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Our top 7 spots to see 4th of July fireworks

We've compiled the top 7 spots in the area to catch the world famous show from.

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Our top 7 spots to see 4th of July fireworks

POSTED: Monday, July 2, 2012, 5:05 AM

Blaire Monroe

Filed Under: Awesome | Events | News | Phrequency Approved | nightlife

We're just as excited as the rest of the city to see the 4th of July firework finale on the Parkway, but we know some of you are not so thrilled about the epic crowd that you'll have to fight through to get a glimpse of the show. We've compiled the top 7 spots in the area to catch the world famous show from.

Schuylkill River Park

Grab a lawn chair, picnic blanket to bring or just park yourself right onto the grass alongside the Schuylkill River. You’ll be able to stretch your legs out, kick back and enjoy the glorious view of the Art Museum, minus all of the street congestion. Pack a cooler full of snacks and you’re good to go.

(view from Lemon hill)

Lemon Hill in Fairmount park

Lemon Hill has been a sweet spot for seeing the fireworks at the Art Museum for quite some time, yet luckily it is still a comfortable and absolutely gorgeous place to be during the show. Another bonus is that it’s a hill, so not only will you be able to view the fireworks from a distance but you’ll also have a great view from higher up. Pack yourself a nice bbq and you’re set.

XIX – Nineteen

200 S Broad St

19th Floor

Not interested in viewing the fireworks from outside? Go inside, sip on a cocktail and enjoy the view from one of the most beautiful elevated indoor spots in the city. XIX has a fantastic food and drink menu and the view is outstanding. Make sure to make a reservation in advance, this place is sure to get booked up.

Boathouse Row

The perfect combination: lights on lights on lights. Boathouse Row is already stunning on its own, pair that with the dazzling fireworks and you’ve got yourself a real show.

Stars and Stripes at Longwood Garden

If you want to avoid the fireworks on the Parkway altogether, head over to Longwood Gardens the night before the 4^th of July extravaganza and catch their Stars and Stripes show. As a salute to John Philip Sousa who gave 14 concerts with his band at Longwood between 1922 and 1930, Longwood Gardens hosts a thrilling musical program to evoke a Fourth of July parade. The event is followed by glittering fireworks and colorful fountains that light up into the night sky.Rad.

Martin Luther King Drive

Being a beautiful site on its on, Martin Luther King Drive is the perfect place to catch the fireworks because not only is it going to be much more clear than the Parkway, it’s also right near Boathouse Row and the Schuylkill River. You’ll get 3 amazing views at once. This is 4^th of July gold.

Kelly Drive

For those of you who have cars or bikes, Kelly Drive is the spot to be. Pick your spot along the street, park and enjoy. Kelly Drive also has a really great view of Boathouse Row so while you’re waiting for the fireworks to begin, you’ll be able to gaze at a different brilliant show of lights.

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Discover great events, festivals, museums, parties, music, restaurants, movies, performances, and art happening in Philadelphia. Want to share an event? Email Leah Kauffman: Send Mail