Fourth of July on the Creole Queen

Celebrate independence on the open water, watching fireworks from the decks of the paddlewheeler Creole Queen. This dinner cruise—which sets sail complete with special buffet menu, open call brand bar, and live entertainment—offers the best seat in the house to view the "Dueling Barges" fireworks display that the City of New Orleans puts on above the Mississippi. $129 per adult, $69 for youth (ages 6–12), and $20 for children (ages 3–5). Boarding from 7 pm to 8 pm, located at Poydras St. Wharf/Spanish Plaza. The riverboat sets sail following the fireworks display. Reservations are required: creolequeen.com.