These are the places with the best views in New York for the July 4th fireworks celebration

New York City puts on two of the most spectacular fireworks shows in the country each year for the millions of residents and tourists that fill the Big Apple during the early summer holiday.

After a sweltering June, New Yorkers can expect a high of around 84ºF on Friday, dropping to around 68ºF in the evening as people head out to view the fireworks.

Where can you see fireworks in New York City?

The Alliance for Coney Island hosts one of the displays at Coney Island between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m. ET.

The second, much larger event is hosted by Macy’s and will take place this year on the Hudson River between 14th and 34th Streets. The show will last approximately half an hour and is scheduled to begin around 9:25 PM.

Looking for a great view? The city says you can position yourself in “any area with an unobstructed view of the sky above the Hudson River.” Additionally, viewing locations will be set up at:

Are fireworks illegal in New York City?

Yes. Fireworks are illegal in the city, and the NYPD has launched a public awareness campaign warning violators that they will be arrested. The city also released a report on the injuries sustained by residents from the authorized use of fireworks, which led to 45 emergency department visits, up from the average of 33 trips between 2017 and 2023. The message from the city’s top health official, acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse, could not be clearer: “Spend the holiday weekend with friends and family—not in an emergency room with injuries from fireworks."

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