As the sun begins to set on the Fourth of July, fireworks erupt all over the Los Angeles basin. Because of fire danger, most are well-controlled displays in stadiums, open-air arenas and over the ocean. The biggest and most popular are the displays at the Hollywood Bowl and the Rose Bowl. The Hollywood 'works start around 10 PM at the concert's finale – this year's show combines "orchestral classics" and the music of John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival (tickets start at $12–$152 per person). The Rose Bowl's round kicks off in Pasadena at 9:05 PM ($13 per person; call 626-577-3100 for information).
To get a truly dramatic overview of the fireworks, many head for the scenic pull-offs along Mulholland Drive, which allow you to see displays on both the city and valley sides. But for those looking for a tastier setting, there's Yamashiro (323-466-5125), high above the Hollywood Hills and just a canyon away from the Hollywood Bowl.
There are also fireworks starting at 9 PM in Chase Park (13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey), visible from the many restaurants in The Marina. And The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach offers a fine view of the 9 PM fireworks at the Queen Mary, along with a barbecue buffet from 6–8 PM ($20.95 adults, $11.95 children 3–11).
For other dramatic views of the fireworks along the ocean, The Penthouse atop The Huntley Hotel offers a fine perspective; the outdoor deck at The Lobster allows you to gaze up and down the coastline; and there's a good view from Gladstone's Malibu. To be in the midst of the Malibu display, head for The Beachcomber at Malibu Pier.
Finally, for those going to Disneyland (where there's a fireworks display every night at 9 PM), there's a great view from the balcony at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen. Bonus: because Brennan's is in Downtown Disney, outside the park, you don't have to pay admission to eat and enjoy the show. Unless, of course, you can't live without one more turn on "It's A Small World."