It’s America’s big day and we're here for it. Head to one of Gotham’s best beaches, grab your sunscreen and your sunnies and prepare for some fun in the sun. After gorging on red-white-and-blue treats and drinks, head out for the night to watch the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks or sail around NYC.
RECOMMENDED: Full coverage of the 4th of July in NYC
A beloved New York City tradition since 1976, the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks are back for 2025 with a dazzling show on Friday, July 4.
The show returns to the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River for 2025. Specifically, the show will launch from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned on the lower East River in the Seaport District.
Here's where to watch.
Hold on to your guts—Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest 2024 is upon us! During the competition—which is now more than 100 years old—Frankfurter-eating legends race the clock and chow down on as many Nathan’s Famous dogs and buns they can swallow in ten minutes.
The race of legends goes down on Independence Day (Friday, July 4), typically from 11am to 1pm. Watch the glorious event at Nathan’s Flagship restaurant (1310 Surf Ave.) on the corner of Stillwell Ave at Coney Island, Brooklyn.
Don’t bother with Orlando. Coney Island is its very own magical kingdom, setting off free, sensational fireworks every Friday night all summer long. Grab a frank and get yourself a comfortable spot on the boardwalk to celebrate the end of the work-week every week.
Friday Night Fireworks run from Friday, June 20 through Labor Day. Fireworks begin at approximately 9:45pm and typically launch from the beach at West 12th Street, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the iconic boardwalk and amusement parks.
Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the western hemisphere, is throwing an exclusive 4th of July Celebration that’ll offer unparalleled views of the fireworks from 8–11pm. Tickets will give you private access to Edge’s indoor and outdoor viewing areas with its thrilling glass floor, angled glass walls and skyline steps. Plus, you’ll get access to an open bar and unlimited appetizers. A DJ will provide the soundtrack as you watch dazzling fireworks displays from New York City and New Jersey. Tickets start at $400/person.
Or, if you're really adventurous, you can opt for a sunset City Climb offer starting at $650. This ticket includes exclusive access to Edge’s Fourth of July celebration, along with the premium thrill of scaling the building just in time for sunset. This special City Climb experience begins at 7:30pm, followed by entry to the main event, with festivities continuing through the evening.
Enjoy incredible views of the July 4th fireworks show over the Hudson River during this party at RoofTop at Exchange Place. Snap Insta-worthy moments while snacking on fare from a hot dog and burger cart. Wash it all down with an array of summer-ready cocktails.
You'll get a front-row seat to see the Macy's fireworks as well as Jersey City's fireworks, which are launched right next to the venue.
The party kicks off at 4PM on Friday, July 4, with free admission until 7PM. General admission is $35, with premium seating and table reservations available for a more exclusive experience. Be sure to RSVP in advance on OpenTable or by phone or email with Tymeka Holmes at (551) 256-7823 or [email protected].
The Seaport is going to have spectacular views of the fireworks this year, and that's why the South Street Seaport Museum is hosting Red, White & Views on Friday, July 4, 2025. It's billed as a festive, backyard-style Independence Day celebration for all ages.
Access to Pier 16 along the East River begins at 6:30pm. Registration is required, and early-bird tickets start at $75.
Celebrate Independence Day with some seriously stunning views of the iconic Macy's Fireworks show and the New York City skyline aboard a festive July 4th cruise. The Cornucopia Majesty, Lucille, and Cloud 9 Yachts will all be hitting the NYC waterways with live music, premium open bars, dinner buffets, and, of course, a front row spot for the best Fourth of July fireworks display in the city from the boats' top decks.
Each boat party differs in terms of offerings, pricings and docking locations, so be sure to check out July4th.com to compare and contrast each cruise and find out which patriotic voyage is the best one for you. While you're on the site, also check out rooftop party ideas if you prefer to stay on land.
New York City beaches are now open for swimming and sunbathing. A visit to one—if not all—of the best beaches NYC has to offer is needed when temperatures become hot and sticky.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, a camping trip or just looking for ways to cool off or with friends, these beaches in New York are a quick subway, ferry or bus trip away. If you have a car and want to venture further out, we’ve also included off-the-beaten-track sandy shores that are less than two hours away.
Acting like a kid again is never a bad idea, and these amusement parks near NYC are the perfect places to get your adrenaline pumping.
Good ol’ Coney Island is right in your backyard with one of our fave Ferris wheels and the famous Cyclone wooden roller coaster, but it’s also worth venturing to New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut for a fun day out.
Raise a glass to spectacular views and elevated libations at the city's best rooftop bars.
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