Leisure

Fire Away

Your 2014 Fireworks-Watching Guide

Dear Declaration of Independence: thank you. For breaking us from colonial rule. And for this three-day weekend we’re about to embark upon. So this Friday, we celebrate you, freedom and our God-given right to eat vodka popsicles while setting off loud explosives. And here are five spots where we intend to do just that.

ON THE BAY

The Standard’s Bay Deck

The scene: A runway fashion show. DJs. Gratis vodka-infused ice pops. Attractive revelers.
The view: The sparkle of controlled explosives reflecting off of the bay waters, with the occasional dolphin interrupting the show. Damn dolphins always hogging the spotlight.

On a Rooftop

A Beachfront Terrace at the W

The scene: The massive outdoor terrace adjacent to the Living Room filled with Broward types sipping on Cape Cobblers. Oh, and a DJ. Of course there’s a DJ.
The view: The ocean. Fireworks. A martini koozie. Not that it’s yours or anything...

ON A DOWNTOWN PATIO

The 16th-Floor Terrace at Area 31

The scene: Area 31 sits 16 floors up in the Epic Hotel. Which sits in Downtown. Which will host their fireworks extravaganza across the way. Order a red, white or blue gelatin cocktail, grab a spot on the terrace and hum a little Don McLean.
The view: Downtown in all of her patriotic glory.

ON THE KEY

The Fountain Courtyard at the Ritz

The scene: Enter through the lobby, make your way through the throngs of families and stake your spot by the fountain. Your reward: barbecue ribs and icy cold beer.
The view: Bombastic pyrotechnics juxtaposed against the Ritz’s manicured lawns, the gurgling fountain and your empty plate.

ON THE BEACH

Shore Club’s Three-Story Penthouse

The scene: Beyoncé’s home away from home when she’s in town. And there are plenty of options for keeping busy here. You can take a dip in the pool, eat crab cake sliders and partake in the open vodka bar.
The view: Bikinis. 360-degree views of fireworks. And people dancing... in bikinis.