'Hidden San Diego' reveals unique ideas for enjoying the Fourth of July

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Have the Fourth of July off and nowhere to go? Local site "Hidden San Diego" has some unique ideas for enjoying the holiday away from the crowds.

Jessica Johnson, the author behind "Hidden San Diego," shared with FOX 5/KUSI uncommon ways to celebrate Independence Day locally, yet not at busy beaches or in the jam-packed downtown metro area.

Take a drive up to Palomar Mountain

This mountain ridge is located in northern San Diego County. From Highway 76, take Rincon Springs, otherwise known as County Road S6, for a scenic route to the top of the mountain. While traveling on the steep and winding road, Johnson said all the mountain overlooks provide views of fireworks shows from all the towns below.

"This is a fantastic idea if you don't like to hear the loud 'boom' or like if you have PTSD, maybe your dog gets freaked out by it, because you're not going to hear the sound," she explained. "But you'll just see this whole show from above."