LeVar Thomas
Each year on June 14, America celebrates United States Flag Day, honoring the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag in 1777. For travel lovers and history buffs, it’s the perfect excuse to pack your bags and immerse yourself in the spirit of national pride by visiting some of the country’s most significant and star-spangled sites.
Every holiday is an opportunity to explore, learn, and connect and United States Flag Day is no exception. So if you want to stroll cobblestone streets where the American flag was born, or take in fireworks over historic battlefields, we’ve put together the ultimate Flag Day travel guide just for you.
1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: The Birthplace of the Flag
If there’s one place that perfectly captures the essence of United States Flag Day, it’s Philadelphia. This is where Betsy Ross is said to have sewn the first American flag, and where the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the design.
Don’t miss:
- The Betsy Ross House — Explore her home and hear the legend firsthand.
- Independence Hall — The birthplace of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. flag.
- Flag-raising ceremonies and reenactments throughout Old City on June 14.
Philadelphia’s walkable historic district offers a deep dive into the nation’s founding, making it ideal for travelers looking to honor the symbol of American unity.
2. Washington, D.C.: See the Star-Spangled Banner Up Close
The nation’s capital is a must-visit destination any time of year, but it feels especially poignant on United States Flag Day. It’s where you’ll find the original Star-Spangled Banner, the 1814 flag that inspired the national anthem, on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Other Flag Day experiences in D.C.:
- National Mall flag displays
- Patriotic concerts on the Capitol steps
- A reflective visit to the World War II Memorial
Tip: Check out our guide to summer experiences in D.C. for travel planning tips and local dining recommendations.
3. Fort McHenry, Maryland: Where the Flag Refused to Fall
Just outside of Baltimore, Fort McHenry is the legendary site where U.S. forces successfully defended against the British during the War of 1812 — a moment that inspired Francis Scott Key’s poem, which became “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Why go on Flag Day?
- Witness a flag-raising ceremony with a historically accurate replica.
- Join guided tours and family-friendly educational programs.
- Enjoy scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for a picnic.
4. Flagstaff, Arizona: A City That Wears Patriotism Proudly
It might surprise you to learn that Flagstaff is named in honor of the American flag. On July 4, 1876, settlers raised a stripped pine tree with a U.S. flag to commemorate the nation’s centennial.
Today, it’s one of the best places in the Southwest to celebrate United States Flag Day with a twist of high desert charm. Explore:
- Lowell Observatory for a stargazing session under red, white, and blue lights
- Heritage Square for local festivities
- Flag-themed art installations throughout town
5. Boston, Massachusetts: March Through Revolutionary History
Walk the Freedom Trail on June 14 to see how early patriots helped shape American identity. With historic landmarks around every corner, Boston brings the origin story of the United States flag to life.
Flag Day features often include:
- Marching bands and colonial reenactors
- Lectures on flag symbolism
- Historic home tours in Beacon Hill
Bonus: Make time for a visit to Faneuil Hall and try the lobster rolls while you’re at it.
6. Valley Forge, Pennsylvania: Where Hope Held Strong
The winter encampment of General George Washington and the Continental Army is an evocative place to spend Flag Day. Walk among replicas of soldiers’ huts and visit the National Memorial Arch, all while learning how the flag became a beacon of perseverance.
7. A Patriotic Road Trip Through Virginia
Virginia is full of revolutionary and Civil War history, making it a powerful route for anyone planning a Flag Day road trip. Don’t miss:
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Monticello
- Arlington National Cemetery for the daily flag-lowering ceremony at sunset
8. Small Town America: Hidden Gems with Big Spirit
Sometimes the best Flag Day experiences come from unexpected places. Consider:
- Waubeka, Wisconsin – Official birthplace of Flag Day and home to the National Flag Day Foundation.
- Quincy, Massachusetts – Hosts one of the longest-running Flag Day parades.
- Lexington, Kentucky – Offers a mix of Southern hospitality and historic reverence.
Small towns often host parades, cookouts, and local flag ceremonies — perfect for travelers who love authenticity.
Travel Tips for United States Flag Day Adventures
- Pack red, white, and blue gear: Many events encourage festive attire.
- Reserve ahead: Hotels near national landmarks book fast for this mid-June holiday.
- Bring sunscreen and water: Most Flag Day events are held outdoors.
- Combine with a weekend getaway: June 14 often falls close to the weekend — turn it into a mini-vacation.
Need inspiration for an extended stay? Check out our Ultimate National Park Road Trip Guide to explore even more of America’s treasures after Flag Day.
Why United States Flag Day Deserves a Place on Your Travel Calendar
In a country as vast and diverse as the U.S., the flag stands as a shared symbol — of resilience, revolution, unity, and hope. Celebrating United States Flag Day isn’t just about history, it’s about connecting with the people, places, and stories that built the nation.
Whether you’re marching through Boston, learning at a Smithsonian museum, or waving a flag in small-town America, you’ll feel the pride and perspective that comes from standing beneath the Stars and Stripes.
So go ahead — be patriotic with your passport. You bring the spirit, we’ll help you stay Always Packed.
