7 Not-So-Traditional Spots to Catch LA Fireworks Today

All those patriotic streamers and stars-and-stripes bags of chips can only mean one thing: Fourth of July is here.

But before you start humming the “Star Spangled Banner” as you wait in line to buy firecrackers from that brightly colored stand, remember: Fireworks are illegal in the city of Los Angeles. And while everyone will likely flock to Dodger Stadium or the Hollywood Bowl to check out the spectacle, there are plenty of other venues to bang out for the Fourth.

We’ve rounded up a list of offbeat places throughout the city to catch a good fireworks show:

1. Bona Vista Lounge

404 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles

Enjoy a cocktail inside the Westin Bonaventure’s 34th floor rotating lounge to see fireworks and sweeping views of the city from every angle. And you won’t get fined from drinking in public, either.

2. Malibu Surfrider Beach

23050 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu

Heading to the beach? We got you, bro. You can check out all the fireworks action off the coast at this sandy spot.

3. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

6300 Hetzler Rd., Culver City

You have to work for this fireworks show, as you hike up a few ascents to see panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills, all the way down to the peninsula.

4. Lake Hollywood Park

3160 Canyon Dr., Los Angeles

Its nearby residents hate the fact that this is one of the most popular viewing spots in the city. But for stellar views of the basin under the Hollywood Sign, it’s worth stepping on a few of their toes.

5. Griffith Observatory

2800 E Observatory Ave., Los Angeles

A zillion people will probably head to this LA staple, but for some of the best views in the city, can you blame them?

6. Americafest at the Rose Bowl

1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena

Need a place to wear that flag t-shirt you bought on sale? Look no further. For $13, this festival has all the bells and whistles (literally). It starts at 2 p.m. and will feature live music and entertainment.

7. Hansen Dam Recreation Center

11770 Foothill Blvd., Lake View Terrace

If you live in or are heading to the Valley, set up camp at this free family-oriented celebration with gourmet food trucks, live entertainment and a water slide kids zone—if you can get away with it.

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