This year’s show is set to be pretty spectacular with more than 48,000 shells and effects scheduled to burst off of five barges on the East River. The show will begin at 9:25pm and lasts for about 25 minutes. In the event of rain, the start time may be delayed.
And though the show “may be viewed from the comforts of home and any area with an unobstructed view of the sky above the East River in Midtown,” shared Macy’s, they’re designating official viewing points for the spectacular show.
Here are specific elevated public viewing areas recommended by Macy’s — along with lesser known (and populated) spots perfect for spectating, and restaurants and rooftops that offer great views of the East River!
Manhattan
1. Macy’s Viewing Locations:
- E. 42nd St. & FDR Drive (enter at 1st Ave & E 42nd St.)
- E. 34th St. & FDR Drive (enter at 1st Ave & E 34th St.)
- E. 23rd St. & FDR Drive (enter at 1st Ave & E 23rd St.)
2. Hole in the Wall, Murray Hill
Sip on our special Secret NYC Martini while you await the fireworks show at this quaint spot next to the East River! Doors open at 4 p.m., with live views of the show.
Where: 445 E 35th St.
3. Industry Kitchen, Seaport
This waterfront restaurant is alongside the East River in the historic Seaport District, with totally unobstructed views of the Brooklyn skyline and the evening’s fireworks displays. Chef Jonathan Haffmans has created a specially curated menu for the day, including Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Braised Beef Short Rib Sliders and Farm Stand Fresh Watermelon in addition to their daily menu favorites. Walk-ins are welcome and reservations are encouraged.
Where: 70 South St. at Maiden Lane
4. Watermark Bar, Seaport
This waterfront bar turns into “Watermark Beach” for the summer, and is hosting an independence “All Day BBQ Beach Bash” on Monday. Enjoy endless rosé & beer, hot-off-the-grill bites, tropical cocktails, frosé & more…surrounded by palm trees, cabanas and water views. Rotating DJs all day long will provide providing the waterfront vibes. Find out more here.
Or, if you want to enjoy earlier in the weekend, check out this margarita special!
Where: 78 South St., Pier 15
5. Somewhere Nowhere, NoMad
Somewhere Nowhere is hosting a rooftop pool party with 360º views of the Macy’s fireworks. Enjoy a live set from Walshy Fire of Major Lazer, access to Somewhere Nowhere’s stunning pool and lounge, and BBQ food available for purchase like burgers, hot dogs, jerk chicken, and more. It’s taking place on the 4th from 3 p.m. – 4 a.m., rain or shine! Additionally all open-bar reservations include a 1-hour vodka open bar from 10 p.m. until 11 p.m. Get more info here.
Where: 112 W 25th St.
Brooklyn
6. Parks
- Transmitter Park (Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn)
- Bushwick Inlet Park (Kent Ave, Brooklyn)
- Marsha P. Johnson State Park (90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn)
*Note: These locations are not recommended for viewing (by Macy’s): Bushwick Inlet Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Brooklyn Grand Ferry Park*
7. Brooklyn Grange, Sunset Park
This rooftop farm in Brooklyn is hosting an all-you-can-drink (wine and beer) celebration with more 360-degree views of the Macy’s fireworks show. There will also be live music, aura photographs, tarot readings, giant jenga and more. See more here.
Where: 850 Third Avenue. Roof, Brooklyn
8. Luna Park, Coney Island
If you don’t want to be with the crowds trying to catch the Macy’s show, you can head to NYC’s iconic amusement park Luna Park to catch Coney Island’s own fireworks extravaganza! Head there for the day and enjoy all the rides, have a famous Nathan’s hot dog on the boardwalk, try Coney’s Cones new bubble waffle cones for a sweet treat and then stay the night for the beautiful 4th of July fireworks on the Coney Island Boardwalk (beginning around 9:30 p.m.). See more info on their website here.
Where: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn
Queens
9. Gantry Plaza State Park, LIC
The 12-acre Gantry Plaza State Park, located on the waterfront of Long Island City, is a beautifully landscaped public space with breathtaking views of Manhattan. It’s also where the giant Pepsi-Cola sign is located, if you’ve seen it from the other side before! It has wonderful views of the East River, and is a recommended spot by Macy’s.
Where: 4-09 47th Rd, Queens
10. Astoria Park
This beloved local park just had its own fireworks show, but it’s also a great spot to catch the Macy’s one! It’s a bit further down form the barges, but you should still be able to see some nice sparkles up in the sky.
Where: 19 19th St, Astoria
See a full map from Macy’s here:
And you can check the Macy’s website here for more info. on transportation to the viewing locations and accessibility.
Be sure to tag us in your fireworks photos & hashtag #mysecretnyc when you post!