Independence Day, on July 4th, is an important holiday in the US. New York’s celebration of the 4th of July includes stunning fireworks displays that you’ll definitely want to see. Are you searching for the best places to see the fireworks? The following list will guide you on where to watch fireworks in NYC.

4th of July Cruise NYC

1. Take a NY Harbor Cruise

The best place to see fireworks NYC is on a river cruise. Enjoy the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks show from your private boat’s deck. 4th of July cruises are available from New York Harbor Tours for groups of up to six people. These fireworks tours begin just before sunset and last for 3 hours. Tea, coffee, and water are offered; BYOB and food. There’s also a clean, working bathroom.

OFFICIAL FIREWORKS VIEWING LOCATIONS

The official viewing areas will be our first stop because they’re the most popular, easiest to get to, and still provide an incredible view of the fireworks as they explode over the East River.

2. Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks

This is the most important Independence Day event in the US and a must-see when visiting NYC. Just after 9 p.m. on this day, the skies usually light up over New York’s East River. The organized fireworks display comprises 60,000+ shells launched from five barges floating in the river. While you should be around Midtown for the best views, arrive early. Grab your spot at one of the three official viewing locations along FDR Drive: East 42nd Street, 23rd Street, or 34th Street.

3. Gantry Plaza State Park

This beautifully laid-out, 12-acre riverside park provides some of the most stunning views of midtown Manhattan. The park boasts restored gantries, basketball courts, manicured gardens, and numerous playgrounds. As such, it makes going early on the 4th of July something to look forward to. You can see the fireworks from one of the four piers. The gorgeous 59th Street Bridge, which connects Queens and Manhattan, is also in sight. Try Gantry Plaza State Park this holiday!

4. South Street Seaport

You can enjoy a striking view in this beautiful spot. Seaport is strategically situated next to the barges. It’s one of the ideal spots to watch fireworks in NYC because you'll see them take off right above of you. Also, you’ll enjoy a background complete with notable ships and the stunning Brooklyn Bridge. Much like other well-known viewing locations, you should try to arrive early. You can access the elevated viewing spots through Frankfort Street, Pearl Street, and Broad Street.

UNOFFICIAL VIEWING LOCATIONS

Although there are numerous places along the East River where you might consider going for a great view, they often aren't quite as good as you might think because they are usually partially obscured. Residents and the media are also restricted from some areas.

As such, go to a designated area because anything else could be a disappointment. Even though unofficial areas are very crowded, you can still enjoy a great view if you plan ahead and arrive early.

5. Empire State Building

Being one of the most popular (and romantic) tourist attractions in NYC, the Empire State Building is a lovely place to celebrate Independence Day. The Empire State usually hosts its annual 4th of July celebration from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Besides offering spectacular views of the fireworks displays from its 86th floor, the exclusive event also offers a premium open bar and gourmet food. The open-air observation deck, which offers the best fireworks display in NYC and an entertaining 4th of July soundtrack, is accessible to guests only.

6. One World Observatory

If you’re in Manhattan, this is undoubtedly the best place to see July 4th fireworks in NYC. The building lies at the top of the Freedom Tower. Its height, 1,776 feet, symbolizes the year that American colonists got their independence from Britain and makes it the tallest building in the US. One World Observatory’s packages for Independence Day include the usual all-inclusive. It also offers the Ultra Experience package, which is much pricier and has a vast liquor selection.

OTHER FIREWORKS DISPLAYS IN NYC

Fireworks on Coney Island

Coney Island offers numerous July 4th activities, such as Nathan’s popular Hot Dog Eating Contest. After exploring the gorgeous attractions on this island, you can stick around for an incredible view of the July 4th fireworks. The evening often starts around 9 p.m., with stunning fireworks displays kicking off at 9:30 p.m. and running for around fifteen minutes. Although Coney Island’s 4th of July fireworks are not as epic in scale or size as Macy’s, they have their charm.

Fireworks in New Jersey

You can also view Jersey City fireworks from Liberty State Park and the Jersey City waterfront. On Tuesday, July 4th, just after sunset, two barges on the Hudson River will launch the fireworks. The backdrop of the Statue of Liberty and the New York City skyline is unbeatable!

WHEN DO THE FIREWORKS START?

The live show will start just before 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4th. Five barges on the East River will launch 65,000+ shells and other special effects. An NBC star-studded broadcast will air between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Leading artists will also perform at the event.

Conclusion

Enjoy July 4th by taking a harbor cruise and see Ellis Island's magnificent Statue of Liberty as it becomes illuminated by breathtaking fireworks in all directions. Are you still uncertain where to watch July 4th fireworks in NYC? Or perhaps you’re interested in hosting other corporate holiday party venues. New York Harbor Tours offers the best way to celebrate Independence Day in style.

Our team is knowledgeable, professional, and licensed by the Coast Guard. We'll provide you with an exceptional, personal cruise that you won’t get with other tour boats. Call us at 718-230-0136 to book your 4th of July boat tour today.