Hello all! My boyfriend and I are going to Chicago for the fireworks this year, a first for us both. We were wondering if anybody has any suggestions about where to watch the fireworks? We won't need to stay the night since we only live 30 minutes from the city. Any help would be appreciated.

Go early and stay late. 1 million people in the waterfront area and parks. Long waits for trains and traffic is out of control. Get a room!

You must know this if you are a local.

You don't have to get a room, but definitely use public transportation, and yes, it will be crowded. My kids go down on the train without much difficulty though.

Placeu's got it right. Go early, stake your turf and be patient. The crowds will be huge,there will be drunk obnoxious people so take it in stride.

OP again, was wondering if anybody could suggest places to view the fireworks or at least tell me where they are shot from?

I believe they are shot from a barge on the lake-- near Navy Pier.

ttt

You can watch the fireworks from Navy Pier looking south toward Grant Park, but you might not have a place to sit.

Of course, you can also stake out a spot closer to Grant Park, which will be a zoo. I like sitting a bit north on a grassy spot between Randolph and Monroe near Lake Shore Drive. Usually we find a spot near the boats.

Here is the info about the two fireworks shows:

Grant Park: Macy's Independence Eve Fireworks Spectacular, with accompaniment by the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra.
July 3rd at 9:30 p.m.

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Navy Pier:
July 4th at 9:30 p.m.