Beyond the Bottlerocket

Here are some options for you if fireworks just aren't your thing.

Member rating: 4

By Amy Reyes6/28/2010

Don't want to sweat it out on the beach watching fireworks this weekend? Not to worry. We've got your game plan.

CIRQUE du GROVE
This year Fourth of July won’t just be about watching fireworks – it will also be about watching fire eaters. “Cirque du Grove: A Busker’s Carnival” will fill the streets with wire-walkers, trapeze artists, hoop and silk acts, magicians, jugglers and more.
Friday, July 2 at 8:30 p.m. until midnight, and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 3.Grand Avenue and Virginia Street; 305-461-5506.

CINEMA PARADISO
Keep the kids away from the illegal fireworks by sending them to Cinema Paradiso for a special FAB! Films for Kids event that includes screenings of two short films. Following the films, kids create own patriotic sidewalk chalk art. Snacks and drinks provided to all participating children. Hot dog platters available for purchase.
Saturday July 3 at 10 a.m. at Cinema Paradiso, 503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954-525-3456; free.

MUSEUMS ON US
If you have a Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card then you can hit up a number of Miami's museums gratis on Saturday and Sunday. Getting a little culture may be a nice alternative to sweating it out in some county park. Participating museums include Bass Museum of Art, Miami Art Museum, Miami Children's Museum, Miami Science Museum and more. For a complete list of participating venues visit www.museums.bankofamerica.com.

METROZOO
Metrozoo celebrates its 30th birthday with a new name, Zoo Miami, a community celebration, a new entrance and a new look. Visit the zoo during $5 days, July 3-5, and get treated to the discounted admission price, giveaways and music, featuring DJs playing the best ‘80s music.
July 3-5 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Miami Metrozoo, 12400 SW 152nd St., Miami;