8 Best Spots for July 4th Fireworks in NYC

America’s holiday is almost upon us! The 4th of July is a day for enjoying time with family and friends, taking a break from those busy work schedules, and celebrating our countries independence in this great city—New York. With that in mind, we at Birthdays and Bottles, thought we might give you some ideas on where you should hangout on the night of the 4th so you can see an amazing firework show. The most spectacular display of fireworks in the nation, the Macy’s 4^th of July Fireworks, is expected to light the night sky over east river at approximately 9:20pm.

1. South Street Seaport
Know for their Festival of Independence, South Street Seaport is more or less a party during the days leading up to the 4th. The annual Seaport district Independence festival is a collection of independent art, music, fashion, and of course, food! Truly an epicenter of NYC culture, this festival brings the hype. Is there a better way to spend the 4th or July holiday than with live local music, good brews, culture, and friends. Come early and enjoy the various sights.

2. FDR Drive
Enjoy the great waterfront view at FDR drive. It will likely be closed to traffic from East 63rd to the Battery Park Underpass, so there will be plenty of space to set up camp and spend the evening. With this being the most popular place for the river view, you’ll want to arrive early, because it fills up quick and access gets closed off.

3. The Elevated Acre
This is a special little green spot nestled amongst the cement jungle of FiDi. The lush garden area provides the perfect place to catch the fireworks show. This place is literally up a flight of stairs, so it kind of feels like you’re getting a birds eye view of the river and skyline. While The Elevated Acre is usually a sanctuary for workweek lunch breaks, it’s sure to be crowded on a holiday like the 4th of July. So you’ll probably want to get there early.

4. Corlears Hook Park
Down on the Lower East Side, we have Corlears Hook Park. This is the perfect place for families since there’s a playground! There is also a dog run, and a designated dog area, so you’re more than welcome to bring your pets with you to celebrate!

5. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
This is probably one of the most popular places in the whole city to watch the firework. Imagine tripod after tripod lining the railing and the beautiful exploding fireworks against the city skyline. But arrive early to claim your spot, because this space fills up fast too.

6. Bushwick Inlet Park
Bring a picnic and celebrate at this beautiful Willamsburg waterfront park. As a former industrial space, it is now one of the greenest space in the whole city. The community was, and is, very involved in the park’s existence and upkeep, so you’re sure to enjoy this restored landscape. The grassy lawn even travels up the wedge-shaped roof of the public building at the forefront of the park!

7. The Brooklyn Barge
This popular Brooklyn spot is right on the river. It’s very popular, so you’ll need to get tickets in advance to make sure you can reserve a place. Your night will be fun and easy at this hip venue. They call themselves a gastropub, but this restaurant is more than just great food and drinks. The waterfront skyline views and combination of the maritime cultural history on the barge make for a special experience right on the edge of the Greenpoint community.

8. Brooklyn Bridge Park
And last but not least, the Brooklyn Bridge Park with its sprawling greenway and playgrounds is sure to provide a great space for just about everyone. With Brooklyn Bridge views unlike any other, you’re sure to watch a fireworks show you’ll never forget!