We've done a lot of digging in and around this city to come up with a kind of piecemeal city guide. And while each of these articles can stand alone, when put all together, the result is everything you need to know this July 4, including:

Where the best pools are: Dive in (GET IT?!) to this refreshing article.

What to read at the pool: It's not 50 Shades of Grey.

Where to get the sweetest (and coldest) summer treats: Ice cream sammies go great with beef.

Where to find the best beef: It's neither at Safeway nor in your pants.

How to savor your beers properly with beef: That is, if they're not Bud Light Lime.

How to skip the grill entirely this Fourth: You're not lazy; you're smart.

And finally, how to prepare for July 5: Step 1—take the day off...

Happy Birthday, America! Bring on the fireworks!