Fourth of July Planner 2009
Updated: June 22, 2009
Celebrate July Fourth weekend in New York with great American pastimes like fireworks, booze, barbecue and more booze. We've got the scoop on the best rooftop bars with spectacular views of the fireworks display (which is being moved to the west side this year), plus more ways to get in touch with your inner patriot, from hot dogs to apple pie.
(Photo: Shutterstock)
On this page:More Weekend Fun, Cocktails and Fireworks.
More Weekend Fun
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Bubby's
Read Reviews120 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013 (map)
There's nothing more American than apple pie, and Bubby's "mile high apple pie" is a true patriot's delight. Each large, gooey slice is sensational, and on July Fourth it's just a little bit sweeter.
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Central Park
Read Reviews5th Ave to Central Park W and 59th St to 110th St, New York, NY 10024 (map)
Take advantage of the long weekend by reacquainting yourself with the great outdoors. Pack a picnic and head to Sheep Meadow. Don't forget the sunblock!
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Lucky Strike Lanes
Read Reviews650 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 (map)
Beat the heat and partake in a great American pastime at this upscale bowling oasis in midtown. As an added bonus, it's just steps away from the festivities on the Hudson.
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Nathan's Famous
Read Reviews1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224 (map)
Hot dogs: They're a true symbol of American culture, and no one does them better than Nathan's. At 12pm on July Fourth, the Brooklyn classic hosts its annual international hot dog eating contest at 12pm, so you can celebrate our national history while rooting for your favorite professional eater (and downing a few dogs of your own).
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Prospect Park
Read ReviewsGrand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11226 (map)
Celebrate our national independence by exercising your right--to barbecue. Score a big picnic table around Picnic House North, Wollman Field or the Bandshell at this massive Brooklyn park and get to grillin'!
Cocktails and Fireworks
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230 Fifth
Read Reviews230 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10001 (map)
With its expansive deco penthouse lounge and tropical wraparound rooftop, this sprawling outdoor favorite holds more than 500 people, and its Flatiron locale is perfectly situated in relation to the fireworks display. But due to the magnitude of people expected on July Fourth, bottle service reservations are recommended.
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Boat Basin Cafe
Read ReviewsW 79th St, New York, NY 10024 (map)
Fireworks spark romance on one of the best outdoor spaces along the Hudson River. Get there early before the park is swarming with spectators.
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The Empire Hotel Rooftop Bar and Lounge
Read Reviews44 W 63rd St, New York, NY 10023 (map)
Beautiful people, delicious cocktails and a view that overlooks Columbus Circle, Lincoln Center and the Hudson River, depending on where you're standing. But even with a space this large (it's 8,000 square feet), be sure to make a reservation or get there early to stake out a good spot. For hotel guests, the private pool deck level also boasts fab western views.
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Hudson River Park Greenway
Read ReviewsHudson River to West Side Hwy, New York, NY 10011 (map)
This year marks the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage to our fair city, and Macy's is honoring that legacy by moving its annual July Fourth fireworks display from the east side to the west side. Fireworks will be ignited from six barges positioned along the Hudson River between 24th and 50th streets, illuminating the entire west side skyline. It's truly spectacular, but be prepared to encounter massive crowds.
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Hudson Sky Terrace
Read Reviews356 West 58th Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10019 (map)
Sweeping views of the Hudson River and 9th Avenue give this relaxed rooftop oasis atop the Hudson Hotel a chic urban feel. Non-hotel guests are welcome but reservations are a must, especially if you plan to watch the fireworks display.
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Hudson Terrace
Read Reviews621 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 (map)
Midtown Manhattan and water views guarantee a firework-filled backdrop. Tickets to the main event are $100, which buys you access to a three-hour open bar (7pm-10pm), specialty cocktails and all-you-can-eat barbecue. After that, the party will continue into the wee hours, so bring your drinking--er, dancing--shoes.
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Plunge
Read Reviews18 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 (map)
It's the absolutely stunning views of the Hudson and midtown that possess people to squeeze their way up to the rooftop bar at the Gansevoort Hotel for an outrageously priced cocktail. But vistas like this don't come for free--especially in the Meatpacking District.
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W Hoboken
Read Reviews225 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030 (map)
New Jerseyites, rejoice! The view of the Hudson River and city skyline from the Chandelier Room at this Hoboken hotel is spectacular. Plant yourself on the terrace for the fireworks, then head inside for light snacks and an assortment of specialty cocktails.
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