5 Fun Things to Do in Boston for the 4th of July

Independence Day is back and that means it’s time for the annual Boston Pops July 4th Fireworks Spectacular. This year’s lineup is a frenzy of fun-filled acts, including a fly over by two fighter jets, Queen Latifa headlining, the classic fireworks display and more. The show is guaranteed to entertain, but if you’re not in the mood to pack into the Hatch Shell like sardines, then try enjoying the event another way. Here are five fun things to do in Boston for the 4th of July.

Top of the Hub

If you think watching fireworks from the ground is amazing then wait until you see them from 52 stories up. Join the Top of the Hub for their Sky High 4th of July celebration with perks such as hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, a five-course meal and, of course, a simulcast of the Boston Pops concert. Skip the ground work and enjoy the 4th from the clouds. Tickets $275, reservation only, 21+, Top of the Hub, 800 Boylston St., Boston, topofthehub.net

Winthrop 4th of July Fireworks Cruise

If the bustle of the Boston fireworks is too hectic for you then set sail for Winthrop and their fabulous fireworks display. Cruise on a luxurious 1920’s style commuter yacht while admiring a gorgeous view of the Boston skyline. At the end of the night, kick back and enjoy the Winthrop fireworks while sipping on champagne. It’s all the joy of the 4th without having to deal with the crowds. Adults $100, 60 Rowes Wharf, Boston, boston-sailing.com

Over the Charles Rooftop Party

You’ll be over the moon with the Over the Charles Rooftop Party at the Doubletree Suites. Dine with their full buffet or get a drink at their cash bar. Their location right along the Charles puts them in a prime viewing spot for the fireworks show, besides who wouldn’t want to spend the 4th on a rockin’ rooftop bar? Tickets from $125, Doubletree Suites by Hilton Boston-Cambridge, 400 Soldiers Field Rd., Allston, doubletree3.hilton.com

Restaurant Dante

Sick of the typical 4th of July hotdogs and hamburgers? Then switch it up with a four course prix fixe meal at Restaurant Dante. Your ticket will also include prosecco during their Sfizi Hour, but if you’d like to sip on some other drink other alcohol will be available for purchase at their cash bar. Don’t forget to stroll down to the Charles River for a view of the fireworks. Tickets $110, 40 Edwin H Land Blvd., Cambridge, restaurantdante.com

SAILabration

Want a waterfront view of the fireworks? Then join Community Boating, Inc. for their SAILabration along the Charles. The event includes a DJ, radio broadcast of the Pops, jumbotrons to view the concert, sweet treats and seating (be it in a chair or on a sailboat) with a spectacular, upfront view of the fireworks show. Tickets $49.99-$199.99, Community Boating, Inc., 21 David G. Mugar Way, Boston, eventbrite.com