America's Birthday is right around the corner ..... do you have any special plans for the 4th of July yet?
The city, of course, is going all out to celebrate our Nation's Birthday from the famous Nathan's Hot Dog Contest to the spectacular Macy's Fireworks Display, you will have plenty of activities to keep you and the family entertained.
What to do on July 4th in New York City -- Free Activities
Let's see the Top Free Activities that the city will offer this year to celebrate America's Birthday including of course the popular fireworks in the bay.
Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks
I mean what can be more American than a nice picnic with family and friends while awaiting the spectacular Macy's Fireworks? For the first time in a few years, we will have over 70,000 fireworks launched straight from the Brooklyn Bridge -- what a view that will be!
Macy's Fireworks -- Time & Location
Starting Time: The Show starts promptly at 9:20 pm Length: approximately between 25 to 30 minutes Where: Brooklyn Bridge + 4 barges located along the East River by Pier 17 and the Heliport.
Macy's Fireworks Show -- Where to watch it from?
If you are looking for a really unobstructed view of the show you will have to head down to Pier 17 and the East River in Lower Manhattan.
Macy’s is officially suggesting the below Public Viewing Points --
Head to elevated portions of the FDR (North/South roadways) with entry points at:
Broad Street and Water Street
Pearl Street and Dover Street
Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place and St. James Place
Pearl Street and St. James Place
Montgomery Street and Cherry Street
Or in the Lower Promenade with the following entry points:
These are the only official viewing points sponsored by the city of New York, and make no mistakes, they will be packed! Make sure to go out there early on and get your spot & remember that the NYPD can close access at any time due to crowds control. So, even if you are in but waiting for some people to join in, they might not be able to get to you once the cops decide to shut down the area.
Although Macy's doesn't list any official viewing points in Brooklyn, safe to say that you will have great views of the fireworks from any neighboring areas including Brooklyn Heights, the Promenade and Dumbo.
4th of July Fireworks in New York City - The Video
Coney Island Fun Adventures
If you are looking for a beach gateway while still enjoying some city vibes, then you should head over to Coney Island.
Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
The popular eating contest is always one drawing big crowds, the contestant will have 10 minutes to eat as many Hot Dogs as they can and it will be telecast on National Television. Last year, the 11-time champ Joey Chestnut broke his own record by eating a staggering 74 hot dogs in 10 minutes.
Time: 10:00 am Location: Nathan's Hot Dog corner of Stillwell and Surf Avenue Length: approximately 30 minutes (10'' for the contest)
Plus, Coney Island offers great fun and adventures for the whole family that will entertain you for the entire day including several rides in the famous Luna Park, the Aquarium, many eateries along the boardwalk, the Cyclones Baseball team and of course the beach.
The Steeplechase Spectacular Fireworks Show
Plus at 9:30 pm in the evening, the fireworks show will start and you can watch the fireworks right from the Boardwalk or on the Beach.
Time: 9:30 pm Length: between 20 to 30 minutes Location: Steeplechase Pier in Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk
Although not free, the city will be having some great parties and events throughout the day. If you really want to enjoy the Fireworks with a prime viewing spot and without the hassle of big crowds, then the 4th of July Yacht Cruises might be for you -- Check out any remaining spots available here. Unfortunately many are already sold out, so you must book as soon as possible.
Also, many Rooftops and Restaurants are offering special parties and meals, including these 3 --
* Time Out Market (Brooklyn) is doing a full night event for $200
* Westlight Rooftop in Brooklyn
* 230 5th Avenue Rooftop in Midtown
Above all, we hope you have an amazing 4th of July,