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Explosions in the Sky
The best places to see NYC fireworks
Photo: Barry Yanowitz, via Flickr
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While Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks are impressive, it can also be a hassle finding a good spot to view them due to its immense popularity. If you have funding to spare, here’s a list of great locations that offer perfect view of the pyrotechnic display. And if you don’t have enough money, can we suggest a friend’s roof?
Manhattan
Water Taxi Beach at South Street Seaport
This is the perfect place to go if you enjoy a more vibrant and upbeat scene. They usually charge admission, but because of the holiday, the public can join the party for free. Also, there’s no need to worry about being hungry because the Seaport offers outdoor dining and everything on their menu is under $12. Celebrate by dancing to the hottest dance tracks prepared by DJ Billy and enjoy watching the dazzling fireworks display. The 21+ oasis will start welcoming party goers at 1 p.m., with the mayhem ending around midnight.
Jason’s Riverside Grill at Chelsea Piers
If you’re looking to spend the holiday with an immense amount of burgers and hot dogs, this is best place to be. For $40, you can enjoy a BBQ buffet (from 5-9 P.M.) and access to the Piers. They also provide plenty of space to view the fireworks.
Gantry State Park
For a quieter, intimate atmosphere, Gantry is a great location for a holiday picnic. The park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the firework show. Come early so you can secure one of their slick and modern lounge chairs.
Water Taxi Beach in Long Island City
Although close in proximity to Gantry State Park, that’s about the only thing the two locations have in common. Like its South Street branch, the Water Taxi Beach is a place for those who want to party—for free! The party is a full 12 hours of fun, from 1 p.m.-1 a.m.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Since Battery Park won’t be welcoming crowds to watch the firework show, this is the second best spot to enjoy the evening’s festivities. It offers an amazing view of downtown, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Nothing beats celebrating American’s independence with the symbol of freedom in front of you.
Umbrella Beach, Montauk
Grucci is presenting “Stars over Montauk,” a great firework display in Montauk Village. This is a free event. The pyrotechnic show will run for an hour beginning at 9 p.m.
The Bronx/Staten Island
Sorry, Bronx residents, you already had your display on July 1 at Orchard Beach, so you’ll have to venture out of the borough. For you Staten Island folks, head to Wolfe’s Pond Park on Saturday, July 3, for a concert beginning at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m.