Watching the 4th of July fireworks is one of the longest traditions for the holiday dating back to 1777. It would even be hard to imagine the holiday without fireworks ending the night, and for many, it is a classic summer event to look forward to. Within Pittsburgh, you will have plenty of opportunities to catch fireworks throughout the week, but, you may be asking where you’ll catch the best view of the 4th of July fireworks in the city. From Point State Park to a Pittsburgh boat ride, we have rounded up the best places to go in Pittsburgh to catch the spectacular firework shows the city has to offer.
Point State Park
Watch the fireworks from the point of the city
At Point State Park, the largest 4th of July firework display in Pittsburgh is held every year during the Flashes of Freedom Celebrate America event. This event, held from 4 to 10 PM, is the perfect event for you and your family to grab some food, relax, and enjoy live music. Starting at 9:35 pm, you will also be able to enjoy the 25-minute firework show. No matter if you choose to set up shop near the fountain or on the steps that line the river, you will be able to catch one of the best views of the largest firework show in Pittsburgh from Point State Park.
Pittsburgh Party Pontoons
Catch a view of the fireworks on a Pittsburgh boat ride
While Point State Park offers a great view of the fireworks shows downtown, catching the fireworks from the river will give you a perspective you’ve never experienced. At Pittsburgh Party Pontoons, you and your friends can rent a pontoon or pedal boat before the start of the fireworks and enjoy them directly from the water. Your Pittsburgh boat ride is BYOB, too, so you and your friends can bring grab a few local brews and your favorite snacks to enjoy the fireworks show. After all, who wouldn’t want to party on the water while watching the best firework show in the city?
Kennywood Park
End your day at Kennywood with a fireworks show
Kennywood is a fan favorite for many Pittsburghers including this Pittsburgh boat company. From July 1st to July 4th, Kennywood is hosting an Independence Day celebration for friends and family to enjoy. Upon arrival, guests can expect to enjoy activities such as live music, magic acts, the famous hot dog eating contest, and the annual Wiener 100 dachshund race. Plus, Kennywood has brought back the classic Old Mill ride and has made quite a few updates around the park. By the end day during this Independence Day celebration, guests will have a great view of their laser show and firework display.
PNC Park
Enjoy a classic American game and a firework show
Calling all baseball fans! If you are a lover of the classic American game of baseball, then this is the place you will want to be 4th of July weekend. Not only is PNC Park one of the most beautiful baseball stadiums in the country, but they also have spectacular fireworks shows on Friday nights. This 4th of July weekend, the Pittsburgh Pirates take on the Milwaukee Brewers on July 1, and the night will end the night with their iconic Zambelli fireworks show. You can even make a whole day out of the event by starting your evening with a Pittsburgh boat ride and ending it with a game at the park. You won’t want to miss this fireworks display, so be sure to head on down to PNC Park to cheer on the team, grab a drink, and enjoy fireworks.
Mount Washington Overlook
See the fireworks from the best view of the city
If you are looking to see the best view of the city, look no further. Not only can you catch the best view of downtown at the Mount Washington Overlook, but you’ll also be able to see the fireworks display from all angles. After your Pittsburgh boat ride, you can ride the incline to the top of the overlook. Once you have made it to Mount Washington, the best spots include the Point of View Sculpture, inside Monterey Bay, or at the Duquense Incline. If you do want to get a good spot for the show be sure to come early. It’s no secret to any Pittsburgher that the Mount Washington Overlook is one of the best places to see the fireworks, so the space fills up quickly!
North Shore River Trail
A riverfront view of the fireworks show
If you are worried about crowds or don’t want to cross the river to get downtown, the North Shore River Trail is another great option. The river trail offers a great view of the fireworks from the riverfront with an ample amount of room for you and your family.
Carnegie Science Center
Spend the day learning and enjoying live entertainment
If you haven’t heard of it before, the Carnegie Science Center hosts a 4th of July event called July 4th: Explosive Science. The event runs from 6 pm - 11 pm and guests can enjoy live music, cotton candy, special science demonstrations, America’s Musical Journey in The Rangos Giant Cinema, and café/bar access. So, if you are looking to learn a little bit about American history and enjoy a great view of the firework show then this is the place to be.
If you are anything like this Pittsburgh boat company and love the 4th of July fireworks, now is the perfect time to decide where you are going to view the show. Whether you decide to book a Pittsburgh Party Pontoon for the night or enjoy one of the other activities, you are sure to catch a spectacular fireworks display. To secure a spot on a Pittsburgh boat ride for the fireworks display, book your Pittsburgh Party Pontoons boat cruise today!
