadia Mindfulness Adventure (Bar Harbor, ME): Experience the tranquility of nature by embarking on a rejuvenating mindfulness journey in Acadia National Park.

Southeast

• Spray Paint at Wynwood Walls with a Local Artist (Miami, FL): Draw your own graffiti at Miami’s famous street art destination.
• Morris Island Dolphin Cruise Adventure (Charleston, SC): Explore scenic rivers and salt marshes, visit Morris Island, and spot bottlenose dolphins on a boat cruise.
• Craft Nashville-inspired Cocktails with a Mixologist (Nashville, TN): Absorb the essentials of mixology and mix a drink at Turmeric and Co. in East Nashville
• Scenic Trail through Historic Hillsboro (Purcellville, VA): Explore the trails of northern Virginia, learning horsemanship and enjoying nature.
• Uncover Civil Rights History in Old Fourth Ward (Atlanta, GA): Follow in the footsteps of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis while walking through Old Fourth Ward.

Midwest

• Private Chef Experiences (Chicago, IL): Enjoy private Italian, Japanese, Mexican, French, Spanish, Indian, or Chinese 4-course meals, crafted by Chef Andy who specialized in luxury dining and culinary journeys for over a decade.
• Local Bourbon Tasting (Deadwood, SD): Sample artisanal spirits and learn about West River Whiskey Co., a local distillery, and its distilling process and ingredients.
• Stroll Findlay Market and Have Brunch with Laura (Cincinnati, OH): Indulge in nine mouthwatering tastings from local small businesses and learn about Cincinnati’s culinary culture.
• Street Art Workshop (Chicago, IL): Unleash your inner creativity with local artists using lettering, stencils, and cap techniques.
• Walk Oak Park’s Historic Architecture District (Oak Park, IL): Explore Oak Park’s history, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs and Hemingway district.

This rise of staycations highlights a desire for nearby adventures that are easier to plan, and easier on the wallet. A recent Panterra consumer poll reveals that vacations are the last thing to be cut from people’s budgets, with many willing to sacrifice going out to eat, shopping, and even spending on necessities like toilet paper, before altering their travel plans.⁴ With the average cost of an experience at just $66 and many services priced below $50, there’s something available at a range of prices.

Florida emerges as the top choice for family travelers

Family trip searches are up nearly 30 percent this July 4th weekend, with Florida driving demand with its sun-soaked beaches, serene lakes, and ‘epic’ theme park.⁵  Families can now create unforgettable memories together at a variety of price points with experiences. From a private boat ride on turquoise waters to kayaking through mangrove islands, it’s never been easier for families to plan a trip on Airbnb.

Here are the top family destinations and unforgettable things to do on Airbnb this July 4th weekend⁶:

• Greater Orlando Area (Orlando + Kissimmee), FL: The Greater Orlando area is the ultimate destination for family fun and features an ‘epic’ new theme park. Families can embark on a culinary adventure and taste their way through Orlando’s local food scene.
• Clearwater, FL: In this picturesque coastal city, families can embark on a private pontoon boat ride, complete with a BBQ on the water. This experience offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, creating unforgettable family moments in Clearwater.
• Sarasota, FL: In this coastal city known for its beaches and rich culture, families can explore the beauty of Sarasota by kayaking through mangrove islands. This unique adventure allows families to bond while experiencing the natural beauty of the area.
• Miramar Beach, FL: Known for its kid-friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery, Miramar Beach offers the perfect backdrop for exploration. Families can take a boat trip to Crab Island for a day filled with adventure and water activities.

Wherever our community is traveling over the holiday weekend, Airbnb is on hand to support great stays, including through 24/7 Customer Support, AirCover for guests, and our quality standards.