How We Ranked Them: Every year, Alexandrians ask us, “Where’s the best place to watch the fireworks?” So our editorial team created The Zebra Top 10 based on five factors: overall view of the fireworks, atmosphere, ease of access, room to spread out, and photography potential. Your favorite might rank differently—and that’s part of the fun. Tell us yours in the comments.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Every July, thousands of Alexandrians spread blankets across parks, waterfront lawns, and quiet overlooks in search of the perfect place to watch one of the city’s most beloved traditions—the Alexandria Birthday Celebration fireworks.

There are plenty of great spots, but not all viewing locations offer the same experience. Some put you practically underneath the bursts of color. Others offer panoramic views with smaller crowds. A few are hidden gems that longtime locals have treasured for years.

So this year, The Zebra decided to settle the debate.

Our editors ranked the 10 Best Places to Watch Alexandria’s Fireworks based on five factors:

• Overall view of the fireworks
• Atmosphere
• Ease of getting there
• Room to spread out
• Photography potential

Think we missed your favorite? Let us know in the comments.

🦓 #1 Oronoco Bay Park

100 Madison Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Why it’s No. 1:

This is simply the complete package. The wide-open waterfront offers expansive views of the Potomac, plenty of lawn space, and a lively festival atmosphere. Families, photographers, and longtime Alexandria residents all gather here, making it feel like one giant neighborhood celebration.

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, photographers

🦓 #2 Founders Park

351 North Union Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Founders Park delivers one of the closest unobstructed views of the fireworks over the river. The grassy lawn stretches toward the waterfront, giving visitors excellent sightlines while still feeling a little less crowded than some nearby locations.

Best for: Couples and anyone wanting a classic Old Town waterfront experience.

🦓 #3 Waterfront Park

1A Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

The heart of Old Town comes alive here. Restaurants, music, boats along the docks, and the excitement of King Street all combine for an unforgettable evening. While it can become crowded early, the atmosphere is second to none.

Best for: Visitors who want dinner, drinks, and fireworks all in one evening.

🦓 #4 Jones Point Park

100 Jones Point Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314

Watching fireworks beneath the towering Woodrow Wilson Bridge is a uniquely Alexandria experience. The open riverfront creates beautiful reflections on the Potomac, and photographers especially love this location.

Best for: Scenic views and photography.

🦓 #5 Windmill Hill Park

501 South Union Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

This neighborhood favorite offers sweeping waterfront views from slightly farther south, making it ideal for those wanting a quieter experience while still enjoying an excellent look at the fireworks.

Best for: Families seeking a more relaxed evening.

🦓 #6 Canal Center Plaza

99 Canal Center Plaza, Alexandria, VA 22314

Many visitors overlook this location, but its elevated riverfront setting provides excellent viewing with easier access than some of the more heavily traveled parks.

Best for: Avoiding the biggest crowds.

🦓 #7 Rivergate Park

2 Montgomery Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Small but charming, Rivergate Park provides beautiful waterfront scenery and is often easier to access than larger parks.

Best for: Local residents and quieter viewing.

🦓 #8 Ford’s Landing Boardwalk

99 Franklin Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

The boardwalk offers a wonderful perspective looking north toward the fireworks. Watching reflections dance across the Potomac makes this one especially memorable.

Best for: Evening strolls and waterfront photography.

🦓 #9 George Washington Masonic National Memorial

101 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22301

Want a completely different perspective? Head up Shooter’s Hill near the Memorial. While you’re farther from the launch site, the elevated setting provides impressive panoramic views across Alexandria.

Best for: Wide city views.

🦓 #10 Point Lumley Park

1 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

One of Old Town’s smallest waterfront parks quietly delivers surprisingly good views. Those who discover it often return year after year.

Best for: A peaceful evening close to the waterfront.

Bonus Pick (Just Outside Alexandria)

Gravelly Point

George Washington Memorial Parkway, Arlington, VA 22202

Technically outside Alexandria, Gravelly Point deserves an honorable mention. Along with dramatic views of aircraft arriving at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, it offers one of the region’s best vantage points for viewing the National Mall fireworks.

The grand finale lights up the night sky above the ALX275 celebration stage during Alexandria’s Birthday Celebration. Photo: John Canery

Why We Love Alexandria’s Birthday Fireworks

For one evening every summer, neighbors gather along the Potomac, children wave glow sticks, restaurants buzz with excitement, and strangers become friends while looking toward the same colorful sky.

It’s more than a fireworks show.

It’s one of Alexandria’s favorite community traditions.

Whether you choose our No. 1 pick or your own secret favorite, we hope to see you on the waterfront celebrating another birthday for the city we all love.

Where’s your favorite place to watch the fireworks? Tell us in the comments—we may feature readers’ picks in next year’s rankings.