Fourth of July Planner

1001 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 (map)

Dock the boat and drop in for a stellar Lake Union fireworks view and icy drinks. Look out over the shimmering water of Lake Union while you sip on a BaDa Margarita, containing plenty of tequila and guava and festively tinted blue. Patriotism at its best--served in alcohol!

1919 Post Aly, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

Camp out on Post Alley's infamous lively deck at The Pink Door. Catch the fireworks while sipping specialty cocktails and grubbing on the homey Italian-American fare. Bonus points: The lounge is open until 1am for late-night hobnobbing. One of the rotating cabaret acts or late-night Tarot readings liven up the ambience.

6049 Seaview Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107 (map)

Not everyone has to love fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July; Ray's has great views of Shilshole without all the bang-bang-hiss of fireworks. Take a stroll to the sandy shores of Golden Gardens before you hang with your buds on the deck, sipping a crisp white wine from the list of 700+ wines.

2411 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121 (map)

The Edgewater's restaurant has gotten a menu makeover, emphasizing farm-to-table fare amidst sweeping views of Elliott Bay. Decorated like a fancy tree house with tables amidst trees and hanging ornate chandeliers, it's a funky dichotomy of formal and kitschy. Dine on Chef Jordan Mackey's food--inside or outside--and enjoy the fireworks over the Bay.

2801 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121 (map)

Feast your eyes on the Sound while you feast on the Waterfront's seafood-centric menu, prepared by veteran chef Peter Levine. Owned by the same family that runs El Gaucho, the Waterfront is posh without being formal, with an extensive wine list and drool-worthy dessert menu.