Leisure

Tour de Fourth

Your Before and After Fireworks Plans

We’re about to honor this great nation of ours by blowing stuff up. But since not all fireworks vantage points are created equal, allow us to present you with a few prime viewing options, as well as the ideal après-explosion moves for each. Don’t thank us. Thank... okay, thank us.

FOR THE UNAFRAID OF HEIGHTS

Skywalk Observatory

The Viewpoint: An observatory with a 360-degree view of Boston (and probably 9,682 fireworks displays) from the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower.
The Après Move: One elevator ride is all that separates you from Alaskan king crab legs and bourbon smashes at Towne Stove and Spirits on Boylston.

FOR THE MOLLUSK-INCLINED

The Patio Bar at Pier 6

The Viewpoint: A rooftop patio bar where you’ll catch the annual sail of the USS Constitution, unobstructed harbor views and the fireworks. That last item seems important.
The Après Move: Downstairs for an oyster-heavy raw bar and a frozen rum cocktail dubbed The Patriot. Yes, it’s red, white and blue.

FOR THE CONSPICUOUS BOATER

Fasttrak Yacht Charter

The Viewpoint: Aboard a private, 63-foot Viking Motor Yacht circling Boston Harbor. Did we mention it comes with a three-person jet ski? It comes with a three-person jet ski.
The Après Move: Papagãyo’s margarita pitchers are an old sailor’s cure for sea legs. Not really, but sure.

FOR THE GENEROUS CONTRIBUTOR

The Museum of Science

The Viewpoint: Incredible views from the Museum of Science’s garage roof. Totally-worth-it caveat: buying a ticket requires museum membership, which is $85 and grants you admission for a year. Anything for science.
The Après Move: The Tip Tap Room for 33 draft lines and antelope meat loaf. That classic pairing.

FOR THE PATRIOTIC PADDLER

Charles River Canoe & Kayak

The Viewpoint: From the Charles River itself. But inside of a kayak or a five-person canoe. Because otherwise you’d just sink to the bottom.
The Après Move: Foot it across the Anderson Memorial Bridge post-kayak to Alden & Harlow, where whiskey and chicken-fried rabbit await. It’s how America fries rabbit.