Where to Watch 2011 Fireworks Shows in New York – July 4

Posted: 03 Jul 2011 08:52 AM PDT

The annual Macy’s July 4 New York fireworks show over the Hudson River is said to be the country’s biggest. This year’s 25-minute display features more than 40,000 fireworks fired over 2 miles of the Hudson River, a tribute to the 125th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, and a synchronized score of music by Jennifer Hudson, LeAnn Rimes and Katy “Firework” Perry, among others. The boom, boom, boom starts at 9 p.m.

WHERE TO WATCH?

West Side Highway: Between West 23rd street and 59th street, the West Side Highway will be blocked off and turned into a giant block party from 4 p.m. until 1 a.m. If you’re going to go here, you should show up early, so you can get a good spot. Pro-Tip: don’t bring a bag, because it’ll probably get searched, and you’ll get hassled.

Jersey: If you’re feeling daring, you can make a trip across the river to watch the fireworks from Hoboken. Apparently, the view from Jersey City is alright, but not as good as from Hoboken. If we’ve learned one thing from Jersey Shore, though, it’s that you shouldn’t get drunk on the beach in Jersey.

A Friend’s Roof: If you have a friend with a really tall apartment building on the West side, you better start looking for an invite. This is the most comfortable free way to enjoy the festivities; you can set up a barbecue and a cooler and spend the whole day celebrating your freedom. If the building has a nice view, it might be crowded on the roof, but that’s a risk you’ll have to take.

On the Water: If you’re feelin’ fancy, you can board a party cruise and watch the fireworks directly above your head. It’ll probably run you $125 for a ticket, and that’s before drinks, but if you love America, what’s a hundred bucks to show the world your patriotism?