Fourth of July Fireworks at Navy Pier

The city of Chicago ditched its official fireworks show many years ago, but Navy Pier picks up the slack with its explosive Independence Day celebration, which takes place on July 3 instead of the actual holiday. Revelers can head to the pier, Ohio Street Beach or Millennium Park for an up-close view, but if you're not a fan of crowds you'll want to hit another stretch of sand on the lakefront or find a friend with a rooftop by the shore.