Boom, Boom, Pow!

Downtown’s fireworks display, awe-inspiring as it can be, has its drawbacks. For some, the idea of battling traffic jams, large crowds and packed parking lots overrides the excitement of seeing Pyrotecnico’s dazzling pyrotechnics in person. But what if we told you there is another way? The Point isn’t the only spot to sneak a peek at the city’s most spectacular annual sky display. We’ve compiled a list of spots, aside from the Point, where you can lay out a picnic blanket under the stars and watch – yep – the downtown fireworks from a less crowded vantage point. Here are our suggestions:

West End/Elliott Community Day at West End Overlook Park
July 4, 2009
Noon-11 p.m.

These spots don’t have planned parties, but the fireworks should be visible from each of them. Check city.pittsburgh.pa.us/parks for more details before you make the trip.

Perrysville Avenue
Arcena Street Overlook
Schenley Oval
Schenley Overlook
Hole #4 on the Bob O’Connor Golf Course in Schenley Park
The Hot Metal Bridge
Riverview Park by the Observatory
West End Overlook
Fineview Overlook
St. John’s Lutheran Cemetary (Spring Hill)
St. Paul’s Monestary parking lot (Southside)
Crawford Ave. above the Civic Arena
North Shore Riverfront Park
End of Forrester St. (Greenfield)
Perry Hilltop