The panoramic view from the 360 Bridge Overlook near Pennybacker Bridge is spectacular, and even more so when you add in fireworks. Word is out about that, by the way, so get there early.

For $22-$100, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board and watch the sky light up from Lady Bird Lake—as well as start out a bit north of the main action, with perhaps more parking and less chaos. Rowing Dock's rentals for night events are by reservation and prepayment only. Visit the site for details.

There are plenty of places along both shores of the lake that will put you practically underneath the fireworks (bring a flashlight for when it's time to find your way out, though). Bonus points for biking or walking to your destination rather than adding to the traffic and mess closer to the event. One exception: According to the Austin Symphony website, the lower portion of the Hike & Bike Trail on the north side of Lady Bird Lake (between the Seaholm intake structure and South First Street) will be closed at 10 a.m. on the Fourth. The upper sidewalk along Cesar Chavez will remain open.

You don't have to worry about cars on this bridge, of course, which is a distinct advantage. As always bears repeating, get there very early, as it will be packed way before the fireworks start. Also, it's generally bad form to bring a blanket or chair so that as many people as possible can get a spot.

This will get you even closer to the action than the Congress Avenue bridge, but just remember you'll have cars to deal with and will need to stand the whole time.

Bats aren't the only thing to watch from the Congress Avenue bridge. Just as when the bats come out, though, the street remains open to cars and is usually busy, so keep that in mind. Safety first!

Located atop a natural high point in Austin, Barton Creek Square mall has a spectacular view of downtown from its parking lot and, therefore, any fireworks happening above it. Plus a decent amount of, you know, parking.

They don't call them the Hilltoppers for nothing. See the show from the spectacular viewpoint of one of the highest plots of land in Austin, conveniently home to a university where you can watch from a blanket (or bleacher) on its sports fields.