Top 7 Spots in Nashville to See Fireworks This 4th of July

For those that are newer Nashville residents, or normally travel over the Fourth, here’s a public service announcement: Nashville does not mess around with the Fourth of July. Rumor has it, the fireworks display is the largest in the country. Other sources say we are second only to New York City’s display. Whatever the ranking may be, we can tell you Nashville takes the holiday seriously, and so should you… and by serious, we mean plan ahead to get the maximum out of your day!

THE RUNDOWN

This years 4th of July lands on a Tuesday, with a day full of festivities building up to Downtown’s “Let Freedom Sing” fireworks show. Starting at noon, Ascend Amphitheater and The Green at Riverfront have free concerts with a lineup starring Chris Young, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Jonny P and The Sisterhood. Throughout the event site there will be food, drinks, and merch vendors, along with a pretty impressive “family fun zone” at Bridgestone Arena Plaza. The firework extravaganza starts when it gets dark, usually around 9:30 pm. One of the best parts about the show? We are in Nashville, so of course, it has to be a live soundtrack. The Nashville Symphony Orchestra plays as the sky lights up.

BEST PLACES TO WATCH THE SHOW

As the fireworks show gets closer people will begin to settle into their viewing areas. Plan ahead to snag your spot! Some favorites we know of:

1. Rooftops

Rooftops, any and all rooftops. Rooftops on Broadway are absolute prime real estate like Acme Feed & Seed, Hard Rock Cafe, and The Valentine, but any rooftop is quite the find.

2. Pedestrian Bridge

Another prime location; you get the picture perfect view of the skyline as the backdrop to the fireworks. With limited space though, be prepared for a tight squeeze!

3. Cumberland River

Know someone with a boat? Now would be the time to be their guest! Similar to the amazing skyline views you get from the Pedestrian Bridge, only you’ll have a little extra space and breeze.

4. Riverfront Park 

Right where all the action takes place throughout the day, this is the most popular spot with up to 100,000 spectators estimated in the past. Can’t blame everyone for wanting the coveted “first-row” seats along the river.

5. East Park

For another skyline view, but with less chaos, check out East Park at 700 Woodland Street. An added bonus of this location is that there’s a free hot chicken festival earlier in the day!

6. Cumberland Park

To get on the river without being right in the action on the downtown side, the park lining the east banks of the Cumberland River is a perfect compromise. Also, skyline views! (There’s a theme here …)

7. Adventure Science Center

For a price of admission, each year the Adventure Science Center offers their front lawn to firework viewers. On top of the hassle-free parking and good view, you get access to the science center before the fireworks along with science demonstrations, food trucks and a live sound feed of the Nashville Symphony Orchestra during the show.

We wish you a safe and celebratory Fourth of July!