Best Places To Watch Fireworks in NYC: West Side Highway, Cruise Lines and Others
The Macy's Fireworks Spectacular kicks off at 9:20 p.m. today and will draw two million or so spectators to several vantage points around the city to see the bright lights.
The best sites to view the fireworks range from curbside locations on the West Side Highway to rooftop bars, where spectator can wine and dine under the exploding bright lights.
There's a myriad of rooftop bars to choose from in New York City, but some offer a better view of the fireworks display than others. The Hudson Terrace, located at 621 West 46 Street, has a special July 4 party. With a $150 ticket purchase, attendees will have access to an open bar and barbecue. There's also a live DJ for those who would like to dance under the stars and fireworks.
The Press Lounge rooftop bar, at 653 11th Avenue, offers a similar experience. The venue has a special event planned for tonight, where ticket holders have access to an all-you-can-drink bar and buffet featuring organic foods.
New York's waterfronts also offer a great view of the fireworks, and several cruise lines will be sailing the city's seas for the Macy's display. For $95 The Circle Line offers a cruise in New York City's waters with food and drinks for sale. There will also be a DJ on board for those who want to hit the dance floor.
But if you don't want to spend any money to see the fireworks display, there are plenty of free options as well. The prime areas for viewing are along the city's West Side from 22nd street to 55th Street. But make sure and get there early, because even standing room is difficult to come back as time draws nearer to the event. The northbound lanes of the West Side Highway as well as 12th Avenue will be closed to traffic and open to pedestrians at 4 p.m. Pick up a folding chair if you don't already own one so you can sit back and relax, while watching the fireworks spectacle.