Four for the Fourth
How to avoid the masses and still see the ’works
There’s the fireworks. There’s the Boston Pops concert. There’s your mate’s barbecue. But if you’re not feeling any of those try one of our fun alternatives.
When it comes to spectacular views, the Top of the Hub’s panoramic vista over the Charles River is unparalleled for enjoying the fireworks. The sky-high restaurant’s special Fourth six-course prix fixe dinner begins with an hors d’oeuvres and cocktail reception. Then, while the Pops concert is broadcast live, enjoy such summery dishes as butter poached lobster tail with langoustine and corn ravioli and an apropos raspberry and blueberry mousse with white chocolate Anglaise. Advance prepaid, nonrefundable reservations only.
Friday, 7 p.m.
52nd Floor, 800 Boylston St., Boston
MBTA: Green E Line to Prudential
$200, 617-536-1775
www.selectrestaurants.com
Head to the spot where the revolutionary unrest began and cruise the Boston Harbor aboard the elegant Odyssey yacht. Sail out among the harbor islands and up to Charlestown, while indulging in a lobster clambake buffet with all the trimmings. The cruise lasts about two hours, boarding takes about an hour, giving lots of time to wander the decks. There’s dancing to soft jazz and pop hits, courtesy of a band. Dress smart. Check online for 20 percent discount.
60 Rowes Wharf, Boston
866-310-2469
www.odysseycruises.com
Get far from the madding crowd and relax with Tremont 647’s three-course prix fixe, chosen from a splendid Fourth of July Picnic Menu. Choose an appetizer, say lobster mac’n’cheese or momos, an entrée — maybe beer battered cod accompanied by cornbread, baked beans, coleslaw and watermelon, and either housemade banana cream or fresh blueberry pie. Sit on the Patio, or lounge peacefully inside.
Friday, 5:30-10 p.m.
647 Tremont St. Boston
MBTA: Orange Line to Back Bay
$25, 617-266-4600
www.tremont647.com
Money no object for your Fourth fun? Grab some friends and book the fabulous Liberty Hotel’s Independence Day Perfect View package. Apart from accommodations in an Escape Suite, the package includes seats on the community boating dock for the Pops performance and fireworks display, dinner in the Liberty’s sleek restaurant, CLINK, champagne and dessert at turndown, and a convivial late checkout. Be warned, though, there’s a two-night minimum, and it starts at $1,515. But hey, you’ve saved a ton of gas money by riding the T all this time, right?
215 Charles St., Boston
MBTA: Red Line to Charles
617-224-4000
www.libertyhotel.com