Escape 4th of July Masses at a Boutique Hotel

If you're a sucker for free food and endless bottles of wine, check in to one of the hotel's Club Level guest rooms that offer complimentary access to a 24-hour lounge and concierge that can assist in post-fireworks reservations in nearby Tribeca or SoHo. Ideally, you'll want to book into a harbor-facing guest room with sweeping, uninterrupted views of the 9 p.m. show from the comfort of plush living areas of striped upholstery and wood paneling.

Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza, Los Angeles.

Where to stay: Hotel Erwin.

Price: $199.

It's a scaled-back Independence Day in California, given the budget cuts and wildfire fears. While some will make their annual fireworks pilgrimage to the Hollywood Bowl, others will make their way to Marina del Rey for one of the city's largest public fireworks celebrations. While luxury-seekers will want to lay their head at the harbor-front outpost of the Ritz Carlton, boutique lovers have a new address with the Hotel Erwin located just down the road in the bohemian stronghold of Venice.

Known for its street artists and endless collection of urban grit, Venice is one of L.A.'s up-and-coming loft districts with spate of new eateries and galleries. Owned by SF-based Joie de Vivre, the hotel is located just off the waterfront promenade with cheery collection of design-minded guest rooms outfitted in printed curtains, colorful throw rugs and quirky art elements. Fireworks can be seen from the hotel's High Roof Lounge or via a short walk down the beach in time for the 9 p.m. show.