#TheLIST: Where to Travel For July 4th

Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato, which delivers luxe experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more with BAZAAR.com.

America’s birthday is right around the corner, but this year, consider an alternative to the usual July 4th watering holes. Some of the best long weekends are spent retreating from the crowds, escaping into remote environments and paying homage to some of the iconic scenery and locales that make this nation truly one-of-a-kind. Instead of aspiring to the ‘see-and-be-seen’ mentality this Independence Day, escape the scene altogether. Consider opting for a truly awe-inspiring escape into one of the many laid-back wonders of the USA. Below, a list of the top destinations to travel to in the country–and to escape the crowds this July 4th weekend.