4 Ways to Watch 4th of July Fireworks for Free
Written by
Nicholas Pell
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No matter how large or small, nearly every municipality in the United States offers free Fourth of July activities, including fireworks shows. But there are ways to make sure that you get the best view of the fireworks possible without paying a cent.
Get the best view of July 4th celebrations by staking out the best spots to watch the rocket’s red glare at your local fireworks display.
Get Up High
The best spot to watch a fireworks show in your city might not be anywhere near where the actual local fireworks displays are. If you can get up high, you’re going to get the best view.
Think of where the highest hill or mountain in the city is — then check out the fireworks show from there. It might be a bit farther away, but you’re going to get one heck of a view from up on high.
Best of all, if it’s a relatively undiscovered spot, you can have a picnic without being surrounded by all the hubbub of being in the crowd below. This gives you a more intimate way to enjoy Fourth of July activities, plus you won’t be straining your neck looking up at the sky.
Related: 4th of July Fireworks and Their Connection to the Economy
Stakeout
Of course, you could just go to the place the fireworks are being fired from. Most people do and they don’t feel like they’re missing out on anything by doing so. However, if you want to get the best seat in the house, get there early. Bring some board games and pack some food to entertain yourself and your family while you wait for the festivities. You might be elbow to elbow with those around you, but at least you’ll have a great spot in the thick of it.
Tall Buildings
It’s not likely the easiest place to watch fireworks from, but it might be one of the best. If you live in a city, particularly a flat one, watching fireworks from a tall building can be your best bet. If you can get roof access all the better, but if the best you can do is getting ten stories up in a climate-controlled building, you can do a lot worse than that.
Best of all, you won’t have to show up early to stakeout a spot or hunt for the perfect place to watch like you would in a more public place.
Get on the Water
If your city is on the beach, take advantage of the fact that the fireworks display will likely take place on the coast. Piers will likely be packed, but that’s another place you can stakeout for a view with an ocean breeze; or you can take a boat out into the harbor.
Local boating companies likely will be hosting fireworks cruises, however if these cost money a spot on the pier or beach will be your ticket to a free viewing experience.
Luckily It’s a One-Time Hunt
The thing about looking for the best spot to see free local fireworks displays during July 4th celebrations is that, when you find the perfect spot, you never have to find it again. It’s worth putting some extra time in looking for the right spot for this and future July 4th celebrations.
Photo credit: Andy
