Arrive early and brace for crowds if you want to be where the main action is. You can also grab a spot closer to the World War II Memorial or in Constitution Gardens, which will also be publicly accessible. Gates to these sites open at 3:30 p.m., according to the U.S. Interior Department.

Grab a bite eat and gather on the Southwest Waterfront. There are a few piers where you can feel like you’re out on the water. Better yet, if you have a friend who keeps a boat or a houseboat at the Wharf, give them a call.

Head uphill and set up on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral. Its grassy slope and parking lot are great places to chill—with an architectural masterpiece in the background.

Also in Columbia Heights, Meridian Hill Park can feel like an oasis within the city. Climb up the steps and gaze over the skyline. Or just plop down on the grass and enjoy time with friends.

The McKinley Technology High School in Northeast’s Eckington neighborhood is on a hill and offers a nice vantage point from which to see downtown (and sunsets).

Enjoy the Potomac River views from the Francis Scott Key Bridge between Georgetown and Rosslyn. Before or after the fireworks, you can head into Georgetown for its lively nightlife scene.

The Kennedy Center undeniably offers one of the best views of the city and the Potomac River. It’s pretty close to where the firework launch pads will be, too.

Right across from the National Mall, the front of the Federal Reserve Board’s Eccles Building gives you a little distance from the crowds but is still pretty close to the show.

You can see spectacular views of the fireworks from the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. Sweet justice.

Take a cruise on the Potomac River and see some fireworks along the way. Potomac Riverboat Company is offering a couple of options, with boats departing from the Wharf and Alexandria. Tickets are $135 per person.

There are hundreds of thousands of daffodils and thousands of dogwood trees in this park, named in honor of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson. It’s accessible via the Mount Vernon Trail and has parking, bathrooms, and benches. The park is also just across the Potomac River from West Potomac Park.

There’s a small area off to the side of the bridge reserved for runners and joggers. See if you can get yourself a spot among the crowd there. You’ll be pretty close to the action.

This memorial is a great spot if you want to stay away from the National Mall. Located on a hill, it’s just high enough to spot the fireworks from a distance.

If you live in Virginia and don't want to make the trek over to the District, head to Long Bridge Park. It features over 30 acres of recreation and open space as well as picnic areas and parking.

You can watch the fireworks from the south at this waterfront park, located near Reagan National Airport. Hot tip: There are a limited number of parking spots at the park, so be sure to get there early if you want an easy drive home. Added bonus: You can also watch planes take off and land at the airport.