Looking to spend Independence Day in New York City? It’s one of the best places in the country to celebrate. Here are just a few of the things you can do in NYC for the Fourth of July.
1. Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
Find your way to the nearest rooftop for a good view of the fireworks as they explode over the East River. The show begins at 9:25 p.m. and will run for about a half hour.
Here are the best viewing spots:
- 1st Avenue and E. 42nd Street
- 1st Avenue and E. 34th Street
- 1st Avenue and E. 20th Street
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Newtown Barge Park
- Transmitter Park
- Marsha P. Johnson State Park
2. Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
The famous contest is a much-anticipated event every year and is held at Coney Island. Tens of thousands of people watch contestants eat as many frankfurters and buns as they can in just 10 minutes.
Sound like your kind of fun? The day will kick off with pre-show festivities at 10 a.m., and the competition begins at 11 a.m.
3. Beach party at Coney Island
Head over to Coney Island for a beach party that will include live music, food, and, of course, fireworks.
Meet at the Coney Island Pier at Boardwalk and West 15th Street. The show starts at 9:30 p.m.
4. A tour to the heart of NYC
That’s right — we’re open on Independence Day and showing travelers and locals alike around the city. Which tour to take? It’s hard to go wrong with Lady Liberty. There’s nothing like being at the Statue of Liberty and then Ellis Island, gateway to our nation, on America’s birthday.
Then again, we kind of like Greenwich Village for July 4th. It’s the birthplace of American counterculture and filled with history, from Jimi Hendrix to gay rights, woven deep into the fabric of this diverse, colorful country we call home.
Of course, there’s also Ground Zero, Wall Street, and so many more iconic places. Choose your favorite.
5. Fourth of July Celebration at Edge
Looking for something really posh? It doesn’t come cheap, but you can celebrate Independence Day on top of the world — or at least on the top of New York at Edge.
Tickets for the Fourth of July Celebration at Edge will run you $250 per person and include a barbecue entree, a glass of champagne to toast our independence, and admission to the observation deck with live music and general merriment.