July 4th Weekend is almost here (July 4 – 6), bringing fireworks, festivities, and fun to New York City!
While Independence Day is a time for celebration, it also means adjusted hours for city services, museums, and businesses.
If you’re staying in NYC or planning a visit, here’s your ultimate guide to what’s open and closed over the July 4th holiday weekend.
What’s Open
- NYC Beaches: Coney Island, Rockaway Beach, and Orchard Beach remain open daily from 10 am – 6 pm with lifeguards on duty. Find our favorite beaches here.
- Parks & Pools: Central Park, Prospect Park, and all city parks are open. Outdoor public pools are open for the season. Rooftop pools like The Pool Club at Virgin Hotels NYC and Somewhere Nowhere are buzzing—see our top rooftop pools here.
- Fireworks Shows: Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will return to the East River on Friday night. Get prime viewing spots and details here.
- Museums & Landmarks:
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Open all weekend, ferry service available.
- Empire State Building: Open until midnight daily. Hosting a special Fourth of July celebration on the day including fireworks view access, food, live DJ, and more.
- The Met: Open Friday and Saturday (closed Thursday).
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Open all weekend with regular hours.
- Governors Island: Open with extended ferry service and holiday events.
- NYC Botanical Gardens & Bronx Zoo: Open with seasonal programming.
- Outdoor Events: Expect concerts, food festivals, and pop-up markets across the boroughs—especially in Brooklyn and Queens. Full July 4 events guide here.
- Restaurants & Bars: Most remain open—especially in hotspots like Williamsburg, West Village, and LIC. Some may feature BBQ specials or themed cocktails.
What’s Closed or Has Limited Hours
- Government Offices & Banks: Closed on Friday, July 4.
- Post Offices: Closed on Friday & no regular mail service.
- Libraries: NYPL, BPL, and QPL branches are closed Friday.
- Public Schools: Closed (summer break continues).
- Smaller Museums & Shops: Some independent spots may close or operate reduced hours—check websites before visiting.