Spectators at the Lincoln Memorial awaiting the fireworks show in Washington D.C. in 2009. Photo by Daniel Reidel.

It’s time again for the Fourth of July, which means every out-of-town relative you have will assume you’re going to the National Mall for the big fireworks display put on by the National Park Service. But as many a hardened D.C. resident has learned, nothing makes a person feel less free than trying to make their way through the Mall crowds.

There are a number of less crowded, though still popular, sites around the city where the fireworks can be viewed from. Sadly, Cardozo High School, one of the city’s best viewing spots, is out this year because of construction. But there are still plenty of less crowded places to view the pretty things that go boom, which usually start booming after 9 p.m., as well as some smaller neighborhood celebrations.

In case you’re planning your own display, here’s were legal fireworks can be purchased inside the city.

The Washington National Cathedral
Located along Wisconsin Ave NW (It’s the big church. You can’t miss it.), the National Cathedral sits on a hill, making its lawn a great spot for watching fireworks. As the below video shows, the Cathedral’s bell tower boasts a great view. You just have to figure out how to sneak up there.

Meridian Hill Park

People at Meridian Hill Park in 2011. Photo by Ted Eytan.

As its name implies, Meridian Hill Park is on a hill, which makes it a go-to spot in Northwest D.C. Because of the continuing construction at Cardozo High School, expect a large crowd.

McKinley Technology High School
For the Eckington residents out there, the McKinley Technology High School’s parking lot is a popular gathering place.

Holy Rood Cemetery
If you don’t mind spending the Fourth of July among gravestones and souls that may be disturbed by the loud booming, thus haunting those gathered on the hallowed ground, the Glover Park cemetery is a good option.

Someone’s House/Roof

The author’s friends watch the fireworks from her bathtub. Photo by Sarah Anne Hughes.

Let’s face it: Some of us have great views and some of us don’t. But that’s what friends are for! Find a buddy who has rooftop access, or a window with a great view, and be thankful that D.C. has a limit on how tall buildings can be.

Your Neighborhood
Chances are, someone in your neighborhood is going to be putting on their own fireworks display. Neighbors from the Northeast and Southeast, for example, gather in Lincoln Park for a great unofficial event that is inevitably broken up by the police. Petworth is also known for its many (illegal) celebrations.

View Fireworks Viewing Spots Off the National Mall in a larger map

Know a better spot to watch the fireworks from? Tell us in the comments.