Boston’s fireworks by the Charles River is one of the greatest display of pyrotechnics bringing locals together to celebrate Independence Day. But spectators have to deal with crowds, limited space for watching, extra security, and long lines back home.
We consulted with locals and checked out websites that discussed alternative spots.
You may not be front and center at the Esplanade to watch the Boston Pops at the Hatch Shell, but all you really need is a boom box and a good perch.
Here’s a list of places with some great views of the fireworks that you probably did not know about or wish we had not revealed.
Boston’s fireworks by the Charles River is one of the greatest display of pyrotechnics bringing locals together to celebrate Independence Day. But spectators have to deal with crowds, limited space for watching, extra security, and long lines back home.
We consulted with locals and checked out websites that discussed alternative spots.
You may not be front and center at the Esplanade to watch the Boston Pops at the Hatch Shell, but all you really need is a boom box and a good perch.
Here’s a list of places with some great views of the fireworks that you probably did not know about or wish we had not revealed.
Laurie Swope/Globe Staff
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On the river
Grab a canoe or a raft, as well as your flippy floppies, and get the best seat in the area for fireworks. (Another water vessel option: An old couch, some inner tubes, and a lot of duct tape.)
There are many local places, like Charles River Canoe and Kayak, that will rent to visitors on Independence Day. But you might want to reserve in advance. The river will be filled with other ships, so be careful of the rough wake left behind by speeding boats after the fireworks performance.
Keep in mind: Rules and lack of bathrooms.
Pictured: A group of students set sail on the Charles River to view Fourth of July fireworks from inflatable rafts.
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Charter a boat
If you’re not interested using a paddle to propel yourself across the river, you can try chartering a boat.
Some companies that have offered Fourth of July bookings in the past include: Boston Seaport Boat Charters, Boston Yacht Charters, Massachusetts Bay Lines, Odyssey Cruises, and Spirit of Boston.
Or, take a whale watching tour at the New England Aquarium. The end of the tour coincides with the beginning of the fireworks.
Justine Ellement/ Globe Staff
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The barges where workers will launch fireworks on July Fourth are usually located in the middle of the Charles River between Exeter and Fairfield streets.
If you want to watch the fireworks up close, find a spot within view of the fireworks barges.
Pictured: Employees of Pyro Spectacular, prepared fireworks on barges anchored in the Charles River near the Massachusetts Avenue Bridge in 2006.
Michele McDonald/Globe Staff
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On the Red Line
MBTA conductors are not immune to the wonders a rocket’s red glare and will probably slow down their trains on the Longfellow Bridge to watch.
Board the Red Line train at either the Kendall Square or Charles/MGH stations at just the right moment and experience the fireworks up close in an air-conditioned environment.
If the train reaches the next stop before the fireworks end, just board it in the opposite direction. Another plus: Don’t worry about wading through packed train stations after the fireworks show because you’ll already be boarded.
David Kamerman/ Globe Staff
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Castle Island
Land a good spot here and get a good view of three different fireworks shows from nearby towns.
Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff
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Bunker Hill
This site with historic ties is a great place to visit and watch fireworks.
Perhaps consider climbing the Bunker Hill monument. But if you make it up the 294 steps of the tower, you’ll find a cramped viewing room and small windows.
Bill Greene/Globe Staff
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Wright Tower
There are many wonderful hills to watch the fireworks from, like Prospect Hill in Somerville and Wright Tower in Medford.
Each is a secluded spot with a commanding view of the Boston skyline.
While the park is open, please, don’t climb the actual tower as it is locked for public safety reasons. Officials will arrest anyone who trespasses.
Christopher Klein for The Boston Globe
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Museum of Science
The museum holds a Fourth of July event for members every year.
It ends with a live broadcast of the Boston Pop’s performance and one of the best views of the Charles River during the fireworks on the garage rooftop.
Pictured: Hannah Finn, 5, of Andover holds her flag before the start of a fireworks display on the roof of the garage of the Museum of Science during the 2008 Fourth of July celebration.
Byun, Yoon S. Globe Staff
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Prudential Tower
The Prudential Tower Skywalk is open for the fireworks.
Tickets go on sale at 4 p.m. but visitors might to get in line much earlier because only the first 500 people are allowed in.
Justine Ellement/GLOBE STAFF
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By MIT
Stand by MIT, where speakers are set up, and get a great view of fireworks as they burst over the Boston skyline.
Pictured: Fireworks viewed from the Sloan Building at M.I.T. over the Charles River.
Bill Brett/Globe Staff
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Wollaston Beach
Yoon S. Byun/ Globe Staff
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Robbins Farm Park
Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff
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Along the Charles River
Yeah, yeah, this isn’t a secret.
If you’re set on watching it by the river, get there early.
The Cambridge side of the river is less crowded.
Assume the bigger your group, or the more real estate your equipment takes up, the earlier you have to get there to save spots.
Jessey Dearing for the Boston Globe
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Anywhere with a view of the sky
Did we miss any of your favorite spots? Let us know what we missed.
Wherever you end up watching the show, like pulling over on the side of the road, stay safe.
Pictured Erin Matthews, Allison Reilly, and a friend dance in the rain on a Charles River landing during the Fourth of July fireworks celebration in 2012.
Tamir Kalifa for The Boston Globe
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