Every Independence Day, Americans don red, white, and blue, fire up the barbecue, and shoot off fireworks. But if you don’t want to go with the usual this July Fourth, show the U. S. of A. some love by taking part in these New York activities — with your patriotic travel gear in tow.
The Main Event
We can’t think of a better way to salute our nation than with a tour of the Statue of Liberty. Like much of the city, Lady Liberty took a beating during Hurricane Sandy and had to close to the public for renovations, but Independence Day marks her grand reopening (www.statuelibertytours.com).
Watch the rockets’ red glare while on a New York cruise. A number of yachts and ships sail around the city and offer packages that include dinner, open bar, dancing, and a prime location to view the fireworks over the Hudson River (www.july4thcruises.com).
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Nothing says America like a hot dog-eating contest. The flagship location of Nathan’s Famous Frankfurters in Coney Island hosts its 97th annual July 4 competition at 12 noon; the company also is expected to donate 100,000 franks to the Food Bank for New York City (www.nathansfamous.com).
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Awesome Accessories
Many commuters use their hours in transit to sip on that much-needed cup of coffee — but by the time they get to the office, the beverage has lost its steam. This new American Flag Wrap Tumbler from the Tervis Tumbler Company — which comes in 16- and 24-ounce sizes ($15 and $19, respectively) — uses double insulation to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold longer than a vessel with just one layer of insulation. The most patriotic part of this item, however, isn’t the design; it’s the fact that it is made in the U.S.
It’s hard to find a working individual who does not cart an iPad or a laptop everywhere they go. This expensive equipment can take shelter in an Old Glory Cover designed by Zero Gravity. Available in three sizes (for 13- or 15-inch laptops and standard iPads), prices range from $36 to $42.
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