Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Philadelphia (And Where to Grab Drinks Before and After)
The fireworks might be the main event, but really – no one wants to spend all day standing around waiting for 9:30 p.m.
The best 4th of July plans are built around the fireworks, not entirely about them. Imagine rooftop cocktails before sunset, waterfront beers, a great dinner, maybe one more stop afterward, and then ending the night under one of the biggest fireworks displays of the year...pretty good, right?
Here's how to make the most of Independence Day in Philadelphia.
Sourced via Wawa Welcome’s America’s Website
Philadelphia's Biggest Fireworks Show
If you're looking for the classic 4th of July experience, the Wawa Welcome America Fireworks over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway are still the headline act.
The fireworks will follow the Welcome America concert, around 11:45 PM, making this one of the city's most exciting nights of the year. But don’t forget, you can also catch fireworks over Delaware River Waterfront, which will start around 9:30 PM
If crowds don't bother you, stake out a spot along the Parkway early. If they do, there are plenty of places where you can enjoy the atmosphere before making your way over just in time for the show.
Grab Drinks Before the Fireworks
Liberty Point
If there was ever a day to spend by the water, THIS IS IT.
Liberty Point offers multiple bars, plenty of outdoor seating, frozen cocktails, and some of the best views of the Delaware River. It's the perfect place to start your afternoon before heading toward Center City for the fireworks.
Lucky Duck
If you're looking for one of Philly's newest waterfront hangouts, Lucky Duck is a great place to kick off your 4th of July.
Grab an ice cold beer and split a tavern-style pizza while soaking in the Delaware River views. It's also a great place to stake out early, enjoy the waterfront atmosphere, and spend the afternoon before making your way to the fireworks later in the evening.
Independence Beer Garden
Just steps from Independence Hall, this is one of the easiest places to enjoy the holiday without straying too far from the action.
Grab Dinner Before the Show
One mistake people make every 4th of July?
Waiting until 7:30 p.m. to figure out where to eat.
Book a reservation or arrive early if you're planning dinner before the fireworks.
Great options include restaurants in Old City, along the waterfront, or around Rittenhouse Square before making your way toward the Parkway.
Want to Skip the Biggest Crowds?
Not everyone wants to squeeze shoulder-to-shoulder down the Parkway. Watching from the Philadelphia Museum of Art area, Logan Circle, or sections of the Schuylkill River Trail can still give you incredible views while offering a little more breathing room.
After the Fireworks...
The night doesn't have to end when the last shell explodes.
Many bars throughout Center City, Old City, Fishtown, and the Delaware River Waterfront stay busy well into the night. If you're not ready to head home, keep the celebration going with a local beer or one last stop with friends before calling it a night.
Looking for even more ways to explore the city?
If you've got friends or family visiting for the holiday, or they're sticking around for the World Cup next week, be sure to check out our guide to Where to Take Friends Visiting Philadelphia for the World Cup.
