The last days before the July 4th weekend are made for gallery-going in Chelsea and Flatiron.

It’s your last chance to catch Suzanne Bocanegra’s enigmatic mixed-media installations at Lucas Schoormans (508 W. 26th St.; (212) 243-3159; through July 5). Equally thought-provoking are Barbara Ess’ pinhole photographs exploring ambiguous relationships between man and nature (Aperture’s Burden Gallery, 20 E. 23rd St.; (212) 505-5555; through July 31.) And when you’re hungry, check out these nearby destinations.

The Basil

206 W. 23rd St.

(between Seventh and Eighth avenues)

(212) 242-1014

Artfully composed, Thai-inspired dishes using better raw materials than most Thai restaurants, in a mellow setting.

The Park

118 10th Ave.

(between 17th and 18th streets)

(212) 352-3313

Moderately priced American food in an eye-popping setting that’s both family friendly and hip.

Le Madri

168 W. 18th St.

(between Sixth and Seventh avenues)

(212) 727-8022

The mother-chefs who gave the place its name are long gone, but Pino Luongo’s ode to Tuscan cooking – especially the pasta – is as good as ever.

Dos Caminos

373 Park Avenue S.

(between 26th and 27th streets)

(212) 294-1000

Colorful, somewhat Americanized Mexican favorites in a noisy party setting; owner Stephen Hanson’s awesome buying power guarantees the highest-quality seafood.

Morrells

900 Broadway

(at 20th Street)

(212) 253-0900

Spacious setting for “wine-inspired” menu and an eclectic, extensive wine list drawn from the uptown wine purveyor of the same name.