Great Fourth of July Idea for Families

This isn't an original idea, mind you, but it is so good, I have to share. If you're looking for a fun and family-friendly idea for the Fourth, read on. Every year, some friends of ours reserve a well-located hotel room on July 4, to check out on July 5, and invite other friends with kids to the room for a cocktail hour, which culminates by watching the fireworks show. When I say they reserve a "well-located" hotel room, I'm talking about one of the many hotels or resorts we have here in Miami that have balconies high in the sky, facing the ocean or the Bay. Last year, the Sonesta Coconut Grove was their destination--the Coconut Grove fireworks were right downstairs in the park (walking distance) for those who wanted to be in the thick of things, and others chose to watch from the balcony. Several fireworks displays were visible from the balcony--what a bonus!

Because we are in "slow season" here in Miami, the rooms tend to be really reasonable. I just checked the Sonesta Grove, and they have rooms listed starting at $139/night. Biltmore starts at $179.

Have a great Fourth, everyone!!